Get Your Tickets To See Hedwig And The Angry Inch On Broadway

One of the best things I have ever seen both On or Off-Broadway was the 1998 production of Hedwig and the Angry Inch. That production of course played Off-Broadway where it ran for two years and was a huge hit. Now as much as I loved the show never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would see it on Broadway. Now here we are in 2015 and not only is it one of the biggest hits on Broadway but it also won the Tony Award for Best Musical Revival of the Year. I must be dreaming right? Thankfully for all of us it is not a dream and Hedwig and the Angry Inch is now on the Great White Way for the world to see.

Now when I first saw the show I had no idea what it was about except that all my friends told me I had to see it.Thankfully my friends and I usually have the same tastes when it comes to shows so I knew there was more than a good chance that I would like it. They were right. Like I said at the beginning of my blog it is one of the best shows that I have ever seen. Cut to sixteen years later and I got to experience this amazing musical on Broadway. Not only that but I got to see it starring it's creator and original star John Cameron Mitchell. Does it get any better than that? By the way it was just announced yesterday that Mr. Mitchell will receive the 2015 Special Tony Award.

Here is the official statement that was released earlier Tuesday morning about it. "John’s return to Hedwig and the Angry Inch is one for the history books. He not only wrote and co-created the role with Stephen Trask--before directing and starring in the film--but returned to Broadway to star as Hedwig this season after a series of rave performances by Neil Patrick Harris, Andrew Rannells and Michael C. Hall. This is a remarkable undertaking, and we are honored to recognize his outstanding success with this honor," said Heather Hitchens, president of the American Theatre Wing, and Charlotte St. Martin, executive director of The Broadway League.

Congratulations John Cameron Mitchell! You deserve it. Now while he may have played his final performance on Sunday Hedwig lives on. Starting tonight and for the next twelve weeks Darren Criss (Glee) will don the high heels seven times a week at the Belasco Theatre on Broadway. Now while that may be enough to make you want to see it there may be some of you out there who still aren't sure. Maybe a brief synopsis of the show might help. So let's get to it. Enjoy!

Hedwig and the Angry Inch is a raucous musical comedy that tells the story of a fictional rock 'n' roll band, fronted by Hedwig, a transgender woman and “internationally ignored song stylist” from East Berlin. See? I told you it was brief. Regardless Hedwig and the Angry Inch is one show you do not want to miss my friends. Now for those of you who want tickets to see it you are in luck. We sell it. Not only that but it is now possible to get tickets to see Hedwig and the Angry Inch at prices that can't be beat. Get your Hedwig and the Angry Inch tickets on Broadway at the Belasco Theatre. You will love it. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
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Tony Winner Chita Rivera Stars In New Kander and Ebb Musical The Visit

Nominated for five 2015 Tony Awards including Best Musical of the Year is The Visit. The show which marks the final collaboration between Tony winners John Kander and Fred Ebb opened at the Lyceum Theatre on Broadway on April 23. To say this new musical has had quite the journey would be an understatement. In fact the show was actually supposed to open on Broadway in March 2001 and was to star five-time Tony Award winner Angela Lansbury. However due to the illness of her husband Mrs. Lansbury dropped out and the show was cancelled.

Less than a year later the show opened at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago now starring Tony winner Chita Rivera. However because The Visit opened shortly after 9/11 a show with such dark subject matter was deemed not a good fit for Broadway and once again New York audiences would be denied seeing it.Two more productions followed. One at the Signature Theatre in 2008 and another in 2014 at the Williamstown Theatre both of which starred Ms. Rivera.

Now here we are fifteen years later and The Visit is finally on Broadway. Like I said. Quite a journey. As of now the show is only scheduled to run thru September 6 but if it manages to win a few Tony Awards I wouldn't be surprised if it extends. We shall see. O.K. so now that I have told you all about the show's long journey to the Great White Way you are probably wondering what The Visit is about right? After all before you purchase tickets to see it you might want to know a little bit about it. So here you go. Enjoy!

Based on the satirical play by Friedrich Dürrenmatt as adapted by Maurice Valency, The Visit is about greed, love, and one woman's carefully plotted revenge. The oft-widowed Claire Zachanassian (Chita Rivera), richest woman in the world, returns to the hardship-stricken town of her birth. The locals pray that her wealth will bring them a new lease on life, but her arrival carries a dreadful price. Tony Award® winner Roger Rees co-stars as Anton Schell, the man who scorned Claire years ago. Sardonic and morally complex, The Visit asks "What can your heart afford?"

See? I told you it was dark didn't I? Now I don't know about you but it sounds kind of interesting to me. Plus it may be the last time to see Broadway legend Chita Rivera on stage again. That alone is worth the price of admission. Now for those of you like me who would like to see The Visit you have come to the right place. We sell it. In fact we sell tickets to all of this year's Tony nominees. Not only that but it is now possible to see The Visit at some incredible savings. Just give us a call and ask about our "Insider Prices" and we will take care of the rest. Get your tickets to see The Visit on Broadway at the Lyceum Theatre. Who knows? I just might see you there. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
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Tony Nominee The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night Time Is A Must See

Nominated for six 2015 Tony Awards including Best Play of the Year is The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time. The show which first premiered in the West End in August 2012 opened at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre last fall to rave reviews from critic's and audiences alike. I had the pleasure of seeing the show shortly before it's Broadway debut and was blown away. At first I had considered reading the book prior to seeing it but changed my mind as I wanted to go in with a clear mind and no expectations. I'm glad I did. Of course now I'm dying to read the book. Oh well. I'm sure I'll get around to it eventually. I just hope I enjoy it as half as much as I enjoyed the show. Having lived in New York for over twenty-three years now I have seen hundreds of shows.

