With the many entertainment choices New York City has to offer, it can be difficult to make a choice. Look no further. “On Stage” host Frank DiLella has curated a list of “must-see” shows this week, directing you to the best of Broadway, off-Broadway and beyond.
“Prayer for the French Republic”
Catch it before it closes up shop on March 3. The 2022 Drama Desk Award-winning play “Prayer for the French Republic” is in its last weeks at The Friedman Theatre. Written by Joshua Harmon and directed by Tony winner David Cromer, “Prayer for the French Republic” spans decades and follows a family grappling with antisemitism. For tickets, go to manhattantheatreclub.com.
“Jelly’s Last Jam”
Moving to City Center, the Encores series continues with a presentation of the 1992 Broadway musical “Jelly’s Last Jam.” The show tells the story about jazz legend, Jelly Roll Morton. “Jelly’s Last Jam” will feature Nicholas Christopher as the title character alongside Tony winners Billy Porter, Leslie Uggams and Joaquina Kalukango. “Jelly’s Last Jam” is playing in City Center Feb. 21 to March 3. For tickets, go to nycitycenter.org.
“The Life and Slimes of Mark Summers”
On the off-Broadway front, don’t miss the new theatrical adventure “The Life and Slimes of Mark Summers.” Written by Broadway funny man Alex Brightman, this game show meets memoir shines a spotlight and stars Nickelodeon legend, Mark Summers. “Life and Slimes” is playing at New World Stages. For tickets, head to lifeandslimes.com.
“Children of Eden”
On Sunday night, the Stephen Schwartz musical “Children of Eden” will be performed at David Geffen Hall, courtesy of Manhattan Concert Productions. The musical, inspired by the Book of Genesis, will feature Broadway’s best, including Norm Lewis and Nikki Renee Daniels. Tony Award-nominee, Tony Yazbeck, serves as the director. For tickets, head to mcp.us.
At the cabaret
And finally, don’t miss original Dreamgirl, Jennifer Holliday, who is back on stage at The Café Carlyle Feb. 20 to March 2. In her latest act titled “Sentimental Lady: Soulfully and Swingin’ Softly,” the Tony Award-winner promises to sing tunes from The Great American Songbook with passion and flair. For tickets, check out exploretock.com/cafecarlyle.