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.
“Jaja’s African Hair Braiding”
Catch it before it closes up shop, “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding,” the new play by Jocelyn Bioh about a bustling Harlem salon and its stylists, is set to shutter at The Friedman Theatre on Nov. 19. It’s a must see of the season.
“Scene Partners"
On the off-Broadway front, two-time Academy Award-winner Dianne Wiest returns to the stage in the new play, “Scene Partners” by John J. Caswell Jr. Under the direction of Tony Award-winner Rachel Chavkin from “Hadestown,” Wiest plays 75-year-old Meryl who is determined to make it as a movie star in Los Angeles. The show is running through Dec. 17. For tickets, go to vineyardtheatre.org.
“Madwomen of the West”
Moving to the Actors Temple Theatre in Midtown, TV and screen favorites unite in the new comedy “Madwomen of the West.” Caroline Aaron, Brooke Adams, Marilu Henner and Melanie Mayron star in this romp that provides unexpected wisdom of what it means to be a woman in the 21st century. “Madwomen of the West” runs through the end of December. For tickets, head to telecharge.com.
“The Gardens of Anuncia”
Over at Lincoln Center, don’t miss “The Gardens of Anuncia” playing at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theatre. In the new musical by composer Michael John Lachiusa, we follow Anuncia, an artist, as she looks back on her life growing up in Juan Peron’s Argentina. The show features an ensemble of musical theater A-listers, including Priscilla Lopez, Andréa Burns, Eden Espinosa and Mary Testa. The show is running through the end of December. For information, go to lct.org.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Over at Radio City Music Hall, the Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes is back for its 90th year. The holiday extravaganza runs through Jan. 1. And this Sunday, the show is teaming up with the Theatre Development Fund to present the very first Autism Friendly Performance for families. For more info, head to rockettes.com/christmas and tdf.org/rockettes.
Lillias White at 54 Below
And finally, don’t miss Tony Award-winner Lillias White in action in her latest club act “Blissfully Thankful,” which she’ll perform at 54 Below beginning on Wednesday night. Expect to hear songs you know and love from the always fabulous Broadway diva. For information, go to 54below.org.