POTUS

DOBAMA

October 4-November 3, 2024

boxoffice@dobama.org or 216-932-3396

Roy Berko

The night I saw the production a number of John Carroll students were in attendance as a class assignment.  They howled, laughed, shouted and applauded as their reality played out on the stage.  These young people got it!  This is the world which the present older generation has left them.  Oh, woe is me!   This is absolutely must-see theatre! 

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

Howard Gollop
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross

Sitting in the audience of Selina Fillinger’s raucous political farce “POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive,” on stage at Dobama Theatre in Cleveland Heights, is like being strapped into a roller coaster that has no brakes. It’s sharp, fast, and just when you think it’s peaked in outrageousness, it throws in another upside down loop. Fans of thrill rides will be tickled pink, but for those who prefer to stick closer to the ground, this ride might be a bit too daring.

To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

If you like to laugh and do not mind a barrage of naughty words and are paying attention to the current political climate (which is stormy at best) then you will love this show. It’s a fast moving romp of behind the scenes of the most powerful office in the world and what people have to deal with on a daily basis. Buy a ticket.

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

Chris Howey

When it comes to theatrical farce, we all draw our own lines. How ridiculous is too ridiculous? When does absurdity become overdone and become tiresome? And what is the point where vulgarity tips into juvenile indulgence?

You will have a chance to answer all those questions and more in the excellent Dobama Theatre production of Selina Fillinger's POTUS or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive. This all-female creation (playwright, director, and entire cast) goes over the top in so many ways you may develop acrophobia by the final curtain.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi
Selina Fillinger’s POTUS, or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Sever Women Trying to Keep Him Alive, produced at Dobama Theatre (Nathan Motta, Artistic Director) under the direction of Carrie Williams, is exuberant, fast-paced, outrageous, and poignant.  Incorporating several past US Presidents’ traits, decisions, and scandals, POTUS peels off all the façade and “decorum” of the White House despite their staff’s attempt to keep the “walls of the appearance” intact.  Consisting of a series of short vignettes, the work evokes the feelings of a TV sitcom, introducing different locations—within the White House—and underscoring comedic and physical interactions among the characters.
To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Joey Morona
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.

 

Cabaret The Musical @ Weathervane Playhouse

Through October 20, 2024

www.weathervaneplayhouse.com

(330) 836-2626

 

Roy Berko
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

Do not (like I did) put off making the short trip to Akron to visit Weathervane Playhouse. This show features a superb cast, great orchestra, ingenious stage set and superb lighting and sound. Forget the movie and see how the original darker story plays out. Buy a ticket!

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

Chris Howey
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Joey Morona
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.

 

THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL A BEAUTIFUL NOISE

A BEAUTIFUL NOISE

October 8-27, 2024

216-241-6000 or www.playhousesquare.org

 

Roy Berko

This is not a great musical.  It won’t ever be compared to GYPSY, WEST SIDE STORY or even, RAGTIME but for Neil Diamond fanatics, or for those who love his music, it will more than be a pleasing experience.  The music is fine, the dancing is dynamic and the concert-level staging is enveloping.  It’s worth a sit-through.

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

Howard Gollop

Were Diamond's divorces, contract deputes, emotional repression and reconciliations of guilt LESS compelling than the life of fellow Brooklynite '60s pop superstar Carole King, the subject of the much better jukebox musical "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical?"

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

In spite of all the pitfalls (more than usual for an opening night) this show is well worth seeing. Whether you are a Diamond fan or not you will find an entertaining story coupled with extremely well produced musical numbers. So Good...So Good...So Good!

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

Chris Howey
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Yes, another Jukebox musical, this time one based on Neil Diamond’s life (loosely) and the music (front and center).

The Neil Diamond Musical: A Beautiful Noise at Playhouse Square’s Connor Palace features over two dozen fully staged songs by Diamond, the Grammy award-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Fame star who has sold at least 120 million albums and appeared in concerts all over the world.

