Last week, I was in NYC and saw five shows. Here's a quick summary:
Becky Shaw: $49 rush ticket from Today Tix (did the digital rush flying to LGA). Seat was in the mezzanine, row D, house right end of the row against the wall. I could stretch my right leg out, but my left leg was cramped. For me, the first act of the play dragged, but the second act was riveting. Stage door: three of the five cast members came out to sign (Patrick, Lauren, & Alden); Linda waved as she headed to her SUV.
Joe Turner's Come and Gone: $49 digital rush from Telecharge. I'm a bigger person, so I asked if they could sell me a box seat, and that is where I sat house left. Taraji and Cedric don't have the biggest parts in the play, but they serve as the grounding center. I loved Ruben's performance and hope he gets nominated for a Tony. Stage door: no one came out at the matinee (security said they wouldn't because they were doing pre-opening press interviews, but we could come back that evening). When I returned after the evening show, everybody came out and signed except for Taraji.
The Balusters: $59 TDF ticket (the only show I bought before the trip). My seat was initially in the mezzanine, but the manager moved me to an aisle transfer seat towards the back of the orchestra. This was my favorite play of the bunch, partially because I've served on historic preservation committees. The writing is sharp and crisp, and the characters feel believable. Stage door: a super-chill affair, with maybe 8 folks waiting. Eight of ten cast members came out and signed, including Richard and Anika.
Fallen Angels: $59 ticket bought at the box office to avoid online fees, last row of the balcony on the end. A fun period romp with sparkling performances led by Kelli and Rose. The Haines is looking better than ever following renovations, which among other things include a new bathroom on the orchestra level. Stage door: four of the six cast members came out, including Kelli, Rose and Mark.
Beaches: $49 in-person rush ticket (third in line at 9:15a day of purchase). My seat was an aisle transfer seat house left, on orchestra row E. Unfortunately, I laid down to take a nap before the show--and ended up getting to the theatre after the opening number. Jessica is doing her best to elevate a middling script and mostly forgettable new songs. The two kids who play younger versions of the main characters are fun and talented. I didn't hate the musical, but was disappointed that after a decade or so and multiple out-of-town productions, this is what ended up on Broadway. Stage door: Jessica, Kelli and one of the male ensemble members (unsure if it was Ben or Brent) didn't come out, but I think everyone else did.
Any questions, feel free to ask.