Forbidden Broadway has long stood as one of the most beloved theatrical spoofs in New York, poking fun at the legends, tropes, and clichés of Broadway’s biggest shows and stars. With its clever lyrics, biting satire, and surprising vocal impersonations, it has earned a cult following. However, with the 20222023 edition titledForbidden Broadway: The Next Generationand its updated version often described as Somewhat Overindulgent, reactions have been mixed. While fans still find laughs in the familiar jabs and showbiz references, some critics and audiences feel that this particular outing may have gone a bit too far in its self-celebration and comedic pacing.
The Concept Behind Forbidden Broadway
Created by Gerard Alessandrini in 1982,Forbidden Broadwayis a long-running revue show that parodies the most successful and iconic Broadway productions and performers. It mixes musical medleys, impersonations, and rewritten lyrics of well-known songs to satirize everything from diva behavior to creative missteps in musicals.
The show continuously reinvents itself, with new versions released as Broadway evolves. It parodies classics likeLes Misérables,Phantom of the Opera, andWicked, as well as more modern titles likeHamilton,Dear Evan Hansen, andSIX. Alessandrini’s knack for capturing the quirks of Broadway icons and recent productions is a signature element of each new edition.
Structure of the Revue
- Short musical skits parodying current or classic Broadway hits
- Impersonations of actors such as Patti LuPone, Idina Menzel, and Lin-Manuel Miranda
- Satirical commentary on industry trends, including jukebox musicals and celebrity casting
- Fast-paced costume changes and minimal stage sets
This stripped-down, high-energy format allows the actors to shine while delivering punchy musical satire that lands with both theater insiders and casual fans.
What Makes ‘Somewhat Overindulgent’ Different?
The term Somewhat Overindulgent has been informally attached to this newer version ofForbidden Broadwaydue to a few key shifts in tone and content. While the humor is still sharp, this edition adds more self-referential jokes, lengthier monologues, and insider nods that can feel overwhelming to newcomers or casual viewers.
Self-Referential Humor
In previous shows, the humor focused heavily on the source material lampooning shows and actors in a way that was playful and accessible. In this version, there is a noticeable increase in jokes that referenceForbidden Broadwayitself, its history, and even creator Gerard Alessandrini’s own legacy. For longtime fans, this may be entertaining, but for others, it can feel self-indulgent.
Length and Pacing
Critics have also noted that the pacing of the 20222023 version lags in places. Certain segments feel stretched, with fewer punchlines packed into longer sketches. This can make some parts of the show feel more like tributes than parodies, softening the show’s traditional edge.
Highlights That Still Shine
Despite these critiques,Forbidden Broadway: Somewhat Overindulgentstill delivers plenty of high points that showcase why the show has endured for decades. The vocal performances remain a standout, with actors nailing impersonations that feel both accurate and hilarious.
Notable Skits
- Parody ofHamilton: A clever takedown of the show’s ubiquitous presence, fast-paced rap numbers, and cultural dominance.
- SIX Spoof: Reimagining the six wives of Henry VIII as modern-day pop princesses was a comedic highlight, blending historical parody with musical satire.
- Sondheim Tribute: A heartfelt and humor-laced homage that balanced sincerity with witty lyric changes.
Cast and Direction
The small cast of multi-talented performers breathes life into the show. Quick costume changes, vocal versatility, and comedic timing are crucial to its success. The direction and choreography, while minimal, remain tightly coordinated to ensure each joke lands with precision.
The Fine Line Between Tribute and Satire
The essence ofForbidden Broadwaylies in its ability to tease without malice. In this edition, however, some sketches verge on being too reverent. Instead of lampooning Broadway’s flaws, certain segments praise the shows too sincerely. This shift in tone affects the satirical impact, leaving audiences wondering whether the show is laughing with or at its subjects.
The Role of Audience Knowledge
Many jokes in this edition rely on deep knowledge of Broadway history and performance nuance. This can alienate those unfamiliar with obscure theater references or inside jokes. While seasoned theatergoers may enjoy the cleverness, casual fans might miss the humor entirely.
Audience Reactions and Critical Response
Reactions to this latest edition ofForbidden Broadwayhave been mixed. Some viewers love the nostalgic and affectionate tone, while others feel it strays too far from the cutting satire that originally defined the show.
Positive Receptions
- Celebrated by loyal fans who appreciate the meta-humor and updated references
- Praised for its vocal performances and clever lyrical reworkings
- Valued as a tribute to Broadway’s resilience post-pandemic shutdowns
Critical Observations
- Described as overly long in some segments
- Perceived as more self-congratulatory than satirical in tone
- Criticized for not balancing old and new material effectively
The Future of Forbidden Broadway
As Broadway continues to evolve, so too willForbidden Broadway. Gerard Alessandrini has shown a remarkable ability to adapt the show to reflect modern trends and shifting theatrical landscapes. However, future editions may benefit from returning to the show’s roots focusing on biting parody, fresh material, and balancing industry affection with sharp comedic critique.
With Broadway’s increasing reliance on celebrity casting, revivals, and commercial ventures, there will always be fertile ground for satire.Forbidden Broadwayremains a unique space where those inside and outside the theater community can laugh at the absurdities of the stage and themselves.
A Bit Too Much, But Still Worth the Ride
Forbidden Broadway: Somewhat Overindulgentmay not hit every note with the same brilliance as earlier versions, but it still showcases the creative heart of musical theater satire. While it sometimes leans too heavily on nostalgia and self-reference, it retains moments of sharp humor, strong performances, and insightful commentary. For die-hard Broadway fans, it’s a delightful evening with familiar faces and favorite jokes. For newcomers, it may be a mixed experience, but one that still offers a taste of the wit and talent that has definedForbidden Broadwayfor more than 40 years.