New York, New York” on Broadway
New York, New York – there’s no place like it. A city made of dreamers where the impossible is possible. But that doesn’t mean dreams happen overnight. There are millions of stories of love, loss, grit, and perseverance that make the city what it is. Last night, I enjoyed seeing a small glimpse of that in the magical production of “New York, New York” on Broadway.
Based on the movie “New York, New York,” the book was written by David Washington and Sharon Washington, that follows. the story of several New Yorkers in pursuit of their dreams in music.
Taking place from 1946-1947, the music intertwines the music/love story of Jimmy Doyle and Francine “Frankie” Evans who both dream of a big life in music. Jimmy quickly falls for Francine but he seems to always mess up by losing jobs or getting into fights as Francine stays focused to be a singer. In between their story line, we meet Mateo from Cuba and Jesse, a trumpet player who just got home from the war. There is also Madame Veltri who is waiting for her son to return from the war and Alex Mann her eager violin student from Warsaw. The ensemble also shines in this production as they quickly change move and and dance throughout different NYC scenes such as the subway, Grand Central, construction sites, Times Square, and more.
The set in itself fells like another character where audiences are treated to an interchange of NYC moments through the seasons. It was magical to see this come to life with particular favorites being the dynamic tap number during “Wine and Peaches,” “Light” and “New York in the Rain,” to name a few.
The musical numbers are dynamic and layered that beautifully tell the story of New York, its seasons, and the characters by John Kander and Fred Ebb, along with Lin Manuel-Miranda, who provided additional lyrics.
Just like spending a day in the city, I didn’t want this musical to end. Filled with depth, art, and love, the musical wraps in a grande finale that will leave you hopeful and loving the greatest city in the world a little more.
New York, New York Details
St. James Theatre
246 W 44th St
New York, NY 10036
For more information, visit https://www.jujamcyn.com/shows/new-york-new-york-a-new-musical/
