Quantcast
‘Tis the season for over-the-top shows on Broadway – Metro US

‘Tis the season for over-the-top shows on Broadway

‘Tis the season for over-the-top shows on Broadway
Matthew Murphy

There are plenty of productions seeking to entertain the throngs of tourists who flock to Times Square during the holiday season. We rounded up three new shows for all ages sweeping onto Broadway just in time for the seasonal theater rush — and one enduring favorite we just can’t get enough of.

MUSIC:On Your Feet!

There will always be an audience for a well-done jukebox musical, but “On Your Feet!,” with its Latin rhythm and moves, might appeal to an even wider crowd. The story follows Emilio and Gloria Estefan’s journey to stardom in America, featuring hits like “Conga,” “1-2-3” and “Turn the Beat Around,” as well as original songs. The show premiered in Chicago this past summer, where it endeared itself to critics. The husband-and-wife duo have 26 Grammy Awards between them, and the show is directed by Jerry Mitchell (“Kinky Boots”). It may not be the next “Jersey Boys” or “Beautiful,” but “On Your Feet!” promises a feel-good story with music the whole family can enjoy. Open run began Nov. 5

MAGIC:The Illusionists: Live on Broadway

Following last year’s successful debut, “The Illusionists” returns to the Great White Way for another dazzling display from emerging and established magicians. Their acts range from escape artistry to card tricks; some are comedy-oriented, while others are deadly serious. The best part of the spectacle is seeing them all come together in one fluid show where the momentum builds to a stunning finale. This year’s lineup features some newcomers: The Unusualist (Raymond Crowe), The Daredevil (Jonathan Goodwin) and The Deceptionist (James More). Nov. 19-Jan. 3

DANCE:Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games

It seems like “Riverdance” has been around forever, and impressively the iconic Lord of the Dance, Michael Flatley, is still at it over 20 years since the show’s debut in 1994. The Irish dance pioneer (who added new beats and upper-body movement to the discipline) is making his farewell appearance this winter in “Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games.” Astonishingly, this is the show’s first time on Broadway — and what’s a more fitting way to say goodbye than from center stage in the theater capital of the world? Not all performances star Flatley, so check the website to guarantee your chance to send off the man who forever changed Irish folk dance. Nov. 7-Jan. 3

HOLIDAY: Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Radio City’s Rockettes set the bar for holiday entertainment, with an annual show that’s constantly innovating while keeping alive a Christmas tradition that has been part of the city since 1933. This year’s production will feature a 43-foot turntable — hey, the hip-hop musical concept is working for “Hamilton,” why not a rapping Santa Claus? Nov. 13-Jan. 3 Eva Kis