In The Heights

Right before Christmas, Pantages Theatre sent out an e-mail to commemorate their 80th Anniversary. At that time, they were selling eight tickets to eight shows for eight dollars. The tickets sold out within minutes, but luckily we were able to snag some! So far, I've been seven shows at Pantages this season - that's a record for me. We only have one show left in our series and I'm starting to think that I'll need to buy season tickets for the Fall, too.

Last night was the opening night for In The Heights. As usual, I researched the play a bit during the day and read the synopsis. I already knew I was going to like it because it included salsa dancing, but I wasn't sure what to expect regarding the storyline. Would there be a storyline?

We were running late for the show and got to Pantages a few minutes into the first number. Luckily, we didn't miss much. I had a tough time following the storyline in the beginning since a lot of it was being rapped or said in Spanish. For the most part, everything in Spanish was repeated in English or easily translated based on context.

I was pleasantly surprised by how great the singing was, specifically the female lead, Nina. In addition to the singing, every single person in the cast could dance. A cast of "triple-threats" - dancers, singers, actors. They did a good job establishing each character during the first act. Each personality was so unique, it was tough to choose a favorite. During the first act, we were also given a glimpse of what each character's problem or conflict is, but before intermission, we were let in on a secret which could solve everyone's problems.

Act two went by pretty quick and even though they hit us with some drama, it all ended up working out. Overall, I really enjoyed this play and would recommend seeing it. I might even buy the soundtrack.