Probably not too surprisingly, his personal story seems a bit sadder, but that always seems to be the case — maybe it’s easier to see him as a man in love with performing. 

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

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Joey Morona

If anyone was born to play Neil Diamond, it’s Nick Fradiani.

To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.

 

POTUS (OR BEHIND EVERY GREAT DUMBASS ARE SEVEN WOMEN TRYING TO KEEP HIM ALIVE

Dobama

October 4-27, 2024

www.dobama.org OR 216 -932-3396

 

Roy Berko
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

This all-female creation (playwright, director, and entire cast) goes over the top in so many ways you may develop acrophobia by the final curtain. Until then, you will be immersed in creative vulgarity and dagger-like wit wielded by the entire 7-person cast. As for the script, it includes massive doses of the f-word, the b-word, the c-word and any other nasty word with an alphabet letter in front of it. 

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

Selina Fillinger’s POTUS, or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Sever Women Trying to Keep Him Alive, produced at Dobama Theatre (Nathan Motta, Artistic Director) under the direction of Carrie Williams, is exuberant, fast-paced, outrageous, and poignant.  Incorporating several past US Presidents’ traits, decisions, and scandals, POTUS peels off all the façade and “decorum” of the White House despite their staff’s attempt to keep the “walls of the appearance” intact.  Consisting of a series of short vignettes, the work evokes the feelings of a TV sitcom, introducing different locations—within the White House—and underscoring comedic and physical interactions among the characters.

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Joey Morona
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.

 

A Midsummer Night's Dream @ Great Lakes Theater

Through October 27, 2024

www.greatlakestheater.org

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

GLT’S A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM will delight those who enjoy unbridled farce and mod language, while Shakespeare purists will rue the day they saw this “reimagined,” Bard-light edition.  Me?  I started out on the side of the purist’s and ended up an advocate of the modernists.  Go…see…enjoy (maybe!)

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

Howard Gollop

Of course it's hard to say where occasional innocent modern vernacular clarity becomes dramaturgy desecration. Apparently the former is the intent of a new nation-wide enterprise called Play on Shakespeare, which produces Bard-lite entries in live theater and podcast form. The result of the latter in Great Lakes collaboration may be due to the careless abandon of Sara Bruner, tagged to become Great Lakes Theater's new artistic director. Under her direction, there doesn't seem to be any stroke too broad, mugging too sustained or character-audience interaction too intrusive that would compel her to take a breath and ask her cast, "You think this is a bit much?"

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Mark Horning

This is truly not your parent’s (or for that matter your grandparent’s) Shakespeare. This is a madcap comic farce of the highest degree that will have you rolling in the aisles. Pay close attention to all the little “modern” references and nuances. Well worth the ticket...go see this work.

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

Chris Howey

There is plenty of laughter generated in this new Dream. Genuine, hearty belly laughs. But they aren't laughing at the gentle (and sometimes not-so-gentle) wit of Shakespeare and his verbal constructions which, while daunting at times, can also please the mind and soul. They're laughing at actors beating each other with colorful pool noodles as they climb and romp on the jungle gym set and adopt various funny character voices, some borrowed from SNL, to squeeze just one more easy cackle from the patrons.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Director Sara Bruner and her excellent accomplices (cast and crew all) wove soap opera (love/hate relationships) with comic farce (adventures in the woods) to create a refreshing romp into a world that never was.

Great Lakes chose a new take on Shakespeare’s classic, this one translated by Jeff Whitty (who wrote Avenue Q). Whitty’s version neither mangles the original nor turns it into a word circus. The result? Raucous laughs.

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

Dr.Yuko Kurahashi

Directed by Great Lakes Theater’s new artistic director, Sara Bruner, the production uses the modern translation/adaptation done by Jeff Whitty in partnership with Play on Shakespeare, adapting Shakespeare’s work so that the audience can better understand the language “with so many bubbles” and the characters’ confusing relationships.

