【2003 Archives】

April showers bring May flowers -- as well as lots003 Archiveslotsof Broadway show openings, as productions rush to premiere before the Tonys eligibility cutoff (end of April).

Happily, that means plenty of new shows to choose from right now if you're looking for a Broadway night out. There's something for everyone, whether you want a classic revival or a thought-provoking new work.

That's where this guide comes in. Here's the show to watch if you want to...

SEE ALSO: 'Be More Chill' will probably be a Broadway hit. Too bad it's also a disappointment.

... think differently about current events: What the Constitution Means to Me

I was a big fan of this last year, and now that it's on Broadway it's only gotten stronger. In the autobiographical work which became a Pulitzer finalist last week, writer Heidi Schreck looks back on her high-school debate competitions discussing the Constitution, and contrasts that youthful joy with how this document has let down generations of women and people of color. It's radical in the best way, and feels especially timely given, well, *everything* that is happening in 2019.

... think differently about a show you love: Oklahoma!

The revival of the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein work changes very little in terms of the book and songs you know and love, but this new production, directed by Daniel Fish, has an erotic, dangerous energy to it that will cast the show you thought you knew in a whole new light.

If successful theatrical works involve the right people at the right moment, this production, which homes in on how groups of people feel and treat outsiders and those that are different, feels entirely of the moment despite originally being written in 1943. I highly recommend reading this NY Magpiece about the show (touted in the lobby of the theater as well, natch) to enhance your viewing.

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... see Adam Driver and/or Keri Russell: Burn This

The revival of this 1986 play is, candidly, a little bit dated, but for fans of either stars, the story of two individuals finding each other after a death will be a (surprisingly funny) treat.

The best aspect here is Driver, in a part that seemed designed in a lab for him and his captivating energy. It's big, commanding the stage whenever he shows up, whether he's weeping, or angrily stalking around, or seducing Russell's character. You won't be able to take your eyes off him.

SEE ALSO: Should you believe in 'The Cher Show' on Broadway?

... view a classic romantic comedy: Kiss Me, Kate

Date night! For those who aren't super familiar with the classic American theater songbook, you'll likely be surprised how many of the Cole Porter songs from this 1948 show (which won the very first Tony for Best New Musical) you already know. From "So in Love" to "Too Darn Hot," it's a dreamy rom-com that will have you both swooning and doubling over from laughter. Not to mention: Seriousdance breaks!

In addition, you are watching two absolute pros in Kelli O'Hara and Will Chase. Their interplay and chemistry is a treat, and it's just a real thrill to watch them at work in this gem.

... feel a lot of feelings about love and forever: Hadestown

Originally a concept album by Anais Mitchell, the music is the real star of this show that takes the popular Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice and turns it into a folk musical of sorts about the underworld and the power of love. There will be more than one medley you'll be humming as you leave the theater as you wrestle with big questions about trust and truth and power.

And while the show has been in development for years, there is definitely a prescient energy when Hades explains his wall-building philosophy. "We build the wall to keep us free,” sing the denizens of the underworld. Chilling.

... laugh. Just laugh a lot: Tootsie

OK, so, Tootsieshouldn't work, but this smartly updated take on the 1982 film is a delight.

Starring Crazy Ex-Girlfriendand Frozen star Santino Fontana, this musical adaptation drills down on the egos of actors and unpacks male privilege and how dangerous that is -- as if any woman needs that reminder. But the show manages to thread a difficult needle because while those are good and worthy topics, you don't feel preached to and it's not particularly heavy. It's just a reallyfunny show about a dumbo actor played by a really good one.

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