New York City Center Revives 'In The Heights' with Young Cast and Restored 2008 Script

Key points

• The production runs at New York City Center through November 15, 2026, with tickets priced between $45 and $360.
• Matte Martinez, a recent star of 'MJ,' leads the cast as Usnavi, joined by Natalie Venetia Belcon as Abuela Claudia and Ishmael Gonzalez as Sonny.
• Director David Mendizábal restored the original Broadway song order, including the return of Kevin’s wife Camila, reversing changes made for the 2021 film adaptation.
• Choreographer Mayte Natalio emphasizes energetic salsa and hip-hop movements, while the set design by Riw Rakkulchon places the orchestra on an upper deck to evoke the George Washington Bridge.
• The show retains its 2008 timeline, avoiding explicit references to current political issues like immigration enforcement, which critics note creates a contrast with the present day.

Background

The musical, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Quiara Alegría Hudes, premiered in 2007 and won four Tony Awards in 2008. It served as a precursor to Miranda’s 'Hamilton' and was adapted into a 2021 film. This revival is part of the Encores! program, which typically features limited runs with new casts.

How outlets are covering it

Critics generally agree on the high quality of the cast and music but differ on the production’s relevance. Jonathan Mandell of New York Theater praises the 'heightened attention to choreography' and the 'optimism' as an act of defiance, though he notes the script feels like a 'period piece.' Jackson McHenry of Vulture highlights the 'head-in-the-clouds' optimism, noting that the show avoids mentioning ICE or Donald Trump, which he interprets as a deliberate choice that resonates with a new generation of actors. Thom Geier of Culture Sauce praises the 'gorgeously sung' performance but criticizes the 'uneven staging' and 'awkward' choreography, arguing that the show’s pre-MAGA earnestness feels dated. All sources acknowledge the strong vocal performances, particularly by Natalie Venetia Belcon and Matte Martinez, but debate whether the narrative structure holds up without modern political context.

Why it matters

The revival demonstrates the enduring popularity of 'In The Heights' and its ability to attract new audiences despite its 2008 setting. It also highlights the tension between historical musicals and current political realities, as the show’s optimism contrasts with the current climate. The production also showcases the talent of a new generation of actors, including Matte Martinez and Ishmael Gonzalez, who are reinterpreting roles written for them when they were children.

What to watch

The production will run through November 15, 2026. Future performances may see further adjustments to the script or staging based on audience feedback. The success of this revival could influence future productions of 'In The Heights' or other classic musicals that are being revived in the current political climate.