Heisenberg @ Ensemble Theatre

Through May 23, 2025

https://www.ensembletheatrecle.org/

(216) 321-2930

 

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

The Ensemble Theatre production’s Heisenberg, written by Simon Stephens and directed by Tom Fulton, introduces the audience to a new look at an encounter–which can be called a more positive and lighter version of Albee’s Zoo Story. Yet, throughout the 90-minute performance, the two characters—Georgie Burns and Alex Priest—exist somewhere between the theatre of the absurd and the “romantic comedy.”

Fulton, working with scenic designer Ian Hinz, created a simple stage featuring several black blocks and a bench, accompanied by the scarlet curtain backdrop. Hinz also designed lighting and used sectional illumination to heighten a surreptitious and timeless atmosphere. Though it could be set in any year, the “year”—according to several lines—is wondrously specific, in 2014, the year the playwright was writing this play. Locales are London and New Jersey, though they are embodied through Stephens’s lines.

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.

 

Alice By Heart @ Blank Canvas Theatre

Through May 17, 2025

http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com 

(440) 941-0458

 

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

If you relish a bit of reality meets fantasy this is definitely a show to put on your calendar. It is a pleasant evening of light musical theater that will help chase the rainy blues away.

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
In addition to the band, led by musical director Kenny Lear, which resonantly plays the musical’s songs, the show is accentuated and punctuated by different sounds produced by the performers, who bang the helmets, violently closing lids of the antique treasure chests, and stomping. Some parts remind me of the staging of Spring Awakening, as the energy produced by the performers, who constantly move vertically and horizontally, becomes infectious and irresistible.    
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.

 

Choir Boy @ Karamu House

Through May 18, 2025

http://www.karamuhouse.org 

(216) 795-7077

 

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

This is a show that is full of surprises that encourages audiences to participate in their own way. It is a musical play that uses this tool to advance an idea of diversity, equity and inclusion...a lesson still in need of being taught more than ever. 

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
Karamu House production’s Choir Boy, written by Tarell Alvin McCraney and directed by Nathan Henry, is a superb work with seven talented singers/performers and two seasoned actors, exploring and problematizing the very reality of the strict “code of ethics and morality” imposed, unrealistically and unpractically, on a group of a prestigious boarding high school—The Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys. In a 100-minute one-act show, the audience witnesses a series of vignettes that capture snips and pieces of a dormitory high school life centered on well-choreographed songs sung by the seven performers.  These “affluent” and privileged yet with dilemmas, traumas, and anxieties remind me of the two boarding school students–Omari and Jasmine–in Dominique Morriseau’s Pipeline.
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.

 

Fiddler on the Roof @ Cleveland Play House

Through May 25, 2025

http://www.clevelandplayhouse.com

(216) 400-7096

 

Howard Gollop

Still, the Play House production holds onto the tradition of quality, with choreographer Stas Kmiec assiduously tailoring the original 1964 choreography of Jerome Robbins (son of a Clevelander), lush musical direction by Diane Louie and intelligently simplified scenic design by Raul Abrego, unfortunately less inspired by the Jewish artist Marc Chagall, as in the original production, but still evocative in its own way.

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

Somehow this large company has been able to fit this colossal musical on a smaller than usual stage bringing all the excitement, drama, laughs, pathos and heart of the original. It is a truly great show that has the time flying by without nary a notice.

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

Laura Kennelly
Magic, beguiling fiddler, romance, song, and dance? Yes, please, thank you. The engaging Cleveland Play House production, directed by Michael Barakiva, lights up Playhouse Square’s Allen Theatre. It makes clear why Tony Award-winning Fiddler on the Roof has remained popular since its 1964 Broadway premiere. With book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, produced by Harold Prince and choreography by Jerome Robbins, it’s an affirmation of creativity and community.
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
Barakiva meticulously creates and maintains each moment, educing a “still picture” as the text and music suggest. Wooden cut-out motifs and multiple wings allow the stage to be seen as a page in a book or a framed painting—perhaps to pay homage to Marc Chagall’s “The Green Violinist” —which one would, some day in the future, appreciate in a gallery, library, and museum, hinting at the everlasting nature of this musical. In addition to cut-out motifs, scenic designer Raul Abrego designed and built slightly slanted houses (like those in “The Green Violinist”) along with a big central gate—beyond that point is outside of the shtetl of Anatevka. With a Star of David, this double metal gate ominously signals that the world beyond is resonant with concentration camps. On stage are benches for some audience members, and the wooden siding behind them suggests the exterior of Tevye’s humble farmhouse.

