Sitting in bed all day with the covers over your head is fun, but you know what’s even better? Seizing the day, Newsies-style! There's so much to do, including Lindsay Mendez’s snazzy, jazzy covers, a brand new addition to Jersey Boys and a conversation with the composer of Wicked, Pippin, Godspell and more. It’s all part of this week’s picks!
Meet Jersey Boys’ New Frontman
Begins July 29 at the August Wilson Theatre
We know, change can be tough. But never fear, Jersey Boys fans! Ryan Molloy, who assumes the role of Frankie Valli through October 19, is definitely the man for the job. The versatile, Olivier-nominated veteran originated the role in the West End production and has appeared in everything from Macbeth to Jerry Springer: The Opera. Your eyes—and ears—will adore him. Click for tickets!
Jazz It Up with Lindsay Mendez
July 29 at Birdland NYC
Lindsay Mendez is taking a break from performing with her Broadway bud Derek Klena for an intimate concert with another collaborator: Pianist Marco Paguia. The duo will put a jazz twist on the work of artists who inspire them—a varied group ranging from Fiona Apple to U2. While you’re enjoying these silky renditions, try coming up with a #Klendez-like nickname for this talented pair. Let’s start: Pagdez? Lindarco? Click for tickets!
Take a Page From Idina Menzel
In stores and online July 30
You know you’ve officially made it as performer when a collection of sheet music isn’t focused on a musical or a composer, but on you. So take a bow, Idina Menzel, and bask in the glow of the new songbook Best of Idina Menzel. At this rate, it’s only a matter of time before a state or small country is named after you. (Caution: Purchase of sheet music does not include ability to sing like Idina Menzel.)
Get Caught Between Riverside and Crazy
Starts July 31 at Atlantic’s Linda Gross Theater
The newest drama from playwright Stephen Adly Guirgis (Jesus Hopped the A Train) is another scorcher. In Between Riverside and Crazy, an ex-cop and recent widower faces an onslaught of personal problems as he tries to hang on to his rent-controlled apartment on Riverside Drive. Leading the veteran cast in this Atlantic Theater Company production is Broadway vet Stephen McKinley Henderson. Click for tickets!
Eavesdrop on a Wicked Conversation
August 3 at 54 Below
Usually, Sunday nights stink. Everything is closed. Bedtime is early. The upcoming week’s obstacles loom: Can I survive on an apple and sugar packets until payday? Tonight is different. In A Conversation with Music with Stephen Schwartz & Jim Brochu, the composer and playwright talk shop, pausing for live performances (from the likes of Kelli Rabke and Michael McCorry) of Schwartz's hits. Wow, Sunday night doesn’t sound so bad after all. Click for tickets!