If you are in The Big Apple this summer, consider checking out one or two or all of these amazing Broadway shows before they close. Here’s the when and why you need to know.
"Finding Neverland"
Closes August 21 at the Lunt-fontanne theatre
Watch the creation of playwright J. M. Barrie’s classic story of Peter Pan come to life. Barrie’s inspiration comes from his relationship with a woman and her four sons, and the success of "Peter Pan" brings them together in an unexpected way.
Why it’s worth it: It’s a colorful pixie-dust sparkled musical production that is charmingly British. Much like the film "Saving Mr. Banks," the musical focuses on the story behind the (children’s) story.
Fun fact: "Finding Neverland" was inspired by the 2004 semi-autobiographical film of the same name.
"The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time"
Closes September 4 at the Ethel Barrymore Theater
Based on the 2004 British mystery novel, the show focuses on a teenage boy with autism spectrum disorder who investigates the story behind a dog’s death from a garden fork. The boy’s mathematical genius, his relationships to his parents, and the mystery of who killed the dog engulf the audience in a visually stimulating, very British production.
Why it’s worth it: It will be hard not to be inspired by the determination of the boy who feels like an outsider in this quirky play-within-a-play.
Fun fact: The mouthful of the title comes from a Sherlock Holmes’ quote in the story “Silver Blaze.”
"An Act of God"
Closes September 4 at the Booth Theatre
What if God rewrote the Ten Commandments? God has taken over someone’s body for a heavenly 90-minute talk show-esque conversation on sports, existential questions, celebrities, drugs – you name it.
Why it’s worth it: Broadway is the place to learn about the mysteries of the Bible. Laugh out loud to an imagined God’s dry humor and why he’s not a Yankees fan. If musicals aren’t your thing, then this show might be.
Fun fact: The show is based on the Twitter account @TheTweetOfGod.
"Les Miserables"
Closes September 4 at the Imperial Theatre
Prisoner Jean Valjean, who previously broke parole, raises the illegitimate child of a young factory worker as police inspector Javert hunts for him. The child grows up into the beautiful Cosette who falls in love with a war veteran. Everyone's lives get darker as the French Revolution continues.
Why it’s worth it: You can cry like nobody’s watching since everyone else will be bleary-eyed for the beautifully intense three-hour production. Experience the heart-wrenching story that ropes you in with haunting words and music, raw emotions, and sheer determination for one day more.
Fun fact: "Les Mis" is the longest running musical in the world.
"Fun Home"
Closes September 10 at the Circle in the Square Theatre
Sounds fun, right? The title comes from a funeral home nickname. Based on a memoir, "Fun Home" focuses on a father-daughter relationship as she discovers her sexuality while grappling with her father’s expectations and homosexuality. "Fun Home" examines the family dynamics in flashbacks with tightly-integrated songs.
Why it’s worth it: It’s a musical coming-of-age journey that focuses on the intersection of family, sexuality, and secrets.
Fun fact: It is the first Broadway show with a lesbian protagonist.
"An American in Paris"
Closes Oct. 9 at the Palace Theatre
Travel back to World War II with an American soldier who explores his passion for painting in Paris and falls in love with a gorgeous French ballerina. Filled with dancing and songs by George and Ira Gershwin, “An American in Paris” is a reminiscent of Broadway’s Golden Age back in the 40s and 50s.
Why it’s worth it: This old-fashioned romantic musical will be sure to delight your senses in a visually and musically sumptuous show.
Fun fact: Relive the story with the 1951 musical film that includes a 17-minute ballet climax.
