The Fantasticks

Great experience for my daughter and me, we enjoyed so much. Very well done, fun for all ages.

I admit to enormous bias. You see, I was 20 in 1964, when I, a trusted junior, came to New York along with four seniors from Amherst's dramatic arts program to stage "Waiting for Godot"at a rented theater in the East Village. I was their stage manager. During the week of spring break, we delivered 8 performances, and more than broke even. Each cast member earned $51. I got a 1/3 share: $17. I have spent the ensuing 49 years as a father, as a businessman, and as a teacher. But always I remembered the music of "The Fantasticks" (from the early Sixties when I was in the late March of my life). I've attended a few great musicals, Camelot, "A Funny Thing...," "The Man of La Mancha," etc. But always I have regretted not going to The Fantasticks as a lad. So, about to turn 70, I bought four tickets, invited three young friends from Romania to join me. We attended the performance of 21 August, 2013. When I saw the Godot-like Spartan set of The Fantasticks at the Jerry Orbach Theatre, memories flooded home to me. At the first note of "Try to Remember," sung manfully and precisely by George Dvorsky as El Gallo, tears filled my eyes. Sobs followed periodically, as a wonderful cast delivered a sterling revival of a world class play. (They were very happy sobs and tears.) I recommend this show to families, to children from 10 on up, and to all adults. Its charm is profound. Now, as I enter December, it's nice to remember.

An amazing experience, very small scale and simple but imaginative and charming, I had known a lot about it before seeing it but it exceeded my expectations... I absolutely loved it!

The cast seemed to enjoy the performance and it is a fun performance. I think it was well cast, and most of the characters are endearing. Some were better singers than others but overall this is a classic musical and it is great that it is still on broadway.

We saw the Fantasticks last Saturday night with friends. While I had heard of the show for years, I was only dimly aware of the music and book. I was totally blown away by the music, story and acting. It's no wonder that the Fantasticks has been so durable. I recommend this show to anyone who loves the musical theatre.

If you are looking for a quaint, pretty, and intimate performance then this is for you. I really enjoyed the simplicity of this production, it was personal and real. I felt as if the actors were speaking to me and only me. The cast was wonderful, I enjoyed watching their relationships unravel before my eyes. The blocking was simple and poetic. I would recommend this show for a romantic date on a the town. And if you are single, El Gallo is a very seductive character who will woo you with his humor and charm. He is also not bad on the eyes :)

Up close and personal. Fantasticks was definitely fantastic.

Awesome energy, such a wonderful show and cast! Keep the tradition alive.

I took my 15 yr old daughter to see the show on New Years Eve 2011! It was FANTASTIC! The cast was superb! We will remember it for a lifetime!

The small theater and cast make you feel like you are part of the show. From the talent to the ticket booth, this show was unforgettable. I'll probably go back...again.

Fantastic! Very entertaining. Humorous and talented crew.

We were pleasantly surprised with this play. Some very funny moments that had us in stitches...especially Henry and Mortimer. Too funny! A sit back, feel good play!

Strong vocals and touching story line - more people need to see this classic !!!!!

I brought my grandchildren to see this show and we were all delighted with it. Wonderful performances; sweet story; hummable tunes. We all left smiling.

This is not my first time seeing the Fantasticks. I have seen it more than once at the original venue in Greenwich Village. I was glad to see the show was not "modernized". If I want 3d laser light shows, pyrotechnics, or to see Spiderman climbing on walls I'll go to Universal Studios.

Great entertainment. This show is so good. Music, comedy and love.

Every actor was was excellent. The young men were easy on the eyes and the older men were easy on the laughter joints. The girl was endearing. A very entertaining show!!!!

Did not expect much, but was surprised. Snapple Theater was small and intimate-about 100 seats, the stage was small and the set simple, actors and 1 actress unknowns, but we had a great time and would certainly recommend The Fantasticks to anyone look for a light hearted comedy musical.

My wife and I have been attending Broadway shows for many years, but " The Fantasticks" was a very special exxperience for us. . The intimate setting of the theater allowed us to participate in the action of the show on a wonderfully personal level. It was like we had known these people forever, and they were performing just for us. The cast was a balanced mixture of up-and -coming young performers working with seasoned veterans.

An age old story presented with a different slant. Very creatively done in an intimate setting.

A classic in every sense. Stands the test of time. Perfect for all ages.