Now to be honest when I first moved here musicals were more my thing. However in the last eight or nine years new plays have been the thing that I have been most excited to see. Which is why I was so eager to see this one. It is truly one of the most exciting nights that I have ever had in the theatre. In the past moments like those were reserved for some of my favorite musicals like Rent or Miss Saigon. Now I can add a new one to the list. Now as I said The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time is based on a book. A very popular book I might add as it has sold over two million copies since it was first published in 2003.  So now that you know that the show is based on a best selling novel and is now a Tony nominated play I bet you are ready to purchase tickets right? Well just in case you still aren't sure here is a little synopsis about the show for you to check out. Enjoy!

Fifteen-year old Christopher has an extraordinary brain; he is exceptionally intelligent but ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. When he falls under suspicion for killing his neighbor's dog, he sets out to identify the true culprit, which leads to an earth-shattering discovery and a journey that will change his life forever. O.K. I know it sounds a little heavy but trust me folks. It is a must see. I mean a show doesn't get all those Tony nominations for nothing after all. By the way for those of you who want to see the show you are in luck. We sell it. In fact we sell all of this year's Tony nominated shows. Get your tickets to see The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time on Broadway at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre. It is theatre at it's finest. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
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2015 Tony Award Nominations

That's right theatre fans. Awards season is upon us. Less than an hour ago the 2015 Tony nominations were announced and as always there were a few surprises. Leading the pack with the most nominations are an An American In Paris and Fun Home which both received twelve nominations. Now when I said surprises I wasn't talking about them as they were two of the most well received musicals to open this season. Leading on the play front were Wolf Hall: Parts One and Two which received eight nominations. Coming in second was the Broadway revival of Skylight which received seven and The Curious Incident of the Dog In The Night Time which received six.

Pretty good year for plays as thirteen different shows were nominated this year as opposed to in the musical category where only nine musical productions received nominations this year out of fifteen new musicals and revivals that opened this season. Now on to the surprises I mentioned or as it is commonly refereed to in our business as "Snubs". Now every one pretty much expected An American In Paris, Fun Home and Something Rotten to be nominated for Best Musical. The big question is who would get the coveted fourth slot. Finding Neverland seemed like a lock and then the reviews came out which pretty much squashed it's chances. Now while I loved Doctor Zhivago I knew it probably didn't stand a chance which left The Visit.

Besides bringing two-time Tony winner Chita Rivera back to Broadway it also marked the last Broadway show for fellow Tony winners John Kander and the late Fred Ebb. By the way Finding Neverland didn't receive any nominations yet it has the biggest advance of any new show or revival and continues to gross over a million dollars a week at the box office. Oh sure a few nominations might have been great but I have a feeling that Finding Neverland will be around for a long time to come. Take that critic's. Don't forget that this year's Tony Awards will be broadcast live on June 7 on CBS. Plus it was just announced that Tony winners Kristin Chenoweth and Alan Cumming are hosting. Should be a fun night theatre fans. Now on to the rest of this year's nominees.

Best Play
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Author: Simon Stephens
Disgraced, Author: Ayad Akhtar
Hand to God, Author: Robert Askins
Wolf Hall Parts One & Two, Co-Authors: Hilary Mantel and Mike Poulton

Best Musical
An American in Paris
Fun Home
Something Rotten
The Visit

Best Revival of a Play
The Elephant Man
Skylight
This Is Our Youth
You Can't Take it With You

Best Revival of a Musical
The King and I
On the Town
On the 20th Century

Best Book of a Musical
An American in Paris, Craig Lucas
Fun Home, Lisa Kron
Something Rotten! Karey Kirkpatrick and John O'Farrell
The Visit, Terrence McNally

Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Fun Home, Music: Jeanine Tesori, Lyrics: Lisa Kron
The Last Ship, Music & Lyrics: Sting
Something Rotten! Music & Lyrics: Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick
The Visit, Music: John Kander, Lyrics: Fred Ebb

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
Steven Boyer, Hand to God
Bradley Cooper, The Elephant Man
Ben Miles, Wolf Hall Parts One & Two
Bill Nighy, Skylight
Alex Sharp, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play
Geneva Carr, Hand to God
Helen Mirren, The Audience
Elisabeth Moss, The Heidi Chronicles
Carey Mulligan, Skylight
Ruth Wilson, Constellations

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical
Michael Cerveris, Fun Home
Robert Fairchild, An American in Paris
Brian d'Arcy James, Something Rotten!
Ken Watanabe, The King and I
Tony Yazbeck, On the Town

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
Kristin Chenoweth, On the Twentieth Century
Leanne Cope, An American in Paris
Beth Malone, Fun Home
Kelli O'Hara, The King and I
Chita Rivera, The Visit

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play
Matthew Beard, Skylight
K. Todd Freeman, Airline Highway
Richard McCabe, The Audience
Alessandro Nivola, The Elephant Man
Nathaniel Parker, Wolf Hall Parts One & Two
Micah Stock, It's Only a Play

