The Tonys are inching closer and closer, and at this point you may be wondering, “What else could there possibly be to discuss?”.
That’s a great question, and one that is clearly being asked by someone who doesn’t love the theater. While I can certainly sympathize with those who think that theater is just, “not their thing,” I can’t help but wonder if they just haven’t found the right shows.
After all, theater covers an infinite number of genres and styles. There’s a chance these sad souls just haven’t found their particular brand of theater…yet.Just a quick glance at this season’s contenders reveals the range. For example, if the running time of shows is an issue, there’s everything from one acts (like “The Band’s Visit”) to four acts (“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”) and six acts (“Angels in America”).
If you’re not a fan of the big, traditional, show-stopping numbers of Broadway, there are smaller shows that still resonate (“Once on this Island”, “The Band’s Visit”). Although, fair warning, you may still find yourself tapping your toes.
If musicals just REALLY aren’t your thing, they make those without music. We call them plays, and some of this year’s top contenders are plays (aka – “Harry Potter”, “Angels in America”). Just a heads up, some of them do have music in them (“Farinelli and the King”)…it’s complicated.
If you like seeing shows that sound familiar, well Broadway was made for you (“Mean Girls”, “Frozen”). If you still want that familiarity to surprise you, I promise you it will (“SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical”).
Basically, there’s something you’ll love (whether you like it or not), assuming you go in with an open mind, and a willingness to submit yourself to the story. The best part is they do this all over the world, not just on Broadway. So get out there and support your local theaters.
…just for fun: