Black Nativity @ Allen Theatre (Karamu House)

Through December 16, 2023

https://karamuhouse.org/ 

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

Co-directors, Tony F. Siras and Errin Weaver, conceived a production that gives a true Afrocentric twist to the nativity that clearly stresses that Afro-people were there, are here and will be around for years to come!
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

If you are looking for a holiday show that is truly inspiring then I suggest you get tickets right away to the Karamu House production of Langston Hughes’ “Black Nativity” on stage in the Allen Theatre at Playhouse Square in Cleveland, Ohio. You will find yourself singing and dancing along with the performers. Somebody say “Amen”!

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

 

LITTLE WOMEN

LITTLE WOMEN

DOBAMA

December 1-31, 2023

216-932-3396 or www.dobama.org/ 

Roy Berko

At this time of holiday, yet living in a world of stress and strife, it is nice to be able to go back in time and relive one of the English language’s epic tales.  The Dobama production nicely develops Louisa May Alcott’s sappy, but well-intentioned picture of life in a by-gone era, where melodrama ruled in literature.

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

While not perfect, this show takes us back to a gentler but to some degree highly sacrinated time where drama held sway over substance. It is a pleasant painting of a simple by-gone era. Like a hot cup of tea next to a fire on a winter’s eve it warms the soul and creates a feeling of well being. Savor the moment.   

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.

Shakespeare In Hollywood @ Ohio Shakespeare Festival

Through December 17, 2023

https://www.ohioshakespearefestival.com/ 

(303) 574-2537.  

 

Mark Horning

What can be better than comedic Shakespeare? Ken Ludwig and Ohio Shakespeare Festival takes us on a wild ride of fantasy in this supernatural screwball romp that pokes fun at not only Shakespeare but the entire 30s movie industry including the Hays Office that wielded way too much power. This delightful show is well worth the trip to Akron. Bring a friend.

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 Wizard Of Oz @ Near West Theatre

Through December 3, 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.

Mark Horning

It is always nice to find a non-holiday themed show to escape the challenges of the season. This is such a show. While its length may be a bit long, the action moves at a break neck speed. Come see the show to witness what superbly trained volunteers can accomplish after eight weeks of intensive work and where dreams really do come true.

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

A Christmas Carol @ Great Lakes Theater

Through December 23, 2023

https://www.greatlakestheater.org/ 

(216) 241-6000

 

Mark Horning

No matter how many times you have seen this show it is still worth seeing once again with those you love. It is a touchstone of Christmas comfort and joy that we all need this frantic time of the year. Take a much needed break from the hubbub of the holidays and share this experience with those closet to you. It is a tradition well worth beginning.

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

ROCKY

Through December 16, 2023

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 have had your fill of the “holly jolly” and would like a little action in your holiday viewing this is an excellent show to seek out. It’s a familiar story that we all know and love that is told with heart and soul. It’s a fun evening of theater that will knock you out. YO!

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.

PIPPIN @ BW

PIPPIN

Baldwin Wallace University--Musical Theatre Program

November 9-19, 2023

Roy Berko

When someone goes to a musical theatre production at Baldwin Wallace, they probably go with the knowledge that program is ranked as one of the best of its type in the country and the performers are of high quality. They should also be aware that these are students who are not only performing in a show, but are getting a learning experience.  The unevenness of the recently closed production of PIPPIN was not due to the talent of the students, but the decisions of the guest director and a student musical director.  As is, the show was enjoyable, but not of the usual high BW level of achievement.

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

Chris Howey

Pippin, the vehicle that made Ben Vereen as Leading Player a star, and it is now playing at Baldwin Wallace University. As staged by director Nathan Henry and Choreographer Gregory Daniels (who has re-staged much of signature Fosse moves along with adding his own), the play is a treat for those who have never seen Fosse live—especially since it is performed by a BWU cast of singers, dancers and actors who exude professionalism with each and every jazz-hand.

