Walking To Buchenwald @ Convergence-Continuum

Through June 24, 2023

https://convergence-continuum.org

(216) 687-0074

 

Roy Berko

Every once in a while a director and actors shine, while the script they are working with doesn’t really deserve to garner the quality.  This is the case of WALKING TO BUCHENWALD, the Tom Jacobson play now on stage at convergence-continuum.

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

Mark Horning

With a little bit of tightening up this could be an extremely funny and moving show except for the ending that just goes phiff as the cast suddenly goes meandering off to Buchenwald following a dramatic medical situation. 

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

Chris Howey

In Walking to Buchenwald, now at Convergence-Continuum theater, the innovative playwright Tom Jacobson attempts to achieve the kind of lift-off provided by such contrasting tones. (He has done similar kinds of tricks in other works, and Con-Con did one full justice 14 years ago with his time-twisting play Ouroboros.) But in this instance, due to a volley of pedestrian jokes and some weak writing decisions, a script that starts out playing it all for laughs later turns into a mystifying slog.

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

DOUBT: A parable @ Beck Center

 

DOUBT:  A PARABLE

Beck Center for the Arts

May 26-June 25, 2023

https://www.beckcenter.org

Roy Berko

What a joy to attend a theatrical production which is based on a well-selected, thought-provoking script, that gets the highest quality of directing, acting and technical aspects.  There is no doubt that this is one of the best local theatrical experiences of this or any season!  Bravo!!!

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

Director Carrier keeps the proceedings intense, but also finds the humor in this battle of wits and morals that eludes an easy conclusion. 

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.

THE LIGHT @ Ensemble

THE LIGHT

   Ensemble Theatre 

May 26-June 11, 2023

216-321-2930 or www.ensembletheatrecle.org

Roy Berko

Every once in a while a theater-goer is blessed with an emotional and logical experience that lives for a long time in their being.  Such is THE LIGHT, Loy A. Webb’s searing must-see play that is having its Cleveland area premiere at Ensemble Theater.

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

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

Mark Horning

This is one of those rare theatrical treats that is known as “a complete play” that takes the theater goer on a wild and rambunctious ride while at the same time teaching us a much deeper lesson then we expected to see. Damn! You really must see this play!

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.

DEAR EVAN HANSEN (Huntington Featured Performance)

Connor Palace

May 16-21, 2023

playhousesquare.org, 216-241-6000

Roy Berko

“DEAR EVAN HANSEN” is a mesmerizing evening of contemporary musical theater.  Complete with pop-contemporary music sounds, staged with narrative story-telling tunes, and a relevant story line, it is one of the finest examples of the new wave of musical dramas.  Don’t go expecting show-stoppers and an escapist plot.  This is life as it is being lived, with all its angst and issues.  The touring production, with choreography by Danny Mefford and direction by Michael Greif, is standing ovation worthy and is an absolutely must see!!  

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

Howard Gollop

If you missed the poorly attended but acclaimed 2021 film version, you might think you know what the 2016 Broadway hit “Dear Evan Hansen” is about before entering the Connor Palace on Playhouse Square — perhaps some sort of staged Hallmark movie of the week about a teen loner who finds popularity by “just being himself."

But as the plot unfolds and the emotional music commences, it turns out you didn’t know “Dear Evan Hansen” at all, nor how wonderfully the show evolves into a transformative emotional experience. Nor how the show improves with age as it makes its return engagement to Playhouse Square with a cast that may very well rival the Broadway original led by Ben Platt (judging from videoed segments from the original production).

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

Mark Horning

This is a show designed for parents and teenage children alike. It is a production that will open up dialogues between families as the show is totally relatable to everyone. An excellent story line, hard hitting subject matter, great acting, great visuals and great music combine to make this must see theater. Buy the tickets and bring the teens!

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

Chris Howey

"The intriguing story is fully supported by a melodic, often powerful score and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. And it misses the trap of falling into maudlin sentimentality since the book by Steven Levenson has enough snark to keep it all from becoming a trite after-school special."

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

Moriarty @ Cleveland Play House

Through May 21, 2023

https://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/ 

(216) 241-6000.

 

Roy Berko

I wish I could say that the relationship of positive productions by CPH, Ludwig and Sherlock Holmes continue with their latest co-adventure.  Unfortunately, I can’t.  KEN LUDWIG’S MORIARTY: A NEW SHERLOCK HOLMES ADVENTURE is short on clever writing, adventure, humor, pace and enjoyment.  Too bad!

