BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT: Noises Off

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—I don’t believe there has been a funnier play written than Noises Off. For those unacquainted with the show or deprived of a visit to it in recent years, this production may be satisfactory. Yet, that it is merely funny and not hilarious makes it a tremendous let-down. Of all the times I have seen the show, including the inconsistent movie and the current London revival, I have never laughed less than at this production. The play is still funny—there is no way Noises Off cannot be—but this revival seems dull in casting, directing and execution.

HONORABLE MENTIONS: Hedda Gabler, 42nd Street and Thou Shalt Not

MOST OVERLOOKED: Follies

The first Broadway revival of one of the greatest musicals ever written was met with mixed-to-negative reviews and a limited run that never extended. Though the production quietly disappeared without winning a Tony or much of a following, it effectively dealt with the difficulties of the problematic book and offered a fascinating view of marriage, personal decisions and lies. Yes, it lacked in glitz and glamor, but in its sparse, decaying production, there was something unspeakably tragic and captivating about this Follies that deserved a greater chance for success and commemoration.

HONORABLE MENTION: A Class Act

MOST INDISPENSABLE RECORDING: The Frogs and Evening Primrose

Of all of Sondheim’s mature works, the only one lacking a recording was The Frogs. Until now. Finally, the musical legendary for its premiere at a Yale Drama swimming pool can be heard in its glory. It is a rich choral production with considerable wit, not to mention the star presence of Nathan Lane and Brian Stokes Mitchell as narrators, with Lane performing the well-known opening number as well. Davis Gaines contributes a lovely rendition of “Fear No More.” Included with the Frogs on the same CD is Evening Primrose, a 35 year-old musical written for TV. Though all of its songs have been previously recorded, Neil Patrick Harris is a special delight in the lead role. The CD is a must-have for musical theater aficionados.

HONORABLE MENTIONS: tick, tick... BOOM!, Infinite Joy, Barbara Cook Sings Mostly Sondheim