Theater review by Raven Snook
Though not as depressing as a funeral, Curvy Widow has a dispiritingly embalmed feel. Perhaps Bobby Goldman's autobiographical tuner about her post-marriage sexcapades has been in the works for too long. Her husband, playwright and Follies book writer James Goldman, died in 1998; ten years later, Cybill Shepherd starred in Curvy Widow's first incarnation, a poorly reviewed solo play. Now Goldman and songwriter Drew Brody have turned the material into a musical that would be D.O.A. if not for its star, Nancy Opel.
Opel is so appealing and funny as the musical’s fiftysomething title character, who learns to let go and lust again thanks to online dating, that you can almost forgive the linen-thin narrative and cavalcade of hoary humor, caricatures and mis-rhymed lyrics. The enduring success of The Golden Girls is proof that the romantic lives of older ladies can be both entertaining and affecting, and postmenopausal women certainly deserve to see themselves onstage in vital, sexy leading roles. But, like a misleading Match.com profile, Curvy Widow's promise yields a disappointing date.
Westside Theatre (Off Broadway). Music and lyrics by Drew Brody. Book by Bobby Goldman. Dir. Peter Flynn. With ensemble cast. Running time: 1hr 25mins. No intermission. Through Oct 15.
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TIME OUT DISCOUNT TICKET OFFER:
CURVY WIDOW
The musical comedy
$49 for orchestra seats (reguilar price: $79–$99)
Promotional description: Tony Award nominee Nancy Opel (Urinetown) returns to the New York stage in Curvy Widow. Based on a true story, this sassy and witty musical follows the exploits of a feisty fiftysomething whose adventures inspire laughter and—in the least expected places—reveal truths about life, love and sex. Featuring a brilliant cast of best friends, a dead husband and myriad potential suitors. From hilarious first dates to intimate conquests, this widow navigates it all with humor and perseverance as she learns the hard way what it means to start life over in the modern age.
THREE WAYS TO BUY TICKETS:
1. Online: Click here to buy tickets through Telecharge
2. By phone: Call 212-947-8844 and mention code: CWTNY49
3. In person: Print this offer and bring it to the Westside Theatre box office (407 W 43rd St between Ninth and Tenth Aves, open noon–6pm except Thursdays)
Through Sept 30: Monday 8pm; Tuesday 7pm; Wednesday 2, 8pm; Friday 8pm; Saturday 2, 8pm; Sunday 3pm.
Starting Oct 1: Tuesday 7pm; Wednesday 2, 7pm; Thursday 2pm; Friday 8pm; Saturday 2, 8pm; Sunday 3pm.
Offer valid for performances through 12/30/17. This offer cannot be combined with any other discount and is not applicable to previously purchased tickets. Limit 10 tickets per order. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. Offer subject to availability and includes a $1.50 facility fee. Normal phone and internet service charges apply. Not all seats are discounted. Cast and schedule subject to change. Blackout dates may apply. Offer may be modified or revoked at any time without notice.