The Broadway production of Bandstand received mixed reviews from critics after opening on April 26, 2017. Critics across the board praised Andy Blankenbuehler for his choreography, which the New York Theatre Guide calls "superb in the extreme.""Reviews. 'Bandstand'" newyorktheatreguide.com The Chicago Tribune describes Blankenbuehler's choreography as having a "unique kindness and fragility."Jones, Chris. "A Broadway 'Bandstand' for the Greatest Generation" "Chicago Tribune", April 26, 2017 The main criticism of Bandstand regards the plot and character development. The show is applauded for its attempt to delve into the deeper issues that plagued those who came home after World War II. Despite this attempt, critics found the plot "a little too sweet" as it follows a predictable timeline. The unconventional look into the characters that make up the Donny Nova Band give the show a "raw nerve", but the veterans were provided with "few defining musical moments of their own."
