by Derrel Jazz Johnson
After a shutdown that lasted about 18 months, Broadway, a huge tourist attraction and financial artery for New York City, is back! Whether you live in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, or anywhere else, now is the perfect time for you to make your return (or your debut) in the world-famous theatre district. Here is a list of returning and new shows that you should check out if you haven’t already
“Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations. This musical, which was nominated for 12 Tony Awards, is a must-see for any fan of the legendary Motown group. The compelling story, written by Dominique Morisseau, takes you on a journey of the trials and tribulations of the group and is largely based on a memoir from the last living member of the group, Otis Williams, who is 80 years old.
Hadestown. This show is another must-see that was nominated for 14 Tony Awards and captured 8, including Best Musical, Best Original Score, and Best Featured Actor for Andre De Shields, who is still starring in the show.
Jagged Little Pill. This show, set to the music of Alanis Morissette, was nominated for 15 Tony Awards, winning Best Book of a Musical and Best Performance by an Actress (Lauren Patten) in a Featured Role in a Musical and is another wonderful musical with an amazing cast.
The Phantom of the Opera. Broadway’s longest-running show and musical has been on Broadway for over three decades and has featured a who’s who of great actors in leading roles, including Norm Lewis (who is currently starring in Chicken & Biscuits) who was the first Black man to ever play the Phantom. Classic musicals never get old, and Phantom is one of those shows you can see over and over.
Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. Finally, this musical about the life and struggles of the legendary singer was nominated for 12 Tony Awards, winning for Best Performance for a Leading Actress in a Musical. Though Adrienne Warren has left the show, New York City native Nkeki Obi-Melekwe is no stranger to the role, as she also succeeded Warren in the London production of the show. This is a must-see for any Tina fan, and if you are a fan of her music, you will find yourself singing along with the cast.
So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets for these or any other fantastic Broadway shows now. According to New York City COVID-19 protocols, proof of vaccination is needed and masks must be worn at all times when you are not eating or drinking.
I think The Cold Blooded Show here in Manhattan, NY is excellent, and people will like it because of its good storyline. From I what I’ve heard, it’s about Joe Berlinger. The documentary legend looks at the horrific 1959 killings of a Kansas family, a tragedy that inspired Truman Capote to write IN COLD BLOOD, which will screen in November 2017.