OK, my take on American Idiot.
I went into the show thinking I was going to hate it and that it is totally going to suck. That is because about 6 or so people told me it was terrible. I wanted to see for myself. I just couldn’t believe a band such as Green Day would let their master piece songs be represented poorly.
I wanted to have a good dinner and desert just in case the show sucks, I wouldn’t feel so bad since I ate great – and I am not talking about grabbing a slice of pizza or running into McDonalds (ewww). We started the night off at an awesome burger place called Heartland Brewery Burger and then finished off with dessert at Juniors Cheesecake. I felt like a tourist in my own city.
On to the show….
It started off with the huge hit AMERCIAN IDIOT…of course. Great performance. The show then just follows the American Idiot CD from start to finish in order. They do throw in a couple of songs from Green Days latest (and I think greatest) album 21st Century Breakdown.
There are barely any “spoken words” in the show. The songs tell the story. That was some people’s problem with it. Another BIG problem is that the dancing totally sucked. I would have rather watched Elaine from Seinfeld dance than watch these guys.
Dancing is a big must have for Broadway musicals. No doubt about that. Another must have is a good stage setup, which American Idiot did have.
So with the greatness of the music and set subtract the lack of dancing and more story telling….I would give American Idiot a 5 out of 10 stars.
I don’t think I will spend time go to see this show again. However, I would love to get the soundtrack and hear the songs again. That would keep me entertained without hurting my eyes.
To say this show totally sucked is pushing it a little.