Friday 5: 5 Completely Original Musicals I Love!

5 Completely Original Musicals I Love!

(21st Century Edition)

With the announcement of the new musical Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York), a completely original show, it got me to thinking about other such properties that weren't already novels, short stories, movies, or music catalogs, etc. Here are 5 of my favorites that I've enjoyed over the recent years!

Urinetown (2001): The recent Encores! revival of this very unique piece rekindled my adoration for it. So absurd a premise, I had to see this one back in 2001. Turns out that writers Mark Hollman and Greg Kotis, choreographer John Carrafa and director John Rando knew exactly how to make a biting satire AND a send up of Broadway musicals into an exciting night of theater.

  

Next to Normal (2009): This musical made me truly feel electric from its opening notes to its emotional, inspiring finale. That Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey were able to make a musical about a variety of mental illnesses and their varied treatments, along with profound grief is truly an achievement. I have so many wonderful memories of this production, but what stands out for me is the absolutely fat-free book and brilliantly tight direction by Michael Greif. And, of course, the truly superb cast - and their replacements... I can't wait for a revival!

The Prom (2018): A rite of passage, Broadway flare, and important queer themes combined to make this adorable and riotously funny show a sentimental favorite. Witty and splashy, this tuneful comedy was full of toe-tappers, hummable tunes and production numbers, The Prom was aptly described as "musical comedy heaven!" A principal cast of personal favorites (I'm looking at you, Beth, Brooks, Christopher and Angie) and an exiting youthful ensemble were all icing on this fabulous cake!

Shucked (2023): I'm not particularly fond of corn, and I'm even less fond of old-fashioned style country music. So imagine my utter shock at how much I loved this show! I love a show that is smart and clever without overdoing it, and this little musical had me smiling from ear to ear (pun intended) and cheering for each song! Not since Hairspray, has director Jack O'Brien shown such a knack for musical comedy, and with such golden material by book writer Robert Horn and a delicious score by Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, he had it made. Of course, when thinking about the many delights of this production, I'd be remiss not to mention the ground-breaking performance of Tony-winner Alex Newell. Brilliance all around!  

Maybe Happy Ending (2024): Who knew that a sci-fi musical about robots could be so utterly charming, genuinely sweet, and deeply affecting? And yet writers Will Aronson and Hue Park, along with director Michael Arden and a brilliant design team did just that. Romance, adventure, a sense of humor and an instantly hum-able score plus an amazing company of actors are the perfect combination for musical theater bliss!

Will Two Strangers join this list of original wonders? I hope so!!