I did not save the top ten musicals list for last because they are my least favorite productions. On the contrary, I have attended and written reviews about 42 of them this year. I anticipate that there will be many disappointed cast members when they find that their musical production did not make the list. I would remind them that with so many possibilities in the running, many shows that I thought were wonderful had to be cut.
I once again eliminated Broadway shows (and Pippin was truly amazing) and Walt Disney World shows that would fit right in (Finding Nemo: The Musical is in realm of The Lion King in my opinion.) Nevertheless, 40 musicals seen means that a large number of fantastic productions will not be seen on this list. It is what it is.
10. Avenue Q by Castle Craig Players - Smart and funny and a little naughty, this production featured puppets and the talented Ian Galligan.
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9. Sweeney Todd at the Phoenix Stage Company - In conjunction with the performances of an all-star cast, the amazing production values raised this show to a 'not to be missed' level.
8. Young Frankenstein by Landmark Community Theatre - This fun show was made even better by featuring Chuck Stango in the lead role.
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7. Little Shop of Horrors by the Goshen Players - Another production made even better by a cast of strong performers.
6. Experience the Beatles with RAIN at the Palace Theater - The multi-aged audience at this colorful show helped to made this a memorable experience.
5. Elf: The Musical at the Palace - I loved this charming Christmas musical starring Matt Kopec as Buddy the Elf.
4. White Christmas at the Westchester Broadway Theatre - Technically located in the state of New York, this unique theater offers dinner and show and White Christmas was the best show I have seen there.
3. Shrek the Musical at the Warner - A huge cast of characters made this fun show the most memorable I saw at the Warner this year.
2. Spamalot at TriArts Sharon Playhouse - My teen and I enjoyed this production so much that we made the trip to Sharon to see it twice.
And the number one musical of 2013 for me was Hello, Dolly at the Goodspeed Opera House. Because Klea Blackhurst was an amazing Dolly Levi, Ashley Brown appeared as Mrs. Malloy and everything else about the Goodspeed is magical.