To see a full review of this, go to Yuko's Playshakespeare site here

Les Misérables @ Huntington Bank Featured Performance

Through September 22, 2024

www.playhousewquare.org

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

LES MIZ!  It is still captivating and is a major piece of the musical theater tapestry which gets an excellent production.  If you haven’t seen it before or need a refresher, get to Playhouse Square and get “A Heart Full of Love.”

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

Howard Gollop

As the latest national tour proves, the Broadway classic works just as well with a traditional sets by Matt Kinley, still lavish by national tour standards. This "Les Miz" is still at once melodramatic and divinely inspiring -- qualities that beckon to be captured musically.

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Chris Howey

Again? Certainly. As the Thénardiers sing in their concluding bleat "Beggars at the Feast:" "Life is easy pickings/If you grab your chance."

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Purlie Victorious @ Karamu House

Through October 20, 2024

www.karamuhouse.org 

(216) 795-7077

Roy Berko

The cast, headed by Dyrell Barnett, as Purlie, gives full-effort and has some fine moments.  Treva Offutt directs. If you are interested in seeing a slice of Black Americana, and want to back the continued efforts of Karamu, the country’s oldest Black theatre, go see PURLIE VICTORIOUS!

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

Mark Horning
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey 

Both hilarious and pungent, the energy in this 1961 script written by the renowned actor Ossie Davis never flags since the excellent Karamu cast, under the direction of Treva Offutt, pays attention to every jot and tittle of Davis's words and intent.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

Into The Woods @ Great Lakes Theater

Through November 10, 2024

http://www.greatlakestheater.org

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

INTO THE WOOD is a well-conceived script, which gets a fine GLT production!  There has been, and will be many presentations of this musical, but few will match this one!  Go…enjoy musical theatre at its finest!

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

Mark Horning

If you are a fan of Stephen Sondheim then you will probably flock to this show and love every minute of it. Good for you. As for me there is not enough aspirin in the world that could get me back to see this show in any form but that is just me. The audience loved it and you will probably love it also. 

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

Howard Gollop

Director Victoria Bussert charges though the dark proceedings with clarity and style. With the craftsmanship of choreographer Jaclyn Miller and musical director Matthew Webb, the able ensemble moves assuredly through production numbers and pathos with equal alacrity. It's an engaging forest of light and dark undertones that beckon the willing audience to get lost into.

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Chris Howey

This Great Lakes Theater production of the much-loved Stephen Sondheim musical bristles with invigorating movement and features a raft of fine singing voices. And aside from a couple wrinkles, it is a richly involving treat.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Stephen Sondheim’s classic Into the Woods, now at the Playhouse Square’s Hanna Theater, offers a blissful, exuberant, dangerous — and deliciously musical — expedition into the forest.

As director Victoria Bussert pointed out in the program notes, “Be careful what you wish for, you may get it.” And that’s what Into the Woods’ two full acts are all about. It’s an enchanting production shining with exceptional performances.

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

Kate Klotzbach

Busser's direction is quick-paced and well-timed, making this production a whimsical whirlwind well worth entering Into the Woods for.

To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

Into the Woods is not a typical happy musical. During the “natural disaster,” three mothers die, leaving Little Riding Hood, Jack, and the baby motherless. Two adolescents may be under the parental guidance of the Baker and Cinderella for several years. The third mother, the witch, is left “childless” as the Giant’s Wife kills Rapunzel. The multiple deaths, along with philosophical quests in the story, transform this musical into a social parable, offering the possibility of multiple interpretations about humans, their relationships, and the environment.  Underneath the vivacious, colorful, cheerful presentation, The Great Lakes Theater production of Into the Woods compelling maintains Sondheim and Lapine’s revisional work, which came out of an intellectual and aesthetically challenging twist on the traditional fairytales.

