In this last weekend of a busy May, there are five online shows “opening” that remind us what’s big about Broadway, all but one of them free (though welcoming your charitable contribution.) Two of them are recordings of live musicals from the Broadway stage; the others are…not, but unmistakably for Broadway fans.
These shows are by no means all the theater that’s available online this weekend. For more listings check out my Calendar of May 2020 Theater Openings. and my overview of ongoing series and platforms, Where To Get Your Theater Fix Online
Hairspray Live
The Shows Must Go On
Launches at 2 p.m. Friday, available for 48 hours
The 2016 NBC live TV broadcast adapting of the musical adaptation of John Waters John Waters 1988 film about body bigotry and racial injustice on a 1960s Baltimore TV dance show. The starry cast features Harvey Fierstein, Martin Short, Ariana Grande, Garrett Clayton, Kristin Chenoweth, Jennifer Hudson, Ephraim Sykes, Shahadi Wright Joseph, Derek Hough, Andrea Martin, Sean Hayes, Rosie O’Donnell, Billy Eichner
The Broadhurst at 100
Feinstein’s/54 Below
Launches at 6:30 Friday, one-time only
A recording of the 2017 centennial tribute to Broadway’s Broadhurst Theater with original stars performing from some of the shows that played there, such as Alice Ripley (Next To Normal), Carole Demas (Grease), Howard McGillin (Kiss of the Spider Woman), Wayne Cilento (Dancin’)
Allegiance
Broadway on Demand
Launches at 7: 30 p.m. Friday Available until June 8.
A video of the 2015 musical about an American family forced into a Japanese internment camp, inspired by the experiences of George Takei, who is featured in the cast along with Telly Leung and Lea Salonga. This opening night includes pre-show interviews with the cast, behind-the-scenes footage and a digital download of the original cast recording. Tickets cost $14.99. After opening night, 48-hour rentals will cost $8.99
Chita: A Legendary Celebration
Broadway Cares
Launches 8 p.m. Friday
A recording of the 2013 celebration of her 80th birthday, featuring performances by the Broadway veteran along with Tommy Tune and Ben Vereen. Inbetween the video, there will be new interviews with Rivera from her home.
Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn
BroadwayHD
Available for 48 hours
A free streaming of the 2016 Broadway musical starring Bryce Pinkham, Megan Lawrence, Corbin Bleu and Lora Lee Gayer. The 8 p.m. viewing Saturday is accompanied by a live watch party,