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

Howard Gollop

Proven Broadway comedy playwright Ken Ludwig ("Lend Me a Tenor" and "Moon Over Buffalo") and a serviceable professional cast manage to get across a fair amount of disparate plot points from the pages of various books by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle -- all to the satisfaction of Cleveland Play House audience members sitting contentedly before this new Sherlock Holmes concoction. But one thing's of no mystery: There's nothing new about "Moriarty: A New Sherlock Holmes Adventure."

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

This show has it all! Danger, laughter, mystery, intrigue, a “dog” and even romance are found around every corner (including lots of slamming doors). To fans of the Sherlock Holmes collection of stories you will be delighted with the surprise ending. With limited seating in the Allen Theatre you would be advised to order your tickets early as this show guarantees to be a sellout. Buy your tickets now! 

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

Chris Howey

Ken Ludwig's Moriarty: A New Sherlock Holmes Adventure is neither New (in terms of the humor being offered), nor is it much of an Adventure. It has the comedy profile of a dated episode of "The Love Boat" combined with the riveting suspense of "Scooby-Doo." It employs so many tired jokes and well-worn tropes, the low-energy script generates sighs rather than guffaws. 

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

Ain't Misbehavin @ Great Lakes Theatre

Through May 21, 2023

https://www.greatlakestheater.org/

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

If you love, even like jazz and want to swing back into the long-gone era or the Harlem Renaissance this is a show for you!

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

Howard Gollop

Great music never goes out of style; likewise a show all about that great music.And when the music is by Fats Waller -- one of the leading songwriters and jazz icons of the 1920s,'30s and '40s (with a variety of celebrated lyricists) -- you can't wrong. But in the case of Great Lakes Theater's "Ain's Misbehavin," there's a lot talent that makes it extra right.

Since the show opened on Broadway nearly 45 years ago, the 1930's-'40s nostalgia craze that helped propel its popularity may have waned, but it magically returns for a few hours at the Hanna Theatre. That's when the singing-dancing dynamos Tyrick Wiltez Jones, Jessie Cope Miller, William Knowles (as the Fats Waller character), Britney Mack and David Robbins embrace the art-deco emblazoned thrust-stage (designed by Stanley Meyer and lit by Trad A. Burns) with the titular opening number, and the mood never swings anywhere but up.

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

Has April showers put you in a funk? Break out of it with the joyful noise of a show that will have you out of those doldrums in a hurry. This fast moving collection of beloved classics will have you smiling all the way home. This show cannot not help but give you anything but love. Definitely check this one out! 

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

Chris Howey

Ain't Misbehavin' is a five-person tribute to Fats, featuring songs composed and/or performed by Waller, and it's been produced by countless theaters over the past 45 years. In this iteration at the Great Lakes Theater, a talented Black cast under the direction and choreography of Gerry McIntyre give it their all and the result is mixed.
To see a full review of thi

s 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

If you’re looking for an exciting evening with great music and dynamo performers, Great Lakes Theater’s “Ain’t Misbehavin’” is the musical sunshine you need during this gray May in Cleveland. 

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

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

 

Head Over Heels @ Near West Theatre

Through May 7, 2023

https://www.nearwesttheatre.org/ 

(216) 961-6391

WORTH NOTING: 

In order to bring attention to local productions of merit at theaters that are not on the Cleveland Critics Circle’s approved Equity Theater list, members of the Circle who attend a community or educational theater production that is perceived as of high quality will have the option of listing that production on the CCC blogsite.  This review falls into that category.

Howard Gollop

Near West Theatre's energetic non-professional cast of varying abilities could easily leave this musical mashup a mess, were it not for the slick professionalism and creativity of director Trinidad Snider and choreographer Kristy Cruz, plus the rocking musical direction of Jordan Cooper. Even audience members who may not be in sync with the show's politics succumb easily to the new-wave beat of the Go-Go's.

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

Mark Horning

This frothy and exuberant musical is a perfect way to spend an evening at the theater. The much better than usual singing talent combined with well thought out dance numbers and easily remembered flashes from the 80s music scene will delight. They Got The Beat.

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

Can I Touch It? @ Cleveland Public Theatre

Through May 13, 2023

https://www.cptonline.org/

    (216) 631-2727 x501     

 Roy Berko

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

Mark Horning

I would never wish to be someone who would discourage anyone from going to the theater but I had a lot of issues with this performance. Judging by the polite applause at the end I feel that most were in agreement with me. Buy a ticket, check it out and discuss among yourselves the pros and cons of this show.

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.

THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

TINA

KEYBANK BROADWAY SERIES

April 25-May 14, 2023

216-241-6000 or www.playhousesquare.org

 

Roy Berko

If you love the music of Tina Turner…you will love THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL.  If you don’t know her music…you will love THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL.  If you don’t like musical theatre…you will love THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL.  Get the idea…you will love the TINA TURNER MUSICAL.

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

Howard Gollop

Unlike most celeb bios where the first act marks a rise to the top, only to be undone with the pitfalls of fame in the second act, "Tina" does the opposite. After a foreboding first act, "Tina" brings the heroine to a triumphant musical finale that's just as extravagant but far more dramatically resonant than any Vegas look-alike revue..

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

Judging by the unanimously joyful reaction to the show by the packed house on opening night this is a great show to see (especially if you are a Tina fan). There are loads of sing-along moments and a poignancy that elicited strong verbal reactions from the crowd. It is a joyful celebration of a diva’s life. Shake a tailfeather and see this show. 

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

Chris Howey

TINA is a genuine treat and leaves the audience drenched in Tina Turner's remarkable life and status as a rock icon. Ultimately, this show wants to take you higher, and it certainly does.

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

Laura Kennelly

Tina Turner’s road to fame was not all roses and rainbows, but it was fueled by her grit and blessed with music’s power.

That is the gist of Tina: The Tina Turner Musical now playing at the Connor Palace Theatre as part of Playhouse Square’s KeyBank Broadway Series. This jukebox musical offers an engaging mix of biography and song about one of rock’s biggest divas, Miss Tina Turner.

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

Joey Morona

If, by the end of “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical,” you don’t fall in love with the legendary singer and the actress playing her on stage, head straight to the emergency room. You might not have a pulse.

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

 

THE BUBBLY BLACK GIRL SHEDS HER CHAMELEON SKIN @ Karamu

THE BUBBLY BLACK GIRL SHEDS HER CHAMELEON SKIN

KARAMU

APRIL 21-MAY 14, 2023

kamamuhouse.org

 

Roy Berko

No, it’s not a production better than Broadway, but THE BUBBLY BLACK GIRL SHEDS HER CHAMELEON SKIN gets a very creditable production and continues the role of Karamu in presenting Black-themed shows to its appreciative and enthusiastic audiences.

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

Sheri Gross

In spite of some uneven vocal performances, Kirsten Child’s “The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin” feels like a grown up sandbox and a perfect place for some important self discovery. 

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

Mark Horning

This coming of age story of a young black girl discovering her true self is an inspiring tale that young Black youngsters should be exposed to. They and their parents will be able to relate to the nuances of chasing one’s dreams and finding one’s own identity. This is well worth the effort to go see.

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

Chris Howey

The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin earns its long title thanks to a talented cast, most of whom shoulder multiple parts and flourish in playwright Kirsten Childs' word and music playground. The dazzlingly inventive and precisely detailed direction by Nina Domingue helps the almost two-hour one act to fly by, leaving many in the audience (at least this one) wanting more.

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

WHAT WE LOOK LIKE @ Dobama

WHAT WE LOOK LIKE

Dobama Theatre

APRIL 21-MAY 14, 2023

216-932-3396 or www.dobama.org

Roy Berko

Often with plays of new playwrights, over-complicated plots, over-done premises, and the need for extensive cutting waters down the effect of the premise.  This is the case with WHAT WE LOOK LIKE.  The Dobama staging, under the direction of Darius J. Stubbs, does an adequate job of creating as good a production as possible with the often unfocused and overly-long script.

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

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

Mark Horning

First off, this show is very believable. Reactions from the mixed audience attested to that fact. While some parts are extremely funny and approaching poignant it is a show trying to do too much with too much time on its hands. A bit of sanding down, editing of redundant scenes and toning down on the emotions would make this a much better vehicle...but it is still worth seeing.

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

Chris Howey

It would be accurate to say that What We Look Like is not a bad play. But it is a play that doesn't realize how good it would be if it were edited with vigor and staged with more verve.

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.

Becoming Dr. Ruth @ Cleveland Play House

Through April 23, 2023

https://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/ 

(216) 241-6000.

Roy Berko

If you only go to one theatrical production this year, make it BECOMING DR. RUTH!  Bravo!  Bravo!  Bravo!

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

Howard Gollop

A thrust stage (open to the audience on three sides) bedecked with sculptural piles of white boxes of various sizes, some adrift in mid-air, would hint of a rather surrealistic evening with the unlikely sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer.

