Passing Strange WAS different from anything else on the stage.
If you, sir, knew anything about the history of Broadway musicals, you’d know that while perhaps not every show has shiny buttons/an uplifting first act closer/a happy ending, the concept of the “Broadway musical” is in nearly every show – there must be some variation on a theme of X/Y/Z. Perhaps that means jazz hands, perhaps that means a second act “showstopper” dance number. Even “Spring Awakening” – the only other new show to buck trends of musical convention – suffered from some of those themes. Stew and Heidi, by virtue of being theatrical “outsiders” to some extent, were able to create a show in their own image.
Shit, man – if you saw the show, you’d know exactly how they made fun of musicals within the show. This show was one of a kind – don’t mistake yourself by thinking it wasn’t.

Love and much respect
Lisa

I’ve been bouncing around a letter for the last week, trying to figure out how to put into words the emotions your show made me feel. It’s unlikely you’ll remember me – I was one of the crazy kids in the front at last Saturday’s (7/12) matinee. It looks as though my letter won’t get out in time to reach you at the Belasco, so I’ll just ruminate here.

Thank you. Thank you for the most incredible production I’ve ever seen. I’m a theater guy, having done it since I was in 3rd grade (12 years or so), and I’ve seen many productions. I saw “Spring Awakening” last summer and thought “hey – something moderately original and rock-based on Broadway… maybe this’ll mean something.”

Then I saw your show. I was blown away by the energy, by the originality, by the feeling that came off of that stage. I left the theater not only feeling good about life in general, but feeling good about the future of Broadway. This show is the game-changer – nothing will be measured the same way now.

Its rare that a show will truly stay with you and seem as phenomenal in memory over a week after you’ve seen it. In fact, your show could be the first that I can say has not dulled as time has passed. I can’t look back and say “you know, it was great but…” Instead, I can only look back and say “you know, it was great. amazing. outstanding.”

I also wanted to thank you, Stew (and the cast) for being so kind to us. My friends and I are all actors and so we know what its like to have that give-and-take with the audience. We were right there in it with you guys and it meant so much to us when you’d shoot a smile in our direction or when Daniel said during bows “you guys rock!”

I hope that you’ll return to Broadway someday. I look forward to the next TNP album for sure, but deep down inside, I’d love to see you bring this energy, passion, and excitement to the stage again. Hell, I’ll be first in line for auditions and/or buying tickets.

I’ll cut this off, otherwise it threatens to just keep on rambling on. So thank you, Stew. Please pass my thanks and deep admiration onto the cast, crew, and band. Your show is THE best thing I’ve ever seen. I’ll never forget it. We’ll see you again.

Well, what an experience! I went to see Passing on the first night I was there, and I was absolutely blown away. What an unexpected discovery, the most memorable of this mini-trip. I came home raving to my friends about “Passing Strange”, one said “but Sue, I thought you didn’t like musicals” and my only thought was of wanting to go back, hoping for a chance again in November, so you can imagine my disappointment when I heard about the closing. What to do? Simple, just go!

So, as of yesterday, I’ve ordered my ticket for the 20th, thrilled no doubt. Dad is giving me his airmiles as a birthday present to fly in and back from Montreal for Sunday’s show. I long to hear the music live again, the band play, and dance in the aisle to “yeah, it’s alright” (hope I don’t get thrown out) and have the music in my head for the flight home.

Next challenge for Stew and company – I suggest “Passing Strange” come to Montreal, an opportuninity for a vibrant and unique audience to embrace you and rock with you!
Merci Stew, merci Heidi, et merci à tous.