Network or Ferryman

[msac0904]

Hi everyone. I was wondering what your thoughts were on these two plays as far as which one will be more entertaining and which may be easier to get orchestra tickets on a Dec weekend (for a gift). I've been reading mostly positive things about both and I realize they're two totally different storylines so maybe I'll base it on how hard on any opinions posted and how hard it might be to get regular priced tickets. I heard there was a discount code for Ferryman but I haven't heard of one for The Network yet TIA for any info!! I think The Ferryman is opening on Sunday.

[Jarethan]

I will be in NYC over Christmas because of a wedding.  I have purchased tickets to see Network.  I have already seen The Ferryman, earlier this evening.  It is a major production, the likes of which we see very infrequently.  I cannot imagine that any production of Network will even approach the magnificence of this production.

The last time I personally saw a production of this quality was when I saw Cate Blanchette in Streetcar in DC 6 - 8 years ago.  I may have to go back to Nicholas Nickelby to think of such a 'large' production in which every single performer more than pulled his weight.  Even the baby got extra laughs tonight, due to some in character ad-libbing.  

The play has much humor, but also is a punch in the gut.  It was truly exhilarating. It will be talked about for years and years to come.  Go see it.  I doubt you  will be able to get discount tickets once the reviews come out, so you would benefit by getting them before the reviews.  I cannot imagine that Network will have discounts any week-ends in December.

[WillyTheSalesman]

Agreed. Definitely THE FERRYMAN.

[JBC3]

I highly doubt The Ferryman will be talked about for years and years to come ... even as good as it is.

Having seen both shows in London I would say they are not really comparable. The Ferryman is a strong ensemble production of a fairly decent script, one I found weaker than August Osage County to which it has been compared.

Network is an inventive staging featuring a significant star turn by Bryan Cranston of a classic movie whose thees are very timely. It is far less likely to be reproduced on it scale in other settings where The Ferryman holds strong possibilities for regional productions in the future.

Either is a good choice. Which one depends on what you value most.

[msac0904]

Thank you very much everyone who responded. Very good information and seems like The Ferryman will be the better option although I'm sure I can't go wrong with either. I also realized they're two entirely different stories so have to factor that in as well. Very interested to see what the reviews will be for The Ferryman after this Sunday's show

[WayTooBroadway]

Brantley already raved about THE FERRYMAN in London. I wouldn’t be surprised if he doubled on the praises for the NYC production.

[itsshowtime2]

I saw both earlier this year. I loved the Ferryman and strongly recommend it. I thought Network was a huge disappointment - the staging, direction and artistic choices didn't work for me at all, but I thought Bryan Cranston was fantastic.

[jas1234]

Definitely The Ferryman over Network, it's a superior script and the kind of ensemble you rarely see on the stage, beautifully directed by Sam Mendes.  "Network" pales in comparison to the film but Bryan Cranston is excellent.  It's a lively production but a superficial adaptation of what was, arguably, an incisive and compelling film.  You should also consider "The Lifespan of a Fact" (lots of fun and brilliantly acted), "The Waverly Gallery (though a play about Alzheimer's may be a deterrent) and "To Kill a Mockingbird".  It's a strong year for plays.

[qolbinau]

Network is more of a spectacle and has the star power. I'd argue it is more 'entertaining and easy watching (despite the drama of course). Ferryman is a much more serious piece of art with denser writing, complex themes and complex characters. If this is your thing, you might find it more entertaining. If that is not your thing, you might find it a bit slow and boring.

[msac0904]

Thanks again to everyone that replied. I think it would be hard to pass up seeing The Ferryman but I just last have to check out Network at a later date. Definitely read and heard that Cranston delivers a great performance and I really think that storyline is so interesting in the world we currently live in. Thanks again!