Theatrical Review - In the Heights

In The Heights, conceived of and starring Lin-Manuel Miranda, won the 2008 Tony Award. Billed by many as a modern day love story set in the barrios of the Upper Manhattan neighborhood of Washington Heights, this ingenious production is truly alive with spirit, drama, and the challenges of every day life.

A story about the difficulties of modern day ethnic people struggling to make a living in a world where challenge is a daily constant, 'In The Heights' offers a sound story about love, understanding, acceptance, and learning to bloom where you are planted. Filled with Latin and Hip-Hop dance, 'In The Heights' keeps the viewers eyes constantly engaged. A truly powerful score keeps the ears entertained, and the mix of power house lyrics and rap causes the listener to have to strain to stay up to pace with the show.

As in all cases, this critic always takes a second person with him, in order to obtain a second opinion and therefore offer a truly fair assessment of the production. This time, it was my wife, who complained that she had absolutely no idea what the story line was actually supposed to be as she found it difficult to understand better than 90% of the lyrics. I must admit, even to the trained ear, I too believe that I missed a good deal of the productions intent for lack of understanding.

'In The Heights' offers a splendid set, simplistic costuming, and a better than average cast to enjoy. Set at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood, CA - always a splendid experience in and of itself - 'In The Heights' does not disappoint, at least not most.

Not a production for younger viewers, and having a keen ear, a love of rap music, as well as Hip-Hop dance is required if the viewer will enjoy this production.

Already moving on to it's next stop on it's tour, 'In The Heights' deserves it's accolades if for no other reason that the lesson that it teaches, learn to use what you have to the best of your ability, and do so where you are. In a world where everyone seems to want to search out something else, someplace else, to find themselves, 'In The Heights' tells the viewer that this is rarely the actual case.