Long Day's Journey Into Night @ Ensemble Theatre

Through February 22, 2026

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

One of the great advantages of great theater is that it illustrates situations that many of us would wish to turn away from but cannot. In this case the entire Tyrone family puts the “fun” in “dysfunctional” to the point where witnesses (audience members) feel the urge to step in and do an intervention on the entire family. It is well worth the time investment that this show requires.

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.

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

Gwendolyn Kochur
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Gwendolyn'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.

 

Primary Trust @ Cleveland Play House

Through March 1, 2026

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
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 there is one word that I would use to describe this show it would be “silk”. It flows along softly, caressing our minds and fitting closely to our various body types without disturbing us in any way. There are no brass bands or uninhibited dance numbers or even show stopping songs. It is simply 90 minutes (without intermission) of quietly reflective theater designed to enlighten and entertain. Sometimes that is just enough.

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.

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

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

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi
A team of excellent performers brings Kenneth’s story to life, with Kenneth narrating the play, underscoring his “perceptions” as he remembers them at different points in his life. Debo Balogun as Kenneth uses his storytelling and sensitive delivery skills, illuminating his honesty, investment in, and understanding of his character, not only as an individual struggling with PTSD and loneliness, but also his honesty and willingness to be positive. Carl Hendrick Louis, as Kenneth’s imaginary friend Bert, exists somewhere between Bert as Kenneth’s imagination and invention and the real Bert from 28 years ago, as Kenneth remembers him.

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 Heart of Robin Hood @ Great Lakes Theater

Through February 22, 2026

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.

Howard Gollop

In classic Shakespearean cross dressing tradition of "Twelfth Night" and "As You Like It," Marion eventually finds herself disguised as a young man who befriends Robin Hood (solidly played here by Evan Stevens), and together they swashbuckle their way through the dramatic trappings of battling a throne-stealing nemesis (Nick Steen) of Marion's father, who's leading an important battle from afar. Farr's script is solidly and expertly framed as a lost Shakespere classic, where a royal maiden could very well find herself sporting a male persona while dealing with confusing romantic urges that seem to be emanating equally from her "pal" Robin.

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 refreshing take on a classic and one of the most complete stage productions to date. It literally has everything from a strong female antagonist, truly funny lines, great special effects, really mean villains and some of the most authentic fight scenes ever choreographed on a Cleveland stage. Add to that a tongue in cheek (no pun intended) feel and some madcap action and you have a truly entertaining time in the theater. 

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

Laura Kennelly

Come into the green forest for a romp and a romance. To warm up February, Great Lakes Theater offers The Heart of Robin Hood directed by Jaclyn Miller. It’s a lighthearted take by author David Farr on the classic folk hero, Robin Hood of Sherwood Forest.

The Hanna Theatre stage design by Courtney O’Neill features sloping platform levels. As a result, locations shift instantly from woodland to castle via surrounding wooden walls which magically reveal  scene-enhancing windows and doors.

*****

Bottom Line: The Heart of Robin Hood offers a bit of fantasy, humor, and warming cheer to help us through the bitter cold.

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

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

Gwendolyn Kochur

"Odds are that you’re familiar with Robin Hood, the dashing hero of film and folklore. Joined by his band of Merry Men, this lovable outlaw of Sherwood Forest steals from everyone and…keeps it all for himself.

That last part probably doesn’t match what you’ve come to expect from the fictional character of English legend, but “The Heart of Robin Hood” is a new version of a classic tale, one that’s told with humor, knack and zeal by the cast and creatives of Great Lakes Theater."

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

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

Joey Morona

In a recent interview, GLT Producing Artistic Director Sara Bruner talked about a guiding principle at the theater. She calls it the “yes and” approach — saying yes to the expectations of longtime subscribers and attracting new audiences and meeting the moment. It’s a tricky needle to thread, but one the company does with precision and panache in “The Heart of Robin Hood.”

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

 

Elephant's Graveyard @ Seat of the Pants Productions

David Lenahan (Trainer), Tricia Bestic (Ballet Girl) and Brett DiCello (Strongman) and the cast of "Elephant's Graveyard" at Seat of the Pants Productions. Photo by Grace McConnell.

Elephant's Graveyard

Gordon Green Event Venue

Feb. 6-22

Visit seatofthepants.org 

 

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.

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

Gwendolyn Kochur

"Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. 

