Theatre Review: ‘Detroit ’67’ at Blackfriars Theatre

Set in July 1967, a time which would become known as the Long Hot Summer as race riots plagued American cities such as Newark, Buffalo, Rochester, Boston, Chicago, Milwaukee and of course, Detroit, Dominique Morisseau’s play Detroit ‘67 leaves the audience with a lot to reflect upon. . . .an amazing performance. . . The … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Detroit ’67’ at Blackfriars Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘Superior Donuts’ by Road Less Traveled Productions at Shea’s 710 Theatre

To start its 2019/2020 season, Shea’s 710 Theatre has partnered with Road Less Traveled Productions to present “Superior Donuts”, a show from acclaimed playwright Tracy Letts (of “August: Osage County” fame) that tackles topical sociopolitical issues like race and gentrification, but more importantly, spotlights a friendship between an aging hippie who’s stuck in his ways, … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Superior Donuts’ by Road Less Traveled Productions at Shea’s 710 Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘The Firebugs – A learning-play without a lesson’ at Niagara University

Why would Gottlieb Biedermann allow arsonists to stay in his attic?    Because Biedermann, with his eager desire to do good and help seemingly less fortunate souls can’t seem to see into those souls.  He’s philanthropic to a fault, at the edge of noble, the guy who’s accommodating to those less fortunate than his own middle-class … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘The Firebugs – A learning-play without a lesson’ at Niagara University

Theatre Review: ‘Summer: The Donna Summer Musical’ at RBTL Auditorium Theatre

“Summer: The Donna Summer Musical”, which began its national tour in Rochester, NY this week, starts out with a diva-level performance and a bass beat that you feel in your heart. The opening number, “The Queen is Back”, promises that this is going to be a hard-driving performance—but changes gears to be much more subtle … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Summer: The Donna Summer Musical’ at RBTL Auditorium Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘Into The Woods’ at Theatre In The Mist

I try, sometimes in vain, to approach every production I review with as much objectivity as possible. It’s not easy; I’m often reviewing a show I’ve seen many times before, that I’m intimately familiar with, or in the case of local productions, I may even know (or have performed with) one-or-two members of the cast.  … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Into The Woods’ at Theatre In The Mist

Theatre Review: ‘Tis Pity She’s A Whore’ at Irish Classical Theatre

While most theatre companies choose to open their season with a grabby title or celebrated classic, Buffalo’s Irish Classical Theatre Company begins 2019-2020 with a lesser known, nearly 400-year-old show that’s rife with drama and salaciousness.  And while it’s not their best work to-date, it’s a bold choice to begin a new season with a … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Tis Pity She’s A Whore’ at Irish Classical Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘Mean Girls’ at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre

I wanted to hate this show. When I saw “Mean Girls” perform at the Tony Awards, I couldn’t even fathom how this was going to last. I didn’t understand the reason for the big Broadway sounding number in the middle of the high school cafeteria. I didn’t understand the song tone changes. I was very … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Mean Girls’ at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre

New Phoenix Rising in Sterling for 25th Season

New Phoenix Theatre will celebrate its 25th anniversary season with four shows that represent its hallmark eclectic appeal. Founder Richard Lambert says,” After 25 years I feel lucky to still be doing this, and as a small alternative theatre we’re still glad people are interested.”   The season begins September 20 with ‘Izzy,’ written by local … Continue reading New Phoenix Rising in Sterling for 25th Season