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play
Annaleigh Ashford, You Can't Take It with You
Patricia Clarkson, The Elephant Man
Lydia Leonard, Wolf Hall Parts One & Two
Sarah Stiles, Hand to God
Julie White, Airline Highway
Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical
Christian Borle, Something Rotten!
Andy Karl, On the Twentieth Century
Brad Oscar, Something Rotten!
Brandon Uranowitz, An American in Paris
Max von Essen, An American in Paris

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical
Victoria Clark, Gigi
Judy Kuhn, Fun Home
Sydney Lucas, Fun Home
Ruthie Ann Miles, The King and I
Emily Skeggs, Fun Home

Best Scenic Design of a Play
Bunny Christie and Finn Ross, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Bob Crowley, Skylight
Christopher Oram, Wolf Hall Parts One & Two
David Rockwell, You Can't Take It with You

Best Scenic Design of a Musical
Bob Crowley and 59 Productions, An American in Paris
David Rockwell, On the Twentieth Century
Michael Yeargan, The King and I
David Zinn, Fun Home

Best Costume Design of a Play
Bob Crowley, The Audience
Jane Greenwood, You Can't Take It with You
Christopher Oram, Wolf Hall Parts One & Two
David Zinn, Airline Highway

Best Costume Design of a Musical
Gregg Barnes, Something Rotten!
Bob Crowley, An American in Paris
William Ivey Long, On the Twentieth Century
Catherine Zuber, The King and I

Best Lighting Design of a Play
Paule Constable, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Paule Constable and David Plater, Wolf Hall Parts One & Two
Natasha Katz, Skylight
Japhy Weideman, Airline Highway

Best Lighting Design of a Musical
Donald Holder, The King and I
Natasha Katz, An American in Paris
Ben Stanton, Fun Home
Japhy Weideman, The Visit

Best Direction of a Play
Stephen Daldry, Skylight
Marianne Elliott, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Scott Ellis, You Can't Take It with You
Jeremy Herrin, Wolf Hall Parts One & Two
Moritz von Stuelpnagel, Hand to God

Best Direction of a Musical
Sam Gold, Fun Home
Casey Nicholaw, Something Rotten!
John Rando, On the Town
Bartlett Sher, The King and I
Christopher Wheeldon, An American in Paris

Best Choreography
Joshua Bergasse, On the Town
Christopher Gattelli, The King and I
Scott Graham & Steven Hoggett for Frantic Assembly, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Casey Nicholaw, Something Rotten!
Christopher Wheeldon, An American in Paris

Best Orchestrations
Christopher Austin, Don Sebesky, Bill Elliott, An American in Paris
John Clancy, Fun Home
Larry Hochman, Something Rotten!
Rob Mathes, The Last Ship

By Show
An American in Paris - 12
Fun Home - 12
Something Rotten! - 10
The King and I - 9
Wolf Hall Parts One & Two - 8
Skylight - 7
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time - 6
Hand to God - 5
On the Twentieth Century - 5
The Visit - 5
You Can't Take It with You - 5
Airline Highway - 4
The Elephant Man - 4
On the Town - 4
The Audience - 3
The Last Ship - 2
Constellations - 1
Disgraced - 1
Gigi - 1
The Heidi Chronicles - 1
It's Only a Play - 1
This Is Our Youth - 1

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
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Wicked Is Still Broadway's Most "Popular" Show

Hard to believe but in just a few days it will be exactly eleven and a half years since Wicked first opened on the Great White Way. That's right theatre fans. On October 30, 2003 Wicked made it's Broadway debut and the theatre world has never been the same. I first saw the show about a week before it opened and thought it was incredible. Now of course going in I was familiar with most of the characters as I had seen The Wizard of Oz many times. What I didn't expect was the way the writer's took these beloved characters and wrote a very touching and new story that I never would have imagined.

To say that they knocked it out of the park would be an understatement my friends. From great music and a tale that will have you on the edge of your feet from beginning to end Wicked is one show you don't want to miss. Now besides being one of Broadway's biggest success stories it is also a big hit in London as well as other cities around the world. That means if you can't make it to New York to see it you don't have to look any further than your own backyard. Yes that's a quote from the movie. Just seeing if you were paying attention. Now while I have seen the show there may be some of you out there who haven't and want to know a little more about it. So here you go.

Long before Dorothy drops in, two other girls in the Land of Oz. One, born with emerald-green skin, is smart, fiery, and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious, and very popular. Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, this spellbinding musical takes a look at how these unlikely friends end up as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch.

Joe Mantello directs. Stephen Schwartz's Wicked is the winner of the 2004 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical. Nearly a decade into its incredible blockbuster run, Wicked continues to sell out one of Broadway's largest houses nightly. If popularity is any indication, you will likely fall in love with this show too. Whether it's the breathtaking stagecraft, the vocal pyrotechnics, or the lush score, something will reel you into this fresh twist on a classic American story.

Now for those of you who are coming to our fair city and would like tickets to see the show you are in luck. We sell  it. In fact we sell tickets to every show both On and Off-Broadway. So what are you waiting for people? There is no better time to see the show that has enchanted audiences of all ages for over a decade. Get your Wicked tickets today on Broadway or at a theatre near you. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
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Get Tickets To See The Off-Broadway Production Of Stomp

February 27, 1994. Care to guess what happened on that date? Well I'll tell you. Stomp made it's Off-Broadway debut when it opened at the Orpheum Theatre. That's over twenty-one years ago for those of you keeping count. Not too bad for a show about a bunch of actor's banging on trash cans for ninety minutes. I kid of course since I've seen the show and trust me when I say it is so much more than that. Now I actually saw the show shortly after it opened and to be honest going in I had no idea what to expect.