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

Joey Morona

“Fiddler on the Roof” is a classic not just because of its songs or its place in the musical theater canon, but because it beautifully captures the enduring challenge of balancing tradition with the need to adapt and change. Cleveland Play House has made those ideas feel as timely as ever.

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

 

Dial M For Murder @ Weathervane Playhouse, Akron

Through May 18, 2025

http://wwwweathervaneplayhouse.com

(330) 836-2626

 

Sheri Gross

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

Mark Horning

If you have never seen the movie or play before then you are in for a treat. The great stage set, costuming, accents and acting are all top notch. It is also brilliant the manner of breaking up the show into three short acts with two intermissions so as to give the audience a break. BRAVO all the way! If you have seen it before, it is time to see it once more.

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

Noises Off @ Great Lakes Theater

Through May 18, 2025

https://www.greatlakestheater.org/ 

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

The GLFT proves the old saying in theatre that performing drama is easy but doing farce is hard.  At the end of the performance, half the audience was on its feet cheering, while the rest were in the aisles running for the exits.  Didn’t hate it, but I was caught in the stampede.

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

Howard Gollop

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 Cleveland company, with especially hysterical performances by Zoe Lewis-McLean as the ultimate bimbo, and Nick Steen as the wimpy nose-bleeding, pants-falling handsome leading actor. They as well as the rest of the cast understand playing it dead serious is the best way to conjure up extra comedic life.

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 is a show that slowly builds on itself as the situations become more and more fatuous and out of control. With the slower paced first act, patience is the key to truly enjoy this madcap gem to the end. 

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

Laura Kennelly

 Carefully-timed classic farce that celebrates comedy’s messy moments. No wonder it’s one of the most popular plays around. The Great Lakes team gives it its proper due, although I did wonder upon leaving, “How would I know if panicked players playing players in a play made up a line?” (But that’s just me, recalling my own real-life onstage panic, not theirs.)..

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

The Great Lakes Theater production successfully dealt with these difficulties and challenges, adding some technical surprises and highlighting the strong presence of female actors/characters. 

The set, “another character” in this play, designed by Jeff Herrmann, is stunning; the set for Nothing On illustrates a well-furnished living room that leads to different parts of the house, including bedrooms upstairs and the kitchen downstairs. To name a few, technical “surprises” are added to the doors, windows, and the deer head ornament. Costume designer Oona Natesan designed and prepared layers of garments for key, outrageous moments. Jason Lynch’s lighting design and Patrick John Kiernan’s sound design add comical and hilarious aspects to the show.

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

J

A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder @ Ohio Shakespeare Festival

Through May 18, 2025

https://www.ohioshakespearefestival.com/ 

(330) 574-2537

 

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

This spritely and lavishly produced production goes to show that sometimes crime does pay and that good guys can finish first. This is modern light opera at its best with a brilliantly created fanciful and farcical topsy-turvy world where absurdity is stretch to its limits then taken to a logical and satisfactory conclusion. 

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.

 

Rust: A Story of Steel and Grit @ Dobama Theatre

Through May 18, 2025

http://www.dobama.org

(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

There are so many elements to this story that you will be amazed that they fit so much into a mere 90 minutes. It is a coming of age tale of courage and perseverance that anyone can become anything if they strive towards their goal. It is in truth, a love letter to Cleveland, Ohio.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning'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

Resilience, determination, tenacity, and genuine desire to fully live are key facets of the work created by Brant, who condensed and dramatized the memoir into a 90-minute one-act play. Brant beautifully crafted his poetic rendering of Goldbach’s book by choosing her words, sentences, moments, and between-the-lines meanings from Goldbach’s memoir.

