Broadway's Best Shows

by Marie France

As Democratic Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi made history in 2007 as the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez won a prestigious science fair prize as a senior in high school. 11 years later, at the age of 28, Ocasio-Cortez would go on to become the youngest woman elected to Congress – posing a threat to Pelosi’s leadership and Democratic Party unity.

That battle – between the most consequential, Democratic House Speaker and the fresh-faced, Puerto-Rican congressional newcomer from the Bronx – takes centerstage, literally, in the new Off Broadway play, “N/A.”

While not naming names, former Congressional Aide turned playwright, Mario Correa, delves into fundamental fractures that arose within the party amid disagreements between the two women during Former President Trump’s first term. Pelosi at times clashed with progressive members of the House, known as “The Squad” – a group comprised of newly elected women of color, including Ocasio-Cortez.

Emmy Award winner Holland Taylor (“The Practice,” “Two and a Half Men”) stars in the show as “N,” seemingly inspired by Pelosi, and Theatre World Award winner, Ana Villafañe, plays “A,” a politician likely based on Ocasio-Cortez. Both stars have experience playing powerful women with big personalities. In 2013, Taylor earned a Tony Award nomination after writing and starring in Broadway’s “Ann,” a one-woman show about the late Democratic Texas Governor Ann Richards. Villafañe made her Broadway debut in 2006, starring as Latin Pop icon, Gloria Estefan, in “On Your Feet!” 

On stage — as “A” rises in prominence, “N” realizes she is a force to be reckoned with. In real life — the two, powerhouse politicians famously had a contentious meeting in 2019. Speaker Pelosi said it “cleared the air” and that the leaders doubled down on their efforts to represent their districts and tackle the challenges ahead. 

Born in Chile, Correa worked in around politics in D.C. before becoming a writer. His hit play TAIL! SPIN!, starring Saturday Night Live veteran, Rachel Dratch, was nominated for Best Unique Theatrical Experience by the Off-Broadway Alliance.  On “N/A,” he teams up with Tony winner, Diane Paulus, who was behind musicals “Pippin,” “Hair,” and “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess,” and has helmed the plays of Eve Ensler, Suzan-Lori Parks, Emily Mann (Gloria: A Life about Gloria Steinem), and more, to deliver a message and power, politics, and the perilous path to progress. Inspired by real people and events, producers describe the riveting two-hander as “the tale of the person whom many consider the most powerful woman in American history and the once-in-a-generation political talent who defied her.”

Catch the battle of wills and wits between two congresswomen, generations apart, when previews for “N/A” begin on June 11 at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater at Lincoln Center in New York City. Opening night is June 25.

On June 16, 2024, the 77th Annual Tony Awards will be held at the David H. Koch Theater, celebrating the best and brightest of this year’s Broadway season! The nominees include those onstage and off, mainstays and newcomers alike. In celebration, Broadway’s Best Shows is highlighting some of the Broadway perennials recognized with Tony nods in this incredibly fruitful year.

This season, Camille A. Brown is nominated for Best Choreography for her work on “Hell’s Kitchen.” Here’s a breakdown of the Broadway productions that got her here!

A Streetcar Named Desire (2012)

Brown made her Broadway debut as the choreographer for the 2012 revival of Tennessee Williams’ classic, directed by Emily Mann. Her choreography was set against the original score by 5-time Grammy Award winner Terence Blanchard.

Once on This Island (2017)

Brown returned to Broadway to choreograph the Tony Award-winning revival of Once on This Island, which played in the round at Circle In The Square Theatre. Set in the French Antilles, it follows a young peasant girl named Ti Moune who falls in love with a wealthy boy from the other side of the island and faces the gods who rule their world. The immersive revival, directed by Michael Arden, received critical acclaim for its creative use of design and storytelling, and Brown was commended for her choreography which blended traditional and contemporary styles of dance.

Choir Boy (2019)

Mendez was part of the cast in the 2011 revival of Godspell, where she brought the house down with “Bless the Lord.”  This production allowed her to further exhibit her dynamic range as a performer in a show known for its eclectic musical style.

For colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf (2022)

In the 2022 revival of Ntozake Shange’s groundbreaking work, Brown made history as both the director and choreographer. The play, which is a series of poetic monologues accompanied by dance and music, describing the experiences of African American women. Exploring themes of love, empowerment, struggle, and loss, Brown’s choreography seamlessly blended with Shange’s powerful text, using movement to express the emotional depth and cultural resonance of the poems. Brown received two Tony Award nominations for her work; Best Direction of a Play and Best Choreography.

Hell’s Kitchen (2024)

Alongside Dogfight co-star Derek Klena, Mendez took to oz as the infamous green witch in Wicked. Mendez is remembered for her notable blog series “Fly Girl” which took audiences backstage at the Gershwin Theater, giving exclusive behind the scenes insight of the smash musical.

Gypsy (Upcoming)

Brown is set to choreograph the highly anticipated revival of Gypsy, starring Audra McDonald. The revival, directed by George C. Wolfe, is set to begin performances this fall at the newly renovated Majestic Theatre.

