WATER BY THE SPOONFUL @ ENSEMBLE THEATRE

Through May 19, 2019

 (216) 321-2930

Or www.ensemble-theatre.com

Bob Abelman

Ensemble’s ‘Water by the Spoonful’ adds gravitas by the tbsp when a tsp would do.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

Pulitzer Prize winning “Water by the Spoonful” is a thought-provoking play which gives a clear picture of the horrors of addiction, the difficulty of overcoming its grip, and what it is to live with a force controlling you, instead of you controlling it.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

THIS @ DOBAMA THEATRE

Through May 26, 2019

(216) 932-3396

Or dobama.org

Bob Abelman

Dobama finds the truth in ‘This,’ an engaging play about loss.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

Melissa James Gibson’s “This” is a realistic presentation of existence and the stumbles and needed adjustments that must be made as life progresses.  It gets a fine production at Dobama and is well-worth the 90-minutes sit.
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

Bits of comic relief bubble to the surface from time to time to give counter point to the harsh reality of mid-life survival as the under-noticed middle-agers of the world get some well deserved time under the lights. Well crafted, thoughtful and carefully written this play will give you pause to think about life, death your place in the universe and how it is the little things that make or break a relationship.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Andrea Simakis

In the end laughs outweigh the flab.  Ah well, no marriages--and very few plays--are perfect.

To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

NATIVE GARDENS @ CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE

Through May 19, 2019

(216) 241-6000

Or www.clevelandplayhouse.com

Bob Abelman

Cleveland Play House’s ‘Native Gardens’ sprouts comedic catharsis.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

“Native Garden” is that perfect script which grabs and holds an audience with humor and good story telling, while clearly making its philosophical point. It gets a picture-perfect production at CPH.  It is a wonderful piece to define and explain the political and societal climate of today.  Go!  See!  Enjoy and learn!!
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

Cultures and horticulture collide in this absolutely delightful range war that examines how conflicts begin and get resolved. Such subjects as American privilege and entitlement, squatter’s rights, Latino influence, the American Dream, environmental impact and what makes and breaks good neighbor relationships are carefully examined in this thoroughly entertaining work. Come to laugh...leave having learned.

  

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

“Good fences, make good neighbors?” Well, maybe not always. Karen Zacarias’s witty and abundantly funny Native Gardens, directed for The Cleveland Play House by Robert Barry Flemming, plants two contrasting families side by side in a wealthy Washington, D.C. neighborhood. As the drama grows, entwining Zacarias’s characters into battle despite their good intentions, it becomes harder to tell the weeds from the flowers.

From Laura's blog at www.artstillmatters.com
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Andrea Simakis

Beneath the laughter--and teh demented deployment of a chainsaw,--is a play for our tribal times that wears its poroselytism with pride:  There is no hope for peaceful co-eistence wihtouit compromise.  Now tht's a bipartisan message we can all get behind."

To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

TOURING PRODUCTION OF A BRONX TALE @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE

Through May 12, 2019

(216) 241-6000

Or www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

Touring ‘A Bronx Tale’ a crowd-pleasing, color-by-number musical.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

 After seeing A BRONX TALE on Broadway, I wrote: “Look for A Bronx Tale to be one of the hits of the 2016-2017 Broadway season.”  Anyone who sees the touring version of the musical now on stage in CLE will know why I made that prediction. Yes, this is an excellent production of a nicely conceived musical drama.  Go! “Divertitevi”!  Enjoy yourself! 

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

This is the memory play of Calogero, whose teen character is played by the winsome, handsome Barreiro. ... Although it’s C’s story, I found myself wanting to get to know other characters better, including the colorful assortment of mobsters whose names range from Frankie Coffeecake to JoJo the Whale. Most of all, I wanted to know more of young, black character Jane, C’s love interest played by former Stow resident Brianna-Marie Bell.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review at https://www.ohio.com/topics/clawson/.

Howard Gollop

For the cynical, the moderately successful Broadway musical “A Bronx Tale” comes across as some sort of seen-it/done-it contrivance for “Jersey Boys” fans -- checking off all the familiar boxes of the “fahgettaboudit” testosterone-imbued Italian American urban life and the Mafia flirtations that go with it. But as one of the ballads by eight-time Academy Award winner Alan Menken and three-time Tony Award nominee Glenn Slater goes, “Look to Your Heart.” Indeed, the heart of “A Bronx Tale” -- specifically, the heart that belongs to its creator and book (script) writer and original film star Chazz Palminteri -- renders the musical heartfelt and hearty of talent.

