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Swept Away - What Did The Critics Think?

Author KevinKevin, November 21st, 2024

Will this show sweep critics ashore or sink into the Broadway sea?

Set on treacherous waters, Swept Away tells the story of a whaling ship facing an ill fate, centred on brotherhood and religious themes. The folk-rock musical stars John Gallagher, Jr. (Tony winner for Spring Awakening) and Stark Sands (two-time Tony nominee, Kinky Boots). With a book by Tony Award winner John Logan (Red, Moulin Rouge! The Musical) and direction by Tony Award winner Michael Mayer (Spring Awakening, American Idiot).

Critic Reviews

"For all its hornpipes and full-throated song, its visual panache and masculine eye candy, "Swept Away," is among the darkest, most unsparing musicals ever to anchor itself on Broadway. And despite the suggestion of rapture in its title, it is really about the gravest decisions humans can make, the depths of souls that are darker than the sea's." - The New York Times

"A powerful and supple singer, Enscoe's duets with Sands (the evocative "Murder In The City") and Gallagher (on the show's title song) are highlights in a musical with no shortage of quietly devastating moments." - Deadline

""Swept Away" is an awesomely different and totally unexpected Broadway musical." - The Wrap

"The production is marked by some stunningly staged moments that showcase the work of the lighting and set designers." - New York Theater

"It's strong stuff, and hardly the sort of musical for tourists simply looking for a fun time. But this superbly staged and acted production exerts a powerful, hypnotic force that demands attention and respect." - New York Stage Review

"In just one act, "Swept Away" delivers a fresh story and a spiritual journey, both rare assets in contemporary Broadway musicals.: - New York Sun

"Accentuated with songs by the Americana band the Avett Brothers, exceptional direction by Michael Mayer, and a thrilling scenic shift by Rachel Hauck, Swept Away is one of the most menacing musicals I've ever seen. " - Theatermania

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