I was amazed at how well the characters were cast they were all perfect for their parts. I was thoroughly entertained from beginning to end.

The play was timeless, funny and touching. We all remember our first loves, the trials and tribulations and the loss of innocence when we face reality vs our dream. The cast was excellent, especially the Wall! Despite the minimal staging, the cast captured our imaginations and made us see all the action , scenery and locations. Every member of the cast was very talented. I especially enjoyed the playfulness of the cast and the lovely voices of El Gallo and Louisa.

I love seeing "Off Broadway" shows because of the intimacy of the theatre.This one has won me over. I've never seen the Fantasticks before, but the actors were absolutely perfect in their roles and I couldn't imagine anyone else doing them. , The energy incredible, even with the small house attendance on an off day. I loved that my 9 year old who snubbed her nose at the idea of a small venue can't stop talking about the production and has developed a new passion for "Off Broadway". Although there are soooo many I need to see, I will be back to see it again and bring friends!!!!

A cute story with lots of laughs and good music. How could you forget, "Try to Remember"?

We took my mother for her 80th Birthday. Three generations attended -- including my 5-year-old son, and EVERYONE enjoyed the show. It's funny, has great music -- and a great message. THE PERFECT SHOW!

It's a very low key and small play. But that's what I liked about it. Your so close to the actors anywhere you sit that you can see the sweat on their face. They also engage in the audience. It has an interesting story line, but some people act kind of silly. The best part though is getting to meet Aaron Carter after the show. He always comes out afterward to take pictures and sign autographs. It's a girl's dream come true to meet her childhood heart throb in such an intimate setting and have the time to talk to him. If Aaron Carter wasn't the star of the play, I would have no desire to go. But since he was, that was the best part to watch.

OMG The show was fantastick no pun intended lol. We had the best seats in the house I think and our side of the theater there was no one seated so we got lots of attention and lots of interractions from all the cast and Aaron almost fell on my mom it was great! I would recomend it to anyone who loves shows its for all ages. Then after the show Aaron and some of the cast came out and met with everyone for autographs and photos I love my Aaron picture I will never forget that moment for as long as I live!

Saw the show in the early 60's and loved it. This bare bones production was also wond8

It was a very enjoyable show. Songs great -actors wonderful. Sorry that it is closing. I am sorry that I did not see it sooner.

What an excllent show done by an amazing cast!! Too bad youre closing down in two weeks. This show should live on in NYC for another two decades!

This show is a gem after all these years - 47! I fell madly in love with El Gallo. If you get a chance, see it before it closes on June 2, 2017. Only complaint is the worn out seats which I hope they replace after the show closes.

This show is put on in a small space in a small theater and it is perfect. The voices were wonderful, the performers totally engaged with each other and with the audience. Everything as it should be---the humor hilarious, the sweetness touching, the goofiness made natural. We were swept into their world.

Keep it going for another 50 years! Timeless story

This is my second time to attend a Broadway show..well, more like my first-time ever to attend a Off-Broadway show. Before coming to see the show, I was in doubt that it might not be good because of all the bad reviews here. After seeing this, I completely changed my mind and I loved it. The actors were hilarious! The actors who played Luisa and Matt were great, both are young and good looking actors with a beautiful, powerful voice. Would recommend! Especially when there's a deal to buy 2 tickets for a price of one!

Well enjoyed by my 9 and 14 year old as well as myself. Lovely small intimate theatre was a nice change if you've seen a few large Broadway productions. I would go see again, well worth it!

This show is theatre at its best. Pure magic without the benefit of sets, projections, orchestra, and amplification. Pure singing and voices without microphones are such a rare treat.

We really enjoyed the Fantasticks - the cast, consisting of new and seasoned actors, was fantastic (literally) - great singers and actors. The intimate theater provided a great setting for this story. The only drawback we noted was that the theater is rather run down - seats torn and taped, etc. However, you forget that quickly when the show begins.

I'm sorry to hear that this show will close after 57 years. I've seen it over the years time & again. I think the current cast members are an absolute delight. Try to catch it if you can! You'll leave with a smile on your face!

The longest running musical of all time lives on! It is a must see in NYC at the Jerry Orbach theater!!! Do not miss it!!!

I was in this play 47 years ago, during a very special summer made even more special by this wonderful work of art.. I loved seeing it again, I cried tears of joy until the tears ran down my cheeks and I could taste them ! I am serious. A great show, a family show.