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

 

Shucked @ Playhouse Square

Through May 11, 2025

https://www.playhousesquare.org/

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

“Holy Shit,” I “Do Believe” that seeing the fun-filled musical farce, SHUCKED, will make you feel more than “OK!” Get away from the stresses of life. GO! LAUGH! ENJOY! To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop

Think "Music Man" meets "Hee Haw” … No, it ain't Stephen Sondheim, but it IS the perfect occasional antidote for a Broadway that tends to take itself too seriously.

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

Sheri Gross

From the first buttery note to the final morsel, “Shucked,” under the smart direction of Jack O’Brien, delivers a kernel of truth wrapped in layers of both hilarity and humanity, not to mention some high-energy hoofin’ – complete with a corn kickline. 
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

If you get to the kernel of the matter this is one corny but truly funny show with a purpose. Mixed in with the treasure trove of one liners and dad jokes is a story of family, friendship and basic values all neatly dovetailed between songs that advance the story. If you are looking for a good laugh with a lot of heart go see this show.

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

Laura Kennelly

Every corny joke (aka “Dad joke”) you’ve ever heard is likely packed into Shucked. The Broadway musical’s national tour stomps and hee-haws on the Connor Palace Stage through May 11. And yep, it does its dangest to be funny and risqué. Much of the time, it succeeds..

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

“Shucked” isn’t here to change the world or unlock any deeper truths. But for two and a half hours, it’ll make you laugh, maybe cry, definitely tap your toes. It’s sweet, versatile and guaranteed to pop just like... wait for it... corn!

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

 

Peter Pan @ Playhouse Square

Through April 13, 2025

https://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

For a show about NOT growing up, the new visually resplendent tour of the Broadway musical version of "Peter Pan" seems intent on doing just the opposite. 

Granted, by the time the original characters in the original production gather in the second act for a rousing production number called "Ugg-a-Wugg, it became clear that these musical-comedy native Americans of the original Broadway production could easily have been from the lost tribe of Chief Wahoo.

For full review, visit 

https://chroniclet.com/news/426993/theater-review-peter-pan-flies-socially-aware-into-the-present-in-new-tour/

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

Drop whatever you are doing and order your tickets NOW! This short run show guarantees to be a sellout and is well worth seeing. It is the magical best of Broadway brought on stage and is great viewing by the entire (as long as you behave yourself) family. These are the things that lifelong family memories are built from. Cheers!

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

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 Body Play @ Cleveland Public Theatre

Through April 13, 2025

http://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.

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

Life is always a journey that can be made tougher through health problems that lead to dealing with the “care” system. This show is less an expose of difficulties and more a search for a relationship between body and mind. It is a show that will definitely get you thinking which is just what good theater should do from time to time.

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

Wetzell’s post-COVID play speaks volumes in 2025 when funding for public health and research has been drastically cut, and its integrity has been undermined. The play also pays attention to the horrific and cruel realities of this country’s healthcare system, including mental health.  I can see the tremendous value and significance of The Body Play as a testament to institutional and systematic failures in the nation’s dealing with chronic illnesses and challenges at the tumultuous time when the extensive layoffs of federal health workers continue, curtailing the “scope and influence of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention” (NYT April 2, 2025).  

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.

 

Under A Baseball Sky @ Beck Center For The Arts

Through May 4, 2025

http://beckcenter.org

(216) 521-2540

 

Roy Berko

The excellent English/Spanish language production of José Cruz Gonzalez’s UNDER A BASEBALL SKY, adds an intercultural presence to the area’s theatre scene that is a welcome addition both for actors and audience!  ¡muy bien!
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop

Eric Schmiedl's direction manages the complex dynamics of the characters while assistant director Jonathan Rodriguez undoubtably ensures a patina of Latin authenticity.

