Every year we wait for the live performances during the Thanksgiving Day Parade. Like everyone else, we sit and we critique each performance. It even helps us decide what shows to go see. It’s basically the Tony’s without having to sit through the awards. This year, we wrote what everyone is thinking about the performances and we ranked them from our least favorite to our most favorite. Do your thoughts match ours? 

5. Spongebob The Musical

Spongebob brought the big musical number, “Bikini Bottom Day”, to the parade. Our initial thoughts were, wow, that guy is pulling off Spongebob. As more and more characters came out, our thoughts changed and we were left asking ourselves: what just happened? Even though they have managed to bring the gang of Spongebob to life, our 10-year-old selves just can’t get passed this non-cartoon version. We’re looking at you, Squidward.

4. Once On This Island

Once On This Island brought “Why We Tell the Story”, and our first thoughts are these kids must be freezing. Although New York is an island, it is far from where this musical takes place. The musical number was cute and whimsical, but it didn’t stun us. In all, the song was pretty short and was not much of a production. We are okay with simplicity, but it seemed a little too simple.

3. Anastasia

Anastasia brought “Once Upon a December”, different again from the others. This musical brought the romance to the parade. Even though this song is a solo, the performance came to life with the theatrics of the dancers around them. The dancing was elegant and the song was just simple beauty.   

2. The Rockettes

They have arrived! The Radio City Rockettes! These synchronized ladies just capture everything about the holidays. Their performance was flawless and not one Rockette was out of place or off beat. We can’t help but love them.

1. Dear Evan Hanson

Dear Evan Hanson brought the Act One finale “You Will Be Found”, to the Thanksgiving day parade. Although not a showy number, the vocals and harmonies are just so gorgeous it just fills your heart! Noah Galvin, who recently took over as lead Evan Hanson, started off the song beautifully. As more and more cast members joined, the performance just became powerful. We can now understand the hype over this musical. Check it out below!