On June 16, 2024, the 77th Annual Tony Awards will be held at the David H. Koch Theater, celebrating the best and brightest of this year’s Broadway season! The nominees include those onstage and off, mainstays and newcomers alike. In celebration, Broadway’s Best Shows is highlighting some of the Broadway perennials recognized with Tony nods in this incredibly fruitful year.

This season, Lindsay Mendez is nominated for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical for her performance in “Merrily We Roll Along.” Here’s a breakdown of the Broadway roles that got her here!

Grease (2007)

Mendez made her Broadway debut as Jan in the 2007 revival of Grease. The production, directed and choreographed by Kathleen Marshall, starred Max Crumm and Laura Osnes, who had been selected via the realities series competition “Grease: You’re the One that I Want!”

Everyday Rapture (2010)

Following a well-received Off-Broadway run, Mendez appeared in the Broadway transfer of the mixed jukebox musical. Starring Sherie Rene Scott, the musical featured songs from artists including Judy Garland, David Byrne, Johnny Mercer and more.

Godspell (2011)

Mendez was part of the cast in the 2011 revival of Godspell, where she brought the house down with “Bless the Lord.”  This production allowed her to further exhibit her dynamic range as a performer in a show known for its eclectic musical style.

Dogfight (2012)

While not on Broadway, the Off-Broadway premiere of Pasek and Paul’s Dogfight is widely known by theater lovers across the globe. Starring opposite Derek Klena, Mendez touching portrayal of shy waitress, Rose, received rave reviews and Drama League, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle Award nominations.

Wicked (2013)

Alongside Dogfight co-star Derek Klena, Mendez took to oz as the infamous green witch in Wicked. Mendez is remembered for her notable blog series “Fly Girl” which took audiences backstage at the Gershwin Theater, giving exclusive behind the scenes insight of the smash musical.

Significant Other (2017)

Mendez returned to Broadway in the transfer of Joshua Harmon’s Significant Other, directed by Trip Cullman. Alongside Mendez, the cast featured Gideon Glick, John Behlmann, Rebecca Naomi Jones, Sas Goldberg, Luke Smith, and Barbara Barrie. Significant Other concluded its limited engagement on April 23, 2017.

Carousel (2018)

Following in the footsteps of Jean Darling and Audra McDonald, Mendez took on the role of Carrie Pipperidge in the 2018 Broadway revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel, directed by Jack O’Brien and choreographed by Justin Peck. The cast also featured notable Broadway stars Joshua Henry, Jessie Mueller, and Renée Fleming. Mendez’ performance won her the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical.

Merrily We Roll Along (2023)

Mendez is yet again nominated for a Tony Award for her performance in the Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s Merrily We Roll Along. A standout of the season, this beloved revival starring Mendez, Daniel Radcliffe and Jonathan Groff is currently running at the Hudson Theatre until July 7^th.

On June 16, 2024, the 77th Annual Tony Awards will be held at the David H. Koch Theater, celebrating the best and brightest of this year’s Broadway season! The nominees include those onstage and off, mainstays and newcomers alike. In celebration, Broadway’s Best Shows is highlighting some of the Broadway perennials recognized with Tony nods in this incredibly fruitful year.

This season, Liev Schreiber is nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play for his performance in “Doubt.” Here’s a breakdown of the Broadway roles that got him here!

Photo by Martha Swope

In the Summer House (1993)

Liev Schreiber made his Broadway debut in “In the Summer House,” playing Lionel in this revival of Jane Bowles’ play. The production delves into the complex relationships between mothers and daughters, with Schreiber’s performance hinting at the depth and intensity he would bring to future roles.

Betrayal (2000)

Schreiber starred as Jerry in Harold Pinter’s “Betrayal,” a play that explores the intricacies of an extramarital affair told in reverse chronology. His nuanced portrayal of the complexities of love and deception garnered critical acclaim.

Harold Pinter’s The Invention of Love (2001)

In “The Invention of Love,” Schreiber played Moses Jackson in Tom Stoppard’s exploration of the life of poet A.E. Housman. The play juxtaposes the poet’s unrequited love for Jackson with his later years, reflecting on love, art, and academia.

Henry V (2003)

Schreiber took on the titular role in “Henry V,” delivering a powerful performance as the English king. His portrayal of the young monarch’s journey from a reckless youth to a responsible ruler was both compelling and deeply human.

Glengarry Glen Ross (2005)

In the revival of David Mamet’s “Glengarry Glen Ross,” Schreiber played Ricky Roma, the slick and persuasive real estate salesman. His performance earned him a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play, solidifying his status as a Broadway heavyweight.

Talk Radio (2007)

Schreiber starred as Barry Champlain in Eric Bogosian’s “Talk Radio,” a role that demanded both charisma and intensity. His portrayal of the abrasive radio host was lauded for its raw energy and emotional depth.

A View from the Bridge (2010)

Schreiber’s performance as Eddie Carbone in Arthur Miller’s “A View from the Bridge” was hailed as a tour de force. His portrayal of the tragic longshoreman grappling with forbidden emotions and familial duty earned him another Tony nomination.

