The Play That Goes Wrong in NYC

Craving a night of side-splitting laughter in New York City? Look no further than The Play That Goes Wrong! This award-winning comedy follows a hilariously inept theater troupe as they attempt to stage a murder mystery. But forget perfectly pressed costumes and flawless sets – here, chaos reigns supreme! Here’s all you need to know before getting tickets for The Play That Goes Wrong off Broadway!

Story Overview

Act 1: Introduction to Chaos

“The Play That Goes Wrong” is a comedy that centers on the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as they attempt to stage a 1920s murder mystery, “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” From the outset, everything that could go wrong does. As the actors take their places, it’s clear that the play is doomed to fail spectacularly. Set pieces fall apart, lines are forgotten, and the cast stumbles through the script in a chaotic fashion. The first act sets the tone for the evening, filled with physical comedy, missed cues, and a seemingly endless string of mishaps. The play within the play is a disaster, and the audience is left in stitches as the actors try to keep the production afloat despite the mounting disasters.

Act 2: Escalation of Mayhem

In the second act, the chaos intensifies. Props malfunction, the set continues to collapse, and the actors struggle to stay in character as the situation spirals out of control. One particularly memorable moment is when an actor, who has been knocked unconscious, is replaced by a reluctant stagehand who ends up stealing the show. The repetition of a particular dialogue sequence due to a mistake leads to an ever-frenzied performance, showcasing the actors’ ability to maintain energy and comedic timing under increasingly absurd conditions. By the climax, nearly the entire set has fallen apart, and the cast is barely holding the play together, leading to a final scene of utter bedlam that leaves the audience roaring with laughter.

Maximizing Your Laughter Experience:

The Play That Goes Wrong isn’t just about the plot – it’s about audience participation! Here’s how to get the most out of your experience:

• Arrive Early:Grab a drink or snack at the concession stand before the show. Mingle with fellow theatergoers – the anticipation adds to the fun!
• Embrace the Chaos:This play thrives on the unexpected. Don’t be surprised by falling sets, forgotten lines, or actors breaking character. The more you surrender to the absurdity, the funnier it gets!
• Laugh Out Loud (Seriously):The Play That Goes Wrong is a laugh-a-minute rollercoaster. Don’t hold back – let loose and enjoy the contagious energy!
• Become Part of the Show:The audience’s reactions are a vital ingredient in the play’s success. Gasp at near misses, cheer for the struggling actors, and revel in the shared experience of laughter.

Cast Information

The original Broadway cast of “The Play That Goes Wrong” featured members from the Mischief Theatre Company, including Henry Shields as Chris Bean (Inspector Carter), Henry Lewis as Robert Grove (Thomas Colleymoore), and Jonathan Sayer as Dennis Tyde (Perkins). These actors brought the unique brand of physical comedy and timing that made the show a hit in London to New York City.

While the original cast has moved on, the current company continues to deliver the same high level of comedic energy and commitment to the absurd. Actors like Matt Harrington, who takes on the role of Chris Bean, and Brent Bateman as Robert Grove, carry on the tradition of physical comedy and impeccable timing.

Each cast member plays a vital role in creating the chaotic atmosphere of the play. From the leading roles to the ensemble, every actor contributes to the overall hilarity and ensures that the audience is constantly entertained. The ability to maintain a straight face while delivering absurd lines and engaging in physical comedy is a testament to the cast’s talent and dedication.

Venue Details

“The Play That Goes Wrong” is performed at New World Stages, a prominent off-Broadway venue located at 340 West 50th Street, New York, NY. New World Stages is known for hosting long-running and popular off-Broadway shows. The theater offers a cozy and intimate setting, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the onstage chaos. The venue is easily accessible by public transportation, with nearby subway stations and parking options.

Reviews and Music

“The Play That Goes Wrong” has been widely praised by critics and audiences alike. Tim Walker of The Telegraph described it as “a great-looking, brilliantly performed piece,” noting the sustained laughter it generates. Mark Shenton of London Theatre commended the cast’s energy and the play’s ability to sustain its central joke throughout the performance. The Broadway production was equally well-received, with critics appreciating the physical comedy, timing, and sheer commitment of the cast.

While “The Play That Goes Wrong” is not a musical, the show’s use of sound effects and background music adds to the comedic timing and overall atmosphere. The play’s “music” consists primarily of well-timed sound effects that enhance the humor of the unfolding disasters. The audience favorite is the moment when a repeated dialogue sequence, cued by a misplaced line, creates an escalating loop of hilarity, accompanied by frantic sound cues that heighten the comedic effect.

Awards

“The Play That Goes Wrong” has received several accolades, underscoring its success both in the UK and the US. On Broadway, the show won the 2017 Tony Award for Best Scenic Design in a Play, a testament to its innovative and collapsing set that plays a central role in the comedy. The production also received nominations from the Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding Scenic Design and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Set Design.

In the Off-Broadway scene, the show continued to garner recognition, including a nomination for the 2019 Lucille Lortel Awards for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play for Matt Walker. These awards highlight the show’s strengths in set design and the performances of its cast, both crucial elements in making the comedy work so effectively.

Run Length and Schedule

The current performance schedule typically includes evening shows on weekdays and weekends, with additional matinee performances on Saturdays and Sundays. The play itself runs for 2 hours with 1 15 minute interval in the middle. The best times to watch the show are during the weekend performances when the theater tends to be more lively, contributing to the communal laughter that makes the experience even more enjoyable.

• Tuesday – Saturday: Evening performances, usually starting around 7:30 PM.
• Saturday and Sunday: Matinee performances, typically starting around 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM.

As for the dress code, it’s recommended to dress comfortably and casually, though some theatergoers opt for smart-casual attire to align with the tradition of attending a New York theater performance.

Food and Beverage Options

New World Stages offers a variety of concessions for theatergoers to enjoy before or during the show. You can find a selection of snacks, including popcorn, candy, and beverages, available at the theater’s concession stands. Additionally, there are several dining options near the venue, offering a range of cuisines to suit different tastes and budgets.

For a pre-show meal, nearby restaurants such as Hell’s Kitchen and Barbetta offer delicious dining experiences within walking distance of the theater. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, American, or international cuisine, the area around New World Stages provides plenty of options for a memorable meal before or after the show.