Review: Broadway’s ‘New York, New York’ Is All Over The Place

For all the “Broadway Babies” out there (you know who you are), a Kander and Ebb classic brought back to life on the stage can be one of the most exciting moments of the season. And New York, New York is no exception to the rule. 

When I saw that it was coming, I couldn’t have been more excited. To see some of my favorite songs performed in real time was just a dream come true. That being said, this show desperately needed some direction, more defined characters, and maybe a good therapist. 

Too many plots, no real development of any: 

Now don’t get me wrong, with four main character plot lines in under three hours, I knew going into it that there was a lot of ground to cover and that I should lower my expectations— but I was really hoping at least one character would get the development they deserved. And with almost a million minor character plot lines going on at the same time, there really was no hope for even one of them to get the time or attention it deserved. 

For most of our main characters, they remained static throughout their storylines and lacked any kind of plausible journey. This was especially disappointing because, unlike the promise in the titular song, you can’t “make it there” or really “anywhere” if there is no character growth or journey.

Our dashing hero Jimmy Doyle is a perfect example of a stagnant character. A drunk, slightly predatory, hot headed artist dealing with PTSD, grief, and depression who has been successful in the music business but had a fall from grace. The turning point for him is shallow at best and then he is suddenly sober and successful again. Yes, there is a progression of time but no struggle, no visible change. He is still a slightly predatory, hot headed musician—only now he can hold a job. His only redeeming quality is that he is played by Colton Ryan. 

Best Actors: Colton Ryan & Clyde Alves

Instagram: @coltonthewizard

I’ll be honest: I was not a fan of Colton in his performance as Connor Murphy in Dear Evan Hanson but boy did he blow me away as Jimmy Doyle. He gave Jimmy the heart and depth that the writers robbed him of— and for that I couldn’t be more grateful. Also, huge shoutout to Ryan, for learning to play the instruments that his character, Jimmy Doyle, loved more than life itself. 

Instagram: @alvesface

Along with Colton Ryan, Clyde Alves really was the soul of the comedy in this show. His humor, dignity, depth, and genuine connection with his co-stars brought the lovely Tommy Caggiano to life in more ways than one. Alves stole the show whenever the spotlight hit his face and it's a shame he didn’t get more stage time.

Special Shoutout to: Julian Ramos

Instagram: @_julianramos

Now I don’t often do this, as it is very rare for someone to be this memorable to me when there is just so much going on in a show…but Julian Ramos. This ensemble actor is a diamond in the rough. In the performance I went to, Julian Ramos swept me away in his performance as Mateo Diaz—and I am telling you all, when he lands his big role (and he will), he is going to sweep you all away too. 

Highlight of the Show: 

The other stand out parts of this performance was not the love story of the sailor and his lover, or the cuban mom and her golden dress, or even our lovely maid turned opera singer (although they were all good). The two other stars of the show were the set and lighting design. 

As an avid theater goer, I can say with much certainty that this has been one of the best uses of technology, lighting design, and set design I’ve seen in years. My hat is especially off to these incredible artists for their creation of the high rise construction setting during the wine and peaches number. Everything from bird shadows on the steel beams to the feeling of rising through the air while never leaving my seat was breathtaking. 

Final Thoughts:

New York, New York is a classic for a reason. It tells the story of hope, dreams, love, hunger, and most importantly: passion. And while in some ways this season’s Broadway production was entertaining and inspiring, the show itself lacked identity, direction, and was negatively impacted by its length. 

Overall score: 7/10

Pro Tip (One of the only times I will ever say this): Don’t sit too close to the stage. You will thank me later.