Broadway | Honeymoon in Vegas

Honeymoon in Vegas starring Tony Danza officially opened on Broadway this month, so I wanted to share my thoughts on the show with all of you. I attended a preview performance of this musical on the second day of previews, so keep in mind that the show may have changed a little, and I'm sure it will be more polished now that the actors are familiar with it. Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed Honeymoon in Vegas and am highly recommending it!

Honeymoon in Vegas is a musical comedy centering on Jack and Betsy, a young couple living in New York. They've been dating for a while, and despite wanting to tie the knot, Jack is haunted by a curse put on him by his late mother telling him never to get married. In an effort to save his relationship, Jack decides that he and Betsy should travel to Vegas to finally become husband and wife. Of course, things go wrong along the way, and casino owner Tommy Korman, played by Tony Danza, tries to steal Betsy away from Jack. Despite this somewhat-complicated plot, Honeymoon in Vegas is downright hilarious. It has surprise elements, and always kept me wanting more.

My only disappointment with the show is that the vocals are not very strong. As I mentioned before, I saw Honeymoon in Vegas on the second day of previews, but several of the lead actors were struggling to hit their notes in many of the songs. I hope this improved at the time of opening, but even though the vocals were a bit lacking, I still had a great time during the performance.

I also want to mention that Honeymoon in Vegas is playing at the Nederlander Theatre. My friend and I rushed the show, and got tickets in the Front Mezzanine for $32.00. The seating is extremely squished, with no leg room whatsoever. I was uncomfortable during the show, but this is an old theatre and unfortunately bound to happen more often than not when attending a Broadway performance. I point it out because if you need space or have a bad back, you will want to contact the box office to see if they can accommodate you.

Finally, if you want to rush Honeymoon in Vegas, I recommend getting there about an hour before the box office opens. We were there an hour and half early, and no one else showed up until closer to opening time. However, that may have changed now that the show is officially open! Rush tickets are cash only, so run to the ATM before getting in line.

In the end, if you are looking for a super fun musical to attend on Broadway, I think Honeymoon in Vegas is a perfect choice. It's great for families or date night, as it includes elements that everyone will love. You can visit the show's official website HERE for more information. As always, if you've seen this show please let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Broadway | Chicago

For whatever reason, I've never been too excited to see Chicago on Broadway. Maybe it's because the movie wasn't my favorite, or because it's one of those shows that will most likely be running until the end of time. That all ended this past weekend when I got the opportunity to sit in the third row and enjoy the action up close and personal. I'm so glad I finally saw this Broadway classic!

Most of you probably know a bit about Chicago already, but for those of you who don't, it's a musical set in the 1920s that tells the story of two murderesses both hoping to break out of jail and make it big as vaudeville dancers. Filled with big dance numbers, catchy show tunes, and scantily clad performers (leave the kids at home, folks), Chicago is lots of fun. I highly recommend it for NYC newbies who are looking to get the full "Broadway experience" for the first time. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my night at the Ambassador Theatre, but Chicago isn't the best Broadway show I've seen. It has that razzle dazzle (see what I did there), but there's just something missing that I can't quite put my finger on. I will say that Bianca Marroquin, currently starring as Roxie Hart, is phenomenal. She is truly hilarious, and has a great interaction with the audience. The rest of the cast, including Bebe Neuwirth, is wonderful as well. Like I said, Chicago is a great Broadway experience, but now that I've seen it, I can cross it off my Broadway bucket list. 

I have no stage door tips for you this time, as it was just too snowy and cold the evening I attended. The door, however, is conveniently located just to the left of the main entrance to the Ambassador, which is definitely on the small side of all the Broadway theaters I've been to (with the exception of the Helen Hayes, where Rock of Ages plays). 

Chicago does have general rush at $37 per ticket, but this time around I actually stood in line for TKTS. You'll definitely get a better deal if you're up to the rush line, but I can't shed any light on where your seats will be located. I loved my third row seats! Any time I can hear the actors singing without the aid of microphones I get really excited! 

Overall, Chicago is a staple Broadway experience, and I recommend everyone see it even if you didn't enjoy the movie. You can get more information on the show's official website HERE.  

Broadway | No Man's Land & Waiting for Godot

It was back to Broadway for me this past weekend when I finally saw my first shows of 2014! My friend was in town, and we made plans to rush No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot at the Cort Theatre to see none other than Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart on stage. Our rush experience was interesting – read all about it HERE – but we were able to snag front row seats to both shows. Was it worth the three hour wait in the cold? You bet! 