I love this show. I was the harpist in this show in the mid-80s as an understudy and substitute. It was an experience I will never forget. I. performed it many times all with Lore Noto. Margery Fitts, The current harpist in the show, is a long time and dear friend. The performers were exactly what is required by Tom and Harvey

Three in out group and three different reviews of this play\u2026 My older son who is 22 absolutely enjoyed it he is a theater major he love the singing he love the acting he love the directing he love the show all together\u2026 My 15-year-old the first act kept him in thralled the second act board him to death\u2026 It didn't help that the man next to him fell asleep on him\u2026 As for me the acting was really good there were some comical act in it that I enjoyed the singing was phenomenal especially of the leads\u2026 The theater is quaint but not too small way you could stretch your legs\u2026 We did this on a whim and got tickets half-price\u2026 Something to do when we went to the city\u2026 When I go see it again no\u2026 But I recommended decent afternoon\u2026 Maybe I would see something a little different

I first saw this play when I was 18 years old. I guess I was on the September end of the story. Now in my early 70s it only helps me remember my youth - even though I'm now on the December end. The cast is amazing; the songs are timeless; and the little theater is the perfect setting for this style of a play. Luisa in particular was a joy to behold - young, innocent, yet with a voice of an opera star.

Unique experience to see play in small theater. I think actor spit in my eye

The show was perfect. Mixed with humor and romance it makes a great first experience for anyone who has never been to an off broadway performance.keep in mind the auditorium is very small so no matter where you sit you will have a great view.

The show was amazing and the cast members were incredibly talented! They made me laugh and cry, it was everything I could have hoped for and more! The theater is small and there's not a bad seat in the house. I would definitely recommend seeing this show to anyone who wants an intimate and memorable performance for a reasonable price in New York City.

It is a great family show. Every character was distinctive and further the story line.

What a nice experience. My friend and I took our combined three teenagers. The intimacy of the theatre was great, very comfortable and welcoming. The performances were good - cast quite talented. Go see it!

The play is a classic, and was a great thrill to have Lorenzo Lamas appear in this production. I could have purposely bumped into him but didn't.

Loved it! Lorenzo Lamas was great. as was the entire cast!

Finding Lorenzo Lamas staring in the play was the best surprise. The play itself is fun and entertaining in a very intimate setting, having him star was truly the best surprise of all....

This is a cozy little theatre with a bare stage- none of the flashy glamour you'll see at a big splashy Broadway production. I caught the show while Lorenzo Lamas was playing El Gallo, and he was delightful. Who knew he had such a gorgeous singing voice? I genuinely loved the entire cast, each of whom brought warmth, charm & joy to the stage. There are mentions of rape and a stereotypical Indian characterization that might make you cringe. Also, there are moments when the show is maudlin and sappy, but I really enjoyed its sentimentality. I thought the show was terrifically fun, and I recommend it.

The four of us, one of us who saw five other productions, couldn't wait until it was over. Two of us fell asleep. After the show was over, we all had the same opinion: The show was at best on a high school level. Save your hard earned dollars on this one. There are too many wonderful shows out there to see.

My husband and I really enjoyed the play. When I first saw the stage with the curtain, I said to myself this is not going to be good. Well, I was so pleasantly surprised ... no need to have all the bells and whistles and a huge orchestra. The actors were wonderful, especially Ms. Parks. You get so caught up in the story. Highly recommend this, would love to have all the sisters and sister in laws all go one day.

The show starring Peter Reckell was very enjoyable. It was nice to see him act in person -- great performance!

I hadn't seen this play in 25 years and was really excited about seeing it again. My girlfriend had her own motivation for going, to see Peter from the T.V. show she'd been watching as a kid. We were both initially disappointed by the theater, very small stage and very low ceilings. However, the actors went on to doing a good job utilizing the space they had. The seating was also kind of tight, old, and a little uncomfortable. The acting was excellent, the singing and music was a little less than spectacular. I recalled being really moved 25 years ago by the performances, and kind of just entertained this time around, not really moved. The two guys who did the "comic relief" were not funny to most people in the audience. The two young lovers were excellent, both were fantastic, the two fathers were great too. Peter who played the narrator, was much better at acting than singing. Overall, mixed feeling.

Funny, cute storyline enjoyed it with my daughter who also loved it

The Fantastics was a great play. The cast was so talented. They had you from the beginning to end. It had you laughing which is something that you need to do in this world. I would recommend this play to everybody. Loved Peter Reckell.