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

Mark Horning

Precise writing coupled with superb directing packs this short show with a high degree of emotions and circumstances. Hugely entertaining with a large measure of moral lessons to think about after the bows. This show is well worth seeing.

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

 Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

Cruz González created this play, “inspired by a neighborhood in California,” including his hometown, Watsonville, a migrant town, to celebrate the power and beauty of “communities and individuals coming together to find hope, healing, love, and the occasional home run” (program note).  Under the direction of Schmiedl, the creative team has done a remarkable job, presenting the depth and weight of Chicano history and people by relating the past to the present and the future.   

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

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical

Through April 13, 2025

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.  These review(s) fall into that category.

Mark Horning

With its great music expertly performed this show is destined to be a huge success. Molly Andrews-Hinders was born to play Carole King with a supporting cast and ensemble that brings her story to life. This is theater just for the fun of it. It truly is beautiful.

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

El Coquí Espectacular and the Bottle of Doom @ Cleveland Public Theatre

Through April 5, 2025

https://www.cptonline.org/

(216) 631-2727 x501

 

Mark Horning

Sometimes when you go to the theater to witness some silly fun a profound message is found hidden in the mix. Such is the case with this show. Yes, it will make you laugh but more importantly it will make you think and that after all is what good theater is all about. Note also that the entire performance is in English.

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

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

The play is set in an imaginary city in Brooklyn called Sunset City, implying that things are not quite good for residents—especially those who are not lucrative. Alex (Alejandro Martinez Jr.), a not-so-successful, uncommitted cartoonist who still lives with his mom (Alisha Caraballo). his more successful elder brother Joe (Angelluis R. Centeno) is asked to create an effective and approachable superhero advertisement for one of his company’s products—a spicy Cola, the fictional Voltage Cola.  So, the collaboration between Alex and Joe begins. In the process, both Alex and Joe must relearn Puerto Rican languages and cultures to satisfy the needs required by this project. Alex befriends a local photographer, Yesica (Natalie Bermudez), who documents the lives of Puerto Ricans in her neighborhoods. Alex, as El Coqui’s nemesis, is a counterhero, El Chupacabra (meaning goat-sucker).  Polanco’s direction adroitly extracts some of the important ideas and issues that could be buried underneath the playful, comical façade.

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

Season's Greetings @ Playhouse Square

Through April 5, 2025

https://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/

(216) 400-7096

 

Mark Horning

To be honest, I thought that this production had great potential and for the most part it lived up to my expectations. It is a fine show with a lot of laughs and interesting situations. Perhaps we should commission Mr. Ayckbourn for a sequel. See the show and let me know what you think. Cheers!

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

Howard Gollop

To be sure, not much could be done to elevate a 1980s comedy from across the pond (as they say). Aykbourn has a lot going on, but not much in the way of character nuance. That burden is left up to a collegiate American cast who must first master casual British accents, then near-middle-age adults, and then characterizations that bring uniqueness to otherwise broad characters.

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review at https://chroniclet.com/

Dr.Yuko Kurahashi

The Season’s Greeting, like The Cherry Orchard, unpacks all the disruptive elements that afflict different aspects of the family and individuals at different but significant and crucial points in their lives. Their impulses are all self-absorbed and self-focused, trying to satisfy their needs immediately, including Bernard’s disastrous puppet show. The characters’ acquisitiveness might have reflected Thatcherism in the UK and Reaganomics in the US at the time of the play’s premiere. In 2025, it is a perfect rendering of those who continue to become richer at the expense of others’ welfare, needs, and basic rights.

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

The Half-Life of Marie Curie @ Clague Playhouse

Through April 17, 2025

http://www.clagueplayhouse.org

(440) 331-0403

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.  These review(s) fall into that category.

 

Mark Horning

This is a show about friendship...nothing more and nothing less. Forget it is about two brilliant women who helped shape the world. Instead, it focuses on their comradery and their lives as women fighting against the wrongs that still face women over one hundred years later. This show is a frisky feminist crowd pleaser.