Boy was I surprised. Like it's neighbor up the street Blue Man Group, Stomp is one of the most creative and captivating shows you will see either On or Off-Broadway. It is a must see and a perfect show for the whole family. How many shows out there can you say that about? Now like I said I've seen the show but for those of you who haven't and would like a little more information about the show before you purchase tickets here is a little synopsis about Stomp for you to check out. Enjoy!

Matchboxes, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters and more fill the stage with energizing beats at STOMP, the inventive and invigorating stage show that's dance, music and theatrical performance blended together in one electrifying rhythm. Stomp has been an answer on Jeopardy!, nominated for an Academy Award, won two Emmy Awards for the HBO special Stomp Out Loud, and jammed with everyone from Quincy Jones to Big Bird. 

Big Bird? I don't recall him being there when I saw it. Oh well. Maybe next time. So are you convinced yet? I know I sure would be if I hadn't already seen it. By the way for those of you who want to see it I have some great news. It is now possible to get tickets to see Stomp at rates that are lower than ever. Plus at only two hundred and ninety nine seats there is literally not a bad seat in the house. Get your Stomp tickets today and see the show that the New York Times called, "A sure fire crowd pleaser!" Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
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Broadway's Longest Running Show Is The Phantom Of The Opera

Did you know that The Phantom of the Opera has been playing at the same theatre for over twenty-seven years? It must be some sort of record right? Actually the show is the longest running show in Broadway history. In fact with worldwide grosses totaling over five billion dollars the show is the most financially successful entertainment event to date. Pretty impressive I would say. Now growing up in a small farm town in Illinois I wasn't exposed to a lot of theatre except for the shows I did in high school or community theatre. So imagine my surprise when I heard the cast recording of The Phantom of the Opera for the very first time. To say I was blown away was an understatement. Cut to a couple of years later and I purchase tickets to go see the show in Chicago. Of course I wasn't planning on a storm to hit on the weekend of the show.

As you have probably figured out I didn't see the show. Two years later I move to New York to study acting and I finally get the chance to see it. I loved it of course. After all I had built the show up in my head for almost half a decade so I knew if even I thought the show wasn't exactly perfect I would still enjoy it. Now while I haven't seen the show since, it still remains one of my favorite theatrical experiences of all time. That will never change. As I mentioned the show has been playing for a long time which means most people have probably already seen it. Probably even a few times in fact. But for those of you who know nothing about the show here is a little synopsis about it for you to get a little more info. Enjoy!

Based on Gaston Leroux's 1909 novel, Phantom centers on the hideously deformed "Phantom" who lurks beneath the Paris Opera and the object of his obsession, the young soprano Christine, whom he is determined to make a star thereby winning her affections. With a timeless score and a design that reinvented the stage spectacular forever, Phantom is a must-see on Broadway. A must-see you say? You better believe it folks. Now for those of you who still haven't seen it or for those of you who want to see it again there is no better time than the present. Not too mention at prices that are lower than ever. Get your tickets to see The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway at the Majestic Theatre. You will love it. I know I did.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
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Disney's The Lion King

Still haven't seen The Lion King on Broadway? Well there is no better time than right now theatre fans. Or should I say Disney fans. It is based on a Disney film after all. But of course you knew that didn't you? Based on the hit 1994 film of the same name The Lion King is one of the most unbelievable experiences that you will ever have in the theatre. It is incredible. Now obviously I am not the only one who thinks that because The Lion King has made over a billion dollars since it first opened on Broadway in 1997. That is the most in Broadway history just in case you didn't know. Now I'm sure that most of you who have seen the show or are going to see the show are doing so because you've seen the movie right? Makes sense to me. But what if you know nothing about the show? Well you are in luck. Here is a little synopsis of The Lion King for you to check out before you see it. Enjoy!

Born into the royal family, precocious cub Simba spends his days exploring the sprawling savanna grasslands and idolizing his kingly father, Mufasa, while youthfully shirking the responsibility his position in life requires. When an unthinkable tragedy, orchestrated by Simba’s wicked uncle, Scar, takes his father’s life, Simba flees the Pride Lands, leaving his loss and the life he knew behind. Eventually companioned by two hilarious and unlikely friends, Simba starts anew. But when weight of responsibility and a desperate plea from the now ravaged Pride Lands come to find the adult prince, Simba must take on a formidable enemy, and fulfill his destiny to be king.

Now that sounds like a show I want to see. Well see again I should say. By the way for those of you who still haven't seen it you have come to the right place my friends. We sell tickets to The Lion King. In fact we sell tickets to every show on Broadway. It doesn't get any better than that. Just give us a call and see the show that won six 1998 Tony Awards including Best Musical of the Year. Get your tickets to see The Lion King on Broadway. You will love it. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
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Get Your Tickets To See The Book Of Mormon On Broadway

Now in it's fourth sold out year on Broadway is The Book of Mormon. Yes that's right. It still sells out every night. Pretty impressive don't you think? When the show was first announced I'm sure most people weren't sure what to expect. Oh sure South Park has a huge fan base. Probably why it's still one of the most popular shows on the air after eighteen years with no end in sight.

