Best Upcoming Theater Productions In New York City
There are a few plays set to make their Broadway debuts during the upcoming winter and spring seasons. Some are a perfect destination spot for families, others might make a better gift for that young couple you know, but all are worth exploring.
"The Illusionists: Witness The Impossible" at the Marquis Theatre
1535 Broadway
New York, NY 10036
(212) 382-0100
www.theillusionistslive.com
Date: Now through Jan. 4, 2015
While not a traditional play with a clear narrative, actors and actresses, script, etc., "The Illusionists" brings on a type of fantastic nostalgia, one that urges its audience to once again believe in the impossible. Many of its acts garnered new-found fame by displaying their skills on "America's Got Talent," which served as a catalyst for a revitalized fascination in magic, a somewhat dormant form of entertainment with vaudeville roots. The acts are innovative and exciting, and with seven performers on the bill, the performance should remain fresh as well.
"Honeymoon In Vegas" At The Nederlander Theatre
208 W 41st Street
New York, NY 10036
(212) 921-8000
www.honeymoonbroadway.com
Date: Now through May, 2015
Question: what's the one thing on Earth that's impossible to dislike? Answer: Tony Danza! Based on the 1992 film of the same title that starred Nicholas Cage and James Caan, this musical adaptation starring the former lead from "Who's the Boss?" is earning strong reviews and receiving genuine laughs from preview audiences. It sounds like it might make a great family destination for the holidays.
"Constellations" At The Samuel J. Friedman Theatre
261 West 47th Street
New York, New York 10036
(212) 239-6200
www.broadway.com
Date: Opening Jan. 13, 2015
According to Broadway.com, "Constellations," a new play starring Hollywood heavyweight Jake Gyllenhaal, "...explores the boundless potential of first encounter, free will and friendship." An experimental drama that originally premiered in London, "Constellations" is likely a bit more intellectual than the average stage production, but it has been described by such critics as Variety's David Benedict as "emotionally satisfying."
Related: Best Places for Discounted Broadway Tickets in New York
"Fish In The Dark" At The Cort Theatre
138 West 48th Street
New York, NY 10036
(212) 239-6200
www.broadway.com
Date: Opening March 5, 2015
Featuring Larry David of both "Seinfeld" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" fame, this comedic stage production promises to feature nationally recognized names like Rosie Perez. And with Mr. David at the center of it all, the play is sure to stir up the type of observational humor that made him a household name.
"The Audience" At The Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
236 West 45th Street
New York, NY 10036
(212) 239-6200
www.theaudiencebroadway.com
Date: Opening Feb. 17, 2015
"The Audience" stars Academy Award winner Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth II. Scribed by Peter Morgan, the play hones in on some of the more compelling weekly meetings the Queen had with each of her 12 Prime Ministers over the last 60 years, from Winston Churchill to Tony Blair. This is a must-see for history buffs.
Related: 2014 New York Fall Theater Preview
Matt Thomas has covered Manhattan's music and arts beat since 2005. His stories and articles have appeared in The Village Voice, The Journal of American Culture, Word Riot, and many others. Read some of his other work on his blog (mattthomastown.wordpress.com) and Examiner.com.
