Best Weekend Trips from New York City

Making it out to the prominent theatre in New York City is often a very frenetic thing. With so many choices and too many people who do not make a final decision until they are standing in line at TKTS or their box office of choice, it can be consuming. With many shows only open for limited engagements or soon closing, the need is even more real. Make plans as soon as possible as there are a few shows you should certainly try to check out before they are gone.

Rent: While many may not believe that it is true (this scribe included) there are those who say Rent is on her heels and set to close September 7, 2008. Whatever the real deal is, if you are looking to catch this run of the show in its current location (the Nederlander Theatre - 208 W 41st St) then you had better get your seats now. On the Rent website there is a countdown clock till September 7, so you understand the inherent drama - As Rent-heads all over the world shout in unison: One Day More!

Sunday in the Park with George: On a much smaller scale the musical revival of the James Lapine/Stephen Sondheim classic "Sunday in the Park with George," will be closing its doors on June 29, 2008. Only open for a short time at Studio 54 (254 W 54th St) this is one of those shows that every person who appreciates musical theatre should see.

The Country Girl: Clifford Odets is an often overlooked playwright and "The Country Girl," currently playing at the Bernard Jacobs Theatre (242 W 45th St) is one of his many hit Broadway shows. While it is unfortunate that too much of the "theatre" on Broadway gets ignored, producers often will try to sweeten the deal to get the audience to come out and play. This show is no exception as there is the triple treat of being graced with the acting prowess of Frances McDormand, Peter Gallagher, and Morgan Freeman in this classic revival. You had better hurry though as the show has already announced its limited engagement status and probably will not last the summer.

Gypsy: While this show, playing at the Saint James Theatre (246 W 44th St) has not announced its closing, many people may be interested in getting out to see the incomparable Patti Lupone in the starring role of Rose before she is gone. Written by Arthur Laurents, Julie Styne, and Stephen Sondheim, this is a classic "musical fable" and is another show which should be seen by everyone who is able.

So there is your weekend. Friday, Saturday matinee, Saturday night, and Sunday matinee. Four shows to send any Broadway fanatic's head spinning and each with their own individual sense of urgency. So hurry up and go!