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

Laura Kennelly

Pippin, the musical now at Baldwin Wallace University’s Kleist Center for Art & Drama, explores what might happen to a royal prince who yearns to do “something extraordinary.” The Broadway show directed by Bob Fosse (with book by Roger O. Hirson and music and lyrics by Stephen Schartz) premiered in the 1970s, but it’s been revived numerous times.

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

TROUBLE IN MIND @ SEAT OF PANTS PRODUCTIONS

THE PIVOT CENTER--2937 WEST 25TH STREET

November 3-19, 2023

https://seatofthepants.org/productions

Roy Berko

The company’s use of an intensive rehearsal period known as “process driven production method,” paid off.  There is no doubt of clear character development, smooth flow of action, and meaningful stage pictures.  All in all, the show makes for both a rich experience regarding evaluating yours and societal attitudes, as well as a fine theatrical experience!  This is 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
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.

Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol @ Clague Playhouse

Through December 3, 2023

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.  This review falls into that category.

 

Mark Horning

If you have become jaded by the yearly renditions of “the same old same old” then you owe it to yourself to see an entirely different take on a Christmas classic. This is superb acting with plenty of room for your imagination to take flight as we learn “the other side of the tale”. Bring the entire family for an enjoyable evening of fine community theater.

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

C

GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY

KEY BANK NORTH COUNTRY--CONNOR PALACE

NOVEMBER 31-DECEMBER 19, 2023

216-241-6000 OR PLAYHOUSESQUARE.ORG

 

Roy Berko

The singing voices are strong, the music well-played, the technical aspects well done.  The sound system leaves much to be desired as spoken voices are not well-heard. Don’t expect the usual Broadway glossy set, special effects, fancy costumes, or electronic effects.  If you are a Dylan-fanatic, are into his music and/or want to sit back and listen to his songs, while paying a little attention to a slight story, this will be your thing!  Me?  I’m looking forward to FUNNY GIRL and COMPANY, later in the season offerings. 

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

Howard Gollop

How well Dylan's '60s folk-rock songs fit into Depression-era Duluth is still something for debate, but McPherson further ups the  ante by framing the whole production as sort of a "Prairie Home Companion" -- that famous folksy variety show broadcast from downtown St. Paul, downstate of Duluth. If Dylan's music doesn't quite thematically match up with the play, it certainly fills the bill for live variety revue.

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

Sheri Gross

Girl From the North Country” is complicated and dark; and during a time when many of us are carrying a lot of sadness and fear about the state of our world, and also take to heart a lot of the issues at the forefront of the plot, it may not have a smooth landing. But it is definitely a show that takes risks, pushes the envelope, and lifts up some of Dylans masterful music that we may never have discovered otherwise. 

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

Mark Horning

While this is a very well produced show with excellent singing, dancing, acting and a strong story line it is a truly depressing story. There is no glossy Broadway set, lighting, costumes, videos projections or pyrotechnics. Nary a sequin can be found in sight although there are three disco balls that are used a lot. It is simply an evening of acting with unrelated songs thrown in. If you are a Dylan fan, you will appreciate the various renditions.    

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

Chris Howey

This towering and teetering collection of deliciously downbeat vignettes and mystically evocative songs manages to worm its way into your mind and heart, leaving you licking your fingers and burping contentedly when the 150-minute show is concluded.

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

Laura Kennelly

The national tour of Broadway’s Girl from the North Country at the Connor Palace Theatre offers a fine music-centered evening — and may just make a few new Bob Dylan fans (not that he needs any more).

Writer and director Conor McPherson combines Dylan’s songs with orchestrations by Simon Hale to weave a minimal storyline into a Picasso-like mélange. Don’t go expecting a typical Disney musical. This is not one.

It’s a tough look at how life can go very wrong in a very cold place, yet hope can lead people to venture into new dreams. So it’s not a total downer, but the show’s appeal comes more from the powerful singing, both in solo and supporting choruses. Girl from the North Country explores longing, love and joy — sometimes (and often surprisingly) simultaneously.

