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her salon from the Heights to the Bronx, and Usnavi, on whether to return to his homeland or stay in the Heights, running his bodega. Benny is determined to make it as a successful businessman and to woo Nina, but her father's reluctance to consider him worthy of his daughter proves to be a barrier in both regards.
The main question haunting all of them is where it is that they belong. Many are first or second generation immigrants struggling to preserve their heritage and culture while adapting to their current surroundings. Whether fast or slow, a blur of hip-hop or a hopeful ballad, these songs are a brilliant blend of emotions both wistful and witty. In a duet between Nina and Benny, she sings fondly of, "when the world was just a subway map, and the 1/9 train climbed a dotted line to my place," and Benny responds with, "There's no 9 train now."
While the conflicts do not seem as pressing or dangerous as perhaps , the cast performs with such joy and heart that it is impossible to not become invested in these people and their problems. The joy that they bring to the stage – especially during the celebratory Act II number "Carnival" is inevitably contagious.
It is almost a shame how captivating the performers are, because it is difficult to remove one's eyes from them to properly appreciate the set they are performing on. It depicts a street in Washington Heights, complete with a subway stop for the 181st Street station adorning the corner of the stage. A stunning rendition of the Washington Bridge provides a magnificent background, if you can tear your eyes off of the actors long enough to view it properly. Luckily, there is no curtain and the set is visible before and after the show (a wise decision).
Having seen the show in its Off-Broadway performance at the 37 Arts Theater, this critic was curious as to how the story would be altered to suit Broadway and is happy to report, very little. The changes that were made, however, improve the show significantly. The story is not tied up quite as cleanly as it was before – a few problems are left unresolved, a few characters haven't figured everything out yet. Three new songs were added, which enhance the characters singing them significantly, giving them more depth and development. But the true success of the show off-Broadway – it's infectious, lively, bubbling spirit – remains. When the show ends, the ending is not a completely happy one. All of the problems are not resolved. But the infectious spirit of celebration that permeates every aspect of the performance remains – and hopefully departs the theater with the audience.
A solidly entertaining and truly delightful production, it is good to see In The Heights find its home on Broadway. |