Or in the case of Seat of the Pants’ “Elephant’s Graveyard,” we’ll talk about the elephant that is not in the room, because while the play tells the story of the fate of a circus elephant named Mary, it does so without providing any physical representation of the five-ton mammal. Using skilled storytelling, “Elephant’s Graveyard” breathes life into a harrowing, but important, cautionary tale of violence, spectacle and mob mentality."

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

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi
Set in a creative performance space within the Gordon Green Event Venue, the audience experiences a sense of a circus and different places in town, which, in their imagination, “witness” people’s irresponsible, impulsive, and self-righteous actions and excuses. Scenic designer Stacey Costanzo’s stage design—an empty oval space surrounded by tent structures, with sectional drapes and hangings—creates an open environment, allowing the performing area to metaphorically transform into different parts of the town. Michael Boll’s lighting emphasizes the magical illusion that a circus provides, separating scenes of the circus performers from those of the townspeople.
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.

 

Suffs @ Playhouse Square

Through February 22, 2026

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

Women's rights and musicals have come a long way since Glynis Johns, playing Mrs. Banks, a rather clueless mother of two rambunctious children, rang out with the comical anthem "Sister Suffragette" in "Mary Poppins." Today, there's an entire musical that takes a far more sober and historical but equally joyous glance into the woman's suffragette movement. 

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

With the threats against our basic American rights being under fire from the current administration and Congress in Washington D.C., “Suffs” is a call to arms. Sometimes theater needs to remind each of us of our rights and duties as citizens. It was well noted by audience applause when segments of the show reminded us of current conditions and what we need to protect our rights against tyranny. Support this show! 8647 and VOTE BLUE!

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

Laura Kennelly
Suffs, the current Broadway Series production at Playhouse Square, might be seen as following in the model of Hamilton (or, to a lesser degree, Six). Why? Suffs uses real people and experiences to illustrate its story—in this case, how women campaigned for the right to vote. Spoiler: It was a major struggle..
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.

Gwendolyn Kochur

For a theater production to leave an impactful, lasting impression, it’s often essential that the message of the show feels relevant to the time in which it’s being produced. Although we may not wish it to be so, the message that fuels the story of “Suffs,” a passionate musical about the women’s suffrage movement and quest for equality, is heart-wrenchingly relevant in 2026.

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

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

Joey Morona

“Suffs” has been compared to “Hamilton,” and it’s a fair analogy. Both explore important and under-told chapters in American history with contemporary, catchy songs and through the lens of a rivalry. Like Lin-Manuel Miranda, Taub has a knack for eloquently and efficiently describing the political maneuvering and social norms of the time in her lyrics, and she knows her way around a rhyming dictionary, too.

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

 

The Heart Sellers @ Dobama Theatre

Through February 22, 2026

https://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

America is a country of contradictions. One year we welcome immigrants from all around the world who bring new customs, foods, traditions and ideas to our shores. Then suddenly with a new administration all bets are off and violent roundups are enacted. This is a show for the times showing us that no matter where we come from we are all the same...just people trying their best to live a comfortable and rewarding life. This show is from the heart.

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.

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

Gwendolyn Kochur

“The Heart Sellers” tells the story of two immigrants bonding over similar life circumstances, but on a deeper level, it explores seeking connection during times of isolation. Dobama’s production is not just an immigrant story, but a human story, and with the state of the U.S. in 2026, there’s hardly a better time to explore these narratives–Thanksgiving turkey and all. 

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

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi
Set in an unmentioned US city, probably in California, on Thanksgiving in 1973, the play depicts an encounter between Jane and Luna, both 23, in a grocery store (before the curtain) and the subsequent development of their friendship. Coming from different backgrounds and paths, Jane, a recent immigrant from South Korea, and Luna, from the Philippines, share the pains and longings as they struggle to find a place where they can feel comfortable, present, and welcome.  Over two bottles of wine and half-baked yams, the two women become each other’s confidantes, serving as a sounding board and an inspiration, mutually helping each other find a springboard in their own space rather than feeling lonely and left out by their isolationist husbands, who have long working hours. The play addresses a simple yearning for human connection and warmth in an isolated environment as people—immigrants in particular—experience cultural and language barriers in their new community.
To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Joey Morona

Your mileage may vary, but that doesn’t make the play any less relevant or important, particularly at a time when many people’s views on immigration have become so politicized, so black and white. “The Heart Sellers” brings much-needed humanity and perspective to the immigrant experience. Call it a case of serendipity, “The Heart Sellers” is a show we could all use right now.