It might be helpful to explain a bit about how this Broadway experience differs from other plays. Instead of performing the same show eight times a week, the cast is putting on "two plays in rep" and performing No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot four times each per week. Audience members can catch both shows in one day on Wednesdays and Saturdays by attending both the matinee and evening performances. So if you're in town for just the weekend, have no fear – you won't have to choose one play over the other! 

On Saturdays, No Man's Land is up first for the matinee, with Waiting for Godot on at night. Both plays are quite different, yet have parallel themes running throughout. They're mysterious, they're funny, and they make you think. The experience of seeing McKellen and Stewart perform together live is truly magical. Along with cast mates Billy Crudup and Shuler Hensley, they put on a performance that demonstrates the art of acting to the fullest. 

I won't say much about each show as I don't want to divulge much about the story lines, but I will say that you will leave the theatre entertained and wanting more. Being in the presence of such renowned actors is a privilege, and I will always cherish my memories of seeing these shows from the front row, just feet (sometimes inches!) away from McKellen and Stewart. 

If you're wondering about the Stage Door experience, here's the good news: the actors all graciously come out and will sign Playbills. McKellen will pose for a picture with you (and Stewart allows you to take photos of him). The bad news is the barricades get filled up quickly, and if you've rushed the show you may have to sacrifice an autograph for the front row. Unfortunately we missed out on Crudup's signature, but got autographs from the rest of the cast. 

Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart signing Playbills

For more information on No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot, visit the official website HERE. The show is finishing its limited engagement on March 30, 2014.

Lesson 8: The Rules of Broadway Rush in the Winter

Until yesterday, I considered myself a Broadway rush expert. I've rushed several shows, and was only unsuccessful once.... for Once, coincidentally. I know what research to do regarding when to show up at the theater, how many tickets the show has available, and even where the seats are located. But all of my rush experiences differed in one significant way – I had never rushed a show in the winter.

The goal: get rush tickets for both No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot. Thanks to the helpful broadwayspotted.com, I knew that 7:00am was the time I needed to be in line. My friend and I woke up bright and early on a Saturday morning, and headed to the Cort Theatre. We arrived with a few minutes to spare before seven, and ended up fourth and fifth in line respectively. After just minutes had gone by, I knew my boots, scarf, hat, earmuffs, and gloves would not cut it. Plainly put, it was freezing. Literally.

I made an emergency trip to Walgreens, grabbed some hand warmers and blankets, and that helped. A bit. But I learned my lesson big time – there is no messing with Mother Nature when it comes to waiting in line for three hours in an NYC winter. So if you're heading to the box office this season, here are the things I recommend bringing along with you for the wait.

Hand Warmers

HotHands Value Pack of 10 [BUY]

My biggest recommendation is to pick up some hand warmers. Not only are they super affordable at around $1 each, but they last for several hours and will really keep your fingers feeling toasty. Hand warmers are perfect for waiting in the rush line, and double up at the stage door after the show. Yes, they'll still be warm!

Sleeping Bag / Warm Blankets

Coleman Cold-Weather Sleeping Bag [BUY]

Some of my line-mates were smart, and brought a sleeping bag along with them. I definitely had a "why didn't I think of that?" moment when I saw them. The sleeping bag will provide you with something to sit on, and something to keep you warm. If you don't own a sleeping bag, definitely take a fleece blanket. When you're standing/sitting for a great deal of time, you'll feel much comfier with something to wrap around you.

Wool Socks

Wigwam El Pine Socks [BUY]

Make sure to keep your feet warm! I was actually starting to get nervous about frostbite since my feet were truly feeling that cold. Wear wool socks, and warm snow boots if you have them. Don't take your chances in the freezing cold! 

Water / Snacks

Camelbak Eddy Bottle [BUY]

It's extremely important to stay hydrated in the winter. Your skin will be depleted of moisture while you're out in the frigid temperatures, so keep water with you, as well as some snacks. If you have a buddy with you like I did, take turns heading to Starbucks for a warm beverage, as well as some time in a heated location.

Tissues

Kleenex Pocket Packs [BUY]

Even if you aren't feeling sick, pack some tissues! I'm really glad I had a pocket pack in my purse. I ended up really needing them. The wind did not like my nose!

Entertainment

Kindle Paperwhite [BUY]

Let's face it. You won't always have a friend rushing with you, so grab a book, your eReader, or your iPod to keep you company. The hours can go slowly if you're just standing there! Of course, don't forget to be friendly to those standing in line with you as well – you'll probably be sitting next to them at the show!

Hat, Gloves, Scarf....

Isotoner Smartouch Gloves [BUY]

Last but not least, don't forget your gloves, a hat, and a scarf at the bare minimum. Make sure to bundle up. Wear long underwear if you have to! Seriously, you don't want your day to start off miserably. You'll have a great time no matter what Broadway show you see, but make your rush experience a fun part of your day as well.