I went because my favorite actor(Peter Reckell) was in the play but it was a really cute and meaningful play. Many cute moments but also very insightful look at life and its challenges. Its in a very small theater so the actors are right up in your face! I was not ready for that but it really helped to appreciate the actors and the play.

I went to see The Fantasticks and was so surprised when I heard Peter Reckell belt out a tune! He sounded great and was thoroughly charming in the role of El Gallo! I'm so happy that I was able to see him in this role! He was a great addition to the cast!

The Fantasticks has a long and fabled history in New York. It ran for 42 years at its original home in Greenwich Village, and after a four year hiatus, returned in its new setting in 2006. It's a show I literally grew up with, having seen it performed every few years throughout its original run. The new production brings back everything there was to love in the original: a universal story of how life's bruises often help us to grow. It's a story of parents and children, the beautiful foolishness of youth, and the inevitable growing pains that propel us forward. It's staging is simple--a raised platform with a painted curtain, minimal props used in an innovative manner, a lovely score performed on piano and harp. If you have never seen this show in its long quarters...PLEASE GO NOW! This show is a New York institution that should run as long as there is theatre in the city.

I was very disappointed in Fantastics. I go to the theater a couple of times a month. This production was so weak, I left at the intermission.

It's been around since 1960 but I just never saw it until now. It was a thoroughly enjoyable trip in a wonderfully cute story. The cast was enthusiastic and seemed to enjoy the performance as well. I recommend it.

Great show, phenomenal cast! The only negative was that there was not a larger audience-these folks were performing to too many empty seats-go see this show!

There is a reason this is the longest running play! Great story, funny, adorable characters! A must see for all ages!

Story,acting, production value was super. Loved it all. The intimacy of the theater added to the experience.

Only 8 people played on a small stage, really small. only five rows of seats from the stage. Some people left after the 1st session. Though they tried very hard, overall story was boring, old-fashioned. 1950~1970th style jokes were not fun.

I saw this show today with no idea of what to expect. Let me say, it was entertaining from start to finish. The actors' voices are amazing. The theatrical quality is phenomenal. Because it is a small theater, it is easy to feel like part of the show. There was no character who was the "best," ----they were all brilliant. I definitely recommend the Fantasticks for people of all ages.

This was good old-fashioned entertainment. The singers were very good. The minimalist staging was clever. The small theater was intimate and you feel very close to the action.

I am so glad that I went to see this classic production in its revival in New York. The whole cast was excellent. I have seen the play in regional theaters before, but was so impressed by this production. It was beautifully done with perfect comic timing, excellent voices and thought-provoking interpretation of the songs.

This play still has themes and messages for today - as I was told by my young daughter who saw it with me. Very nicely done!

I last saw this play over 30 years ago at The Sullivan Street Theater It brought back wonderful memories! At intermission I turned to my husband and said that when we last saw it we were the boy and girl and now we were the fathers! It is such a simple story of growing up in the world and such a true one. It will appeal to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The theater is small and the cast is small which makes for a very intimate experience. Not a big Broadway production but very enjoyable. Story and songs remain timeless and this play could run another 50 years and still appeal to audiences. Take a loved one or a close friend and enjoy this show!

Intimate and well played, enjoyed every minute from the entirely odd but lovable usher to the production itself. Very nice to see homage maintained to Jerry Orbach in the eponymous theater. Would highly recommend to anyone, including those with kids about 8 or older.

The Fantasticks never disappoints!! The theater is exactly as the original Sullivan Street Playhouse had been, and the production is true to the original. Always a wonderful night out!!

We got tickets 2-3 days before for my husband, 2 sons (1 teen, 1 tween) and myself and we loved it! The show is very funny, the music/singing amazing, and it's warm and romantic. Who can beat that? The theater is small/cozy and the cast makes the best of this by connecting with the audience in a way not possible in larger productions. Only slight negative is the theater can use a little updating for comfort, but not an issue, did not take away from enjoyment. It's a real treat, highly recommend!

Harpist Maria was superb! The actors were full of life, with lovely voices! Pianist Robert was precisely on, blending perfectly with the harp, and kept the momentum of the show moving forward. Everyone should see this show at the intimate Jerry Orbach Theatre as it's the perfect size for the Fantasticks: you are seated up close and personal to the story, as if in your own backyard looking over the wall.