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

Joey Morona

‘Girl from the North Country’ reveals the brilliance of Bob Dylan’s music and the flaws of a jukebox musical

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

 

CABARET @ Kent State University Musical Theatre Department

Kent State University--Wright-Curtis Theatre

October 27-November 9, 2023

330-672-2787 or www.kent/theatredance

Roy Berko

KSU’s CABARET is one of the highest quality college performances this reviewer has ever seen.  Every aspect was well-conceived.  Terri Kent and Martin Cespedes are to be commended for their vision and execution and every person who participated in bringing this show to stage should be proud of their accomplishments!  Applause, applause, applause.

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

THE ISLAND @ Ensemble Theatre

Ensemble Theatre @ Notre Dame College 

www.ensembletheatrecle.org 

216-321-2930

 

Roy Berko

THE ISLAND helps to keep the history and human torture of apartheid alive, and like plays, books and films about the Holocaust, keeps the vision, thoughts and memories of those horrible times alive, so that they are never repeated again.  This is an absolutely must-see production!

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

Thousands of men and women were imprisoned on Robben Island (including Nelson Mandela) and this work is a fitting testimony to their grit and their knack to survive and not be oppressed no matter how harsh the conditions. This show is a political statement that needs to be shared over and over again. Come be amazed.

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

Chris Howey

Under the eloquent direction of Sarah May, these two fine actors [Robert Williams & Nnamdi] create a complete world on their almost bare stage. Beyond the specific and telling reference to actual prisons and prisoners, it reminds us that we are all chained together on a little island called the world. 

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

Kate Klotzbach

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

 

Mary Shelly's Frankenstein @ Cleveland Play House

Through November 12, 2023

https://www.clevelandplayhouse.com

(216) 241-6000

Roy Berko

The production, though not as compelling as it could be, tells the tale as Mary Shelly intended it.  If you think of the Frankenstein tale as true horrifying and scary, the monster as epitomized by Boris Karloff in the films FRANKENSTEIN AND THE BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN, or ridiculously humorous as portrayed in ABBOTT AND COSTELLO MEET FRANKENSTEIN or HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA, this is not it.  This is a straight-forth telling of the Shelly tale, with the ominous over-tones of what might be in this age of Emotional Intelligence.

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

Howard Gollop

Playwright Catlin carefully intertwines the sad tale of a man-made monster ostracized from society to real-life victims of that stifling early-19th-century society for other reasons. Their true-life horrific fates, like the monster in their melodrama, are strikingly revealed at the end of the play. Director Michael Barakiva keeps David Catlin's intriguing work befittingly lugubrious, perhaps too successfully. He has ample help setting the mood with scenic and costume designer Lex Liang, whose elegantly macabre flourishes transform the in-the-round Outcalt Theater stage (seating on all four sides) making the audience members feel like they've stepped right into the dark, rich world of the novel.

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 production is by far the most evenly balanced of the season. Equal elements of sex, love, horror, grotesque, apathy and even bits of comedy abound as well as an unworldly stage set and special effects that draw us in completely. This is not only a faithful rendition of the novel but an intimate view of the protagonists as well. This is must see theater.   

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

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, now at Playhouse Square’s Outcalt Theatre, weaves a mesmerizing tale about monsters both human and human-made.

Playwright David Catlin has cleverly interspersed Mary Shelley’s well-known horror tale with the somewhat less well-known story about its genesis. It was 1816 and the wealthy, but socially outcast George Gordon, Lord Byron, had invited a trio of other British misfits (poets, teenage free-lovers) to join him and Dr. Polidore (his physician) in his Swiss lakeside villa. ....

Bottom Line: A beautifully executed version of a terrifying fantasy. Recommended.

To see a full review of this show, read here or see 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.

