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April 07.2025
2 Minutes Read

Broadway's The Last Five Years: What Critics Are Saying

The Last Five Years Broadway Reviews emotional scene on stage.

Broadway's Emotional Triumph: The Last Five Years

The highly anticipated Broadway production of Jason Robert Brown's The Last Five Years has made its debut at the Hudson Theatre, starring Grammy and Golden Globe nominee Nick Jonas alongside Tony Award winner Adrienne Warren. Directed by Whitney White, this groundbreaking event marks the first-ever staging of this beloved musical on Broadway, offering a fresh take on a story that captures the complexities of love and relationships.

The Creative Team Behind the Magic

The production boasts a talented creative team, including Tony Award nominees Jeff Kuperman and Rick Kuperman for choreography and David Zinn for scenic design. The costumes, designed by Dede Ayite, are notable for enhancing the emotional weight of the narrative. Lighting designer Stacey Derosier and sound designer Cody Spencer also contribute their expertise to ensure a captivating viewing experience. With such an acclaimed team behind The Last Five Years, it raises expectations for what audiences will experience.

Initial Reviews: A Mixed Bag

Initial reviews from critics paint a diverse picture of the production's reception. According to Matt Windman from amNY, the musical arrives as a "frustrating misfire," citing issues of being overproduced and emotionally hollow. Windman's review reflects a sentiment that this production may have missed the mark on capturing the delicate intimacy that has made the original musical a classic. With an average rating of just 40%, it seems the production might face an uphill battle in winning over audiences.

The Importance of This Staging

As the first Broadway offering of The Last Five Years, this production emphasizes the cultural significance of bringing musical theatre to the forefront. The challenges faced by this show prompt discussions about not just its artistic execution but the very nature of how stories about love, loss, and heartbreak are presented on stage. Many fans had high hopes for the production, fueling conversations on whether the adaptations could hold up to the revered source material.

A Call to Action for Fans

The musical landscape is ever-changing, and this production of The Last Five Years serves as an opportunity for fans to both engage with a beloved story and participate in the ongoing conversation regarding its merits and flaws. Whether you find it evokes your emotions or leaves you yearning for more, attending this production can deepen your understanding of musical theatre—it’s a chance not to be missed for enthusiasts of the genre. As always, audiences are encouraged to share their thoughts and join the dialogue by leaving reviews or discussing the performance on social media platforms.

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08.20.2025

Broadway Grosses This Week: MAMMA MIA! Rises as a New Hit!

Update MAMMA MIA! Shakes Up Broadway's Grosses The lights are shining brighter than ever on Broadway as MAMMA MIA! launched its much-anticipated revival at the Winter Garden Theatre, concluding the week ending August 17, 2025, with a staggering $1.6 million in grosses. This placed the show in the top five highest-grossing productions of the week, showcasing its powerful re-entry into the hearts of theatre-goers. Capacity and Attendance Fluctuations With 29 shows playing this past week, Broadway saw a total of 245,807 tickets sold and combined grosses amounting to $29,790,665. This week, attendance dipped by 2.31% compared to last week, sparking discussions among producers, artists, and fans regarding the overall health of the theatre scene. While MAMMA MIA! enjoyed modest attendance growth (up 0.3%), the departure of GYPSY led to a general surge in capacities among other productions. Shifts in the Top and Bottom Grossing Shows The ultimate leaders of the pack remain HAMILTON and WICKED, pulling in $2.2 million and $2 million, respectively. Meanwhile, GYPSY concluded its run this week, and though it was highly regarded, it still faced a decline leading to its closure, contributing to only $1.6 million in gross for its final week. The shift in dynamics raises the question: will these veteran shows maintain their dominance against the ever-changing landscape of Broadway? Insights on Ticket Pricing and Market Trends The average ticket price on Broadway hovered at $121.20, a slight decrease from the week prior. This number underscores the delicate balance between pricing strategy and audience engagement, as theatre enthusiasts weigh their options against a multitude of performances vying for attention. The most expensive show to secure a spot on Broadway was JUST IN TIME, averaging ticket sales of $227.49. The Emotional Connection to Theater The fluctuating grosses may seem merely numbers on a page, but behind those figures lie the stories of lives transformed through unforgettable experiences. Each show, from MAMMA MIA! to the newly launched JEFF ROSS: TAKE A BANANA FOR THE RIDE, is a chapter in a larger narrative that resonates with audiences. As Broadway continues to adapt and evolve, the connection to these productions often transcends ticket sales, hinting at a cultural and emotional anchor amid a sea of entertainment options. As the curtain closes on another week, Broadway remains not only a platform for incredible storytelling but a reflection of the collective sentiments of its audience. The surge of MAMMA MIA! combined with the farewell of GYPSY serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of theatrical production where victory and closure intermingle.

08.19.2025

Experience the Magic of Die Mommie Die! with Stars at Sharon Playhouse

Update Die Mommie Die! Returns for a Special Benefit Reading The Sharon Playhouse is set to host an exciting, one-night-only staged reading of the cult classic Die Mommie Die!, written by Charles Busch. This special event will occur on September 12 at 7:00 p.m. in The Bobbie Olsen Theater, promising attendees a delightful evening of theatrics and laughter. A Star-Studded Cast to Bring the Comedy to Life Among the notable performers gracing the stage are Charles Busch himself, who will reprise his iconic role as Angela Arden, alongside Richard Kind, known for his role in Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Tony Award-winners like Celia Keenan-Bolger, recognized for To Kill a Mockingbird. Additionally, the ensemble features two-time Tony nominee Kristine Nielsen, Andrew Keenan-Bolger from Newsies, and Claybourne Elder of the musical Company. This remarkable cast promises to deliver the humor and drama that has made Die Mommie Die! a beloved staple. A Cult Classic That Has Stood the Test of Time Originally premiering in Los Angeles in 1999, Die Mommie Die! has evolved into a celebrated cult favorite, characterized by its parody of classic film thrillers. With its eclectic mix of scheming heirs, questionable romantic interests, and unexpected plot twists, the reading is sure to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Artistic Director Carl Andress shares, “It will be an unforgettable night of laughter, glamour, and pure theatrical fun.” Supporting a Good Cause Through Theatre Not only will the audience enjoy a fabulous performance, but all proceeds from the reading will benefit the Sharon Playhouse’s productions and educational programs. Such initiatives are essential for fostering the arts within the community, ensuring ongoing access to theatrical experiences and educational opportunities for aspiring talents. Get Your Tickets for a Night to Remember Tickets for this unique event are now available online at sharonplayhouse.org/die-mommie-die or by calling (860) 364-7469 ext. 200/201. Given the star power and the charitable cause, seating is expected to fill up quickly, so be sure to secure your spot for an evening of theatrical excitement!

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