news & reviews

2026 Round up

Always Young The Musical received positive reviews for its heartfelt storytelling, nostalgic look at 1980s adolescence, and genre-bending rock score following its Off-Broadway run at the Theater for the New City in New York City from January 15 through February 1, 2026.

Key Review highlights:

* Heartfelt and Raw Storytelling: Critics praised the show for blending humour with poignant reflections on outcasts, misfits, and teenage angst. A review on Lord Cherry's Review highlighted songs like "It's Prob'ly Me" for their clever linguistic wordplay and honest depiction of social awkwardness.

* Standout Performances: The National Herald praised lead actress Eleanna Finokalioti for bringing sensitivity, humour, and fearless energy to her role as "Little Short Sally".

* Nostalgic 1980s Setting & Themes: Covered via BroadwayWorld, reviewers noted how the production uses an unreliable narrator ("Haywire", played by Mark Tunstall) to explore school days, LGBTQ+ inclusivity, mental health, bullying, and neurodiversity.

* Genre-Bending Musical Score: The 20 original numbers—featuring a score by Lulu Chen, Mark Tunstall, and others—drew praise for mixing honky-tonk piano, rock anthems, jazz, vaudeville, and ballads.

“This show is dark, gritty, funny, but most importantly — it’s real. The emotions expressed are raw, complex, taboo even, but always genuine.” Lord Cherry’s review