NEXT TO 9 & 5 TO NORMAL

While I'm not usually a crazed musical fan, I found myself attending previews of the 3 big shows opening on Broadway this year.   First up was Rock of Ages -the big hair, high octane show that I've already written about.  

Next up was Next To Normal.   The musical, an original work from the director of Rent - Michael Greif.  Actually, think Rent, in the suburbs.  Normal deals with Mental Illness with suburban monotony as a backdrop- vs. chasing your dream of stardom in NYC during the AIDS epidemic that was central to RENT.   While the set and staging are innovative and exciting - the writing and music are not.  (you feel like your reading a thesaurus).AARON TVEIT

Off-Broadway saw a meatier version that included a shock therapy scene that was not to be missed.   The best thing about this show is the actor who plays Gabe.  Aaron Tveit continues the role he brought to life Off-Broadway.   Tveit is full of energy and has a spark.  Producers have already taken notice and let's just say - his dance card is full for the next few years.

The third musical in the trilogy of song this season is one that many have been waiting YEARS for.   9 to 5 the MUSCIAL has finally made it to Broadway!   The unforgettable big screen comedy from 1980 is brought to life by songs written by Dolly Parton herself.   The madcap comedy is a classic.   The original cast was amazing :  Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, & Jane Fonda had some of the best chemistry of any comedy co-stars to date.    DOLLY PARTON                    

The Broadway cast had big shoes to fill - and a bigger bra - but they have done just that.   Allison Janney leads the cast as Violet Newstead - the long suffering office manager at Consolidated Inc.  Megan Hilty IS Doralee Rhodes!  The sweet as pie but looking like sin secretary of big bad boss Franklin Heart.  I swear, if you close your eyes you will think you are listening to the movie.

In fact, Pat Resnick - co-writer of the original screenplay has written the book of the show and Dolly has written all the music and lyrics!

If you like the movie- you will LOVE this show!   Click here to buy tickets  9to5

Final note - there is a veiled Sapphic theme running through both theses shows.. I'll leave it up to you to figure out what or why that is.  Now put down your meds, take a coffee break and buy your tickets!