I saw both the 1998 and 2014 Broadway revivals, as well as at least one touring company. I never enjoyed this show, but I always felt like I wanted to, or should, so I kept trying. For whatever reason the previous productions that I saw never hit home for me emotionally. Some of the numbers were good enough, but I didn't feel entirely bought into the world. I LOVED this production, which I went to somewhat reluctantly. I was entertained, moved, horrified, and engaged. I had heard reports of "sparse sets and props" but honestly, if I hadn't read that, it wouldn't have even tracked to me. The production feels very full and abundant. There is of course a lot of thought about the Emcee, and the role is certainly portrayed in ways that I have never considered, and while I didn't always love it, in the end I thought it provocative and effective. I'm very glad I went. |