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visitors Apr 11th, 2002 11:18 AM

Broadway play for first-timer
 
My brother and wife will be visiting N.Y. for the first time and want to see a Broadway play. They aren't bit "show" people but so many of their friends have told them they MUST go to a Broadway show and they want to.<BR>So I'm trying to find something that will appeal and that will have tickets readily available as they'll be here in 2 weeks. I was thinking of Cabaret but if anyone has any other suggestions, please let me know!??

Serena Apr 11th, 2002 11:32 AM

Tickets to "42nd Street" would be a good bet. It is light and the dance routines are beautiful. "Les Mes" is a classic. Both of these shows are excellent. I don't know if tickets are easily available for "42 Street", but it worth a try.

Howard Apr 11th, 2002 11:52 AM

Cabaret is a wonderful show, but I don't think I'd recommend it for Broadway first-timers. I'd lean towards something more mainstream like Phantom of the Opera or 42nd Street. Tickets are available for both if you order in advance.

John K Apr 11th, 2002 12:11 PM

The Full Monty is another good suggestion for first timers.

New Yorker Apr 11th, 2002 12:24 PM

"Les Miz" is about 3 1/2 hours long--not what I'd suggest for a first timer. (Actually, I'm a frequent Broadway attendee, and I don't think I'd recommend it to anyone, just my opinion)<BR> The other suggestions mentioned here are much more 'user friendly"!

Philip Apr 11th, 2002 01:01 PM

"42nd Street", "Into The Woods" or "Thoroughly Modern Millie" for a musical. "Noises Off" for a comedy. "The Crucible" for a drama.

hamlet Apr 11th, 2002 01:08 PM

I would recommend your good old-fashioned musical like 42nd Street or Oklahoma. I've seen both of these, about 20 years ago, not the current runs. While I absolutely love Les Miz and the music, I think it too intense for first timers who may have no interest in shows. I didn't like Phantom because I don't like the opera music and if your brother and wife don't like opera either, I'd stay away there too. (Depending on when they will see the show, there are discounts available for Oklahoma on playbill.com)

JoJo Apr 11th, 2002 03:46 PM

Definitely 42nd Street - My husband and I are still talking about it --

lisa Apr 11th, 2002 04:56 PM

42nd Street or Thoroughly Modern Millie -- both are enjoyable musicals that are perfect for beginners. Cabaret is a little heavy and the setting -- while lots of fun because it's nightclub style -- isn't your typical Broadway experience.

Ellen Apr 12th, 2002 07:25 AM

42nd Street! It has all the elements - good music, sets, dancing, costumes, etc. Also, it is in a wonderful Broadway Theater. Cabaret is in a restored night club and Oklahoma is in a very modern theater at the Marriott. For a full Broadway theater experience, you need to be in a Broadway theater (IMO). You might want to make a dinner reservation for them too for about 6 pm in the area. I'm sure I speak for Howard and myself when I recommend Chez Josephine : - ) Great food and atmosphere, and one block down from the theater on 42nd St.

Howard Apr 12th, 2002 08:44 AM

You sure do, Ellen! (But, I might lean towards another show!)

Phantom Apr 14th, 2002 02:14 PM

Just returned from a weekend in NY. We saw Phantom of the Opera and LOVED it. We are not huge opera music fans but this was wonderful!

Teresa Apr 14th, 2002 05:27 PM

One more vote for Phantom! Even our 9 year old was entranced by the music, costumes and sheer grandeur of the musical. The theater (help me out--is it the Majestic or the Paramount?) is also a fun an experience--definitely old-school Broadway glamour. A great intro. to Broadway.

Donna Apr 14th, 2002 05:47 PM

Here's a recommendation for "Chicago". We love that show! We've seen it twice and may see it again. There are seats on sale if you sign up at www.playbill.com. Because of that, I'm guessing there's a good chance they're available at the TKTS booth as well.<BR><BR>Thanks to all who posted regarding "42nd Street" as we have tickets for June and are really looking forward to it.


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