While I’m in recovery from surgery, I’m constantly looking for fun things to watch and take my mind off how I’m feeling.
Fortunately, if you have a Netflix or Amazon Prime subscription, you can still enjoy the magic of live theater without leaving your bed! Here are some of the wonderful things to choose from for your viewing pleasure:
photo: Alasatir Muir/Getty Images & NBC/Universal
The Phantom of The Opera at the Royal Albert Hall (2011, Netflix) – starring the Love Never Dies dream team Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess along with West End crooner Hadley Fraser, this production celebrated the Phantom’s 25th anniversary in London. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s timeless classic has never been experienced like this, and as a frequent viewer, I highly encourage it.
Shrek the Musical (2013, Netflix) – Dreamworks’ best fairy tale comes to life in this taped version of the Broadway production featuring Brian D’Arcy James as Shrek and the stunning Sutton Foster as Princess Fiona. The story is just as magical as the film and is definitely a heartwarming way to spend the afternoon.
Into the Woods (1990, Netflix) – Stephen Sondheim’s take on a mashup of fairy tales makes for one hell of a show. The Tony-winning original Broadway cast, starring Bernadette Peters along with Chip Zien, Joanna Gleason and Kim Crosby, offers a new perspective on the ideas of “happily ever after.”
Photo: Paul Kolnik
Company (2007, Netflix) – Four-time Tony nominee Raúl Esparza stars in this revival of Sondheim’s musical about a bachelor pondering his views on committed relationships on his 35th birthday. Esparza is at his prime in this role, giving an enchanting and heartbreaking performance.
The Pirates of Penzance (1983, Netflix) – this production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s celebrated operetta was taped in Central Park starring Kevin Kline. It remains a rousing production, enjoyable for all.
Company (2012, Amazon Prime) – the New York Philharmonic production of Sondheim’s musical, featuring Neil Patrick Harris as Robert, lends more to the original staging and style of the show. While still heartwarming, Patrick Harris portrays a slightly more comical Robert than Esparza and interacts with countless recognizable stage and screen costars.
While I’m currently enjoying Phantom, I hope this list helps brings Broadway home for anyone looking for a theatrical experience to enjoy in t.