You could say the same thing about The Book of Mormon too. Trust me. It ain't going anywhere anytime soon folks. I mean why should it? The show is hysterical. I thought I laughed a lot when I saw Avenue Q but nothing could have prepared me for the laugh out loud humor of The Book of Mormon. It is a must see. But don't take my word for it. Here is a little synopsis of the show to give you a little more insight on this hilarious show. Enjoy!

The Book of Mormon tells the story of two young Mormon missionaries.  sent to a remote village in northern Uganda, where a brutal warlord is threatening the local population. Naïve and optimistic, the two missionaries try to share the Book of Mormon, one of their scriptures—which only one of them has read—but have trouble connecting with the locals, who are more worried about war, famine, poverty and AIDS than about religion.

O.K. so I know it may not sound that hysterical from the synopsis but it is my friends. Oh and did I mention that the show won nine 2011 Tony Awards including Best Musical of the Year? Now just in case you are still on the fence maybe some of these quotes from the critic's will sway you in the right direction. The New York Tines called it, "The Best Musical of the Century" and the Washington Post said, "Money can buy you happiness! If you’re in possession of a ticket, you’ve wisely secured a seat in the premier-class cabin of delirium." Or how about Rolling Stone who said, "  History is made. The new gold standard for Broadway. The Book of Mormon is on its march into legend. Come on Mormons, go into your dance.”

Now those are some great reviews. Ready to buy tickets now? Well have I got great news for you. We sell them. As a matter of fact we sell tickets to every show both On and Off-Broadway. Who knew? Just give us a call and one of our friendly ticket experts will take care of the rest. It's that easy. Get your tickets to see The Book of Mormon on Broadway at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre. One more thing. Heading over to London in the near future and want to see The Book of Mormon while you're there? We sell tickets for that one too. So why not give us a try? You'll be glad you did? Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
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On The Town On Broadway

"The Bronx is up and the Battery's down." Sound familiar? Well it should if you are a fan of the Broadway musical.  On the Town, which first premiered in 1944 is one of the Great White Way's most beloved shows of all time and was turned into a successful movie five years later. Just in case you didn't know On The Town  tells the story of three sailors on a 24-hour shore leave eager to experience all that the Big Apple has to offer... including a chance to discover love with the girl of their dreams! Sounds like a lot of fun now doesn't it?

Now I first became familiar with the show in the Summer of 1997 when I saw it in Central Park where it starred future television star Jesse Tyler Ferguson (Modern Family) and comedian Lea DeLaria. Having never been to a production in the park I wasn't sure what to expect. By the end of the evening I was so glad I went. A year and a half later the show transferred to Broadway where unfortunately it was not successful and closed after sixty-nine performances.

Cut to nearly sixteen years later and the show returned to Broadway in a brand new production directed by Tony Award winner John Rando (Urinetown) and choreographed by Emmy winner Joshua Bergasse (Smash). The show opened at the Lyric Theatre on October 16, 2014 to rave reviews from audience's and critics alike and is expected to be a big contender at this year's Tony Awards. By the way this year's Tony nominations are set to be announced on April 28. How many nominations will On The Town receive?

Well from what I have seen it is a lock for Best Musical Revival of the Year as well as Best Choreography. By the way for those of you who want tickets to see this On The Town you are in luck. We sell it. In fact we sell tickets to every musical revival on Broadway this season. Not only that but if you call now you can get tickets to see On The Town at some incredible savings as well. This "Insider Price" is good thru May 31 so don't delay. Get your On The Town tickets at the Lyric Theatre on Broadway. "New York, New York. It's a hell of a town." Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
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Matilda On Broadway

Let me just start off by saying that when it was first announced over two and a half years ago that Matilda was coming to Broadway I was not that excited. To me it sounded like Billy Elliot all over again. Another over hyped show from London featuring a cast of kids. Now don't get me wrong. I actually enjoyed Billy Elliot. Although it took me nearly three years into it's run before I finally saw it. So why did I wait so long before seeing it? Once again. Too much hype. Therefore when we were invited to see Matilda I went in begrudgingly to say the least.

Not only that but I had just worked all day and the last thing I wanted to do was spend my Saturday night in a crowded theatre with a bunch of kids. So there I sat in the Balcony of the Shubert Theatre waiting for the show to start. Fifteen minutes into the show and believe it or not but I was hooked. That little girl won me over. In fact the whole show eventually won me over as well. I guess it's true what they say. "Never judge a book by it's cover." I won't soon make that mistake again. Now I have heard from a few people that they had a hard time understanding the show at the beginning. It is very English so even I'll admit I had a little trouble at first understanding what they were saying.

However eventually that subsided and I fell in love with the show. Yes I said it. I loved the show. Trust me. I was surprised as you are. Now while most people think that Matilda is essentially a children's show it is actually a great show for all ages. How many shows can you say that about today? Now just in case I still haven't convinced you to see it here is a little synopsis about the show. Enjoy!

Based on the 1988 children's novel by best-selling author Roald Dahl, Matilda: The Musical charts the journey of the young, gifted Matilda Wormwood. Matilda is an extraordinary girl with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind whose talents are constantly belittled by her cruel parents and headmistress. Dreaming of a better life for herself, she dares to take a stand against these oppressive forces and takes her destiny into her own hands.