Mark Horning

In the case of this touring production of A Bronx Tale it is all with the cast who manage to squeeze out every bit of emotion from what otherwise could have been a pretty dry show. Well worth the ticket to see this one.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Vibrant, touching, tuneful and above all, a gift to start summer right. Playhouse Square’s latest Broadway Series musical, A Bronx Tale, feels real and a lot more than just a remix of  Jersey Boys, Hairspray and West Side Story (though it does artfully combine appealing aspects of all three). With book by Chazz Palminteri, music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Glenn Slater and direction by Jerry Zaks and Robert De Niro (yes, that Robert De Niro) and with choreography by Sergio Trujillo, it’s a winner.

To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland or on her blog www.artstillmatters.com

Andrea Simakis

Here's to a job well done.

To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

PINCH AND SQUEAL'S WIXBANG @ CLEVELAND PUBLIC THEATRE

Through April 20, 2019

(216) 631-2727

Or www.cptonline.org

Mark Horning

Forget the rain, forget the cold, forget all your troubles...in short fagetaboudit! Come to Cleveland Public Theatre for an adult treat of Pinch and Squeal’s Wizbang. It’s two hours packed with crazy that will have you laughing your horse off.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

ART @ BLANK CANVAS

Through April 20, 2019

(440) 941-0458

Or www.blankcanvastheatre.com

Bob Abelman

In Blank Canvas’ comedy, ‘Art,’ the devil is in the details.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

“Art” is a fine example of “thinking-persons” theater.  It is the type of script that stays with the viewer a long time after the production encouraging probing into the value of not only art, but friendships and relationships.  Blank Canvas helps the thinking process with a strong production.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

What is art? What is its value? Can a white painting really be more valuable than fifteen years of friendship? Three friends battle tooth and claw over a white painting that is valued more for who created it rather than its content. Can there be any winners in this conflict? Come see for yourself.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

THE PRIDE @ CONVERGENCE-CONTINUUM

Through April 20, 2019

(216) 687-0074

Or convergence-continiuum.org

Mark Horning

This is a show that requires rapt attention to all the nuances of speech as well as a very liberal and accepting attitude about homosexuality. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it is an enthralling piece of theater for those with the courage to view it. See it if you feel a bit adventurous. 

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Roy Berko

con-con is noted for doing scripts that other area theaters won’t attempt.  Sometimes their bold steps work well.  In this instance, sorry, no gold ring.  As presented, “The Pride” is a long and tedious sit, interrupted by a few laughs.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

THE TOURING PRODUCTION OF THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE

Through April 20, 2019

(216) 241-6000

www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

Perpetually touring ‘Phantom’ still evergreen and thoroughly entertaining.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

 
 Kerry Clawson

The national tour of “The Phantom of the Opera” is a spectral, wondrous thing, from the show’s beginning with its shrouded “Lot 666″ chandelier being auctioned above audience members’ heads, to the final confrontation with and disappearance of the Phantom.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review at https://www.ohio.com/topics/clawson/.


Mark Horning

No matter how many times you have witnessed a performance of The Phantom of the Opera mark this one on your calendar as a must see show. Although nearly two and a half hours in length, time flies by as you are mesmerized by this truly spectacular version of a time honored classic. Come see how truly great The Phantom of the Opera can be. 

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

THE VELOCITY OF AUTUMN @ Karamu

March 28-April 21, 2019

216-795-7077 
or http://www.karamuhouse.org/

Roy Berko

“The Velocity of Autumn” gets an acceptable production.  Audiences should leave having both enjoyed themselves and come in contact with the issue of aging and its consequences. 

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

For the many Clevelanders who face the difficult decision of what to do with mom and pop this show has the courage to broach the subject. While the ending may not give everyone the solid answers they need it will at the least open up discussion.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

  

TINY HOUSES @ CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE

Through April 14, 2019

(216) 241-6000

Or www.clevelandplayhouse.com

Bob Abelman

Good things come in small packages like the world premiere of ‘Tiny Houses.’

