The Must-See Off-Broadway Shows In New York City

This long-running comedy has become a household name and a must-see for any edgy, Off-Broadway enthusiast with a sense of humor. Childish muppet-like characters take center stage in this laugh-out-loud production, tackling sensitive issues such as racism and sexuality. Don’t miss Avenue Q at New World Stages in Hell’s Kitchen through December 31st, 2016.

Currently playing at the Signature Theatre in Hell’s Kitchen,Angel Reapers transports you back to the 18th century — a time in which an early American religious sect called the Shakers aimed to connect with God and achieve divine purity through strict celibacy and ritual. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Alfred Uhry and MacArthur ‘Genius’ Martha Clarke, Angel Reapers is a must-see performance featuring an eclectic mix of traditional Shaker song and dance fused with modern choreography.

This New York Times Critics’ Pick, at Theatre 80 in the East Village, takes audiences back to their high school days. Bayside! The Musical is an unofficial musical parody of beloved sitcom Saved By The Bell and pokes fun at all of the slang and spandex that defined the ’80s and ’90s.

One of the most rhythmic and colorful Off-Broadway experiences, the Blue Man Group is a must-see musical — and sensory — performance. This is definitely one for the tourists, but it promises to be a lively evening of on-your-feet entertainment. The Blue Man Group will be performing at the Astor Place Theatre through December 31st, 2016.

The Body of an American tells the hard-hitting tale of Paul Watson, a middle-aged war reporter who suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder after spending an extended period of time documenting events in Afghanistan, Kosovo, Syria, and Somalia. Exploring the cost of a lifetime of witnessed violence, The Body of an American is one of Off-Broadway’s most emotionally-gripping productions. Catch it at the West Village’s Cherry Lane Theatre.

Musical production Daddy Long Legs tells the tale of a witty young lady and her mysterious benefactor, drawing inspiration from the classic stories of Jane Austen and the Brontë Sisters. Don’t miss this intimate performance at Hell’s Kitchen’s Davenport Theatre.

Directed by Scott Elliot, Buried Child follows the story of family patriarch, Dodge, and the secrets he keeps. The family’s drama heightens when his grandson visits, revealing issues of identity, memory, and power. Don’t miss this star-studded production at the New Group.

Her Requiem tells the tale of Caitlin, a teenager who is torn between aiding her sick mother and honoring her musical talent as she conceives of a requiem. Straddling the line between possessiveness and obsession, Her Requiem is playing at theClaire Tow Theater.

Upon learning of his mother’s passing, country-western star Strings McCrane begins to question the meaning of his own life, and what all of his fame truly amounts to. Written by acclaimed playwright Kenneth Lonergan, don’t miss Hold On To Me Darling at the Atlantic Theater Company in Chelsea.