This was by far the most difficult list to make because I had seen such a large number of musical theatre this year. As I explained in the preview of the lists, I eliminated shows outside of CT (as in "on Broadway,") and with regret The Last Supper: A Musical Enactment for conflict of interest issues. Even so, after assigning each show a letter grade, I still had to cut many shows that I loved. The ties are a result of identical scores.
Drumroll please...
10. TIE Bucket List of Unbroken Dreams, Erin K. Moffat's original show that was a quirky hit, and Footloose! The Musical by Landmark Community Theatre at the Thomaston Opera House that was so much fun.
9. TIE Bye Bye Birdie and Brigadoon by Musicals at Richter because both featured huge casts of talented performers in their unique outdoor setting. Although I have reviewed BBB three times, Chuck Stango remains the best Mr. MacAfee ever.
8. Into the Woods - Wonderful music and costumes, Marilyn Olsen as the witch and a great set made this dark fairy tale a fine production.
7. 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the New Britain Repertory Theater in New Britain (via the Goshen Players) featured an amazing cast including John Ozerhoski (Backstage Johnny O.)
6. Amazing Grace - There is no review for this show. It was produced in the Norma Terris Theatre (the Goodspeed's second stage) and therefore because it is considered to be experimental, reviews are not allowed.
5. Next to Normal - This show was a community theatre production that transcended anything I have ever seen at the Nancy Marine.
4. TIE Gypsy and Annie at the Warner Theatre were both blockbusters.
3. How to Succeed in Business (Without Really Trying) at Seven Angels - This show at Seven Angels featured strong community theatre singers and dancers that matched the pros.
2. Shrek - Visually this show was amazing and it appealed to all ages.
1. Liberty - The monumental new musical is something I will never forget. I am honored to have a link to my review appear on the Liberty website.
