American Utopia - Children

[PassingThrough2]

Posted: 11/27/19 at 12:29pm

I am going to NYC in January with my mother and my seven year old daughter. She is very well behaved for her age. Last year I took her to Kinky Boots on Broadway with no issues and she enjoyed it.

My mother and I are interested in American Utopia based on reviews and that it's something we can't see locally. The website says it's for all ages. Can anyone confirm? I don't mind swearing or mild sexuality, but would like to avoid violence or anything really boring.

Updated On: 11/27/19 at 12:29 PM

[haterobics]

Posted: 11/27/19 at 12:56pm

It's essentially a David Byrne performance art/concert hybrid, not a show with any narrative or anything. So should be fine. Not sure she'll get much out of it, but it does feature a lot of drums and synchronized movements, etc.

[theaterdarling]

Posted: 11/29/19 at 4:13pm

I agree with haterobics that she'll not get much of it, but I reach the opposite conclusion in that I  honestly don't think it is for a seven year old. It is an hour and 40 minutes long without intermission and I don't think the "marching band" aspect will wear well for that period of time for a child that age. At least "Kinky Boots" had an accessible narrative and some simplistic music she could latch onto to engage her.  "American Utopia" has a more esoteric narrative, its non-musical opening, though short, will definitely go over her head and not be a great entry point for her. And while even an adult does not have to follow Byrne's narrative theme too closely to love the show, I think a seven year old would be quite bored. Unless, of course, she is familiar with and a fan of most of  Byrne's music.  Also, as well behaved as she is, if she gets bored, does that impact your enjoyment and those of others around her?  

Every child is different, of course, and hate for you and your mother to miss it (it's fantastic) but I just don't see a small child going and enjoying it. And, it is loud--don't know what her tolerance is for that.  Hope this provides a constructive alternative perspective to help you with your decision making.

[theatregoer3]

Posted: 11/29/19 at 5:04pm

The night I went someone brought a three year-old and an infant. It was weird, but both were well-behaved and having fun.