| I happen to have enjoyed American Idiot a great deal and saw it multiple times. There was much to admire in that show. I understand why you found Jagged Little Pill unfocused since it does take on a great many issues in our society, but I didn't see it that way. I thought that all of the issues were dealt with in ways that were very realistic and relevant today and each issue had a very important role to play in the arcs of the four major characters. What Jagged Little Pill had for me that American Idiot did not was that it made me feel, very, very deeply. I am still shocked at how emotionally overwhelmed I was by it. While I think there are tweaks that could be made to improve this show, I don't believe it needs saving or that it needs major retooling. From the sniffles I heard around me during the show, and the comments I heard from other audience members after the show, I know I'm not the only one who had this experience. I experienced it as a very complete and effective musical (especially the second act) that may not be for everyone. I really found it emotionally cathartic and totally thrilling as a piece of theater. I'm also realizing that there are elements of the choreography that I just can't get out of my head, either. |