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

 

Shakespeare In Hollywood @ Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Through February 8, 2026

https://www.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.  These review(s) fall into that category.

 

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

The “BIG STORM” is not arriving until early Sunday morning so I would hop on a ticket or three for tonight’s 7:30 p.m. performance in spite of the cold. If a good laugh is what you need to warm up then this show is a good bet (especially in the second act).

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.

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

Gwendolyn Kochur
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Gwendolyn'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.

 

STEREOPHONIC

CONNOR PALACE (KEY BANK BROADWAY SERIES)

January 6-26/ 2026

Phone # and website of how to order tickets

 

Roy Berko

The touring production of STEREOPHONIC was, in the mind of this observer, unfortunately, less than expected! (I wish I had seen the Broadway show as the basis for comparison.)

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

Howard Gollop

With a hyper-realistic set by David Zinn and costumes by Enver Chakartash, which evoke the' 70s without smacking of nostalgia, the intimate world of the recording studio magically resonates in the potentially cavernous Connor Palace. Classic rock is still beatin' in Cleveland.

For full review, please go to: https://chroniclet.com/news/454576/full-spectrum-of-1970s-music-and-drama-in-stereophonic-on-playhouse-square/

Sheri Gross

All in all, “Stereophonic” is a bold theatrical choice, with live performances that are genuinely thrilling, and for rock enthusiasts, it offers a fascinating peek into the “messy kitchen” that holds the blood, sweat, and tears that go into the making of an album, not to mention the relationship rollercoaster that adds a whole separate layer of highs and lows. But the desire for more songs, the repetitive arguments, and the uneven pacing may cause you to short-circuit earlier than expected. 

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

Mark Horning

This is one of those shows that you will either love or hate or both. There is not a lot of middle ground on this one. Along with the long sit time there are some pretty intense emotional scenes that cut pretty deep. At the opening night intermission some members of the audience opted to leave while those that stayed were rewarded with an exceptional study in social collapse. It was well worth sticking around for.

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

Laura Kennelly

Stereophonic, the 2024 Best Play Tony Award winner, kicked off its Cleveland run at Playhouse Square January 6 with a determination-testing, attention-challenging performance that lasted over three hours. The tests, the challenges, were for the audience; the actors seemed perfectly at ease. To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Gwendolyn Kochur

How did a show so lauded by critics garner such a lukewarm – even downright cold – response from Playhouse Square audiences? The problem is not with the play or the production, both of which are exquisite, but instead lies with expectations garnered by the performance space.

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

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

Joey Morona

The result is a fragmented experience that can leave the audience restless.

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

 

The Secret in the Wings @ convergence--continuum

Photo Credit: Kate Smith/convergence-continuum

The Secret in the Wings

convergence-continuum, 2438 Scranton Road, Cleveland

Through December 20, 2025

convergence-continuum.org or 216-687-0074 

 

Gwendolyn Kochur

“The Secret in the Wings,” a play that features old, lesser-known fairy tales, demonstrates that scaring children with stories of harsh consequences and dark, gruesome events is nothing new; however, it is wildly entertaining. 

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

How The Grinch Stole Christmas @ KeyBank State Theatre

Through December 14, 2025

https://www.playhousesquare.org/

(216) 241-6000

Mark Horning

When the Grinch goes Broadway you can expect sparkling songs, exuberant dance numbers, wildly wonderful costuming and dazzling sets. This touring production does not disappoint in any way. Nearly half of the audience was youngsters and the rest the young at heart. The 90 minute no intermission is a perfect amount of entertainment for the youngsters. Come enjoy a superb family live theater experience.

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

THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL

BECK CENTER

DECEMBER 5, 2025-JANUARY 4, 2026

216-521-2540 or beckcenter.org

 

Roy Berko

“Spongebob Squarepants The Broadway Musical” delighted on Broadway.  The Beck production is an acceptable, if underwhelming version!

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

Howard Gollop

Again, all would be for naught were that overpopulated score to erupt into a mountain of musical mayhem. But overseeing composer Tom Kitt — who wrote even more music for the show with lyricist Jonathan Coulton — has steered clear of any musical clashes.

What's more, local music director Larry Goodpaster has helmed an amazingly precise and stimulating orchestra, once and for all topping a top-notch production that more than makes up for the unfortunate absence when the non-Equity national tour, which bypassed Cleveland several years ago.

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

Gwendolyn Kochur

While it might not resonate with the SpongeBob rookie, those who feel nostalgia for that absorbent and yellow and porous cartoon sponge will find Beck Center’s production of “The SpongeBob Musical” to be boatloads of fun. 

