We enjoyed the high quality of the vocal talent that we've come to expect at The Goodspeed. The story itself was less interesting than the puppetry. While I enjoyed the puppetry, my husband felt that it detracted from the story. The choreography was jerky, not impressive.

We attended a production of the Snow Goose musical at the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam CT. This historic house (1876) was lovely inside and out. Period furnishings were artful and very decorative. The windows, doors, and theater seating were stylish and elegant which enhanced the venue. Scenic outdoor landscapes , patios and the entire outdoor setting on the Connecticut River were an unexpected bonus. We walked the boardwalk from the spacious parking area to the theater entrance delighting in the boats and water vessels on the river. We enjoyed meeting new people on the cocktail patio and relaxed riverside under a canopy by river’s edge after the show where theater goers enjoyed picnic lunches. We attended a matinee and late afternoon by the water was sun splashed and restful. The river experience was unexpected and really extended the day. The performance was excellent in every respect. Talented actors and ensemble cast performed skillfully. Sound, lighting, and set design were superb. The original music and songs were thoroughly entertaining and helped tell an imaginative and heartfelt story about a small community of sea folk who saw each other through challenging times. The theater is surrounded by interesting eateries, shops, and the dynamic Connecticut River. Plan to spend several hours in the area to include the performance, boat viewing, trendy eateries and novelty shoppes. The theater was sold out at 360 seats arranged in orchestra and balcony seating. The theater was air conditioned and handicap accessible to all areas of the opera house. We bought the last two seats available - front row- stage right for ninety-two dollars. A front row experience is not to be missed! We felt totally engrossed in the action and drama.

Without a doubt the Goodspeed has excellent historic beauty , and an superb selection of shows to choose from, but I am afraid that this will be my last time to purchase tickets there. It wasn't until I tried to exit the theater ( sitting in the third row center in the orchestra )for Crasy for You, that I realized that the limited exits , only 2 in the rear caused the realization that if an emergency (fire/ medical) occurred I would not make it out safely. It took over 20 minutes as the 300 patrons (mostly elderly) could navigate the stairways down to the exits. I really felt trapped with no choices. I will miss the many upcoming shows.

The Festival of New Musicals offers production readings, a cabaret, seminars, and more. Be prepared for a whirlwind time. This year's seminars were particularly engaging. The Circle of Life...for Costumes told us how a closet of costumes became a warehouse and included some fascinating rental stories. Do You Hear the Writers Sing held our attention well, and John Riccucci''s stories made a great way to end the seminars.

I am on a quest to visit as many east coast summer theatres as possible. Goodspeed is my third ( I visited Winnipesaukee and Ivoryton previously) out of 11 this summer (professional only). What a treat!!!! We saw All Shook Up and the production was unbelievable!! The talent was fabulous and the theatre is an antique gem! I loved every minute of it. We did sit on the balcony so it was a little bit difficult to turn your head through the whole show but that is our fault not knowing the theatre when we purchased tickets. The actors were fantastic. There many clothing changes and the scenery was unobtrusive but provided a nice backdrop for the story. I just cannot say enough about the lighting, and staging also. Two things to be careful of. First if stairs are an issue do not get balcony seats. Second if possible get seats facing the stage while our seats were ok, unlike other theatres this is a true balcony and some of the seats are obstructed view. In my quest to visit as many summer theatres as I can, this is number 3 but I feel it has to rank as number one for production. Another 10 out of 10!