See This, Not That – Valentine’s Day Edition
Looking for a romantic show that’s not too expensive? Three excellent options:
We’re not going to say a single mean thing about Mark Rylance’s Twelfe Night on Broadway. It’s wonderful. But if you don’t already have tickets, you’re not getting them now, unless you’re willing to pay big bucks on the secondary market.
But fear not. Pig Iron Theatre Company traveled from Philadelphia to save Valentine’s Day in New York City. Their adaptation of Shakespeare’s famous love story is delicious. Complete with a hipster vibe, amazing performances, and a brass band, Twelfth Night at the Abrons Arts Center on the Lower East Side is a fantastic choice for this Valentine’s Day.
The Wizard of Oz bred numerous off-shoots in film and theater. Wicked, the extravagant musical that traces the origin story of the wicked witch, is one of the more successful: after 10 years on Broadway it consistently sells out and charges premium prices for tickets.
The latest newcomer to the Oz universe is James Oritz’s The Woodsman at 59E59 Theaters in Midtown. It tells the origin story of the Tin Man. It’s a story of love, romance, and sacrifice told with bunkaru puppetry, violin accompaniment, and very few words. It’s enchanting, affordable, and under an hour.
In Outside Mullingar, a new play by Pulitzer, Oscar, and Tony winner John Patrick Shanley (Doubt), Debra Messing and Brian F. O’Byrne explore romantic tension as awkward neighbors in rural Ireland. For tickets over $100, we found the production a little dull.
Almost, Maine offers similar warm and fuzzy feelings for less money ($55-$65) at The Gym at Judson Memorial Church in the West Village. This play is comprised of multiple vignettes about love in rural, wintery, Maine. It is funny, quirky, and much more intimate than the Valentine’s that is awaiting crowds uptown.