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
Theatre Review: ‘The Authentic Life Of Billy The Kid’ at Road Less Traveled Productions
Picture it: New Mexico, 1908. An old acquaintance knocks at your door. He brings his silent (at first) mysterious driver: could he really be someone who thought has been dead for 27years? From its very dramatic stop-action opening scene, ‘The Authentic Life of Billy the Kid’ which opens Road Less Traveled Productions’ new season, ignites … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘The Authentic Life Of Billy The Kid’ at Road Less Traveled Productions
Theatre Review: ‘Navigators’ at Alleyway Theatre
Seems like Alleyway is looking to whet the appetite of Western New York theatergoers with its offering of Navigators. Opening a week before Curtain Up! the cast and crew get several performances in the meantime, giving the production ample opportunity to work out any kinks before the big night. . . .a charming wave through … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Navigators’ at Alleyway Theatre
Theatre Review: ‘The Crucible’ at The Stratford Festival
Many of us can recall reading Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” in high school, spending a few weeks reading lines out loud and talking about its themes for the purpose of education. While reading as a young person was a memorable experience, there is something terrifying about being swept into a live version of this pertinent … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘The Crucible’ at The Stratford Festival
Theatre Review: ‘Mother’s Daughter’ at The Stratford Festival
“Mother’s Daughter”, currently playing at the Stratford Festival, is the third installment of playwright Kate Hennig’s Queenmaker series, in which she offers a closer and more substantive examination of various Tudor-era women connected to Henry VIII. In preparation of seeing “Mother’s Daughter”, which focuses on Mary I (England’s first queen regent, often referred to as … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Mother’s Daughter’ at The Stratford Festival
Theatre Review: ‘Hairspray’ at The Kavinoky Theatre
“Hairspray” was the first musical I saved my money to see when it came to Shea’s on the first National Tour. I remember being enthralled by the experience. The music, the story, the fun the actors appeared to be having on stage. I was out of breath for the actors on stage. It was a … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Hairspray’ at The Kavinoky Theatre
Theatre Review: ‘West Side Story’ at MusicalFare Theatre
“West Side Story” is about as timeless as a musical can get. A romantic score with classic songs, dreamy ballet sequences and a story about star-crossed lovers and their warring families. When you start stripping away some of the more traditional theatrical elements of the musical, like a bare-bones set and smaller orchestra, it forces … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘West Side Story’ at MusicalFare Theatre