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

 “Tiny Houses” is one of those special pieces of modern theater that both delights and causes audiences’ to think.  Is tiny better?  Is minimalism good for society and individuals?  Can we live deliberately?  Was Thoreau all wrong, “a nut job,” in his search for authenticity?  Whatever, go, see, be delighted, and learn how tiny houses are built!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

Sometimes, trying to simplify your life can get complicated. That's what happens in the world premiere of Chelsea Marcantel’s “Tiny Houses” at Cleveland Play House, as Bohdi and Cath’s idealistic plan to build a miniature home runs into some roadblocks. ... 

Eastman’s characterization as Cath seems rather flat compared to the others, even given the fact that most of them are very quirky. Cath doesn’t truly connect with another character until well into the play.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Mark Horning

Although quite predictable, this sweet comedic tale of attempting to simplify one’s life has a lot of heart. It truly is a labor of love that will enthrall you and make you smile with its happy conclusion. Fill the seats for this one.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Ever want to run away? Leave city stress behind? Chelsea Marcantel’s comic new play, Tiny Houses, at the Cleveland Play House, shows one witty take on this impulse in a perfectly paced production directed by Laura Kepley.

To see a full review of this show see Tiny Houses or read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Andrea Simakis

Building anything--houses or relationships isn't all how-to podcast and shotgunning beers.  It takes work and time and effort Sweat equity.  So, so does constructing the perfect, timely comedy, as director Laura Kepley and playwright Chelsea Marcantel have done.  This is blue bullet-proof.

To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

TAMING OF THE SHREW @ GREAT LAKES THEATER

Through April 14, 2019

(216) 241-6000

Or www.greatlakestheater.org

Bob Abelman

Great Lakes’ ‘Shrew’ tames Shakespeare’s chauvinism.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

 GLT’s “Shrew” is a wonderful evening of the Bard at his finest, in a production that delights and, if you are also in the mood, illuminates the tale of conflicted love and the battle of men and women.  Go!  See!  Enjoy!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

High jinxes, disguises and impersonations abound in this wonderful rendition where all the comedy stops are pulled for laughs. This is a rollicking depiction that is laugh out loud funny and one that will help you forget the weather for a few hours. This is must see theater that will bring cheer to the entire family.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Director Sara Bruner’s The Taming of the Shrew at the Hanna Theatre brings a welcome fresh look, lots of insight, and--most importantly--plenty of laughs (it is, after all, a comedy). This Great Lakes production of the Shakespeare classic also boasts a dynamic cast, one that speaks clearly enough for jokes to be funny and moves quickly enough to keep us involved.  

To see a full review, read Laura's blog at artstillmatters.com or at CoolCleveland

GLORIA @ CLEVELAND PUBLIC THEATRE

Through April 13, 2019

(216) 631-2727

Or www.cptonline.org

Bob Abelman

Cleveland Public Theatre underserves Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ ‘Gloria.’

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

“Gloria” is a relevant and topical script that with the right performances, attitude, and pacing could have been a fascinating evening of theatre.  As is, it’s a disappointment.
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

This is a show ripped right out of the front pages of the nation’s newspapers and magazines. It illustrates the pressure cooker environment that a majority of citizens have to endure on a daily basis without the benefit of sound mental health counseling. In short, the Great American Experiment is coming to a close and the rats have begun to eat each other. If you have ever worked in a tight office environment, see this show. You will totally relate to it..

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

PRODIGAL SON @ NONE TOO FRAGILE

Through April 6, 2019

(330) 671-4563

Or http://www.nonetoofragile.com

Kerry Clawson

Jacob Eeg cuts an emotionally volatile figure as a teen from the Bronx who’s a misunderstood genius in John Patrick Shanley’s “Prodigal Son” at None Too Fragile in Akron.
Eeg, a handsome, blond 21-year-old, brings to life the restless mind of Jim Quinn, whose thinking is leagues ahead of other students. The problem is, he can’t seem to stop himself from acting out.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR & GRILL @ THE BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Through April 14, 2019

(216) 521-2540

Or http://www.beckcenter.org

Bob Abelman

Nicole Sumlin on a bandstand with a microphone is simply worth the price of admission.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

Nicole Sumlin is superb as Billie Holiday, Ed Ridley plays one mean piano and Bradford McGhee plucks a happy tune.  The result is a special evening of musical theater!  This is an absolutely must see!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

The Beck Center production of Lady Day at the Emerson Bar and Grill is a chance to see a falling star as it plummets to earth and is suddenly extinguished. It is a morality play of an immense talent whose life was cut short due to her self destructive behavior. A mixture of sad and delight it is an example of intimate theater at its best.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Attention! Attention! Ladies and gentlemen, the Beck Center proudly presents Ms. Nicole Sumlin, songstress and actress extraordinaire! Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill gives a glimpse of the late chanteuse Billie Holiday’s last days as a singer. It also offers a great chance for a vocalist with acting chops to entertain, move and impress an audience. Enter Sumlin, who, as Holiday, does just that.

