Sorry for the delay on my review of The Lego Batman Movie. I started reviewing the film and got caught up in the way the film deconstructs itself and the character of Batman. I got a bit carried away, so that needs some editing and review before I finally get it posted. In the mean time, here is a short review.
I had the great pleasure over the last two weeks of going to see the Broadway musical “Newsies” broadcast in the movie theater. I knew going in that this was an amazing show. It is based on a Disney film from the 90’s about the 1899 newsboys strike in New York. The original movie starred Christian Bale, and was known for its interesting story, good music, and fantastic dancing. The Broadway version brings all these aspects and makes them even better. The story is improved by the small changes made to the character’s development and background that make them more accessible to the audience, the music is fantastic, including a number of new songs that add a greater variety to the show, and the dancing is unbelievably brilliant. The athleticism, grace, and enthusiasm of the performances brings a dynamic energy to the show that I have rarely seen.
“Newsies” is the kind of show that will have an audience laughing, clapping in delight, and then crying within the space of ten minutes as it rapidly transitions from heartfelt songs to fast paced dance numbers to emotional character driven scenes. The fantastic cast is led by Jeremy Jordan, whose amazing voice rings at the heart of the ensemble numbers and dazzles in the solo performances, and whose presence on stage draws both laughs and tears at appropriate moments. Jordan is supported by a stellar ensemble including Kara Lindsay as Kathrine Plumber, a wisecracking reporter who helps tell the newsboys’ story and serves as the show’s romantic interest, and Andrew Keenan-Bolger who plays Crutchie, the emotional center of the story. Each of these stars brings a wonderful joy and depth to the performance that truly brings the story to life.
There is one opportunity left to see this amazing show, which is the main reason I am posting a review for it now. Saturday, March 4th, there is an encore showing of this incredible show in a number of theaters around the country. If you have the time and money, I urge you to get tickets to see this amazing show. It is a fantastic opportunity to see the best Broadway has to offer, for those of us who live in places where theater is not readily available. “Newsies” is an amazing show that combines the best of Broadway in story, song, and dance to create a performance that is rich, compelling, and a delight to watch. For those of you who cannot made the final showing in the theaters, I urge you to take action as well. Get online and express your desire to see the show released on a DVD. Again, for those of us who cannot make it to the shows, this situation provides the rare opportunity for us to experience the incredible talent and work that goes into a Broadway show and to open the exclusive world of the theater to the wider audience that is yearning to experience this amazing medium.
Well, back to Reality!
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