All tagged On The Town
A Broadway hit doesn’t always necessarily translate to a universal hit. There have been many musicals that opened in New York City, but when they premiered in London’s West End, they failed to ignite with audiences. In some cases, it was the production that floundered and the show proved to be a hit at a later date. Here are some musicals that were hits in NYC, but initially failed in the West End.
Whether we want to admit it or not, the holidays are here. Since tickets to Hamilton seem like an unlikely present this Christmas or Hanukkah (unless you bought them six months ago or don’t mind waiting until 2020 to see it), the Broadway musical enthusiast will have to look elsewhere for gift ideas to put on their wish list. Fortunately, there are a great many wonderful and unique options guaranteed to make every musical theatre fan a happy camper this holiday season.
This week, the very talented and versatile performer Jay Armstrong Johnson consented to be subjected to my questions about his career in theatre. Jay is currently starring in the Broadway revival of On the Town, infusing the character of "Chip", a naïve sailor on 24 hour leave in New York City, with humor, heart, and boundless energy. Jay made his Broadway debut in the 2010 revival of Hair, understudying the role of "Claude." He was a standby for the role of Frank Abagnale, Jr. in the 2011 musical Catch Me If You Can, and he originated the role of “Greg Wilhote” in the short-lived (but much adored) Hands on a Hardbody (2013).
A month ago, I wrote a piece on the anti-love song, exploring the bitter and the scorned characters of Broadway musicals. With Valentine's Day just a few days away, I suppose I should provide an antidote to all the vitriol and tears. Since the straightforward love song is not particularly my bag, I have decided to celebrate Hallmark's pay dirt by reveling in my ten favorite musical comedy duets about love. It's not as romantic a topic, but infinitely more sincere and satisfying.
