Falsettos

Falsettos is a sung-through musical with a book by William Finn and James Lapine, and music and lyrics by Finn. The musical consists of March of the Falsettos (1981) and Falsettoland (1990), the last two installments in a trio of one-act musicals that premiered off-Broadway (the first was In Trousers). The story centers on Marvin, who has left his wife to be with a male lover, Whizzer, and struggles to keep his family together. Much of the first act explores the impact his relationship with Whizzer has had on his family. The second act explores family dynamics that evolve as he and his ex-wife plan his son’s bar mitzvah, which is complicated as Whizzer comes down with an early case of AIDS. Central to the musical are the themes of Jewish identity, gender roles, and gay life in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Falsettos premiered on Broadway in 1992 and was nominated for seven Tony Awards, winning those for Best Book and Best Original Score. The musical was revived on Broadway in 2016 starring Christian Borle, Stephanie J. Block, and Andrew Rannells. The 2016 revival was filmed and adapted for the PBS Live from Lincoln Center television series, and aired on October 27, 2017. The revival was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical. Both the original cast and 2016 revival cast performed at the Tony Awards. Other revivals include tours in Australia and the United Kingdom. The musical was praised by critics for its melodic compositions, humor, character development, and positive portrayal of non-traditional family structures.

The theater is divided into three sections: Floor, Risers, and Balcony. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best seat:

FLOOR:

• All seats are on one level, requiring no stairs.
• Each row is at the same height, so the view might be limited if you are seated behind taller individuals.
• Rows C and D may have a restricted view if you’re not tall.

RISERS:

• Requires climbing 2 shallow steps per row, but there are railings for support.
• Tiered seating so each row is elevated above the one in front to provide a clear view of the stage.

BALCONY:

• Access requires climbing a fairly steep set of stairs.
• Each row is elevated above the row in front to ensure a clear view.
• There is only a center aisle (between seats 9 and 10). Seats on the ends of each row are next to a wall.

Seating in all sections are padded chairs with backs.  Don’t confuse risers with bleachers.

If you need any help with choosing a seat or require accommodations due to limited mobility, please contact the box office at 518.730.7370 or tickets@sloctheater.org. We’re here to assist you!