New York City is a popular destination for theater lovers, including fanatics for on stage live performances.
You can ask any of those who are currently visiting or have already visited NYC. Most of them will probably tell you that a tour to New York City would never be complete without attending a play, and many will probably admit that they have seen at least one Broadway show!
Off Broadway Theater Scene in New York City
Off Broadway Shows in New York City
Though the city of New York is indeed widely associated with the bright lights of Broadway theater, and is even synonymously branded with the city’s theater scenario, there are actually venues other than Broadway that are also crowd attractors due to their unique and high class plays and shows.
Because of the expertise and versatility of the cast performing the best of plays, revivals, or musicals that may have been rooted in history but flavored with modernity, these off Broadway counterparts are also must-sees.
Not only their availability and accessibility, but also their award-winning renditions and their celebrated original stage productions will astound you.
New York City Off Broadway Theater – Popular Plays and Shows
The Agony and the Ecstasy of Steve Jobs
One of best plays that you will not be meeting in Broadway is in the halls of the Public Theater in downtown New York. It is located at 425th Lafayette Street, New York, NY 10003.
The Agony and the Ecstasy of Steve Jobs
It is a one man show that can move a multitude to laugh, cry, and even reflect on their thoughts throughout the play.
Played by Mike Daisey, a man referred by many as a master storyteller due to the artistic talent he has been presenting since the year 1997, the play is a docudramedy about Steve Jobs’ travels, technological feats and breakthroughs.
True to its name, the show is a documentary, drama and comedy masterpiece compiled in one presentation worth the ticket expense.
It has been recognized by the Washington Post as the best new play of the year, and is branded as one of the best in NYC by other printed media leaders such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and The Seattle Times.
Freud’s Last Session
Another equally successful production is “Freud’s Last Session”, played at the New World Stages. The theater is located at 340 W 50th Street, in between the corners of Eight and Ninth Avenues.
It is about an imaginary discussion and argument about life, love and the existence of God between Dr. Sigmund Freud, the founding father of psychoanalysis and C.S. Lewis, a fantasy writer still building a name.
The play had 3 Jeff Nominations for Best Play, Best Set Design and Best Actor in the person of Martin Rayner.
Perfect Crime – A Great Off Broadway Musical in NYC
Perfect Crime
If you like the art of suspense, then “Perfect Crime”, a show at the Snapple Theater Center is a must-watch option. The venue is at 210 W. 50th Street, New York, NY 10019.
It is a production that will keep you edged at your seats with the unpredictable twists and turns purposefully added to the CSI-like plot.
Silence! The Musical
If you are up for something deliriously comical, then “Silence! The Musical” is the show you are looking for. It is being played at the Elektra Theater in the heart of Manhattan, at 669 Eight Avenue, between the 42nd and 43rd streets.
The play is actually a parody of “The Silence of the Lambs”, and is included in Time Magazine’s and the Daily News’ top ten plays and musicals in the year 2011.
Other Shows
Gazillion Bubble Show – One of the Many Great Off Broadway Shows
If you are already beyond the playing schedules of these plays, do not worry!
There are a lot of other theaters currently playing great productions besides the plays mentioned in this article.
You can visit the Manhattan Movement and Arts Center at 248 W. 60th Street, the Cherry Lane Theater at 38 Commerce Street, the 59E59 Theaters at 59 E. 59th Street, and many more.
New York Off Broadway Shows – Conclusion
When it comes to amazing shows and theater performances, no matter what the genre is, New York City is full of off-Broadway choices.
Discover and awake that artistic and literary side of you. Better yet, just spend the time enjoying every moment of your New York off-Broadway theater viewing experience.
You can check out the various shows in NYC by clicking here.
Have fun!
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