What: Daniel Canier's More Jewish Chronicles
Where: Soho Playhouse
15 Vandam St.
New York, NY
Who: Recommended for Ages 12 and Up
When: Through May 15, 2022
Daniel Canier's More Jewish Chronicle is a tuneful reminiscence through the performer's childhood. Canier grew up in England, but his songs, for the most part, are universally relatable. Although many, if not all of the songs, touch on his Jewish heritage, you don't have to be Jewish to enjoy them either. They include such common topics as bonding with his grandfather over sports and taking a Summer holiday with his family. Even the songs that you probably will not be able to relate to personally, like the one about a Rabbi with a cocaine addiction are still very appealing.
Canier is a very personable performer. Listening to his stories and songs, you don't feel like you are watching a performance, you feel like you are having a fun evening visiting with a friend. Although the songs probably won't stay in your head, they are all rather long which is one reason the show is not appropriate for young children as it is beyond their attention spans, you will likely leave the show feeling happy and thoroughly entertained.
For more information about Daniel Canier's More Jewish Chronicles or to purchase tickets, visit ci.ovationtix.com/35583/production/1116508.
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We were given complimentary tickets to Americano for review purposes. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own.
What: Americano
Where: New World Stages
340 W. 50th St.
New York, NY
Who: Recommended for Ages 12 and Up
When: Through June 19, 2022
Americano is a heartwrenching and extremely timely musical about immigration. It is the story of Tony Valdovinos, a young man who is unable to fulfill his dream of joining the Marines when he discovers he is not a legal U.S. citizen. What makes it even more heartwrenching is that this story is true and unfortunately not all that uncommon. The real Valdvinos is a consulting producer on the show.
However, don't let the sad story at its center, turn you off to this gripping new musical. It is, by no means nothing but a depressing show highlighting the dismal plight of the Dreamers. There is so much more to this musical than that. It is at times joyously exuberant, at times hilariously funny, and it is numerous other things as well.
The score of the show is filled with great songs. It is full of rousing anthems with a few sweet ballads through into the mix too. They are the kind of songs that actually get stuck in your head, and you will probably want to listen to them again. There is even one song that if the Marines don't eventually pick up for one of their commercials, they are really missing a great opportunity. All in all, there is not a bad song in the bunch.
This show represents the push for more diversity in theater at its absolute best. Not only is the show an important story told in a captivating way but the all Latinx cast is stellar. Every single role is perfectly cast, and the performances are outstanding.
On the whole, the show is an exceedingly engaging emotion-stirring show. It is definitely worth seeing. In fact, you are not going to wait to miss it!
For more about Americano, or to purchase tickets, visit americanothemusical.com.
And that's our view. Tune in Saturday for Still More Theater Saturday.
Photo credits:
All Americano production photos by Maria Baranova