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

 

The Hobbit @ Dobama Theatre

Through January 4, 2025

https://www.dobama.org/ 

(216) 932-3396

 

Mark Horning

This is definitely the show to gather the entire family for. Children of all ages will marvel at the stage set, costumes, character changes and delightful story of cooperation and friendship. Bring the entire clan and share a wonderful holiday treat as you root for the good guys and boo the bad ones. This is a treasure not to be missed.

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

Gwendolyn Kochur

“The Hobbit” may be considered children’s literature, but that does not mean that it is childish, which is one of the many reasons that it resonates with varied audiences. Dobama’s production is theatrically sound, and when approached from a children’s theater lens, you’re not likely to be disappointed. However, for the Tolkien fans eager to revisit Middle-earth this holiday season (of which there will be no shortage), it is important to temper expectations and realize that “fun for the whole family” might not be as fun for everyone.

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

Joey Morona

Dobama Theatre’s “The Hobbit” doesn’t just spark your imagination; it depends on it. Director Erin E. Dolan invites audiences to help picture what can’t fully appear in a 139-seat black box: galloping horses, dozens of characters and creatures, a dragon bigger than the theater itself. The result feels like a bit of stage magic, conjured in real time by everyone in the room.

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

 

I Wear My Dead Sister's Clothes @ Cleveland Public Theatre

Through December 20, 2025

https://www.cptonline.org/ 

(216) 631-2727 extension 501

 

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

At time humorous, at times poignant and at times quite loud and angry the show is a study into the frailty of life and how we owe it to our survivors to take stock of our possessions and reduce, reuse and recycle where needed. This show is a love letter to someone who has passed as well as part of the healing process needed to move on. It is a well constructed study of life.

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.

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

Gwendolyn Kochur

“I Wear My Dead Sister’s Clothes” brings to life an immediate, raw picture of what it means to love someone during their life and after their death. Schwabauer’s vulnerability and honesty is as brave as it is impactful; for, no matter how you choose to cope with grief, you will walk away from this show knowing that you are not alone. 

To see a full review of this show, read Gwendolyn'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.

 

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some) @ Ohio Shakespeare Festival

Through December 28, 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

Sometimes “we need a little silly” during the craziness that is the winter holidays. This show is a perfect tonic as we are bombarded at light speed with every holiday reference known to man and beast. This show dazzles with sparkling improv and truly funny situations.

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.

Gwendolyn Kochur
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Gwendolyn'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.

 

Spamalot @ Playhouse Square

Through December 6, 2025

https://www.playhousesquare.org/

(216) 241-6000

Roy Berko

 A reviewer said of the original production, "It's UNFAIR to make me laugh this much!”  I wish I could say that of the touring show.  Unfortunately, I can’t.  This production seems to be missing some of the abandonment needed to really get the audience to let loose.
 
That’s not to say the show is bad.  It’s not.  But, it  seems a little uninspired, a little too much on automatic pilot, and not as zany as it could be or has been in previous incarnations.  We need more ridiculous farce and less-Hamlet drama!

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

Howard Gollop

Nothing seems so fresh as "Spam," especially when it's mixed and stirred with an unrelentingly hilarious dollop of "Camelot." But the better surprise on Playhouse Square's launch of a new Broadway tour of "Spamalot" is that the non-stop comedy cavalcade of King Arthur shenanigans seems fresher than ever. It remains the holy grail of musical comedy.

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

Mark Horning

For adult fans of Monty Python this show is a feast of one liners and quotables well loved since 1975 when the film premiered. The action is lighting fast as the just little over two hours whisk by at a breakneck pace. With this limited run do not delay on getting your tickets.

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

Laura Kennelly
Spamalot---a comic, irreverent look at King Arthur, the “Camelot” era, and life in general—dropped by for a visit at Playhouse Square’s Connor Palace December 1—6. Opening media night (the middle of only six shows) attracted avid Monty Python fans of all ages. Cleveland, the first city on the latest national tour of the classic satire (Broadway debut in 2005) has seen it before, but that didn’t seem to matter---everyone still laughed The original Broadway production was nominated for fourteen Tony Awards and won three, including Best Musical. A good joke is a good joke and Spamalot with book and lyrics by Eric Idle and music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle enjoys an abundance. It might help to see the 1974 film it’s based on before you go (Monty Python and the Holy Grail) because last night’s dialogue flew by so fast and furious some funny got lost. But the show’s over-the-top bits are impossible to miss. Of course, in Spamalot nothing is taken seriously, especially not death. In an opening scene, plague victims rise up from the body-collecting wagon. One vigorous one (Steven Telsey) sang loudly “I Am Not Dead Yet” as workers kept trying to pile him on the wagon. The indefatigable Telsey shone again in another memorable scene that involved the fluffy-white “Killer Rabbit” who had to be destroyed by the “Holy Hand Grenade.” Fur blown off, jock-strap clad Telsey gave it his all in a comic race offstage. .
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Gwendolyn Kochur

No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Gwendolyn'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.

