Theater: The Best Shows of 2011

The Huffington Post: Talking about the best shows of the calendar year feels a bit odd since the theater season runs from the fall through the spring. That's why Tony Awards are held in June. But the calendar is king so it's time for a best of the year wrap-up. I've seen 165 theatrical events this year (including every new show on Broadway), an average of more than three a week. I always make an annual list of my favorite movies (I see hundreds), albums (I listen to hundreds), TV shows and books. But I've never made a list of my favorite theater shows because I've never seen enough of the big events to pass judgment. You can't name the best films of the year if you haven't at least seen The Descendants and Tree Of Life and A Separation. How could you name your favorite shows if you hadn't seen The Book Of Mormon? This year I have. It's a rare privilege and I know it.