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Ludlow Fair and The Madness of Lady Bright @ Cesear's Forum

Through October 26, 2024

www.playhousesquare.org

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

Cesear’s Forum is staging two short plays by Lanford Wilson—Ludlow Fair (1965) and The Madness of Lady Bright (1964), co-directed by Greg Cesear and Tricia Bestic. Attending two of Wilson’s earliest plays offers me the opportunity to contemplate what these two American plays of the Absurd might mean to contemporary audiences.  As a theatre historian, I naturally try to put them in the social and cultural context of its creation period.
To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Joey Morona
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.

 

The Sunshine Boys @ Beck Center For The Arts

Through October 6, 2024

http://www.beckcenter.org 

(216) 521-2540

 

Roy Berko

It is enjoyable when a theatre reprises a Neil Simon comedy.  THE SUNSHINE BOYS, because of the requirement of enacting the classic comic routine is probably the most difficult Simon play to stage well.  The cast and crew give full effort, but don’t completely hit the bullseye!

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

Howard Gollop

Alan Safier and Rohn Thomas bring to life potentially cardboard characters conceived in Simon's amusing but un-nuanced style. All the pathos as well as all the one-liners emerge sharp, fresh and -- like Cheri Prough DeVol's deteriorating residential-hotel set -- convincing. The rest of the cast -- particularly Doug Sutherland as the beleaguered nephew and Joyce Bell Linzy as the wisecracking geriatric nurse -- complete an exceptional cast. The production is not only a nostalgic nod to Vaudeville, but a nostalgic validation of Neil Simon as a onetime mainstay of Broadway and regional theater.

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Chris Howey

The Sunshine Boys is a slight and thinly amusing diversion if you don't ask too much from your comedy offerings. Kind of like a sitcom you've seen five (or 25) times before.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Is getting old and cranky funny? Neil Simon’s The Sunshine Boys (1972), now at the Senney Theater at the Beck Center for the Arts, suggests it is possible — even unavoidable if one is wise — to see it that way.

Under the direction of William Roudebush, Simon’s light-hearted drama (with a serious side) centers around a comic vaudeville duo whose heyday was in the 1920s and 1930s. But now it’s 1972. Nothing is funny anymore. The duo (once famous as “Lewis & Clark) split after a fight. But it doesn’t matter since no one books either one anymore.

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

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

Since I have not had a chance to see Neil Simon’s works recently, attending the Beck Center of the Arts production of The Sunshine Boys, directed by William Roudebush, was such an informative, educational, and historically reflexive experience. This work definitely stands as a period piece that allows the audience to enjoy the show while critically assessing the chauvinistic nature of vaudeville.

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Pride and Prejudice @ Cleveland Play House

Through September 29, 2024

https://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/ 

(216) 241-6000

 

Howard Gollop
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross

Autumn in Cleveland; the weather is, of course, unpredictable, but the evenings are crisp with a hint of sweetness in the air that makes you want to curl up with a good book…or maybe even head to the Cleveland Play House to watch love bloom in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” Do it! But forget just about everything you think you know about this classic tale; this ain’t your Bubbie’s “Pride and Prejudice.” 

To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Chris Howey

P&P is given a comical gloss and feverish energy that makes this CPH production light, airy and damn funny. 

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, now at the Cleveland Play House, tries to have fun with the “game of love.” To some extent, director Michael Barakiva and his versatile cast of eight succeeded last Friday night, but at times the effort of creating a farce and simultaneously replicating Austen’s 1813 novel overwhelmed them.

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

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

Everything is over the top, from the scenery to the costume, magnifying the world Austen sensitively but poignantly criticizes. In Austen’s novel, the character flaws—especially those of male characters, including Mr. Darcy—are often pardoned and even celebrated in the narrative dictated by Elizabeth Bennet’s point of view. This adaptation underscores the “flaws” of the people who try to compromise with the flaws of themselves and their partners.  

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here. 

A View From The Bridge @ Cain Park

Through September 15, 2024

www.cainpark.com

(216) 371-3000

 

Roy Berko

 A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE is a powerful and meaningful play that gets a fine production.  This is an absolutely must-see for any serious theater-aficionado.

