Win two tickets to see Bandstand for free. I liked this show, about a 1940’s swing band made up of World War II veterans, for its thrilling choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, who won his third Tony for it (after In The Heights and Hamilton); its catchy, beat-happy original score that pays homage to the big band era of Benny Goodman and Duke Ellington; and for its pitch-perfect cast, led by Corey Cott and Laura Osnes, many of whom play their own musical instruments, backed by a swinging 13-member band.
They announced earlier this week that the musical will close on September 17, 2017, having played 24 previews and 166 regular performances I think the show was underrated, and I am delighted to be able to offer a pair of tickets to it.
Update: Samantha Sheets, the 21st to reply and chose Spring Awakening, won the random drawing for the two tickets.
To enter the contest for the tickets, just answer this question:
What was the most underrated show you’ve ever seen on a New York stage?
How was it underrated…and why?
The Rules
- Please put your answer in the comments at the bottom of this blog post, because I will choose the winner at random, using Random.org, based on the order of your reply, not its content.
- But you must answer the question, complete with explanation and description, or your entry will not be approved for submission.
- This contest ends Wednesday August 16, 2017 at midnight Eastern Time, and I will make the drawing no later than noon the next day. You must respond within 12 hours or I will pick another winner.’
Update: You must pick an underrated show. Please explain how it’s been underrated, not just why you liked it.
The winner will be given two tickets to a weeknight performance of their choosing, subject to availability.
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I’d say AMERICAN PSYCHO is the most underrated musical in years. Duncan Sheik’s score was fresh, vibrant, and thrillingly original. The writing was smart and perfectly showcased Benjamin Walker’s talents. The physical world of the production was also quite stunning and inspired with the sleek panels and revolves. It is a shame the show did not catch on with American audiences, but it was certainly innovative and captured the essence of the film very well.
I’d say that my most underrated musical was Tuck Everlasting. Growing up, I had read the book a countless number of times and was captivated by the movie so I expected the show would do very well with the audience. For a stage adaptation of a book that was a required curriculum for many students in the country, it missed the mark and closed far too soon. One of my favorites that closed before I could see it a second time.
Ghost the Musical was sensational from start to finish, but had such a short run on broadway. Caissie Levy was a standout, the songs and staging were beautiful and the story itself was classic. What could have been a several year run was cut short at just a few months.
For me, the most underrated (and short-lived) stage shows was American Psycho. It wasn’t your typical night on Broadway, but it was one that I can guarantee would not be forgotten. Brilliantly executed, but not for everyone. That being said, it deserved much more success than it got.
Groundhog Day: the Musical is the epitome of an underrated show. This show was one of the most enjoyable experiences I’ve had at the theater since I saw Kinky Boots for the first time. The score was catchy and Andy Karl’s performance was incredible. It’s a shame to see it close so soon and with no recognition at the Tony’s.
Shuffle Along should have been a huge success if star power factored into it. With a cast like that, and a gripping storyline and strong soundtrack, it should have been the show of the season. Its premature closing was one of the most surprising ones in recent times for me.