By the way for those of you who still haven't seen it I have just one thing to say. What are you waiting for people? Matilda is a great show that you need to see. So how do you get tickets you ask? Well it's easy. Just give us a call and one of our friendly ticket experts at Applause will help you. Not only that but from now thru July 5 you can get tickets to see Matilda at prices that can't be beat. Get your Matilda tickets today. You won't regret it. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
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Worldwide Sensation Mamma Mia To Close This Fall

It's true theatre fans. Or should I say ABBA fans. Mamma Mia, the show that as of today has been seen by over fifty-four million people and grossed over two billion dollars at the box office will play it's final performance on Broadway on September 12. When it closes it will have played a total of 5,773 performances and will be the eighth longest running show in Broadway history. Not bad for a show that most Broadway insiders thought would never succeed.

After all up until that point the only successful jukebox musical on Broadway was Smokey Joe's Café which ran for almost five years and was nominated for seven 1995 Tony Awards including Best Musical of the Year. It lost that year to Sunset Boulevard. Now here we are in 2015 and Mamma Mia is set to say goodbye to Broadway for good. Although based on it's popularity I'm sure this will not be the last time that the Great White Way will experience this feel good musical.

When it was announced a few weeks ago that it was closing I went back and read a few reviews and articles about the show. I had forgotten that Mamma Mia opened shortly after 9/11 and if you recall the last thing people wanted to do was hop on a plane to come to New York City. However as it turns out Mamma Mia was just what not only Broadway needed but what we all needed. A way to escape if only for a little while. Who knew a little show with a bunch of songs from the seventies could do all that? For that Mamma Mia we thank you. Now for those of you who still haven't seen the show or for those of you fans who want to see it again you have come to the right place. We sell it. Not only that but if you order right now you can tickets to see Mamma Mia at prices that are lower than ever. Be advised that while this "Special Offer" is good thru September 5 it is for select seats and as always subject to availability. Get your Mamma Mia tickets on Broadway at the Broadhurst Theatre. It will have you dancing in the aisles.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
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Les Miserables On Broadway

Let me guess. You've probably already seen Les Miserables haven't you? Makes sense. After all the original production played for almost sixteen years and is still playing in London where it first opened almost thirty years ago. This new production which marks the second revival is without a doubt my favorite version of the show. Of course the original will always have a special place in my heart. Now of course I didn't get the chance to see the original cast as I didn't move to New York until nearly five years after the show opened.

Cut to nearly ten years later and I finally saw it. I know what you must be thinking. If I was such a fan then why did I wait so long before seeing it? Well the truth is when I was in high school I saw a production of it in Chicago. Yes I know there is nothing like seeing it on Broadway. Now to be honest while I enjoyed the Broadway production I liked the Chicago production a little more. I guess by the time I got around to seeing the Broadway production my tastes had changed a little bit. I was more into shows like Rent and Urinetown. Now while I did not see the 2006 revival I did hear great things about it. In fact it was only supposed to run six months and ended up running for almost a year and a half.

To be honest I thought that would be the last time that Broadway would see Les Miserables for quite a long time. Then the movie happened and a little over a year later Les Miserables is back on Broadway once again. Led by Tony nominees Ramin Karimloo and Will Swenson this new production besides being my favorite is a must see for all fans of the show. In fact from now thru September 27 you can get tickets to see Les Miserables at prices that are lower than ever. Just call and say that you want to see Les Miserables at an "Insider Price" and we will take care of the rest. It's really that easy. Get your Les Miserables tickets on Broadway at the Imperial Theatre. You will love it. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
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Tony Winner Kinky Boots Is A Must See

Let me just start off by saying that I loved Kinky Boots when I saw it. I also loved Matilda which opened around the same time. However when that year's Tony Award nominations were announced I along with most people thought that Matilda would take the top prize for Best Musical of the Year. I guess we were all wrong weren't we? Oh well. Somebody has to win and unfortunately somebody has to lose. Although both are still doing great business at the box office which we all know is what really matters.

Having never seen the movie I wasn't really sure what to expect. Oh sure I knew it had a score by Cyndi Lauper and a book by Harvey Fierstein. That alone should have told me it was going to at least be entertaining. What I didn't expect was that the show would have so much heart. Now to be honest the show wasn't exactly an easy sell when it first opened. Heck it wasn't even that easy after it won all those Tony Awards. I can't tell you how many times people would call looking for tickets to a show and after suggesting Kinky Boots the first thing out of their mouth was, " Oh I don't think that I really want to see a show about a bunch of drag queens."

O.K. it's true that Kinky Boots does have quite a few drag queens in the show. The lead character is one after all. But the show is so much more than that. At the core it is the friendship that develops between the two main characters and well to quote the show's own synopsis, "When you change your mind about someone you can change your whole world." I couldn't have said it better myself. By the way for those of you who still haven't seen the show there is no better time than right now. In fact if you call now you can get tickets to see this award winning musical at some incredible savings. Be advised that while this "Special Offer" is good thru June 21 it is for select seats and as always subject to availability. Get your Kinky Boots tickets now. You won't regret it. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
Facebook:Applause Theater and Entertainment Service

Final Weeks To See Broadway Comedy Hit It's Only A Play

That's right theatre fans. Time is running out. It's Only A Play which opened on Broadway at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre this past October will play it's final performance on June 7. The show first premiered in 1982 Off-Off Broadway before making it's Off-Broadway debut four years later as part of the Manhattan Theatre Club's season. Cut to fourteen years and the show finally made it's Broadway debut. Now while reviews for the show were mixed it didn't effect sales as the show broke box office records and recouped in less than two months. Take that critics! Although it helped having an all star cast.