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

Mark Horning

The one touch stone of an Arthur Miller play is it deals with stark and depressing subject matter. Fans of his work will not be disappointed in this production. The action builds slowly to its predictable climax as the cast sweeps you along.

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

Chris Howey

If you like your drama served up rich, complex and piping-hot, look no further than Arthur Miller's A View From the Bridge, now at Cain Park's Alma Theatre.

  To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

The Crucible @ Blank Canvas Theatre

Through September 14, 2024

www.blankcanvastheater.com 

(440) 941-0458

 Sheri Gross

Arthur Miller's riveting play “The Crucible” is one of the masterpieces of American theater, but its brilliance goes beyond the gripping narrative or its stark portrayal of historical events. What makes “The Crucible” truly thought-provoking is its exploration of the human condition—how fear, power, and integrity collide when societal pressures become too much to bear. 

To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

Arts Stories & Interviews

Blank Canvas Theatre's Production of 'The Crucible' is as Relevant Today as It Was in 1953

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Joey Morona
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.

 

Come From Away @ Playhouse Square

Through August 18, 2024

https://www.playhousesquare.org

(216) 241-6000

Howard Gollop

The show is a lot smarter than at first perceived. Punctuated with musical tapestry of folk styles, from country to Celtic, another tapestry of Newfoundland locals and confused sudden visitors come together. In all shapes, sizes and colors, portrayed with razor-sharp alacrity by a dozen marvelous performers, they weave through a bewildering, horrific and ultimately life-affirming four-day detour.

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Mark Horning

Out of an unspeakable tragedy was born a musical that focuses on the basic good that is found with most people. This is a show that will leave you with a feeling of hope. While it is here for just a short while I would get your tickets now as it is sure to be a sellout.

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

Chris Howey

The 12-person ensemble cast, diverse in all aspects, is in fine form under the direction of Christopher Ashley. Their ultra-precise group singing and movements are sharp as they each switch roles in a blink, from townspeople to stranded passengers and crew members.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

It’s been five years since the touring production of Come From Away awed Playhouse Square audiences. On Tuesday night, opening night for a short run at Connor Palace, it did it again.

The touching (sometimes funny) musical uses a multi-faceted cast to tell the story about what happened to thousands of passengers stranded in Canada when United States air traffic shut down after the 9/11 attacks.

And yes, the cast is as impressive as ever (and even more inclusive). It’s clearly a team effort. Everyone is listed in the program as a specific character they are playing, but they all also play “others” so not only are plane passengers seen, so are townspeople.

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

Kate Klotzbach

COME FROM AWAY (CFA) may be as close to the “perfect show” as I’ve seen.

To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

 

SPEECH AND DEBATE

SPEECH AND DEBATE

convergence-continuum

Through August 24, 2024

www.convergence-continuum.org

 

Roy Berko

SPEECH AND DEBATE is a well-conceived and written play that gets a very creditable production at con-con.

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

Chris Howey

The production under the direction of Léo Fez feels rushed, and the bulldozed pacing results in scenes that are incomplete. This happens since the feelings of the characters seem unearned, and that leaves the audience in the lurch.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

The Prom @ Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Through August 10, 2024

www.cvlt.org

(440) 247-8955

 

Roy Berko

THE PROM is an old-fashioned musical which tells a contemporary tale with a moral and gets a good community theatre staging at CVLT, It is worth seeing.

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

Mark Horning

Let’s face it folks! For the most part we are still dealing with the same issues that we dealt with in high school. We all long for attention and to belong to “the right group” and this superb show gives us some guidelines on how to adapt, include and enjoy each other. Buy a ticket and see this show. Rah! Rah!

