#1 Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 (Writers Theater)

I enjoyed this musical when I saw it on Broadway in 2017, but this production from Writers Theater launched Natasha, Pierre… into my list of all-time favorite musicals. Set within the world of aristocratic Russian society in 1812, every song overflows with the passions of characters who are fully committed to their causes, whether they strive to marry well, fabricate a scandal, seduce a young woman, or find meaning in the universe. Director and choreographer Katie Spelman led a cast with too many stars to name here – I’ll limit myself to praising Evan Tyrone Martin, who, as Pierre, accentuated the nuances of a character who shifted from hopelessness to action in Natasha’s (Aurora Penepacker) time of need.  Year after year, Writers Theater rises to the top with their intimate stagings of large-scale musicals. Video montage

#2 Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (Goodman)

When the Goodman announced that J. Harrison Ghee (Tony winner from Some Like it Hot) would play Lady Chablis, I knew they were on the right track. Ghee’s entrance did not disappoint as she waved away the applause and insisted to the audience, “Make me earn it.” Adapting this 1994 bestseller into a musical is no easy task, but the script by Taylor Mac and the music by Jason Robert Brown embodied the mysteries, contradictions, and joys of Savannah. Brown’s use of different musical styles for each main characters’ songs added depth to their characterizations, and the choreography by Tanya Birl-Torres was another bonus. Producers have announced that Midnight… will open on Broadway in 2025, but as of yet no theater or opening date is set. Video scene

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