Patrick, same theaters, different days. No matches. We also do back to back performances occasionally to see as many performances as we can.

Ziggy, if you're still here, you're talking about expectations don't forget. Just because you've read here that Nine turned out "a bit better than expected" and "Gypsy" was "very good - just not as great as expected" doesn't necessarily mean you will like Nine better than Gypsy. The differences in the newspaper reviews are that Nine is eye-candy with great sets and gorgeous costumes but the play has basic structural problems that are not overcome. The main criticism is that it's emotionally cold.

Mendes is being criticised for giving Gypsy bare-bones sets (made to look like sets) but as always this play has a good book and solid songs. Much has been made of Peters' casting but since no one can be Merman, I think it's interesting to try it another way.

BTW, Joe Egg is supposed to be fantastic if you're looking for a "thinking play." It will end this month I believe.

I got tickets to "Gypsy" because we love the musical numbers and the story. Though I've always admired Bernadette Peters, I though she was too ethereal to play Mama Rose effectively. I was wrong. She was magnificent from the first line she delivered! The lady next to me (her third time) told me the show was rough in the early previews.