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

Twelfth Night @ Great Lakes Theater

Through April 6, 2025

https://www.greatlakestheater.org/ 

(216) 241-6000.    

 

Roy Berko

TWELFTH NIGHT gets a pleasing production at GLT.  It could have been enhanced by broader farce and more joyous attitude.  As might be said of the New Hampshire Board Education that banned the play, "The fool doth think he is wise, bit wise man knows himself to be a fool."  (AS YOU LIKE IT) 

 

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

Howard Gollop

Company artistic director Sara Bruner enthusiastically takes the directorial reins, putting proper focus on the initial tragedy that gives way to "the ecstasy of being," as she puts it in her program notes.

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review at https://chroniclet.com/

Sheri Gross

Great Lakes Theater production of TWELFTH NIGHT is one that will have audiences riding the waves of bitter and sweet, comedy and tragedy, and lughter and intrigue to a satisfy shore.

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

Mark Horning

For those not familiar with live performances of Shakespeare, this would be a perfect “first play” to attend. The middle English dialogue is quite easy to follow, the comedy broad enough to comprehend and the main themes simple to learn from. Come see what all the fuss has been about for over 400 years.

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

Laura Kennelly

The Bard of Avon’s music-honoring, identity-mixing romantic satire, Twelfth Night, directed by Sara Bruner, closes the “Shakespeare requirement” for this Great Lakes Theater season.

******

Bottom Line: An oft chaotic, sometimes amusing, mix of comedy, romance, mistaken identity, and general horseplay brought to you by Great Lakes Theater’s merry crew.

Kate Klotzbach

To quote a famous line from the show - "Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." This production is, indeed, GREAT.

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

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

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

All City Musical's "Chicago" @ Mimi Ohio Theatre

Through March 23, 2025

https://tickets.playhousesquare.org/

(216) 241-6000

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.  These review(s) fall into that category.

 Mark Horning

Once again the Cleveland School For The Arts has gathered together the absolute finest of talent from the thousands of students in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District to produce a Broadway worthy performance. This show will delight you with its music, dancing, gymnastics, singing, acting and high production standards (just the reasons you go to the theater). 

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

Weathering @ Karamu House

Through March 30, 2025

https://karamuhouse.org/

Mark Horning

Ask any mother (no matter how old) how she still feels about her “grown children” and you will get the same answer…“You will always be my child. Care does not shut off like a faucet. It is always on whether you want it or not. That is simply the way it is.” This is the gist of the play “Weathering”. It combines loss, laughter, tears, rage, dancing and some good common sense (or as we oldsters call it old school philosophy). Well worth seeing.

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

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

In Act II, these women get together, forming a powerful united “being,” if not a “front,” providing a space for Lena and themselves to think and address women’s pains at a private and institutional level.  About the latter—the institutional healthcare inequality— is addressed in the director’s note in the program: “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the infant mortality rate for non-Hispanic Black infants in the United States in 2022 was 10.9 deaths per 1,000 live births, that is twice as high as it is for White infants. In Cuyahoga Falls specifically, the 2020-22 three-year-infant mortality rate was 7.3; the rate of death for Black babies was 13.4 compared to the white rate of 4.6.”

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

The Wolves @ Dobama Theatre

Through March 30, 2025

http://wwwdobama.org 

(216) 932-3396

 

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

Mark Horning

It is not easy being a female teenage athlete these days as there are people wishing to take this country back to the 50s. It is truly refreshing to see a play that gives notice of the trials involved in just growing up...no matter what or who you are. More than a girls night out this should be a family night out kind of experience.

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

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi
Dobama Theatre’s The Wolves, written by Sarah DeLappe and directed by Leighann DeLorenzo, unpacks many aspects of teenagers who devote themselves to varsity sports. It explores and presents multiple subjects through nine members of a girl’s indoor soccer team that “navigates big questions” about “society, sex, and soccer” (Program note). DeLappe portrays the women in a way that allows the audience to appreciate their humanity, compassion, energy, and intellect as they take an adolescent journey to find out who they are and what their lives could be and should be.