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

Othello @ Ohio Shakespeare Festival

Through August 18, 2024

www.ohioshakespearefestival.com

(888) 718-4253 opt. 1

King Lear @ Cleveland Shakespeare Festival

Through August 4, 2024

https://www.clevelandshakespeare.org/

 

Chris Howey

All... is performed with admirable energy and invention under the direction of Rachel Gold, who also choreographs some borderline believable swordfights. 

 

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.
 o review yet.

 

Annie @ Porthouse Theatre

Through August 4, 2024

http://www.porthousetheatre.com

(330) 929-4416 or (330) 672-3884

Roy Berko

There is no “Maybe” about it, since “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without Smile,” get down to Porthouse theatre, today, not “Tomorrow” to see the “Little Girls” [and the rest of cast] of ANNIE, do their thing!

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

Chris Howey

This well-known musical is buoyed by Charles Strouse's catchy music and the witty lyrics by Martin Charnin, so it has a lot going for it from the jump. And in the Annie now at the Porthouse Theatre, Annie and everyone else hit their marks, turning in a thoroughly entertaining iteration of this popular (yes, damn near overdone) musical. 

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

The Porthouse production of Annie, the last show of its 2024 season, is truly joyous, moving, and energetic. It gives hope to people living in a precarious, unstable, and grim world.  It is not necessarily because of the famous song “Tomorrow” or its happy ending that celebrates Annie’s bright future as an adopted daughter of Mr. Warbucks. Rather, it is attributed to how director Terri Kent put together different elements—historical, narrative, and aesthetic—using music and storytelling power to change people’s attitude toward challenges and hardships.

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Groundhog Day @ Blank Canvas

Through August 3, 2024

http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com/

(440) 941-0458

Mark Horning

Needless to say, in spite of my words, this show will fill the seats for its last few performances. While not a bad show by any means it could use a bit of tweaking here and there to speed things along. 

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

Chris Howey

Under the direction of Joanna May Cullinan the flawed play manages to stay on its feet and deliver some tender and reflective moments in Act Two, following the amusements revolving around a repeated day that take place in an overlong first act.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.
  

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

OHIO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

JULY 4-21, 2024

1-888-718-4253 OPT. 1 or ohioshakespearefestival.com

 

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

The Ohio Shakespeare Festival is a true ensemble theatre that values continuity, music, festivity, celebration, and camaraderie. Their greenshow, performed by the ensemble in the show, entertains the audience as they enter the seating area after their picnic.  Many of the ensemble members are musicians; their instruments include guitars (bass and alto), flute, djembe drum, hurdy-gurdy, ukulele, mandolin, fiddle, and tambourine. The greenshow songs, composed by Scott McKenna Campbell and led by Evan Wilhelms, poignantly critique a lack of women’s voices in Shakespeare’s work. The end of their greenshow on stage serves as the first scene of Much Ado About Nothing where—in this particular production’s interpretation— the household of Leonata passes the time, singing “Sigh no more ladies,” originally placed in Act II, sc. 3. 

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here. 

MJ The Musical

MJ The Musical

Key Bank State Theatre

July 16-August 11, 2024

216-241-6000 or playhousesquare.com

 

Roy Berko

MJ, the Juke Box musical, puts a spotlight on a segment of mega star Michael Jackson’s career and conflicted life.  The show gets a powerful production featuring exciting electronic graphics, dynamic musical arrangements, superb choreography, some strong performances and exciting choral work and dancing, encased in an acceptable story.

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

Howard Gollop

The hallmark of this production ultimately rests -- and rests well -- on recreations of Jackson's over-the-top performances and stage production. This includes the sheer talent of Jackson with his brothers during his Motown Jackson 5 days and especially his frenetic signature dancing, brilliantly recreated and enhanced by choreographer and director Christopher Wheeldon, made even more illustrious with sets by Derek McLane, lights by Natasha Katz and iconic costumes by Paul Tazewell. By the time we get to Jackson's iconic "Thriller," the screaming audience members seem oblivious they are watching a facsimile.