You've all heard of Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick right? They starred in a little show a few years ago called The Producers that won more Tony Awards than any other show in Broadway history. Ringing a bell? Now while I don't expect their latest reunion to win that many it is definitely a hit. Luckily you still have time to see it before it closes. Not only that but it is now possible to see this laugh out loud comedy at prices that can't be beat. Just give us a call and one of our friendly theatre experts can assist you with not only tickets for this show but any show both On and Off-Broadway. Get your It's Only A Play tickets at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre on Broadway. You will love it.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
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Jersey Boys On Broadway

Can you believe that in a little over six months Jersey Boys will celebrate it's tenth year on the Great White Way? It seems like only yesterday that I saw the show for the first time. Which I loved by the way. I mean what's not to love? Great music. An aspiring story. Plus Joe Pesci is a character in the show too. Does it get any better than that? Now prior to seeing the show I knew nothing abut it except I knew I loved the songs.

What I didn't know was how rough their life was or how much they went through to become one of the world's most beloved bands of all time. It truly is a remarkable story. Which is why you need to see it. Not only that but if you order now we can get you tickets to see Jersey Boys at some incredible savings. Just give us a call and we will take care of the rest. Get your Jersey Boys tickets now on Broadway at the August Wilson Theatre. Oh what a night! Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
Facebook:Applause Theater and Entertainment Service

Chicago On Broadway

Has it really been eighteen years since Chicago opened on Broadway? I remember seeing it a year into it's run and while I certainly enjoyed it I never would have guessed in a million years that I would be writing a blog about it all these years later. Oh sure there have been plenty of long-running shows over the years. After all The Phantom of the Opera is now in it's twenty-seventh year on the Great White Way. However Chicago which first opened in 1975 was not a show that most would think would continue to break records all these years later.

In fact it now holds the record as the longest running American musical in Broadway history. Not too bad for a show that was overshadowed at the Tony Awards that year by A Chorus Line. Now like I said I saw the show and absolutely loved it. Having seen hundreds of shows over the years it was nice to finally see a Broadway show that was more about entertainment as opposed to big sets and flashy costumes. Chicago doesn't have any of that. Every one is dressed in black and the set is pretty much a bunch of chairs and the Orchestra which sits on stage.

What Chicago does have is great music and dancing and a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat all night. It is a show about a bunch of murderers after all. Plus I dare you to find a more sexier group of killers than these group of gals. Makes you want to run out and by a ticket right now doesn't it? I know it would make me want to see it if I hadn't already. By the way for those of you who still haven't experienced the Broadway sensation that is Chicago you are in luck my friends. We sell the show. In fact we sell every show on Broadway. Off-Broadway too. Not only that but it is now possible to see this award winning musical at prices that can't be beat. Just give us a call and we will take care of the rest. It's that easy. Get your Chicago tickets today and see the show that the New York Times called, "The best adult entertainment in town.". Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
Facebook:Applause Theater and Entertainment Service

Get Tickets To See Blue Man Group Off-Broadway At The Astor Place Theatre

Believe it or not but Blue Man Group has been in New York almost as long as I have. Actually they have a few months on me but who's counting. Now even though we have both been here for over two decades it was only recently that I finally got around to seeing the show. So what took me so long? Well the truth is I had always wanted to see it. I just never got around to it. Plus it wasn't like it was going anywhere anytime soon.

So anyway there I sat in the back of the Mezzanine waiting for the show to start. By the way for those of you who might be thinking that the Mezzanine must be far away it is not. In fact the entire theatre only seats two hundred and ninety eight. That means all the seats are great. Finally the show starts and well let's just say it's not like anything I have ever seen. Now if you are looking for a more traditional show this is not it. It is called Blue Man Group for a reason after all. By the way I loved the show and you will too if you see it.

Now while I may have decided to sit upstairs there are plenty of places to sit downstairs in the Orchestra. In fact they designate the first five rows in the Orchestra as the "Poncho" section. Why you ask? Because they give you ponchos to wear because there is a good chance you will be hit with debris such as food, water, and yes even paint. Now don't be afraid. It's actually fun from what I've been told by friends who have sat there. Just don't come to the show wearing your Sunday best. By the way for those of you who still haven't seen the Blue Man Group there is no better time than the present. In fact if you call right now we can get you tickets to see the show at some incredible prices. Get your Blue Man Group tickets today. You will have the time of your life. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
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Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Is A Must See On Broadway

In the twenty-three plus years that I have lived in New York City I have seen a lot of shows. In fact between Broadway, Off-Broadway and yes even Off-Off Broadway I would reckon to guess that I have seen over three hundred shows or more. What can I say? I love the theatre. When they first announced that they were making a musical about Carole King I was intrigued but also a little hesitant. After all for every hit jukebox musical like Jersey Boys and Mamma Mia there are flops like All Shook Up, Ring of Fire and of course the most recent Holla If You Hear Me.

