Theatre Review: ‘The Illusion’ at Road Less Traveled Theatre

One of the things I like best about Road Less Traveled Theatre’s productions is that you are immediately immersed in the show, or at least in its ambience. Think of last season’s “Glengarry Glen Ross,” when Anthony Alcocer as the ‘motivational trainer’ began the show before the obligatory “please turn off your cell phone” announcements … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘The Illusion’ at Road Less Traveled Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ at RBTL’s Auditorium Theatre

If musicals aren’t for you—this is your musical! I am often put off by musicals that are just a framework into which song after song are stuffed—whether good, bad, logical, benign or poignant. I know I should be able to suspend my disbelief and go along with people breaking into song as they cook dinner, … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ at RBTL’s Auditorium Theatre

Lancaster Opera House brings “Deathtrap” to the stage.

What do you do when you’re hired to direct a flawlessly scripted Ira Levin play that is one of the most produced thrillers in history and was the longest running thriller on Broadway? Nothing. Except pick  a great cast, and keep the work simple, elegant, and pristine. And that’s just what Katie Malinson did with … Continue reading Lancaster Opera House brings “Deathtrap” to the stage.

Theatre Review: ‘Sense & Sensibility’ at Irish Classical Theatre

Gossipy, back-biting, smugly superior…yup, sounds like life in the British countryside, late 18th century style. This was the proverbial fodder for Jane Austen’s mill.  Kind hearted sisters stripped of their place in society, weak-willed men who don’t deserve them, and lots of smart, witty repartee make Austen’s novels a divine read and a delight on … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Sense & Sensibility’ at Irish Classical Theatre

First Look: ‘The Kathy & Mo Show – Parallel Lives The Dark Side’ by O’Connell & Company at Shea’s Smith Theatre

Call them The Power for Trio for What’s Good in This World. O’Connell and Company has three powerhouse actors behind a new-to-Buffalo production at Shea’s Smith Theatre, for six performances January 18 to 27. Mary Kate O’Connell and Pamela Rose Mangus are reprising their roles in “The Kathy & Mo Show Parallel Lives” for the … Continue reading First Look: ‘The Kathy & Mo Show – Parallel Lives The Dark Side’ by O’Connell & Company at Shea’s Smith Theatre

First Look: ‘Monty Python’s Spamalot’ at Kavinoky Theatre

A couple years ago, Arts Services of WNY participated in “Arts and Economic Prosperity 5,” a data review and analysis of 126 cultural and not-for-profit organizations that proved that the arts heavily contributes to our region’s economic  growth. The arts sector is a $352.1 million industry that supports all levels of employment, businesses of all … Continue reading First Look: ‘Monty Python’s Spamalot’ at Kavinoky Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘A Very Trumpy Christmas Carol’ at Main Street Cabaret

So you’ve heard the bell ring when Clarence got his wings.  You wiped a tear during Linus’ telling of the Christmas story, felt restored when Tiny Tim says “God Bless Us, everyone,” and laughed with the Little Sisters of Hoboken. You’ve jingled, and twinkled, and decked the halls. There’s a new Christmas tradition in town … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘A Very Trumpy Christmas Carol’ at Main Street Cabaret