To see a full review of this show see Cool Cleveland.

A MOON FOR THE MISBEGOTTEN @ ENSEMBLE THEATRE

Through March 30, 2019

 (216) 321-2930

Or www.ensemble-theatre.com

Bob Abelman

Most people can think of better ways to spend three hours than watching four-acts of Eugene O’Neill’s emotionally wrenching “A Moon for the Misbegotten.”  But those who attend Ensemble Theatre’s astounding production will be glad they chose none of them.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

THE NETHER @ DOBAMA THEATRE

Through March 31, 2019

(216) 932-3396

Or dobama.org

Bob Abelman

The prolonged, ear-splitting sound of cicadas during “Appropriate.” The spooky Civil War-era house with its creepy dead-eyed doll collection in “John.”  The political and profane provocation that is “Revolt. She Said. Revolt Again.”  Dobama Theatre seems to be daring an audience to attend its productions.  This is particularly so in its current staging of Jennifer Haley’s “The Nether.” 

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

“The Nether” is a thought-provoking, disturbing script which gets a fine production.  It is not for those who go to the theater to escape from the real world, but for those who wish to probe into ideas and are willing to look for the consequences of the decisions we make, whether they be in real life or a fantasy world.  

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

This is a dark play that deals in subject matter of the most horrendous nature. For those who enjoy roller coasters and scary movies you will be intrigued, especially by the numerous plot twists at the conclusion. If you are overly sensitive to the depicted subject matter you will probably leave prior to the end of the intermission-less ninety minutes which would be a mistake. See this show if you dare!

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Andrea Simakis

“The Nether” is a showcase of terrific performances and ideas worth exploring: We destroy the home we have, in the hopes of a better life online -- or off-world, à la Elon Musk’s plans to move to Mars -- at our peril. But like the Web that inspired it, it’s missing the warmth of a human touch.

To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

THE TOURING PRODUCTION OF "SCHOOL OF ROCK" @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE

Through March 24, 2019

(216) 241-6000

Or www.playhousesquare.org

Roy Berko

I didn’t find the touring production to be as dynamic as the Broadway show, but few patrons are going to leave not entertained. Come on, the stage is filled with talented kids, loaded with shticks and gimmicks, a dynamic score enfolded in an easily followed, yet obvious, story.  What’s not to like?

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop

With a book (script) by Julian Fellowes — yes, the one who gave us “Downton Abbey” — adapted from Mike White’s screenplay, the musical version of “School of Rock” succeeds where many a more ambitious show has failed. Like the protagonist himself, this musical just wants us to have a good time — clap a little and laugh a lot.

All would be for naught if the show had no worthy descendent of comedy king Jack Black. However, Marritt David Janes takes the reins and reigns supreme — an adept balancing act of ogre and teddy bear, not quite a Black impersonation, but clearly evoking his spirit while dancing and singing rather better.

Mark Horning

Once more the Connor Palace at Playhouse Square plays host to a blockbuster Broadway hit that pulls out all the stops. Be dazzled by the stage sets, costumes, dancing and music but especially the amazing talents of what is probably the world’s youngest rock band. Rock On!

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

School may be classified as “work” for children, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. School of Rock, now playing at Playhouse Square’s Connor Palace Theatre, offers a raucous musical treatise about how to have a blast in school, fool parents and teachers, and learn to be a hot rock star — at least if you have the right substitute teacher.

To read the full review go here
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN @ Blank Canvas Theatre

March 1-16, 2019

For tickets and directions go to http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com//

 
Roy Berko

 “Kiss of the Spider Woman” is a haunting musical drama which generally gets a fine performance. The stellar performances by Scott Esposito and Michael Snider is a master class in acting.  It is a production very well worth seeing!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.