But like the media sensation herself, "Becoming Dr. Ruth," the decade-old off-Broadway hit by Mark St. Germain, is a surprisingly pedestrian, accessible evening with a convivial grandmother -- who happens to be a Holocaust survivor, transported orphan not unlike "Annie," a sniper for the Israeli underground, a thrice-married swinger, a best-selling author and media personality primarily of the 1980s and '90s.

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

This show is nearly perfect in its presentation with Naomi Jacobson as Dr. Ruth. One minute you will find yourself laughing, the next minute crying. It is simply that great of a show. It is the purest art of entertainment that you will find on stage and is a delight to the mind and soul. Do not miss this show.

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

Chris Howey

In this one-woman play starring Naomi Jacobson, playwright Mark St. Germain employs a chronological structure for Dr. Ruth's life, throwing in flashbacks and flash-forwards along the way to delve into assorted nooks and crannies in her life. But the play doesn't linger very long on any of them. The result is a bit like reading a Wikipedia entry for 90 minutes—or rushing through a sexual liaison so you don't miss the cold open on Saturday Night Live.

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

Faith Healer @ None Too Fragile

Through April 22, 2023

                                                          https://www.nonetoofragile.com/ 

                                                                      (330) 962-5547

Chris Howey

None Too Fragile's take on Faith Healer may not be the definitive evocation of this play. But it is solid overall and features one performance that will be a keepsake for those who love the fragile, evanescent art of live theater.

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

Mark Horning

If you have any issues with depression or mental health I would suggest you sit this play out and stay home. It is depressing to the eighth degree as most Irish drama works are. If, however, you feel that you are suitably stable in mind and body to be able to absorb this litany of mental anguish you should avail yourself of this extraordinary example of pure Hibernian dramatization to witness some of the best acting to hit a local stage. I leave it up to you.

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

After The Blast @ Convergence-Contiuum

Through April 22, 2023

https://www.convergence-continuum.org/

(216) 687-0074

 

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

Kerry Clawson
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review 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

It is an intriguing story with a couple of interesting plot twists at the end, unfortunately the show takes the long road to get there. Fans of Con-Con will enjoy the excellent acting, well designed set and special effects and will probably not mind the long sit. Worth seeing, especially if you are a sci-fi fan.

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.

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

 

As You Like It @ Great Lakes Theater

Through April 8, 2023

https://www.greatlakestheater.org/

(216) 241-6000

 

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

Mark Horning

This show truly has it all (even singing). Even if this is your first exposure to a Shakespearean production you will find it a delightfully easy to follow story of romance, intrigue, mistaken identities and witty dialogue. It is Shakespeare done right. 

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

Chris Howey

Let's hope that Shakespeare's trans-friendly plays aren't swept off the library and school shelves like so many books in MAGA states have been, just because they dare to conjure a world where gender is not subject to government mandate. And where a play with the warm and welcoming title of As You Like It can exist without fear or favor.
To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

As You Like It, Shakespeare’s tale about nobles (and their sidekicks) wandering semi-lost in the Forest of Arden, seems a proper salute to spring. Directed by Charles Fee, this Great Lakes Theater production also allows for laughs, romance and satire aplenty.

I know, as they say, the theater requires a willing suspension of disbelief, but still. Anyway, in the hands of Great Lakes’ nimble cast, all ends well.

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

Noises Off @ Beck Center For the Arts

Through April 16, 2023

www.beckcenter.org

(216) 521-2540.   

 

Sheri Gross

The Beck Center production of “Noises Off” gives us all the opportunity to indulge in two and a half hours of absurd fun, which is something we all deserve…even though we might not be able to get the word “sardines” out of our heads for several days.

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

Howard Gollop

Every decade, there's a dependable revival of Michael Frayn's theatrical farce to end all farces, "Noises Off," deservedly so.

Perhaps an authentic British production might have rung a few extra laughs, but it's hard to fault such an amazing comedic triumph from a local company. 

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

Mark Horning

Pratfalls, slapstick, miss-direction and perfect comedic timing makes this the much see comedy event of the year. It is British comedy at its best. You will literally laugh yourself silly. Do not miss this one!

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

Chris Howey

In all, Noises Off is a physically demanding theatrical juggling act for both the performers. And despite some slow moments, this production at the Beck Center manages to keep the laughter flowing.

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

Laura Kennelly

It all begins with a plate of sardines. Or wait — maybe it all begins with a character inside another character? The one thing I’m sure about is this: Noises Off, directed by Scott Spence, now at the Beck Center, is a romping, fun farce of a play

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

 

Something Rotten @ Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Through April 15, 2023

https://cvlt.org/ 

(440) 247-8955

WORTH NOTING: 

In order to bring attention to local productions of merit at theaters that are not on the Cleveland Critics Circle’s approved Equity Theater list, members of the Circle who attend a community or educational theater production that is perceived as of high quality will have the option of listing that production on the CCC blogsite.  This review falls into that category.

