A concert revival of Lin-Manuel Miranda and Quiara Alegría Hudes’s 2005 musical "In the Heights" was recently presented at New York City Center, capturing the vibrant spirit of New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood. Directed by David Mendizábal, the staging offers a fresh yet nostalgic experience of the show, which originally premiered on Broadway in 2008 and was adapted into a film in 2021.
Matte Martínez stars as Usnavi, a bodega owner who anchors the production with a blend of charm and goofiness reminiscent of Miranda’s original portrayal. The story unfolds on a sweltering July morning, where Usnavi navigates personal challenges alongside his reliable community, including his cousin Sonny, played by Ishmael Gonzalez, who delivers a standout performance. The cast also features Ashley De La Rosa as Vanessa, Natalie Venetia Belcon as the beloved neighborhood matriarch Claudia, Linedy Genao as the salon-owner Daniela, Aaron James McKenzie as Benny the car-service driver, and Jaci Calderon as Nina, a young woman returning home from Stanford.
The narrative explores themes of family, romance, ambition, and community resilience, revolving around two couples, a neighborhood lottery, and a sudden windfall. While the book by Hudes leans toward melodrama and occasionally telegraphs its plot developments, the production’s strength lies in its music and choreography. Mayte Natalio’s dynamic choreography and the ensemble’s energetic performances offer a lively portrayal of Washington Heights’ daily life.
Innovatively, the orchestra is positioned onstage, elevated above the action on a set designed by Riw Rakkulchon that evokes the George Washington Bridge, giving the musicians a symbolic presence overlooking the community below. Lighting by Justin Townsend enhances this setup with a warm sunset ambiance.
Despite being billed as a concert staging—with the cast possibly using scripts—the performances are polished and fully realized. Calderon’s dedication to the show reflects the enduring appeal of Miranda’s music, which integrates diverse sounds of New York, including elements of merengué and salsa, and ambient details like the Mister Softee ice cream truck bell.
The production highlights the energy and cultural richness of the neighborhood, though some plot elements, especially those involving the lottery storyline, slow the show down. The bilingual lyrics remain a highlight, marked by rhythmic complexity and clever wordplay, though the story’s pacing occasionally lags behind the music’s momentum.
Overall, the revival offers an exuberant and affectionate tribute to "In the Heights," balancing its melodramatic storytelling with the vibrant sounds and rhythms that have cemented the musical’s place in contemporary theater. Its presence at City Center hints at the ongoing life and evolution of the show, with the possibility of future development and a return to Broadway in some form.