‘David Byrne’s American Utopia’ (Photo: Matthew Murphy)
“This must be the place,” or at least it will be until April 3 — David Byrne’s American Utopia has announced its final extension, playing at the St. James Theatre for just another few weeks. The concert-style piece has been acclaimed for its infectious energy, feel-good message, and, of course, catchy, beloved music.
In our review, The Broadway Blog noted, “David Byrne’s American Utopia, though shaded with gravitas, is ultimately an optimistic call to action. The powerhouse team of creative consultant Alex Timbers, choreographer Annie-B Parson (the pair collaborated on Byrne’s Here Lies Love), and musical directors Karl Mansfield and Maro Refosco bring Byrne’s songs to life. Singer-dancers Tendayi Kuumba and Chris Giarno frame Byrne in an ever-shifting cocoon of movement, at times a jangled mass of limbs and at others with fluid grace. Outfitted with cordless mics, the ensemble moves freely throughout the space, each offered moments in the spotlight.”
American Utopia returned to Broadway on Friday, September 17, 2021, following its original 2019 smash-hit Broadway engagement at the Hudson Theatre and the 18-month pandemic shutdown. The show was recently honored with a Special Tony Award in September 2021.
For those who can’t get to New York by April, fret not: Academy Award-winning director Spike Lee’s acclaimed filmed version of David Byrne’s American Utopia made its world premiere opening the 2020 Toronto International Film Festival and is currently streaming on HBO Max. The film has been called “a life-affirming, euphoria-producing, soul-energizing sing-along protest film that’s asking us to rise up against our own complacency” (IndieWire) and “an all-time-great concert film” (Vanity Fair).
The production features David Byrne with original band members Jacquelene Acevedo, Gustavo Di Dalva, Daniel Freedman, Chris Giarmo, Tim Keiper, Tendayi Kuumba, Karl Mansfield, Mauro Refosco, Stéphane San Juan, Angie Swan, and Bobby Wooten III. See it at the St. James now through April 3 only!
