Spring 2022 arts roundup: Part 1

The past few months felt a little more like pre-pandemic in terms of the number of concerts and theater I was able to enjoy. Here are the highlights and info on shows and tours that you can still see.

John Williams at the New York Philharmonic: John Williams is one of the most prolific film composers. The only thing more thrilling than listening to his scores is listening to them live with him conducting the New York Philharmonic. The program included themes from Star Wars, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and E.T. If you missed this performance he is returning next April.

The Philharmonic warming up at Carnegie Hall.

Cyrano: A West End update of Cyrano de Bergerac made its way to the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) this spring. There was no false nose and the classic text felt relevant in today’s world. The show’s limited run ended in April but check out BAM’s fall theater schedule.

The Music Man: Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster are delightful in this revival. The choreography was spectacular. You’ll dance all the way home. You can get tickets here.

Mr. Saturday Night: Billy Crystal adapted his 1992 film into a Broadway musical. He and David Paymer reprise their roles from the film. It was so enjoyable and Billy Crystal spent a few minutes after the performance answering questions from the audience. You can get tickets for upcoming performances here.

This is one Playbill I’ll always treasure.

The Who at Madison Square Garden: The Who Hit’s Back Tour is what you hope a classic rock set will be. It was the perfect mix of arena rock backed by a full orchestra and a more intimate jam session with just the band. The spring leg of the tour has wrapped but the Who will be back in North America this fall.