Had enough of schlock theater, tired retreads and “juke box” musicals that seem more Vegas than New York? I have two words for you:
In Transit.
The definitive NewYorkGritty-style show, InTransit is a unique, totally a cappella (you know, only voices, no instruments) musical gem featuring winning songs and harmonies, all taking place in our oft-frustrating NYC subway system.
The terrific ensemble cast takes on multiple roles: an actress/office temp on her way to a possibly life-changing “2nd callback”, a former business hotshot done in by the recession, a young man fretting about introducing his gay lover to his holy roller Texas mom in for a visit–and you care about them all.
The show zips along like a Japanese Bullet Train, with director Joe Calarco making all the intricate moves and quick changes look deceptively easy.
Local theatergoers will delight in the accurate depiction of life underground, including the garbled announcements of inexplicable service changes (“All express trains are now running local, the locals are all running express, the “1″ is not running period and the C train is now a bus.”)
I saw the Primary Stages presentation at 59E.59th Theater in preview, with the official opening night Wednesday, 10-6. The show runs only through October, and I’ve got a feeling when word gets out, it will be near impossible to get a ticket, so you’ve been warned. If you hate it, blame me. Fat chance.
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