Broadway revivals have always been lauded by theatre enthusiasts. The thrill of experiencing timeless classics, reimagined and reinvigorated, is an integral part of Broadway's enduring appeal. Revivals serve as a bridge between eras, connecting the old with the new. As the curtain rises, audiences are reacquainted with familiar narratives, characters, and musical scores. Yet, each revival offers a new perspective, a fresh interpretation that keeps the art form alive.
Broadway revivals are more than just nostalgia; they are a testament to the power and longevity of great theatre. These shows provide an opportunity to introduce classic plays and musicals to a new audience, ensuring these great works' continuity and relevance. Revivals also provide a platform for reinterpretation, offering directors, actors, and designers a chance to revisit the original material, often with a contemporary lens. These shows serve as a reminder that though times change, the human condition – with all its triumphs, tragedies, loves, and losses – remains constant. And it is this shared human experience that keeps audiences returning to the theatre, eager to witness the show that, indeed, always goes on.
Chicago, a satirical musical exploring crime, celebrity, and corruption in Jazz-age Chicago, first opened on Broadway in 1975. Created by the legendary duo John Kander and Fred Ebb, with a book by Ebb and Bob Fosse, the original production was well-received, but it was the 1996 revival that truly immortalized Chicago in the annals of Broadway history.
The revival, directed by Walter Bobbie and choreographed in the style of Fosse by Ann Reinking, made several significant changes. The production was stripped down, removing much of the original's spectacle to focus on the essential elements of the story and its iconic Fosse-styled choreography. This minimalist aesthetic added a new layer of grit and realism to the narrative. The impact of Chicago's revival has been immense, making it the longest-running musical currently on Broadway. It reminds us that sometimes, beneath the razzle-dazzle, the best stories are the ones that lay bare the human condition in all its flawed glory.
Little Shop of Horrors, a cult classic, first opened Off-Broadway in 1982. With music by Alan Menken and lyrics and book by Howard Ashman, this musical tells the story of Seymour, a meek florist who encounters a strange plant with a rather unusual appetite. The original production wowed audiences with its blend of rock, doo-wop, and Motown music alongside its darkly comedic narrative, quickly becoming a fan favorite.
The 2019 Off-Broadway revival, directed by Michael Mayer, embraced the original's camp while injecting it with contemporary energy. This new version of the show also introduced a thrilling new facet to the iconic man-eating plant, Audrey II. This version of the puppet plant pays respect to its previous iterations but is unique in its own way. Traditionally, Audrey II has been portrayed as a slightly cartoonish character, but this version of the show goes for a more nasty and gritty take. The puppet was designed by the talented Nicholas Mahon with the help of Monkey Boys Productions, whose extensive experience brought a tangible sense of character and menace to Audrey II. The puppet design itself was a marvel of theatrical craft, with four different puppets playing the role of Audrey as it grows into its monstrous self. The final version is so enormous it can easily house the two puppeteers hidden inside the flower. Developing the visual presentation and functionality of the puppet adds a whole new level of thrill and excitement to this beloved Off-Broadway revival.
Based on The Who's 1969 rock opera album of the same name, The Who's Tommy first made its Broadway debut in 1993. This genre-defining rock musical, with a score and lyrics by Pete Townshend, is the story of a traumatized, deaf, and blind boy named Tommy who becomes an international pinball sensation. The original Broadway production, directed by Des McAnuff, was a visual and auditory spectacle, earning five Tony Awards®.
The revival staged at the Nederlander Theatre in 2024 brought a more grounded and character-driven approach to the story. The creators have decidedly taken a step away from the original script with notable revisions. Starting from the removal of the song "Tommy's Holiday Camp" to changes in the verses of the iconic anthem, "We're Not Gonna Take It." While some purists may bristle at these changes, the creative team behind the revival believes they serve to streamline the narrative and add depth to the character development. The new Tommy promises a fresh take on a beloved classic that die-hard fans and newcomers will equally enjoy.
Originally premiered in 1966, Cabaret is coming back to Broadway in 2024, now reconceived as Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club. Set in the smoky, decadent world of pre-war Berlin, the plot weaves a compelling tale of romance and disillusionment against a backdrop of societal upheaval. The revival brings to life the iconic Kit Kat Club at the August Wilson Theatre, immersing audiences in the intoxicating atmosphere of the era.
For this revival, the cast is led by Academy and Tony Award® winner Eddie Redmayne, who reprises his Olivier Award-winning performance as the Emcee, the club's mischievous, charismatic master of ceremonies. Alongside him, Gayle Rankin plays Sally Bowles, the Toast of Mayfair. The show's enduring appeal is largely due to its powerful score, with music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb. With a book by Joe Masteroff, choreography by Julia Cheng, and directed by Rebecca Frecknall, this show is both moving and entertaining.
Each of these revivals has successfully managed to strike a delicate balance - honoring the spirit of the original while adapting it to the sensibilities of modern audiences. These shows have breathed new life into old stories, highlighting the enduring relevance and versatility of theatre. And in doing so, they have provided a benchmark for future revivals, demonstrating how the old can be made new again.
As they continue to evolve and adapt, Broadway revivals will undoubtedly push the boundaries of the theatre industry, facilitating new interpretations and innovative storytelling. Discover the timeless appeal of these Broadway shows and enjoy a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation.