Newintown - I don't agree that the play is only about Max's journey...It's not that cut and dried...It is a farce and by necessity an ensemble piece about the wackiness that the whole group gets themselves into... this may not be the way it has always been done, but I think if you see this production (which I saw on Friday) you may take away a new perspective.
Meanwhile, I DO think that this is the role that will establish Justin Bartha as a capable and creative stage actor and it can only bring greater attention to his work and career.
Of course, I would never say that's ALL tenor is about, but I think it must be acknowledged that Max's story is the center of the show. He's the character who changes, his quest is what kicks the farcical events into action, don't you think? The other characters are the zanies who turn cartwheels around him as he tries to achieve the goal at the center of the play.
While I understand your point, when seeing the show I definitely didn't consider Max to be the center or main character, and agree that it's more of an ensemble piece. (At least that's how I saw this production)
I saw the second preview (Saturday matinee) and as others have said, the show is in great shape. Everyone shines in their roles. Maxwell is a hoot, and Bartha in particular exceeded my expectations. His physicality and comic timing were top-notch. The curtain call "recap" was very creative. I plan to make a return trip to the show after opening to see if anything has changed. I see a nomination for Maxwell, and - just my own wishful thinking - Bartha as well.
"The world is a better place because of hairspray." - Michael Ball
Hey Jeff--Got a TDF seat for the Sunday matinee before it was announced there'd be a rush policy. They gave me seat H2 in the mezz, but I decided to take a chance and move to center front mezz before the show started...then at intermission, snagged an empty seat in the 2nd row of the orchestra, which was wonderful. For early previews, especially during the week, I'd probably go for the rush, if you can get to the box office early, then come back for the show, as it sounds like they're giving away some great seats there. But that's always a risk...I agree with others here who think this one's going to be a hit; the audience LOVED it on Sunday, I don't think I've seen so much rapture around me since Jersey Boys. So whatever you decide, I'd do it sooner rather than later.
thanks April.. I was asking becuase I got my TDF seats the day they were released on there for this Wednesday night.. i'll be seeing the addams family for the matinee so I am looking forward to seeing this at night, especially if i wind up not liking addams family