 

A Christmas Story @ Cleveland Play House

Through December 21, 2025

https://www.clevelandplayhouse.com

(216) 241-6000

      

Mark Horning

One thing that I noticed as the audience members began to file in for the show was that for the most part it was family groups coming to share the play together. This totally relatable tale simply has a soft spot for everyone. Bring someone you love...I triple dog dare you.

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.

Joey Morona

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

 

A Christmas Carol @ Great Lakes Theater

Through December 21, 2025

https://www.greatlakestheater.org/

(216) 241-6000

      

Mark Horning

If you are among the few who have never witnessed this production it is high time for you to come see it. For the rest, gather the clan and make the pilgrimage to the Mimi Ohio for a shared experience. It is after all what Christmas is all about, the gathering of family...God Bless us Everyone!

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

Howard Gollop

Lorain native Gerald Freedman's script at times stalls on heavy narration, but The Great Lakes Theater production, nearing its 40th anniversary,  nevertheless reminds us of the beauteous prose of one of the world's most cherished novelists. So, by all means, join the fictitious "Cleaveland Family" onstage as they reencounter a magical and mythical nocturnal Yuletide dream. 

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.
Laura Kennelly
It’s no wonder Charles Dickens’ wonderful classic, A Christmas Carol, returns annually to Cleveland. And it’s also no wonder every year the merry GLT troupe moves from the Hanna to the Mimi Ohio Theatre (yes, this is the 37th year there) to tell the story. The Mimi Ohio stage, crafted for Scrooge over the years, sports trap doors, a rear stage wall that splits open (to Hell as well as to cheery Christmas spirits), and hissing fog machines.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Joey Morona

The staging is as dazzling as ever: swirling smoke, sudden bursts of light and entrances that defy explanation. The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come remains the show’s signature effect — a towering, shrouded figure with a Dementor-like presence that never fails to draw oohs and ahhs.

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

 

Karamu's Motown Christmas @ Playhouse Square

Through December 14, 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
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 are looking for a truly hip and exciting holiday show this is a must see. Being housed in the intimate Hanna Theatre brings everyone close to the action on stage. This show takes us back to a simpler time of the 50s when a few dollar ticket could have you see million dollar acts performing in your small town. Don’t “Shop Around” but instead experience the “Heatwave” of live performing at its best.

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

Laura Kennelly
Now at Playhouse Square’s Hanna Theater, the Karamu House’s A Motown Christmas radiates holiday spirit and plenty of joy. No story, just song after song, flashing soul, talent, and (yes!) glittery costumes galore. Part of what makes this holiday show, created and adapted by Nate Jacobs and directed by Karamu CEO Tony F. Sias, is—of course—the music. It’s a review of Motown’s greatest hits (you know, some of the ones some of us grew up with) by now-legendary artists such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, The Jackson 5 and more. Many are officially “Christmas songs,” such as “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” Others bring back memories, such as “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” and “Stop! In the Name of Love.” Trust me here, unless you’ve had a very sheltered youth, you’ll recognize (and enjoy) this song-packed fest. Twenty-seven hits before intermission; eighteen afterwards. Good vibes flew all over the place. (Honestly, if the numbers had stopped after the first 27, it would have been plenty, but everybody cheerfully streamed back to their seats after intermission for second helpings of the music feast.)
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.

Gwendolyn Kochur
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Gwendolyn'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 Wickhams: Christmas At Pemberley @ Clague Playhouse

Through December 14, 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.

 

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 are among the many who had the pleasure of seeing last year’s “Miss Bennet” you will find the same intriguing characters and situations with this year’s offering. It is a superbly acted period piece that gives us a glimpse of holiday life in the early 1900s England. This is a beautiful gem of a play that truly enhances the holiday season. 

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.

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

Gwendolyn Kochur
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Gwendolyn'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.