What to Expect at 'Sunday in the Park' previews with Gyllenhaal

[ArchStanton]

Posted: 12/25/16 at 5:37pm

So I bought tickets to the February 11 show, not realizing that was start of previews, not opening night. 

I know previews can be divisive, so was wondering if anyone had any speculation as to what kind of a show I might be seeing.

A lot of the common complaints don't seem to apply (principals already had great chemistry with even less rehearsal at city center; it's not a new work so there won't be re-writes, and the city center production allowed them to gauge what staging works and what doesn't to some degree)

However, I am a bit concerned about technical issues in the first preview of a newly renovated theater, and hope that Gyllenhaal has fully grown into the part by previews -- I'd like to see him at his best obviously (counterpoint: I'm worried about someone who is not primarily a vocalist keeping up the same level of quality for 10 weeks). 

Very bummed that I'm missing my dream to attend an opening night, though I imagine secondary sales are astronomical though. I am considering reselling my preview tickets for something later in the run, even for a loss. 

Anyways, this is my first preview and I missed the city center show so any speculation, past experiences, advice, or opinions are welcome!

[Play Esq.]

Posted: 12/25/16 at 5:52pm

 Considering that they have already done a complete run through at least four times at this juncture, I'm certain it'll be fine.  The show was already in great shape, a month of rehearsal will only make it that much stronger. Yes, there may be some technical issues, however, I gather they will be quite minor.

Updated On: 12/25/16 at 05:52 PM

[Mildred Plotka]

Posted: 12/25/16 at 6:00pm

I know it's unlikely but hoping this extends by a couple weeks so I can see it. Already booked our Spring trip before this was announced. 

[Dancingthrulife2]

Posted: 12/25/16 at 9:43pm

It's at least the second complete performance to a likely full audience. You've got a dress rehearsal before a first preview, so I figure most tech issues will be sorted out day of.

[CindersGolightly]

Posted: 12/25/16 at 9:58pm

Hopefully we can expect a beautifully produced, lush, magic cast recording. As for the actual show, there's a reason it's the first strictly gala performance from City Center to transfer to Broadway. You'll adore it. Truly.

[SmoothLover]

Posted: 12/26/16 at 3:33am

I am sure it will be fine. Too bad they did not replace the director but given the high profile of the star reviewers will probably focus more on the two leads. I am guessing the supporting cast is pretty much the same but I do not know that for certain. It would be funny if Jake won the Tony over the Evan Hansen star given that most critics have already given the latter the award.

 

Given the proscenium at City Center inhibits staging the relocated theatre space will probably be much kinder.

[icecreambenjamin]

Posted: 12/26/16 at 3:50am

I hear a lot of people complaining about the direction of the concert, but I would like to remind you that they only had six days of rehearsal to pull the whole show together.  I'm sure that the direction will be considerably better in a fully staged production with a significantly larger amount of rehearsal time.

[ljay889]

Posted: 12/26/16 at 4:09am

I agree with Benjamin. Also, she received good reviews by the top critics. Brantley wrote that he had never seen a "more convincing interpretation." Let's give her a chance with a full production. The foundation was certainly there.