Les Liaisons Dangereuses (2016)

In “Les Liaisons Dangereuses,” Schreiber played the scheming and seductive Vicomte de Valmont. His performance in this tale of manipulation and betrayal was noted for its complexity and dark charm.

Doubt (2023)

Schreiber’s latest triumph is his portrayal of Father Flynn in “Doubt,” a gripping play by John Patrick Shanley that explores themes of morality, suspicion, and the complexity of truth. His performance has been widely praised for its depth and intensity, capturing the multifaceted nature of the character. This role has earned him a Tony nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play.

On June 16, 2024, the 77th Annual Tony Awards will be held at the David H. Koch Theater, celebrating the best and brightest of this year’s Broadway season! The nominees include those onstage and off, mainstays and newcomers alike. In celebration, Broadway’s Best Shows is highlighting some of the Broadway perennials recognized with Tony nods in this incredibly fruitful year.

This season, Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer is nominated for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for her performance in “Spamalot.” Here’s a breakdown of the Broadway roles that got her here!

Hairspray (2004)

Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer made her Broadway debut in the hit musical “Hairspray,” stepping into the role of Shelley, one of the lovable Nicest Kids in Town. “Hairspray” is a feel-good musical that tackles issues of race and body image with humor and heart, set in 1960s Baltimore.

Legally Blonde (2007)

Kritzer’s next notable Broadway role was as Serena, one of Elle Woods’ peppy Delta Nu sorority sisters. “Legally Blonde” is a high-energy musical based on the popular film, telling the story of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and triumphs at Harvard Law School.

A Catered Affair (2008)

In “A Catered Affair,” Kritzer played Janey Hurley in a poignant musical about a working-class family planning a wedding in the Bronx.

Sondheim on Sondheim (2010)

This unique musical revue celebrated the life and work of Stephen Sondheim, featuring a cast of Broadway veterans performing his most beloved songs. Kritzer was among the ensemble, showcasing her versatility and deep connection to Sondheim’s work.

Elf: The Musical (2010)

Kritzer charmed audiences as Jovie in “Elf: The Musical,” a holiday favorite based on the beloved film. Her performance brought warmth and humor to the role of Buddy the Elf’s skeptical yet endearing love interest.

Something Rotten! (2015)

Kritzer took on the role of Bea Bottom in “Something Rotten!,” a hilarious musical comedy that imagines the creation of the world’s first musical in Shakespearean England. Her character, Bea, is a resourceful and supportive wife with a penchant for cross-dressing to help her husband.

Beetlejuice (2019)

In “Beetlejuice,” Kritzer played Delia Deetz, the eccentric stepmother with a penchant for the paranormal. The musical, based on the cult classic film, is a darkly comedic romp through the afterlife, with Kritzer’s performance standing out for its wit and zaniness.

Spamalot (2023)

Kritzer’s latest triumph is her role as the Lady of the Lake in “Spamalot,” a musical comedy adapted from the film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Her performance has garnered critical acclaim and earned her a Tony nomination, showcasing her range and comedic timing in this hilarious parody of the Arthurian legend.

by Ben Togut

The musicals on Broadway this season feature an eclectic variety of dance styles. Through dance, these musicals push the envelope, showcasing movement as a vehicle for innovative storytelling.

In Illinoise, Justin Peck employs a diverse array of dance styles to bring Sufjan Stevens’ concept album to life onstage. While much of the choreography is interpretive, in Illinoise Peck also features theater dance, tap, break dancing, and ballet. A blend of several styles, Peck’s eye-catching choreography is what makes Illinoise shine.

In Hell’s Kitchen, Camille A. Brown puts hip-hop front and center to tell the story of a young artist growing up in New York City in the 1990s. Brown pulled from her experience living in New York in the 90s to create the musical’s choreography, incorporating the movements and rhythms she grew up around. Brown’s choreography, which also features rhythmic, contemporary, and modern dance, amplifies the energy and intensity of this coming-of-age story.

In Water for Elephants, high-flying acts abound. Shana Carroll and Jesse Robb harness the language of circus to bring Sara Gruen’s beloved novel to the stage. The musical’s choreography features a variety of circus acts, like trapeze and acrobatics, as well as styles such as lyrical, jazz, and swing. Showcasing the art of circus, Carroll and Robb’s choreography makes Water for Elephants feel authentic and alive onstage.

In The Who’s Tommy, Lorin Latarro’s high octane choreography is center stage. Drawing inspiration from rock n’ roll, Latarro’s choreography embraces spectacle. During the show, the ensemble flips the child actor who plays Tommy in the air as if he’s pizza dough. At other moments, such as in the number “Pinball Wizard,” dancers burst with such energy it’s as if they themselves are pinballs bouncing around in a machine.

Outside of this season’s new musicals, there is a colorful array of dance styles represented on Broadway. In last season’s audience favorite & Juliet, Jennifer Weber marries hip-hop, pop, and ballet to bring Max Martin’s jukebox musical to life. Bob Fosse’s iconic jazz choreography continues to dazzle audiences in Chicago, while Wayne Cilento’s high-energy musical theatre choreography infuses Wicked with storybook magic.