More Theater Monday - Lifeline

We were given complimentary tickets to Lifeline for review purposes. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own. 

Where: The Pershing Square Signature Center

             480 W. 42nd St.

              New York, NY

What: Lifeline 

Who: Recommended for Ages 12 and Up

When: Through September 28, 2024

Lifeline is a public service announcement masquerading as a musical. It purports to be a show about Alexander Fleming's discovery of penicillin, however, it is mostly a plea to stop over-reliance on antibiotics which dilutes their usefulness and allows bacteria to mutate into superbugs and thrive. However, despite its heaviness of purpose, the message is a true and important one, and the show actually works from an entertainment standpoint as well.

The story is told uniquely and compellingly.   Although it is divided between Fleming's time and the present, sometimes the two time periods overlap in an interesting way.  Kristin Maclaren's intense portrayal of a doctor who experiences a personal tragedy and dedicates herself to spreading the word about the dangers of overusing antibiotics stands out even in a show full of terrific performances. In addition to the regular ensemble of performers, there is an additional ensemble of actual medical students and others who work in the medical profession each of whom introduces themself to the audience at the end of the show. It is quite impactful especially after you've just seen the show.

The songs have a much stronger impact when you see the show than when you just listen to the concept recording. In the course of the show, they are quite stirring. They are passionately performed by the show's cast in a way that really helps to hammer home the show's message. 

This is definitely not to the show to see if you are looking for something light and uplifting. Nevertheless, it is an important show that spotlights an important truth that needs to be shared. 

And that's our view. For more about Lifeline or to purchase tickets, visit www.lifelinemusical.com

Tune in tomorrow for Tips for Tuesday.

Photo credits:

All Lifeline production photos by AndrewPatino

Images used in this post have been sent to us from publicists, artists, and/or  PR firms and are used by permission. If there is a problem with the rights to any image,  contact us here, and we will look into the matter.