If/Then

Anthony Rapp & Jackie Burns

Broadway Philadelphia presents If/Then at the Academy of Music through June 26, 2016.  Who among us has never wondered, “What if…”or “If Only…”?  The Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winning team of Next to Normal, composer Tom Kitt and book writer/lyricist Brian Yorkey have tackled this somewhat suppressed thought and burst it right out into the open by examining two parallel roads that a person might take. What makes the concept so distinctive is that the results of the different choices  made are seen side by side...The single successful corporate executive and the stay-at-home mother of two.  This totally unique production is flawless in its execution. The first National Tour brings together original Broadway cast members Jackie Burns and Anthony Rapp along with Tamyra Gray and Matthew. Hydzik.  The music has a wow factor of 10!   Not only are the songs exciting, but the delivery is exceptional.  Jackie Burns, who is either Liz or Beth, depending upon which storyline she is immersed in, has an extraordinarily powerful voice. Tamyra Gray portrays her enthusiastic friend Kate and her enthusiasm  rings throughout the Academy as she sings.  Anthony Rapp and Matthew Hydzik, the men in Elizabeth’s parallel universes, add great touches to their musical renditions. The frequent projection changes are incredible. They range from moving flashing lights  which give credence to actors sitting a subway, to the city Library, to townhouses, starry nights and airplane windows. Everything about this National Tour demands a return engagement. Tickets can be purchased now by calling 215-893-1999, visiting online at www.kimmelcenter.org, or visiting the Kimmel Center Box Office.  Group Sales are available for groups of 10 or more and can be purchased by calling 215-790-5883.