Stars on Stage: The Glamour and Gaps of New York's Summer Theater Scene

Star Power Meets Theatrical Ambition: Navigating the Mixed Reviews of Off-Broadway Productions Starring Hollywood's Finest

The summer of 2025 marks an intriguing chapter in New York's theater scene, particularly for off-Broadway productions that showcase Hollywood's biggest stars. From Hugh Jackman and John Krasinski to Liev Schreiber, these actors draw in large crowds with their star power. However, the critical feedback for many of these productions has been mixed, revealing a gap between audience anticipation and artistic execution. In this review, we delve into several notable productions that continue to run, including "Ava: The Secret Conversations," "Rolling Thunder: A Rock Journey," and "Call Me Izzy," shedding light on the intersection of celebrity culture, theatrical ambition, and audience reception.

"Ava: The Secret Conversations," running through September 14 at New York City Center, captures the life of Ava Gardner, a Hollywood icon whose captivating story is often overshadowed by the play’s execution. Often praised in pop culture, Gardner’s marriages to stars like Frank Sinatra and her rumored affairs with Hollywood influencers paint a picture of glitz and scandal. However, the production falters under a script by Elizabeth McGovern, who also stars as the titular character. While the premise of translating Gardner's unarchived conversations with biographer Peter Evans into a performance seems promising, the narrative becomes mired in unnecessary debates about autobiography structure between Gardner and her biographer, played by Aaron Costa Ganis. These digressions detract from the punchy, exciting exploration of Gardner’s life, leading to a lackluster portrayal of her alluring persona. McGovern's performance, though energetic, fails to encapsulate Gardner’s captivating allure, leaving audiences yearning for more depth and focus.

Then there’s "Rolling Thunder: A Rock Journey," which runs through September 7 at New World Stages. Featuring a soundtrack of 1960s rock songs, this jukebox musical attempts to tackle the complex emotions surrounding the Vietnam War. Unfortunately, it falls flat, out of touch with the era it attempts to represent. While the performers deliver solid vocals, their interpretations lack the emotional weight and urgency that characterized the music of that tumultuous time. The book, written by Bryce Hallett, misses the mark by failing to convey the gritty realities of the Vietnam War and the social upheaval of the 1960s. Songs like "Gimme Shelter," which should resonate with themes of violence and protest, come off sanitized and ungrounded. Director Kenneth Ferrone’s inability to embed an authentic understanding of the time period into the cast's performances leaves the production void of the necessary tension and relevance, ultimately missing a golden opportunity to resonate with contemporary audiences about historical struggles.

On a more uplifting note, "Call Me Izzy," showcasing Jean Smart's captivating talent, is running until August 24 at Studio 54. The play, penned by Jamie Wax, follows a young Southern woman named Izzy whose aspirations to write are stifled by her abusive marriage. Smart shines as Izzy, skillfully navigating the emotional complexities of her character, drawing audiences into her plight through heartfelt monologues and powerful presence. The intimate set, paired with Sarna Lapine’s direction, creates an engaging atmosphere that complements Smart's performance. While the narrative may tread familiar ground, Smart’s portrayal imbues it with fresh life, prompting audiences to root for Izzy’s fight for independence and self-expression.

Celebrity involvement in these theatrical works draws audiences, but it also raises questions about the relationship between stardom and storytelling. The productions highlighted reveal that while star power can drive ticket sales, it doesn't guarantee artistic depth or successful narratives. This dichotomy illustrates the challenges of adapting iconic real-life characters or historical events for the stage. The plays often struggle to transcend their surface-level appeal, leaving audiences grappling for more substantive engagement with the material.

In sum, the 2025 New York summer theater season offers a mixed bag of performances featuring prominent celebrities. While some productions like "Call Me Izzy" effectively harness their stars' charisma to elevate the story, others such as "Ava: The Secret Conversations" and "Rolling Thunder" illustrate that celebrity allure alone is insufficient. As theatergoers navigate these performances, it becomes evident that the success of a play hinges not only on its star power but equally on its ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences on deeper levels. Ultimately, the challenge remains for creators to balance the draw of celebrity with the pursuit of meaningful storytelling, ensuring that the intersection of Hollywood and theater retains its vibrancy and relevance in the heart of New York City's booming arts scene.