 

Roy Berko

The ultimate test of the worth of a production, is the audience’s reaction.  In the case of CVLT’s SOMETHING ROTTEN!, the in-production laughing, applause and after-the final curtain comments by the audience, were positive feedback.  If you like musical theater, and want to experience a nicely conceived community theatre production this is it!

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

Mark Horning

Sometimes theater can be enjoyed just for the fun of it. This show is a perfect example, especially when exhibiting the high standards that CVLT maintains in all of their shows. Come see how many Broadway references you can catch during the show (there are 20 of them and perhaps more). Get your tickets, sit back and enjoy the fun.

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

 

THE OTHER PLACE @ Dobama

THE OTHER PLACE

DOBAMA

March 10-Apri 2, 2023

216-932-3396 or www.dobama.org

 

Roy Berko

If you are a comedy and/or a musical theater junky who is reluctant to see a “serious” play, make an exception and get thee to Dobama to experience an important and well-written script, experience a well-conceived production, with an award-winning performance.  THIS IS AN ABSOLUTELY MUST-SEE PRODUCTION!

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

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

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

While an excellent production, this show is not for everyone. In concern for the subject matter, loud yelling, profanity and intensity those of a more gentle nature may wish to pass on this production. However, you who love riding hyper-intense roller coasters, this production is right up your alley. Strap in and hang on because you are in for the wildest ninety minute ride of your life. 

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.

Aladdin @ Playhouse Square

Through March 12, 2023

https://www.playhousesquare.org/ 

(216) 241-2600

 

Roy Berko

“Aladdin” is a family-friendly, escapist musical that gets an adequate production, by a cast of mostly newbies to professional theatre.
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

There is truly Disney magic sprinkled throughout the show (The magic carpet really does fly). It is engaging for young and old alike and is a pleasing show with high moral values of true love, friendship and promises kept. This is one to take the children to see.

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

Joey Morona

Take a magic carpet ride to a whole new world. This touring Broadway musical tells the beloved Disney story of a street rat who wins the heart of a princess with the help of a manic but all-powerful genie.

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

 

Riverdance @ Playhouse Square

Through March 5, 2023

https://www.playhousesquare.org/ 

(216) 241-6000

 

Mark Horning

There is a good reason why this two hour show flies by so quickly. It is simply stunning. Between the rapid pace dancing, the various themes, the intriguing music and the lavish costumes and stage set it is impossible not to fall be totally taken about with this show as it celebrates its quarter of a century anniversary.

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

Joey Morona

First “Hamilton,” then “Hadestown.” It seems every major touring production to roll through Playhouse Square lately has featured a Cleveland native (or two) in a starring role. That streak continues this weekend when “Riverdance” comes to the KeyBank State Theater with Eastlake’s own Brandon Asazawa dancing the lead role made famous by the great Michael Flatley.

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

 

The River @ Ensemble Theatre

Through March 5, 2023

https://www.ensembletheatrecle.org/

(216) 321-2930

 

Roy Berko

THE RIVER is not a play for everyone.  Go if you love theatre which is well directed and acted; but, as with most absurdist plays, it doesn’t render a solution.  It is a play that, even after you leave, doesn’t let you go.  

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

Mark Horning

There is a certain lilting poetry that runs through the dialogue of this play. To those of Northeast Ohio residency who has ever hooked into a six pound Steelhead on a perfect spring morning you will feel the electricity described. Non-anglers will find an intriguing tale of love and loss. This is definitely one you need to catch.

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

Chris Howey

"(The playwright's) trademark rich language and evocative rhythms all seem wasted in a short (80 minutes) and slight effort that seems to smirk at anyone foolish enough to take it seriously."

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

True West @ None Too Fragile

Through February 25, 2023

https://www.nonetoofragile.com/ 

(330) 962-5547

 

Kerry Clawson

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

Mark Horning

No doubt about it. This is a nasty play full of nasty people that you will find absolutely despicable and devoid of any humanly redeemable qualities. For those of you that love this “in your face” kind of theater it is right up your alley. If you are more of a delicate bent you might want to pass on this production. It is your choice.

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

Chris Howey

"There may be nothing worse than bad live theater, but there is also nothing better than great live theater. You have no doubt experienced the former. Should you care to sample the latter, it awaits in True West at None Too Fragile Theater for a short while."

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