Sometimes "Off" is the way to go

When visiting New York, one of the things that probably tops your list of things to do is to see a Broadway show.  There are many fantastic shows to see that range from the massive (yet seemingly dangerous) Spider Man, to shows that have big stars like Daniel Radcliff in How to Succeed in Business and then there are the shows that have been around for years like Chicago that are long-timers for a reason.  But if you want to treat yourself to something intimate and new, go see an Off-Broadway show.  There are so many theatres to choose from how do you know which one to go to?  Well topping my list of favorite companies is The Signature Theatre Company on West 42^nd between 10^th & 11^th.  I saw their production of “Angels in America” (Part I) last night, and what a great experience it was.

First, the theater is so intimate that there really isn’t a bad seat in the house.  The acting was superb and the sets were amazing.  3 hours at the theatre flew by without once thinking that this was long.  The Signature dedicates a season to one playwright and this season they have brought in Tony Kushner.  They keep extending Angels, so try and get a ticket if you still can.  I can’t wait to see Part II next week.  

There are many great companies out there.  Here are a few of my favorites:  Playwrights Horizons, Keen Company, Barrow Street Theater, BAM, St. Ann’s Warehouse (more of a venue, but they often bring in really interesting shows and companies) and the Mint Theatre Company, just to name a few.  There are many more, but here is a place for you to start.  If you want to get a first rate theatre experience for a fraction of the price of a Broadway show, go see an “Off-Broadway” show.  You won’t be sorry you strayed.