Note: I saw this show both in previews and after it opened. I was hoping they were going to make some edits, but unfortunately everything pretty much was the same as when I saw it in previews.
New York, New York had a lot of potential with a score filled with Kander & Ebb and Lin- Manuel Miranda songs, but unfortunately the book is where the show fell flat.
The plot is jam-packed. As an audience member we’re following too many characters to get a full conclusion for each one of them. Most of the characters were used to ultimately complete Jimmy’s band (the main character). However, if the show honed in on two or even just three main characters, things would have been a lot clearer.
The show just did not feel authentic. Most of the emotions did not feel real to me. Had the show focused on just a couple of characters, we would have learned more about the wants and needs of these characters, making them inherently more deep. The show felt like Jimmy’s story, rather than anyone else’s.
That being said, a lot of the show was cheesy and predictable. I wish they dove deeper into the hardships of both immigration and racism. I found myself getting a bit bored at points, which shouldn’t happen at a live performance. Some scenes drew on a bit too long.
One thing I did like was the fact that three characters sang the song “Major Chord” as major chords have 3 notes. I thought that was a clever detail.
Furthermore, the show was dance heavy and the dancing was well choreographed. In fact, some of the most interesting scenes incorporated dance, like the rain scene and the big tap number at the construction site.
The set was massive and truly resembled New York City. The set had fire escapes that the actors actually made use of, the background was painted as a gorgeous New York City skyline, and the rain looked real.
Colton Ryan carries the show with his silky smooth singing, top-notch 1940s New York accent, and great dancing. The fact that Ryan learned multiple instruments for this role alone should get him a Tony, but on top of that he’s an impeccable actor. I’m hoping Ryan finally gets the recognition he deserves at this year's Tony Awards.
I knew 3 things going into this show based on marketing alone: that there would be an element of love, music, and immigration. And it was basically just that. Funny enough Colton’s character repeats the words “music, money, and love” throughout the show. At least the marketing team can say they’re doing a good job.
To sum up New York, New York reminded me of a lot of contemporary musicals, nothing about it particularly stood out as original.
Anna Uzele and Colton Ryan curtain call from 5/1/23.
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