Let's face it. Just because the songs are loved doesn't automatically mean that they will be just as popular on the Great White Way. Plus it helps to have a strong story as well. Anyway as you all know by now Beautiful is a hit. Not only that but it continues to gross over a million dollars a week at the box office. Like I said it's a hit. Oh and just in case you are wondering I finally got around to seeing it. Not because I was unsure if I would like it. I knew the music would be good. The truth is tickets were hard to come by. Oh sure I could have spent the big bucks to see it but at the end of the day I figured paying my rent and eating were more important.

I'm just kidding. The tickets aren't that expensive. Now having seen several clips of the show including the one on last year's Tony Awards I knew I would probably like it. Like I said I love Carole's music. However Jessie Mueller who won last years Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical had left the show. Would her replacement be just as good? Well you know what? She was good. In fact I would go as far as to say amazing. The show too. I had the best time and I can guarantee you will too if you see it. It is fantastic. By the way for those of you looking to see it you are in luck. We sell it. Also having sat in the Rear Mezzanine of the Stephen Sondheim Theatre I can honestly tell you that there is not a bad seat in the house. Get your tickets to see Beautiful: The Carole King Musical on Broadway. You will love it. I know I sure did. Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
Facebook:Applause Theater and Entertainment Service

Get Tickets To See Avenue Q Now

Still haven't seen Avenue Q yet? Well there is no better time than right now. Having seen the show over a half a dozen times I can honestly say that I have never laughed at a show as much or as loud as I have each time I saw Avenue Q. In fact the main reason I had to go back so many times is because each time I missed something hilarious because I was laughing so much. Well that and because I really loved it. I mean what's not to love? Great songs. Hysterical dialogue. Not too mention puppets making out and oh yeah.....Gary Coleman is a character too. How many shows can say all of that?

O.K. I know that the new play Hand To God has a twisted puppet as well but that show only has one. Avenue Q has eleven. I think Avenue Q wins. But I'm partial. Not only is it one of my favorite shows but it is also the first show my parents saw on Broadway. In fact every time I mention to them that I went to a show they ask me if Avenue Q is still playing. "Of course it's still playing" I say. I mean why wouldn't it be right? It's not like there's anything out there like it playing on Broadway or Off-Broadway.

Yes I know The Book of Mormon is pretty vulgar too. It's not surprising since it was co-written by the same guy who co-wrote Avenue Q. Now as I mentioned at the beginning of my blog now is the perfect time to see one of the funniest shows ever written. Just call and speak to one of the friendly ticket experts at Applause and we will take care of the rest. It's that easy. Plus since the show is now back playing Off-Broadway again after a successful run on the Great White Way all the seats are great not too mention less expensive as well. Get your tickets to see Avenue Q. The 2004 Tony Award winner for Best Musical of the Year. (Yes that's right. It beat Wicked just in case you forgot) Until next time theatre fans.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

One Year And Counting Disney's Aladdin Is Still A Hit

Has it really been a year since Aladdin first opened on the Great White Way? Time sure does fly now doesn't it? In the last seven or eight years I have written over twelve hundred blogs or more about shows both On and Off-Broadway as well as London and other cities around the world. Now in all those years my taste as far as what shows I like have definitely changed. Makes sense to me. After all as I get older things like what I want to see is not the same as it was when I first moved to New York over twenty-three years ago. What I can tell you is that no matter whether I liked it or hated it I always found something about it that entertained me. If only for a little while.

So what does this have to do with Aladdin you ask? Well for those of you who have read any of my blogs over the years know that I am not exactly the biggest Disney fan in the world. In fact out of the eight musicals that Disney has produced over the years I have only seen three of them. Aida, Tarzan and The Little Mermaid. Now Aida I actually liked. Probably because it wasn't a cartoon first. As far as the other two are concerned let's just say that I stayed for the entire show and leave it at that. I know what you're thinking. He must really hate Disney right? That's not entirely true. I loved most if not all of the animated films when I was growing up. However them being on Broadway? Not so much. I guess I'm just a fan of original works.

The thing is it really doesn't matter what I think. Disney is here to stay my friends and to be honest that is not a bad thing. I mean do you know that The Lion King is the highest grossing musical of all time with sales exceeding over a billion dollars?Not too bad for a show based on a cartoon. Plus that show along with every other show they have produced over the years have kept hundreds and hundreds of people employed. Not to mention it has kept people like me employed as well. After all if not for the Disney shows or other family friendly shows like Wicked or The Phantom of the Opera I may not have a job either. Now you don't want that to happen now do you? I didn't think so. O.K. O.K. I know I have rambled on long enough. After all you are probably reading this blog to get more info on Aladdin right?

Now as the title says the show is a hit. A big hit in fact. However that doesn't mean you can't get tickets to see it. Believe it or not but there are tickets available. Not only that but we sell them. In fact we sell tickets to all the shows that I mentioned including other great shows for the whole family like Les Miserables, Matilda and this season's newest hit Finding Neverland. Oh and don't forget such Off-Broadway staples like Blue Man Group and Stomp. That's what is so great about theatre in New York. There is something for everyone. Even for a guy like me. So what are you waiting for people? Get your tickets to see Aladdin on Broadway. Better yet just come to New York and see a show. Live theatre. There is nothing like it.

JWB
Applause Theatre and Entertainment Service, Inc.
723 7th Avenue 
Suite 902
New York, NY 10019
212-307-7050
or 1-800-451-9930

http://www.applause-tickets.com/
Facebook:Applause Theater and Entertainment Service