Broadway with Me

Page 1 is spoiler-free

When I first read Darren Criss’ Playbill Interview where he called this show a “Phantom-Level Spectacle,” my eyebrows shot up. I’ve been to Phantom, I’ve seen the spectacle. Now that I have finally seen Maybe Happy Ending, I can confidently say Darren was right.

Set in 2060, two helperbots embark on an incredible journey. These helperbots are Darren Criss and Helen J. Shen, two powerhouses. Their story is touching, leaving you with a bittersweet smile by the end. Darren’s return to Broadway has him finally originating a role, and he really does a fantastic job with Oliver. The chemistry between Darren and Helen is strong; Helen, in particular, has a brilliant comedic timing that keeps both characters on their toes. It’s a fantastic Broadway debut. Marcus Choi embodies each of his characters so wholly, you’d think it was actually many Marcus clones playing the different roles.

One of my favorite aspects of this show is the set and lighting designs. Spectacle indeed. The seamless blend of traditional and futuristic techniques took me to a place no Broadway show has before. Yes, Sunset Blvd uses screens and has amazing tech, but it’s nothing like this. Maybe Happy Ending‘s use of projections for flashbacks is wonderful, and they’ve mastered having our characters live in these flashbacks. They’re taking theater to the farthest stretches of the (or at least my) imagination. Even something as simple as the colored LED strips feel so important in this show. Top that with constantly moving set pieces that make you feel like you’re opening different windows on a browser, and you’ve got a hell of a spectacle.

Sound design goes a long way in this show too. Every time we hear Dez Duron’s smooth as butter voice, it’s always sounds just out of reach. Like it really is coming out of the little record player in the corner, instead of the modern speakers throughout the theater. And let’s not forget the amazing make up, who effectively turn Darren Criss from human to plastic 8x a week. My favorite make up choice is how much more human-like Helen J. Shen looks compared to Darren. But of course, she’s a 5 and he’s only a 3.

Below is the rest of my review focusing more on the story and plot. I’ve separated it onto page 2 for those who don’t want spoilers.

Overall this show is fantastic, from plot to actors to stagecraft. The songs are catchy and poignant, none of them are there just for the sake of singing. It’s a show that everyone should see. It’s had a long road on it’s way to Broadway, but I’m so glad it’s finally here.

My Stage Door Experience

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