Lesson 8: You can score amazing deals on Broadway shows by waiting in line for rush tickets, but make sure to dress the part in the winter to stay warm and comfortable.

Do you have any additional tips for rushing Broadway in the winter? Leave them in the comments! Stay tuned for my thoughts on No Man's Land and Waiting for Godot!

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Broadway | How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying

This morning I waited in line for two hours to get a $30 rush ticket to see How to Succeed on broadway starring Daniel Radcliffe. I normally only arrive at the theater about 30 minutes ahead of the box office opening, but after seeing the line at Catch Me If You Can yesterday when I got there an hour early, I knew I had to get there way ahead of time to see DanRad. Imagine my surprise when I show up and there are about 15-20 people ahead of me. I was so nervous! Should I wait? Should I leave? Three people in front of me bailed soon after I got there. Luckily, when noon rolled around I had my ticket in my hand. I was sitting in the fourth row, and although it was stamped "partial view" I could see everything just fine. 

As the show was about to begin, I could not have been more excited. I was literally trembling (of course, the air conditioning was freezing in the theater). I had no idea that the show I was about to see would leave me smiling for hours after I left the theater. How am I supposed to sum up for you how amazing this show was? Let me put it this way-- Harry Potter who?! Seriously, Daniel did a phenomenal job. Okay, so he's not the best singer in the world, but his voice is pleasant enough. Everyone knows he is a great actor, but now he has proven he is one outstanding performer. Daniel and the cast of How to Succeed with entertain you to the fullest.

Daniel plays J. Pierrepont Finch, a young window washer who quickly rises to the top in a powerful corporation thanks to a how-to guide. I cannot stress to you how fun this show is. The dancing, the music, the extravagant set-- it all is put together so perfectly. I keep asking myself, "Would I still love this show if Dan didn't play the lead?" And you know what, while it would still be fabulous, it just wouldn't be the same. He is made for this role. Daniel is so charming and talented. He interacts wonderfully with the rest of the cast, his dancing is rather impressive, and, most of all, he is really enjoying myself. My absolute favorite moment in the show was during one of the last numbers called "Brotherhood of Man." This scene in itself is a huge, powerful moment, but I caught something that made me see that Dan is having the time of his life up there. Dan did a fancy maneuver (not sure if it was a somersault or what) but he landed facing the actor who plays the chairman of the board of the company he works for. When those two made eye contact, Dan was absolutely beaming. He wasn't just smiling for the sake of the show-- he was truly having a blast. 

I really do not want to put Dan's performance on a higher lever than the rest of the cast's because that is definitely not true. Everyone-- from the other lead actors to the members of the ensemble-- is so talented. I can't begin to explain the amazing time I had at How to Succeed. If you go to see one show this season, make it this one. Just remember to get there very early if you want rush tickets. No matter what, it will definitely be worth the wait.

Broadway | The Addams Family

Today I made my way into the city to buy student rush tickets to a broadway show. On Sundays the box office opens at noon, so I figured getting there at 11:00AM would mean a good spot in line. I was very surprised when I got there and found no one waiting at all! In fact, there were only a handful of people behind me when the box office opened. I had prepared a small list of shows that I was interested in, and got my first choice of The Addams Family. For only $37 I got a seat in the mid-mezzanine! All I had to do was show my student ID to get the ticket. 

The show was fantastic! Besides sitting behind a really tall guy (of course) I had a great view. It's was weird to think that when I saw Beauty and the Beast in the same theater (the Lunt-Fontanne), I was sitting in the fourth row. The music was very catchy, and the story was funny. Grandma was particularly hilarious. Another cool thing about the story was that it took place in the current time period, so references to pop culture were made. The one-liners were great!  In this take on the Addams Family, Wednesday falls in love with a "normal" guy, and his family comes to dinner at the Addams' residence. While Wednesday pleads with her family to act like everyday people for just one night, that isn't of course what happens. There are fights, games, and so much more. Uncle Fester even finds himself falling in love! I would definitely recommend this show for a fun family comedy on broadway. Just be aware that if you bring young children there are some obscenities. 

After the show I stayed at the theater to get my playbill signed. I usually have the cast sign the program book that I always buy as a souvenir, but since it was all black I figured the playbill was a better idea. Here is a picture of the program and signed playbill:

I had a great time at The Addams Family, and I plan on seeing a lot more broadway shows while I'm here! Many of them offer student rush tickets, and some offer general rush tickets. If you're looking for a show to see, check out this website for the shows playing and the discounts you can receive: Link