Closing Time for Bette Midler, Tom Hanks & More! Six Great Shows to See Before They’re Gone

As summer heats up, it’s time to say good-bye to six high-profile Broadway and off-Broadway productions set to close in the next two weeks. Below, our quickie guide to what makes these plays and musicals must-sees. Choose one (or more) and get tickets now!


Reasons to Be Happy
Best Reason to See It: Neil LaBute’s crackling dialogue and the quirky romantic chemistry among a four-person cast led by Jenna Fischer of The Office. Closes Saturday, June 29.


I’ll Eat You Last
Best Reason to See It: Bette Midler’s charismatic comic performance as 1970s super-agent Sue Mengers, delivered entirely by the Divine One while seated on a sofa! Closes Sunday, June 30.


Ann
Best Reason to See It: Another compelling solo star turn, this time by Tony nominee Holland Taylor as straight-talking Texas governor Ann Richards. Closes Sunday, June 30.


Venice
Best Reason to See It: A hip-hop mashup of politics, love and sibling rivalry, featuring hot young musical stars Jennifer Damiano, Claybourne Elder and Leslie Odom Jr. Closes Sunday, June 30.


Lucky Guy
Best Reason to See It: Tom Hanks, Tom Hanks, Tom Hanks, who makes us care about tabloid reporter Mike McAlary—plus Courtney B. Vance in a Tony-winning turn as his editor. Closes Wednesday, July 3.


Silence! The Musical
Best Reason to See It: The over-the-top hilarity of seeing Dr. Hannibal Lecter and his nemesis Clarice Starling break into song, plus a chorus of tap-dancing lambs. Closes Sunday, July 7.