For those of us who were there last night, either as fans of Green Day, Broadway, or their rock opera American Idiot- it was a legendary moment. Billie Joe Armstrong- lead singer of Green Day, main lyricist, and guitarist of the band for the past 20 years made his Broadway debut appropriately as the character ‘St. Jimmy’ last night, September 28th at the St. James Theater. (Where he runs through a limited 7 day engagement).
When he first came out onto the stage, mid way through the play, the crowd roared with applause and screams, as if we were at an arena Green Day concert. It didn’t stop through the fiery and fierce 1st song also titled ‘St Jimmy’ where he plays a character who is the fictitious alter ego and personal demon to the main character of Johnny (played by John Gallagher Jr.).
As a huge fan, I’ve seen this musical several times, and it only gets better, and better. The cast stays strong, and continues to grow together as an incredible ensemble. The music gets louder, the passion of the performances from the band and cast, stronger.
Even if not a Green Day fan, you will walk away one. Even if not a Broadway fan, you will walk away one. This is a show for everyone, where I’ve seen 60 year olds and 10 year olds singing along. But, there is NO better way to witness it than to see Billie Joe Armstrong-the incredible performance he gives, through the songs he wrote- up on stage with these guys.
You will never forget it.
The playing schedule for American Idiot is Tuesday at 7 PM, Wednesday 8 PM, Thursday at 8 PM, Friday at 8 PM, Saturday at 2 PM & 8 PM and Sunday at 3 PM and 7:30 PM. Tickets range from $127-$49 and can be purchased at The St. James Box Office or via telecharge.com (212) 239-6200. Visit www.AmericanIdiotonBroadway.com.
Billie Joe Armstrong runs on a limited engagement through Oct. 3rd.
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