The National Comedy Center to open in Jamestown

During the 2011 Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, festival curators worked on reestablishing the festival, by trying to bring comedy back to the area. “Lucy always wanted to be remembered for her comedy,” says Steve Neilans, one of the Festival organizers, “that was her vision for Jamestown.” Lucille Ball was a trailblazer in the comedy world, … Continue reading The National Comedy Center to open in Jamestown

Theatre Review: ‘The Awful Truth’ at Irish Classical Theatre

The grace and elegance of the upper-crust 1930s society- warts and all – is all part of ‘The Awful Truth’ staged by the Irish Classical Theatre Company. Yes, plenty of pricey perfume may hide the unsavory scent of deception, but when the smell is intoxicatingly sweet and pleasant, do we really care? . . .this … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘The Awful Truth’ at Irish Classical Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘Cabaret’ at SUNY Buffalo State

The precarious cultural/political moment that we’re all currently living in is, historically, not particularly unique. Looking across time and geography, one can point to many instances throughout history that were ripe with anxiety and hostility toward immigrants, racial minorities, religious “others”, and political opponents. Germany during the 1930’s is probably the most obvious example.  While … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Cabaret’ at SUNY Buffalo State

Theatre Review: ‘Buffalo Quickies’ at Alleyway Theatre

It’s Alleyway Theatre’s spring rite of passage: the 27th annual “Buffalo Quickies” is replete with local talent, some Buffalo nostalgia, and a few things I just can’t figure out. While some of the ‘quickies’ don’t always hit the highest playwriting mark, what is consistently impressive is watching the agility and versatility of the actors. On … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Buffalo Quickies’ at Alleyway Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘Chicago’ at Niagara University Theatre

There are few musical movie adaptations that are better than “Chicago.” Despite being an incredibly high quality film with both critical and commercial success, it has made many people tougher critics of the stage show because it’s less glamorous. Fortunately, Niagara University Theatre’s sold-out production offers a worthy display of one of John Kander and … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Chicago’ at Niagara University Theatre