I absolutely second this. While I don't always agree with Whizzer's opinion, having a quick reference first night is invaluable in determining what to see quickly, and what can wait. And I always post that it's an honor to be at performances the same night as Whizzer. I'm sure I've been at legit press nights with major reporters, but Whizzer always gets the shout-out.
Whizzer's reviews are great because (a) he loves the theater, and (b) he is more interested in correctly describing the evening than in showing us how clever he can be.
Now that I've seen a few shows in out-of-town tryouts before Whizzer has seen them in New York, I am actually more impressed with his assessments than I had been before.
It's not that I always completely agree with him, but his evaluations of shows give me a very good sense of their strengths and weaknesses. Whizzer brings a sense of history, given his near-encyclopedic knowledge of the countless shows he's seen, but also has a genuine sense of enthusiasm about seeing new plays and musicals in early previews - and he still seems to get a thrill when he's pleasantly surprised or shocked. Plus, he's never condescending or unkind.
As someone who is having a tough time trying to pick shows for an upcoming trip, I know I will scroll back to find Whizzer's reviews before I finally decide.
I have loved reading Whizzer's reviews long before I even joined the site as a user. His reviews are no only so well-written, but full of insights into every aspect of the productions.
"There’s nothing quite like the power and the passion of Broadway music. "
Whizzer.... As a career writer/editor and Broadway enthusiast, I have to add that you really should be making a living at this -- or at least turn it into a semi-professional, paying hobby.
I don’t always agree with Whizzer’s reviews (I actually loved the first preview of Kiss Me, Kate while The Ferryman didn’t quite cohesively work for me), but they are insightful. I too look forward to them.
It's not that I always completely agree with him, but his evaluations of shows give me a very good sense of their strengths and weaknesses. Whizzer brings a sense of history, given his near-encyclopedic knowledge of the countless shows he's seen, but also has a genuine sense of enthusiasm about seeing new plays and musicals in early previews - and he still seems to get a thrill when he's pleasantly surprised or shocked. Plus, he's never condescending or unkind.
Exactly. I appreciate his reviews more than the critics because he does them w a genuine love for theatre while "professional" critics have to deal w the business side- length breakdown for the placement int the paper, pull quotes, etc. Whizzer tells us what he sees and feels w/out getting tangled up in all the other BS.
Thanks- and please keep doing what you do so well.
As someone who will never get to any shows again, I eagerly scroll down to find Wizzers' post to immerse myself in his/her words. I feel as if I am sitting there beside this person for the first preview.
BroadwayWorld should be paying Whizzer for his reviews. So detailed & concise, I've always wondered what Whizzer does for a living and just assumed it involved writing.
A Chorus Line revival played its final Broadway performance on August 17, 2008. The tour played its final performance on August 21, 2011. A new non-equity tour started in October 2012 played its final performance on March 23, 2013. Another non-equity tour launched on January 20, 2018. The tour ended its US run in Kansas City and then toured throughout Japan August & September 2018.
I couldn't agree more. I get to NYC to see about 6-8 shows each year. His thoughtful reviews often help me decide between productions of interest ... or avoid a likely dud.
Adding my name to the list of those always eager to read his thoughts.
Even when my opinion differs, his writing is respectful, thoughtful and informative, which is refreshing and appreciated. And many times prompts me to consider my feeling about the show.
"Two drifters off to see the world. There's such a lot of world to see. . ."
YES! So true. And I even had the pleasure of attending a play with him once! Always insightful, genuine, and never, ever full of himself. Glad that this thread gives so many of us a chance to show our appreciation...
Add me to the list! I even get worried when he doesn’t attend a first preview. Only review that I usually care for is Whizzer even if I don’t agree. Hurray for Whizzer
Where is Whizzer? "Calling Dr. Bombay, right away."
"Noel [Coward] and I were in Paris once. Adjoining rooms, of course. One night, I felt mischievous, so I knocked on Noel's door, and he asked, 'Who is it?' I lowered my voice and said 'Hotel detective. Have you got a gentleman in your room?' He answered, 'Just a minute, I'll ask him.'" (Beatrice Lillie)
Just adding to this chorus. Whizzer is a treasure and I always look forward to their reviews.
"Oh look at the time, three more intelligent plays just closed and THE ADDAMS FAMILY made another million dollars" -Jackie Hoffman, Broadway.com Audience Awards