Thursday, September 8, 2011

Rent Off-Broadway

I was practically shaking during the bittersweet moments as the lights dimmed and Rent was about to start. Rent was my first Broadway show and obsession, and I didn't know what to expect from this new version of a show I used to love so much. Within minutes my anxiety was gone; this production of Rent is fantastic.
The show itself is extremely similar to the Broadway production, and the important things such as the messages come across as perfectly as before, so there is nothing for an old fan to worry about. New fans also get to experience an amazing production of Rent; they're not missing anything. Rent is truly a masterpiece, and the staging at New World Stages is amazing and help the emotion of the show. It's easy to care for the characters and relate to them. The musical also has some extremely meaningful messages, and a few years of maturity and a wonderful production really made them sink into me this summer.
Although some say Rent is dated and not as poignant as it was over 15 years ago, many of the messages are universal and important, and most people my age are in the perfect time in their lives to appreciate them. There are many "turning points" during adolescence, and during these times loves are lost and found, time is wasted and made the best of, and romance is being experienced and explored for the first time. The message to "measure your life in love," both between friends, family, and lovers, really hit hard when I saw this production. There isn't anything greater. The "no day but today" outlook doesn't only apply to those who could die any day of AIDS or other diseases; our generation has grown up with 9/11 and the aftermath taking over the news for nearly 10 years. We've always had the knowledge that with the powerful weapons out there, anything can happen. So, we should live each day to the fullest, since we don't know what could come tomorrow. Part of living is loving, and so is falling. The "give in to love or live in fear" message is easy for nearly anyone my age to relate to. Being afraid to fall in love, for whatever reason, is common. However, once Roger gives in, he becomes extremely passionate. The way he looks at his girlfriend is enough to make nearly any girl fall in love and wish for something similar. So, although the things such as AIDS, cross-dressers, gays, and others aren't as taboo as when Rent first premiered, it is far from dated, especially for teenagers.
The first time I saw it this summer, I saw it with a group. It was made of mostly females, but the one male there loved it. Granted, he was excited to be there, but his excitement wasn't let down. My friends and I all cried at various parts in the show; it was a wonderful catharsis. As I watched how confident one of the girls was I couldn't help but think how much I wished I was her, and nearly everyone agreed, even though we were admitting to looking up to a stripper. I saw it with another group, with more guys, and one of them said it was his new favorite show and he wants to see it many more times. I met only one person who thought it was just okay, but he lived a more sheltered life, so I don't know if some things didn't hit him as hard because of a lack of life experience, or if it just wasn't his type. Most, however, absolutely loved it.
I'd recommend Rent to nearly everyone my age. Most girls will easily fall in love with Matt Shingledecker's Roger; he's a great blend between troubled rockstar and caring guy. Guys, on the other hand, are harder to gauge for. The rock score is usually more appealing to them, and the excitement on stage can keep them interested without a spectacle. It's definitely one of the top choices I'd suggest for a teenage guy who may not be too into theatre. The lessons can be appreciated by both guys and girls, and they're what really make the show for me.
Basically, just go. This production of Rent is wonderful. The lottery is a cheap way to go and the front row is awesome, but they don't have too many seats which is unfortunate. The lotto loser seats are also very affordable and offer a good view, so I'd suggest doing that. The nice thing about it being off-Broadway is that even if you by far in advance it's affordable and there's not really a bad seat in the house. So, go!
If you have any comments or questions e-mail me or comment :)

Thursday, May 19, 2011

The Addams Family

Going into The Addams Family, I couldn't wait for it to be over. The only reason I was interested in seeing it was to see Krysta Rodriguez in a starring role. My friend invited me, so I went.
Walking out, I was pleasantly surprised and wanted to go back again. The show had the right amount of fun and heart mixed together. Nathan Lane was hilarious as well as many other cast members. Songs like "Happy/Sad" also gave the show a redeeming quality beyond the humor. The sets, costumes, acting, and choreography were wonderful! The score also had great songs; I walked out with "Crazier Than You" in my head. I smiled, laughed, and nearly cried. I had a wonderful time.
Inside of every teenage girl there's a part of Wednesday Addams that doesn't want to fall in love with a certain guy. Immediately audience members want them together. Their relationship is adorable, quirky, and complicated, and it's a ton of fun to watch.
I think this show is great for basically any person of any age. My teenage friend I saw it with loved it, and all of my other friends told me I would have a great time. Now whenever people ask me about it I encourage them to go, especially my friends. Rush is a good way to get in for a good price, but if you can't discounts are pretty good. If you're looking to have fun with a serious side and laugh a lot, definitely go.
If you have any questions or anything e-mail or comment :)

Jersey Boys

One of the first shows I wanted to see when my Broadway obsession began was Jersey Boys. After years I finally got to see it!
When I sat down I was so excited. I was sitting fourth row, and I was the youngest person around me which always excites me. I also knew many of the songs in the show so I was excited to see them performed. When the show finally started I was so happy.
As the show went on, my excitement went away. I felt like I was watching an E! True Hollywood Story with some karaoke mixed in. The performers were amazing. Tony blew me away and I fell in love with him. There just seemed to be a lack of heart to the show, and it was so simple I never got that feeling that I loved it and I'd want to go back. Some parts made me smile, though, and I'm glad I saw it.
I have a few teenage friends who love the show and got me pumped up to see it, so it's not just an adult show. I have some friends who agree with me and wouldn't pay to go back. For most people my age, paying $140 or a little under for a show is nearly out of the question, and I wouldn't recommend paying that much for the show. For a teenager rush or standing room may be a good option. If a teenager is looking for a show to relate to or feel something for, I wouldn't advise seeing Jersey Boys. If a teenager is looking for possibly a good time watching some karaoke, go. There's no spectacle to the show, no big costumes or sets. So if you're into that, Jersey Boys isn't a good choice.
If you have any questions e-mail me or comment :)