What: Panic in the Bathroom
Where: The Chain Theatre
312 W. 36th St.
New York, NY
Who: Recommended for Ages 18 and Up
When: Through April 19, 2026
Panic in the Bathroom is a short musical about the trials and tribulations of new parenthood. This is another show from this year's New York City Fringe Festival. However, if you read the description on the festival website, it's a bit misleading. The show is as much, if not more, about the parents' relationship as it is about their parenting, and the birthday party they are getting ready for occurs off stage. Also, it's a bit disconcerting that they hold the baby (really a wrapped up blanket that clearly has nothing in it, not even a doll) like it's an infant, but we are supposed to believe this is a child old enough to indicate what she wants and even talk a little.
Although parts of the show are relatable, at times it's just too over-the-top. It seems unbelievable that a mother who is so much of a perfectionist would send her child out with a father who is so ill-equipped to care for her, even if he is the child's father. Also, the father seems both jealous of and afraid of his daughter. He is a man who clearly could have benefited from some parenting classes.
Interestingly, the central couple is played by a real-life couple, although you don't necessarily get that from their chemistry. She has the better voice, although he does most of the singing. Their first duet is lovely, though, and very moving. Still, the songs on the whole are not that memorable.
A video montage of the couple with their real child at the end is a nice touch and a highlight of the show. Another highlight is Julia Macchio's performance in several supporting roles. She is particularly funny in the role of the husband's mother.
And that's our view. For more about Panic in the Bathroom or to purchase tickets, visit https://tickets.frigid.nyc/event/6897:1379/
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We received complimentary tickets to No Singing in the Navy for review purposes. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own.
What: No Singing in the Navy
Where: Playwrights Horizons
416 W. 42nd St.
New York, NY
Who: Recommended for Ages 13 and Up
When: Through April 19, 2026
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No Singing in the Navy is a musical that simultaneously pays homage to and makes fun of Golden Age musicals, especially those centering on the military. Otensibly, the show is about a trio of sailor enjoying their final hours before shipping off to war and certain death. However, the story is not exactly linear. It veers off every now and then, particularly with a side story about the adventures of a crab who escapes from captivity. This is also reminiscent of the musicals it lovingly mocks, which always seem to have one or more side stories not necessarily directly related to the main plot.
Although it may be true that older musicals can be earnestly over-the-top, this one is even more so. Only the committed performances of the talented three-member cast keep it from sliding into complete ridiculousness. However, it may still be a bit too silly for some people's taste. Others will enjoy it immensely, as attested to by the raucous laughter that filled the theater at the performance we attended.
And that's our view. For more about No Singing in the Navy or to purchase tickets, visit www.playwrightshorizons.org/shows/production-history/2020s/2526/no-singing-in-the-navy
Tune in tomorrow for this week's Sunday Scoop.
Photo credits:
Panic in the Bathroom picture supplied by New York Fringe Festival
All No Singing in the Navy production photos by Valerie Terranova
Images used in this post were sent by publicists, artists, and/or PR firms and are used by permission. Address any concerns regarding image usage here.
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