The actors and actresses were wonderful, as well as the musicians! Just think the story line was blah.

Wonderful talent. Sweet ambiance. Whimsical and powerful- side by side. A lovely afternoon. Creative use of props. In a small space, magic can happen!

My wife and I saw this play about 30 years ago when it was downtown. We loved it then and we loved it now. The message is timeless. These actors were terrific with great voices, memorable songs and enough laughs from the four 'old guys' to make the day. I especially thought the lead's voice was incredible. I'd give it 5 stars

A wonderful, magical show. A small show in a small theater, it's the perfect counterpoint to the blockbuster musicals that surround it. Take a vacation from broadway and allow the charming and talented cast of The Fantasticks to share with you a timeless tale that is the longest running show in New York. Once you've seen it you'll understand why.

Omg so great!! Loved the small theater it gave me a feeling like I was involved in the show!!

Wonderful show; performances were outstanding. Cast, staging, musicians are top notch

This was my third time seeing The Fantasticks, and the cast did not disappoint. The director chose to play the comedy a bit broadly, sometimes to the sacrifice of sweeter emotional moments. But this is a musical, and it's mostly sung, so the the whole show rests on the voices of the cast. And all of them could sing. Not only that, because The Fantasticks is done black box theater style, the actors were not mic'ed. It's a pleasure to hear a human voice unadulterated.

My girlfriend and I both loved it There's a reason this show lasted 55 years. Within minutes of starting, the show puts a smile on your face that will last the whole time. An very unique and heartwarming theatrical experience. The sets & costumes are minimal, and the orchestra consists of a piano and harp. But don't be put off by that, because it all works beautifully. Also theater is small and cozy, and doesn't need a sound system. This allows the great cast to really connected with the audience. After the show they mingled, telling stories and signing autographs with us in the lobby. I will definitely be seeing this show again, "Deep in December our hearts should remember And follow..."

This is apparently the longest-running musical in New York. It seems like it is time for this one to close.

I saw this play as a teenager and loved it. Seeing it now brought back many memories. I had forgotten so much of it and the music. The actors were great and the small theater made an intimate setting. We felt as if we were part of the event. The "old actors" from the trunk were the highlight. I'd see it again and again if I could.

We simply loved it. Best play you are going to see for the money. It was entertaining, and good story, good actors, excellent vocals and music. Was 4 starts plus.

This was a great show!! Funny, poignant, reflective. The actors were wonderful!! (Especially Kevin R Free!!!

omg, I was thrilled - definitely would recommend for teens & elderly to watch, this was my Christmas gift for my Pop's 80s BD. He loved it too, what I great memory I will have of my whole experience.

So much more than I expected. The Snapple Theater is the smallest theater I have ever been to. The stage was the floor and we were front row on the action. The cast is small, 8 players in total, and they were amazing. Each Character was perfectly played by the cast member. The acting was great, the music and singing was beautiful and the entire experience left me wanting for more. A tremendous musical treat tucked into a tiny little theater. A diamond in the rough, and I'm so glad we went to see it.

The singing dancing and intimate stage was really entertaining. Great story line, I think it was worth the money

If you like total 1950s cornball then this is for you! This play was an utter bore! Set your alarm clock To wake youif you go! Not worth the even discounted price!

This play was wonderful. They got every nuance right and had us doubled over with laughter. It may very well be the best show I've ever seen. Everything gelled perfectly in this little gem of a play. Thanks to every member of the cast and crew for a memorable experience I will never forget.

We loved this show. Intimate stage, colorful characters, great for kids. You can't go wrong!

We thoroughly enjoyed the performance. The set was very simple and had no distractions.The enthusiasm of performers was evident by their attention to detail in their performances. Would highly recommend to families.

The cast of Fantasticks on Saturday 6 December for the matinee performance was phenomenal! I would see this show over and over if I could! Don't miss it! Bravo!

I have seen this play several times. I am never disappointed. Great music, humor, drama, it's all there.

This was my first off-Broadway performance, and probably my last. I didn't care for the bare bones set and lack of orchestra. I was ready to go home before the intermission, but because the theatre was so small, there was really no way to slip out. The actors did a fine job and the singing was adequate but I wish I had not spent $150 for 2 tickets!

Very mediocre, we left at intermission.............................tired theater, only fair cast, onkly female was notable.