Theatre Review: ‘Smokey Joe’s Cafe’ at MusicalFare Theatre

There's a certain advantage to attending a show you know very little about -- there are no preconceived notions, and the intent is simply to enjoy the performance. MusicalFare's production of "Smokey Joe's Cafe" certainly delivered a knockout performance for their audience. This musical revue is an enjoyable mix of high-energy ensemble pieces and slower, … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Smokey Joe’s Cafe’ at MusicalFare Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ at Lancaster Opera House

Anyone who made it through their high school English class is probably familiar—at least from a 30,000 foot view—of the story of Anne Frank and her family. If you’re like me, your memory of her story is relatively vague: a little girl and her family hide out in a secret annex above an office building … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ at Lancaster Opera House

Theatre Review: ‘Rose’ at Jewish Repertory Theatre of Western New York

Rose doesn’t say she’s a heroine. She doesn’t consider herself a victim. She is, however, a survivor. She’s full of irony and contradiction (“I’m eating ice cream to take a pill for cholesterol,” she says as a cold creamy spoonful helps her swallow her meds), and a strong, modern woman who holds onto bits of … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Rose’ at Jewish Repertory Theatre of Western New York

Theatre Review: ‘Way Back When’ at New Pheonix Theatre

New Phoenix Theatre  has quite the interesting and intimate performance space. It’s full of color and warmth, inviting each audience member into a whatever setting the current production demands. For this month’s “Way Back When,” a selection of one-act plays, that setting is a heavenly home above the clouds, a vibrant garden and an earthy … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘Way Back When’ at New Pheonix Theatre

Theatre Review: ‘All My Sons’ by Niagara Regional Theatre Guild at The Ellicott Creek Playhouse

Arthur Miller’s depiction of the American dream is one that not only aggravates me, but it is one that makes me wonder, what the heck Broadway audiences were excited to see live in 1947 when “All My Sons” opened. The story starts off so sweet and fun, and boy, does it get dark and dense … Continue reading Theatre Review: ‘All My Sons’ by Niagara Regional Theatre Guild at The Ellicott Creek Playhouse

First Look: ‘Rose’ at Jewish Repertory Theatre

Throughout America last week, 21st Century women marched through the streets, sporting pink pussycat hats and carrying signs reminding us that equity is still every person’s goal in a sometimes unjust world. In 20th century Poland, women moved stealthily through the streets, seeking to survive on their way to freedom. They didn’t carry signs, and … Continue reading First Look: ‘Rose’ at Jewish Repertory Theatre