My girlfriend, whose love of Ingrid Michaelson knows no bounds, made me go see “The Notebook” on Broadway and I cried for 2 1/2 hours straight. The much anticipated premiere of “The Notebook” a new musical by Ingrid Michaelson at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre brought a captivating and emotional experience to the audience. Everyone knows both the 1996 Nicholas Sparks novel as well as the 2004 film staring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. The film has become ubiquitious when talking about great love stories and the unwavering eventual end of every love story.

The seamless transition between the modern nursing home setting and the different timelines of the characters enhanced the storytelling. The use of different stages for younger, middle, and older Noah and Allie allowed the audience to follow their love story through different stages of their lives effectively and allowed for a fuller sound when these amazing songs were sung by each generation of Noah and Allie.

The entire cast is used incredibly efficiently with almost everyone playing double and triple duty as actors.

Michael Greif and Schele Williams masterfully directed the production, weaving the characters’ lives together in a cohesive and poignant manner. The transitions between past and present were handled with grace, keeping the audience engaged and emotionally invested in the story. It’s also important to note that the merchandise table has you covered with tiny “Notebook” tissue boxes on sale for $5 dollars. I went though 6 boxes myself.

The lighting design played a crucial role in setting the mood and highlighting key moments throughout the musical. From the warm, romantic hues during intimate scenes to the hauntingly beautiful lighting during emotional revelations, the lighting design added depth to the story. The reflections of light show us the reflections and the depth of the characters on stage. Then there is the constant ticking of time and sense we are all in the audience left to wonder to ourselves while watching “how much time do we have left” and “are we making the best choices in how we use that precious time?” Who is ever to know? The key to understanding “The Notebook” shows the key to happiness is simply believing we made the best choice and that choice was led by love. And love has no end and love conquers all, blah, blah, you get it. Love.

Ingrid Michaelson’s music and lyrics soared throughout the performance, eliciting deep emotions from the audience. The powerful and heart-wrenching melodies, especially during key scenes (like the letter revelation and Older Allie’s moment of remembrance) brought tears to many eyes. The melodies and lyrics throughout the piece are easily identifiable because Ingrid has a tendency to write enchanting incantations, that will the singer and listener into believing the more a truth is repeated— the easier it becomes to accept and adapt. My experience of crying for 150 minutes straight is a testament to the emotional impact of the music. Every single song stood out from the first note to last, from the fore to aft this score and lyrics will sweep during awards season.

The set particularly stood out as all the movement was fluid and all the space used to its potential. I felt like something was going on in every cravass of the stage at all times.

Who knows where more water was shed, the sold out crowd of crying patrons or the torrential rains that pound the set when the lovers reunite. Overall, “The Notebook” delivered a moving and unforgettable experience, with its stellar staging, directing, lighting, and exceptional music that tugged at the heartstrings. It’s a show that resonates differently with each viewer, showcasing the enduring power of love and death. If you go see this show you know what you’re getting, so go get it.

Run Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

One 15 minute Intermission

For Tickets

https://notebookmusical.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwwMqvBhCtARIsAIXsZpYCPK8LZOL26vJiOrqFqCCNOx2WMnsQEvNEP5Wy8XJD7pGb-8JvFecaApjgEALw_wcB