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross

Let’s start by saying, “wow.” The energy at Playhouse Square’s KeyBank State Theatre was palpable from the moment we heard the words “five minutes to Michael” until the well-deserved standing ovation that erupted before the final moments of “MJ the Musical,” came to a close.

To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

Let me wax poetic for a while...THIS IS PROBABLY ONE OF THE BEST SHOWS TO HIT CLEVELAND EVER! I hope I have not understated this. It has it all...music, dancing, acting, videos and quite a few surprises thrown in. Buy a ticket and see this show. That is all.

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

Chris Howey

For those who love Michael, his moves and his music, this show is a feast of more than 40 songs played fully or in part. And the special effect that ends the show is an oldie but goodie that launch as the audience to its feet. This is one show where the standing ovations are richly earned and deserved."

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Kate Klotzbach

MJ the Musical puts the ‘human’ reality of Michael Jackson in front of the commercial version of this musical giant in the national tour now at Playhouse Square. Playing now through August 11 as part of the KeyBank Broadway Series, this 2.5-hour jukebox musical has both the magic of Michael and some of the truth about what life is like behind the scenes

To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Joey Morona

Michael Jackson musical is an absolute thriller at Playhouse Square.

To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.

 

BEAUTIFUL, The Carole King Musical

BEAUTIFUL, The Carole King Musical

July 12-August 11, 2024

216-521-2540 or beckcenter.org

 

Roy Berko

BEAUTIFUL, THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL, though there were some acting and choreographic stumbles, and the script is more soap-opera than quality musical writing, gets an audience pleasing production at Beck.  The music is wonderful. The cast sings with gusto. There is lots of dancing. It is well-worth a look-see!

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

Howard Gollop

Despite a spectacular multifunctional Broadway-calibre set by Cheri Prough DeVol -- at once a TV soundstage, music studio and living spaces, reflecting fetching midcentury aesthetics -- the show's inherent demand for the kind of musical talent to convince the audience they are seeing iconic musical legends remains unfulfilled, despite convincing R&B choreography by Lauren Tidmore Marousek. Fortunately, matters of choreography are replaced by piano-playing and soulful singing verisimilitude  of the titular character as she achieves such milestone albums as 1971's "Tapestry." In this realm, Beck Center and its star Elsie Carlisle are nothing short of "Kingly."

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross

There are only a few more opportunities to catch “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” at Beck Center – a show that shines the spotlight on King’s journey to stardom, the ups and downs of her marriage and partnership with Goffin, ultimately leading her to move across the country to create her breakout album, “Tapestry,” helping to shatter the ceiling for women who sing their own songs.

To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

While short on story and drama, in the end, the sold out audience was on its feet for the last two numbers “Beautiful” and “I Feel The Earth Move Under My Feet” and everyone left “...with a smile on their face.” and you will to. Snatch up a ticket before they are all gone!

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

Chris Howey

While it leaves the audience waiting for the full King experience until late in the play, the build-up provides a look into her life's tapestry.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

The musical reflects the album Tapestry, the marker that King found her voice, rights, value, priority, and independence after her divorce from Gerry Goffin and her relocation, with her two daughters, to Los Angeles. Elsie Carlisle plays Carole King with her amazing musical talent. A classically trained pianist—just like Carole King—Carlisle mesmerizes the audience by inviting them to a world where the beauty of the chords, melodies, and lyrics flow out of her elegance, sweetness, and humanity. Strong performers, including Mikhail Roberts, Reese Henrick, Chris Richards, Susan Stein, and Jordan Potter, play the people who are instrumental in King's growth and success.

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Hype Man @ Cain Park

Through July 21, 2024

www.cainpark.com 

(216) 371-3000

 

Mark Horning

There are times when theatrical works go beyond the scope of their subject matter. Yes, this is a show about rap artists and hip-hop but it is also a show about principles and the cost of doing the right thing. You will find three actors giving authentic portrayals that will have you jammin’ to the beats. It is all in the words. 

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