With the many entertainment choices New York City has to offer, it can be difficult to make a choice. Look no further. "On Stage" host Frank DiLella has curated a list of “must-see” shows this week, directing you to the best of Broadway, off-Broadway and beyond.  

“Swept Away”

The new musical “Swept Away” has sailed into The Longacre Theatre and is now in previews. The show centers around a shipwreck and a band of friends struggling to survive. The musical features a score by The Avett Brothers and stars Tony Winner John Gallagher, Jr. and Stark Sands. Opening night is set for Nov. 19.

“Ragtime”

The 1998 classic “Ragtime” returns to the New York stage this weekend and next courtesy of City Center. Based on the beloved E.L. Doctorow novel set in America during the early 20th century, the show stars Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, Brandon Uranowitz, Colin Donnell, Shaina Taub and Nichelle Lewis.  

For tickets, visit nycitycenter.org.

“Gatz”

On the off-Broadway front, “Gatz” is back for an encore presentation at The Public Theater. The critically acclaimed show is an enactment of the entire novel “The Great Gatsby” written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, courtesy of the company Elevator Repair Service.  

For tickets, visit publictheater.org.

“King Lear”

Over at The Shed, don’t miss Kenneth Branagh as the title character in “King Lear.” Under the direction of Tony Award-winner Rob Ashford, Branagh completes the trifecta of Shakespeare’s great tragic roles, having previously played the title characters in “Hamlet” and “Macbeth.” 

For tickets, visit theshed.org.

At the cabaret

Don’t miss “Star Search” and Broadway Veteran Sam Harris, who returns to 54 Below on Friday and Saturday with a new show titled, “Beyond the Rainbow.” 

Check out West End Theater star Jack Wolfe in his 54 Below debut on Sunday. Wolfe just wrapped a run in the critically acclaimed London production of “Next to Normal”.  

For tickets, visit 54Below.org.

Justin Vivian Bond

And finally, the always fabulous Justin Vivian Bond returns to Joe’s Pub on Nov. 7 to Nov. 10. Check out Justin’s latest show where they will be performing a selection of tunes from some notable LGBTQIA+ artists.  

For more information, visit publictheater.org.