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

King James @ Cleveland Playhouse

Through March 23, 2025

https://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/ 

(216) 241-6000

 

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

Howard Gollop

Rather than a trite trifle of banal banter and unending wink-wink chamber-of-commerce references to Cleveland trivia, this play, well directed by Monteze Freeland, is a solid, quite engaging character study of endearing and enduring underdogs.

Go to Chroniclet.com to read Howard Gollop's review.

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

Mark Horning

Regardless of the title, this is not a show about LeBron James. It is as show about two men who through a quirk of fate become friends and as the years go by lend aid to each other because that is what friends do. At times sentimental, at times jarring but at all times believable it is a show worth seeing. Choose your sports gods wisely.

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

Bottom Line: The 2016 welcome home parade, when over a million Clevelanders filled downtown to celebrate the Cav’s triumphant return from defeating the Golden State Warriors, still lingers in local memories. Joseph’s play reminds us of the joy generated by sharing common values (and victories).

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

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

Rajiv Joseph‘s King James portrays different aspects of friendship between Shawn and Matt, covering four key moments of LeBron James’s career as a catalyst. A co-production with City Theatre Company in Pittsburgh, PA, directed by Monteze Freeland, Cleveland Play House’s King James is a locally rooted, thought-provoking and self-reflexive work that would encourage the audience to reassess their “relationship/association” with LeBron and what friendship really means. The answer that the audience gets from the show may vary, but my perception is that one’s friendship can take many shapes and colors, and it would be easier to maintain friendship if there is at least one common activity to engage in.
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.

 

& Juliet @ Playhouse Square

Through March 23, 2025

https://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

The result here is sort of a "Moulin Rouge" meets "Something's Rotten" (another Shakespeare spinoff in the contemporary vernacular). On the other hand, the soul of this show is sort of a "Dick Van Dyke Show" meets "Glee." This may sound like a perfect trainwreck, but, oddly enough, "& Juliet," spiritedly directed by Luke Sheppard, is also a frolicsome evening of theater. As most of the ovating audience seem to concur, "Baby One More Time.".

Go to Chroniclet.com to read Howard Gollop's review.

Sheri Gross

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

Mark Horning

For those of us who questioned “The Bard” on his choice of endings (theatrical blasphemy) a refreshing and delightful welcomed change of pace has arrived. We are introduced to William’s wife and his marriage strife along with a “second chance” ending that many will love.  

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

Take a tragic romance and modern times, mix well, stir and shake, and you get & Juliet, the latest musical at Playhouse Square. It’s a crazy cocktail that sizzles, sparks, generates laughs, and occasionally indulges in iambic pentameter.

This musical look at Renaissance England (and its most famous bard) feeds on Grammy-winning songs by songwriter/producer Max Martin and a book by the Emmy-winning writer David West Read. The mix of Martin’s pop and Read’s quirky take (if you’ve seen Shitt’s Creek you’ll know what to expect) makes a spicy delight.

To see a full review of this show see, 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.

 

Showin' Up Black @ Cleveland Public Theatre

Through March 8, 2025

https://www.cptonline.org/ 

(216) 631-2727 x501

 

Roy Berko

Message BodyCapsule judgement:  SHOWIN’ UP BLACK gives a thought-provoking view of a non-traditional Black family.  Though there are times when the script writing seemed forced, the over-all effect is positive.  It is a production worth seeing.

Message Body

Capsule judgement:  SHOWIN’ UP BLACK gives a thought-provoking view of a non-traditional Black family.  Though there are times when the script writing seemed forced, the over-all effect is positive.  It is a production worth seeing.

Mark Horning

Worlds collide and tempers flair as two social classes square off against each other. Caught in between are the children who are trying to make sense of their world and their place in it. This show is a revelation and revolution all in one. Tickets will go fast.

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