 

Dracula: The Bloody Truth @ Great Lakes Theater

Through November 5, 2023 

https://www.greatlakestheater.org/

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

Many will find DRACULA: THE BLOODY TRUTH to be a laugh riot, others will wonder why their seatmates were reacting, while they aren’t.  I, unfortunately, was in the latter group.  Too bad, for with all the angst in the world, I was hoping for two-hours, with intermission, of humorous escape.  Oh, well . . 

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

Howard Gollop

Based on a British comedy troupe trifle by Le Navet Bete and John Nicholson, this "Dracula" embraces the sure-fire comedy tropes of an imploding theatrical endeavor. (Think "The Play that Goes Wrong," "Peter Pan that Goes Wrong" and their illustrious precursor "Noises Off.") Trouble eventually catches up with Helsing, his fellow actors and, alas, Great Lakes Theater itself, as the chaos eventually overwhelms the company and stifles the comedic and dramatic inertia  Everything just dissolves into unending pratfalls, falling set peaces and winking-comedy bits that eventually weigh the entire production down. 

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

Hopefully with upcoming shows this production will hit its mark and be more enjoyable than its opening. There is a fine line between comical and silly. With a little work on timing this balance can be achieved. As in all live theater, it is a work in progress. If you are looking for a safe Halloween type show to take the family, this one would work well.

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

Under the direction of Charles Fee, and with the mighty efforts of four actors playing 40 characters, the opening night show offered an impressive display of physical comedy. Nothing seemed static as performers switched characters and sexes as needed for the storyline. Age-bent bodies turned into nimble youths in the blink of an eye.

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

Zombie Prom @ Blank Canvas Theatre

Through November 4, 2023

http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com/

(440) 941-0458

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 the perfect Halloween treat for the entire family. The underlying theme of inclusion is well presented with a sprightly musical score that smooths away the grim premise. The Friday show I went to was sold out and may be the case as word of mouth gains momentum. Don’t delay, buy your tickets right now. 

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

Chris Howey

'Zombie Prom' at Blank Canvas Theatre Will Leave You Irradiated by a Zany, Fun Performance

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

THE GROWN-UP

CONVERGENCE-CONTINUUM

OCTOBER 13-NOVEMBER 4, 2023

WWW.CONVERGENCE=-CONTINUUM.ORG 

Roy Berko

THE GROWN-UP, while fulfilling con-con’s purpose of expanding human imagination and extending the conventional boundaries of language, structure, space and performance, continues the pattern of presenting challenging plays that fits the likes of their core audience.  As with most the theatre’s offerings, this offering is both challenging and thought-provoking.  It is a quick and interesting experience.

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.

Mark Horning

If you are a fan of Con-Con you will love this show. For first time attendees it may throw you off just a bit but not to worry, just enjoy the ride and don’t fret over the details. After all this is Con-Con whose purpose is to expand our way of looking at theater through the use of interesting language, structure, space and content. Bring your imagination and enjoy a dazzling 90 minute no-intermission trip of fantasy.

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

Chris Howey

"All in all, The Grown-Up lands on its feet when it could have easily crashed through theatrical guardrails and landed upside down in a ditch. And while you may not come away with cogent new thoughts about the passage of time and the value of the moment, you'll have some genuine fun."

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

AMERICAN BUFFALO

NONE-TOO-FRAGILE

OCTOBER 6-21, 2023 

330-962-5547 or nonetoofragile.com

Chris Howey

"When it comes to plays about capitalism, American Buffalo is, shall we say, the coin of the realm. And the production of this 50-year-old gem, now at None Too Fragile theater in Akron, gleams like the mint-condition, rare nickel referenced in the title...once again he (director Derry) fashions a play that crawls under your skin and stays there...There are many reasons to attend shows at None Too Fragile...But the headiest part of the experience is when their team is hitting on all cylinders. And American Buffalo is a prime example of NTF at its best."

