2023 was a relatively meager year for theater, and the first year in memory that I had to stretch to come up with 10 worthy productions that can accuartely be called "the best." While I have serious concerns about the future of off-Broadway, regional non-profits and works of serious drama, I am somewhat heartened to find 4 new plays and revivals of 3 serious dramas on my list. Plus, a year that brings a stellar new work plus a solid revival from Stephen Sondheim is noteworthy.
In order of preference my 10 best shows of 2023 were:
1. STEREOPHONIC [Playwright's Horizons]- surprisingly universal & sublime
2. HERE WE ARE [The Shed]- Sondheim's last great gift to the world
3. A DOLL'S HOUSE [Broadway]- Jessica Chastain's image & performance are imprinted in me
4. MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG [Broadway]- supporting cast is hugely improved from off-Broadway
5. PRIMARY TRUST [Roundabout]- beautifully written and emotionally astute
6. APPROPRIATE [Broadway/Second Stage]- Branden Jacobs Jenkins' best where it belongs
7. THE DOCTOR [Park Ave Armory]- Juilet Stevenson was mesmerizing in this thoughtful adaptation
8. THE COMEUPPANCE [Signature Theatre]- Branden Jacobs Jenkins again at the top of his game
9. BRIGHT NEW BOISE [Signature Theatre]- breathed new life into this Samuel Hunter play
10. BEYONCE'S RENAISSANCE CONCERT*- it broke my soul, in a good way
Honorable Mentions: SHUCKED [Broadway]; ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW [Dallas Theater Center]
*Yes, a concert is not technically "theater"; but this was no ordinary concert and it was enormously theatrical in scope and execution, so it justifies its placement on this list.
