"Closer Than Ever" - a musical review by David Shire and Richard Maltby, Jr.

CLOSER THAN EVER

Lyrics by Richard Maltby, Jr., Music by David Shire

A look into the private song vault of Richard Maltby, Jr., and David Shire (Big; Starting Here, Starting Now; Baby), this revue is filled to the brim with the brilliance for which these musical theatre giants are known.

CLOSER THAN EVER is a nonstop exploration of everyday struggles in the “modern world.” Topics ranging from unrequited adoration… to aging… to Muzak are tackled with resounding sincerity and precisely placed hilarity. Each song is a unique story told by a new character, taking audiences, not only into the songbook of Mr. Maltby and Mr. Shire, but into the minds of the individuals facing these relatable challenges.

Filled with hilarious and touching songs about aging, parenting, and dreams both fulfilled and unrequited, CLOSER THAN EVER is like a musical “how-to” manual for the middle aged. The show’s self-contained songs tell an intimate, insightful tale about love, security and happiness – and of holding onto them in a world that pulls you in a hundred directions at once. Inspired by real-life experiences and stories, CLOSER THAN EVER won the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Off-Broadway Musical and netted Drama Desk Award nominations for both Maltby and Shire. Its message to value the little things in life remains as meaningful today as ever.