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

MAKE BELIEVE @ Dobama

MAKE BELIEVE

Dobama

October 6-29, 2023

216-932-3396 or www.dobama.org

Roy Berko

MAKE BELIEVE is play with a compelling premise, especially in this era of multi-dysfunctional families and days and nights of angst.  With some careful cutting, and some extra-time spent working with the younger members of the cast, based on comments of reviews of other productions of this script, this may have been an exceptional experience.  As is, the production makes for a thought-provoking evening with some lacking qualities.

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

Sheri Gross

Dobama Theater kicks off its season with Bess Wohl’s ambitious and complex play “Make Believe,” a drama that explores how childhood trauma can have long lasting effects, even into adulthood. The first part of the play is set in the 1980s in an attic playroom fully stocked with plenty of toys to keep any child happy and occupied for hours on end. Sadly, the children playing in this attic are not very happy, and unfortunately, the script does not successfully keep us occupied.

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

Mark Horning

This is a work that you must steel yourself beforehand in order to appreciate it to its fullest. As advertised, it is an adult play with language and themes that for some may be a bit too much but for others an opener of conversations with their significant others. You decide.

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

Chris Howey

Ultimately, Wohl's title for this overwritten play is all too accurate. It does indeed feel like "make-believe," as in a story that lacks the snap, surprise and stakes of real life. 

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

THE WIZ

THE WIZ

CONNOR PALACE

October 3-22, 2023

216-241-6000 or www.playhousesquare.org

 

Roy Berko

There is no doubt that you should ease your way down the road to the Connor Palace to escape from our world of war, angst and government chaos, and thoroughly enjoy the reimagined Wizard of Oz!

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

Howard Gollop

One critic said it all upon the 1975 debut of this ingenious all-black take on "The Wizard of Oz": "The 'Wiz' is a Wow!"  The only thing to add to this eventual marquee mantra in describing this show's official pre-Broadway revival, continuing at the Connor Palace Theater on Playhouse Square, is, "The Wiz" is more "wow" than ever.

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

Sheri Gross

In spite of some bumps on the road to Emerald City, this production of “the Wiz” reminds us to have faith in ourselves and each other, and that “hope” is a powerful thing. Now more than ever, we all deserve to receive a message like that. To quote Stephen Sondheim as to why he says “The Wiz” is his favorite musical: “It's the one show which makes you feel better when you come out of it than you did when you walked in.”

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

Mark Horning

This show encapsulates all that is great about African-American influenced theater. On opening night each and every song elicited applause from the audience and had people dancing in their seats. The show is exciting and fast moving and quite suited for older children (teens). Groove on down the road and see this masterpiece!

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

Chris Howey

This revival of The Wiz is a feast of voices that will ring in your ears for a long time. And once the rest of the production rises to that level, this can be a Wiz for the ages.

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

Laura Kennelly

Time to ease on down a brand-new yellow brick road? Absolutely.

Dorothy and her friends get a gorgeous re-imagining in The Wiz at Playhouse Square. The show’s revival, now on pre-Broadway tour, mixes old and new, with book by William F. Brown, music by Charlie Smalls, and additions by Amber Ruffin. The all-Black cast flaunts a fabulous look that doesn’t rely on big names. (And that’s not to say we’re not looking at future stars.)

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.

Joey Morona

The highly anticipated revival of the classic musical arrived at the Connor Palace this week for the start of its pre-Broadway run ready to impress and eager to inspire. Turns out, the show, which kicks off Playhouse Square 2023-24 KeyBank Broadway Series, is indeed the “feast for the eyes and soul.”

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

 

CAT'S PAW

CAT'S PAW

BECK CENTER--STUDIO THEATRE

SEPTEMBER 22-OCTOBER 22, 2023

    216-521-2540 or beckcenter.org

 

Roy Berko

 CAT’S PAW is a powerful script, filled with tension and angst.  It gets a very well-conceived and developed production at Beck.  It’s definitely a “go see!”

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

Howard Gollop

It's particularly important that a play receives the kind of solid professionalism offered by Beck Center. The audience is placed squarely into the beating heart of this terrifying ambience, assiduously rendered by designer Cheri Prough DeVol. With dynamic performances by Chris Richards as the overwrought but stoic head terrorist, Lara Mielcarek as the strategizing TV reporter, Michael Dempsey as the confused sycophantic head of  the EPA and Grace Favarro as the head terrorist's cultish henchman/girlfriend, the production captures the audience in the immediacy of the moment.

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

While not a show for the weak of heart, this production will find you asking the question such as “Do the ends justify the means?” and “What needs to be done in order to get people to listen and actually do something about the environment.” This is the message that this mainly ignored play spoke of 40 years ago and to this day is still sloughed over. What will it take to wake us up? Take courage and see this play.

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

Chris Howey

"Side-by-side polemics do little to advance the drama at hand, and while there is a chuckle or two tucked into their verbal fencing, it all leads nowhere."

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

Laura Kennelly

Cat’s-Paw, written by William Mastrosimone and directed by William Roudebush, feeds off the confined spaces offered by the Beck’s Studio Theater. ***

We come to understand that Victor, and those he has recruited, justifies any action — murder, kidnapping, suicide missions — to draw attention to their cause. They see their behavior as noble because their cause is just (where have we heard that before?). Their mission? To improve the environment by forcing the EPA to implement and enforce strict regulations.

Bottom Line: After a ninety-plus minutes long sit (no intermission), I began to feel like a captive myself, one subjected to lectures and (basically) justifications for murderous acts that claimed to be “for a good cause.” Hey, I remember the 1970s and 1980s too. While I wouldn’t recommend this play as a work of art, I do applaud the director, cast and crew who gave it as much cred as possible.

To see a full review of this show, 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.

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

 

'Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812'

                                                      'Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812'

Great Lakes Theater

September 22-October 8, 2023

216-241-6000 or greatlakestheater.org

 

Roy Berko

When I reviewed the Broadway production of NP&TGC1812 I said it was “breathtaking.”  I continued, “this is more than a musical, it is a spectacle of enormous proportions.”  I repeat the same for the GLT production and add that I doubt if there is another director on the local scene who could create such a quality staging of this script!

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

Howard Gollop

All this fun could easily have been just frenzy were it not for the knowing reign of veteran director Victoria Bussert. The production not only ends with a literal comet but begins as a theatrical comet as well -- nonstop images and action, haunting intimate encounters, spot-on sight gags and organic ensemble production numbers by choreographer Jaclyn Miller that would beckon the audience to stand up and dance as well.

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

Sheri Gross

Kudos and bravos must go to this entire Great Lakes Theater cast and crew for creating an epic theatrical experience that must be seen and heard.  

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

Mark Horning

This show while a bit long (just under two and a half hours) is so engrossing the time passes very quickly. There is an intensity that is seldom seen in theater these days. You will find yourself caught up and swept away by the grandness of it all. See this show!

To see a full review of this show,  Review  https://misterh215.wixsite.com/mysite/single-post/great-lakes-theater-natasha-pierre-the-great-comet-of-1812-blazes-forth

Chris Howey

"This remarkable, resounding show runs through October 8 and if you think you're too busy to see it, change your plans and get your pert little buns down to the Hanna Theatre."

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

Laura Kennelly

This Great Lakes Theater version of Natasha, Pierre, & the Great Comet of 1812, an electropop opera written by Dave Malloy and directed by Victoria Bussert, is in several ways even better than the Broadway show. A big part of Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 is its power to pull us into the action, into the party, and into the story. The Hanna Theatre excels in doing just that.

BOTTOM LINE: This is a fabulous production and a must-see show. If you see only one show a year, let it be this one. Tolstoy never had it so good.

To see a full review of this show go here, 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.