Lend Me a Tenor @ Beck Center for the Arts

Through April 26, 2015

17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-521-2540

Bob Abelman

Have a fondness for farce?  Let the door slamming begin.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here: 
http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

LEND ME A TENOR is one of the best modern day farces.  It gets a must-see production at Beck Center.  Farce is hard to do, but on the Beck stage, Scott Spence and his well-honed cast make it look exhausting, but easy.  Go, enjoy!

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

Mark Horning

   

Without a doubt this is one of the wittiest and laugh out loud funniest productions to hit the boards in some time.  The chemistry is electric and each comedic vignette is a gem.  Fill the seats for this one.  

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

Christine Howey
You need to bring along an industrial-strength dose of the medicine that powers all farces: a willing suspension of disbelief. Armed with that potent elixir, this bundle of silliness will tickle your funny bone in numerous places. 

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's review at  Cleveland Scene

Twelfth Night @ Ensemble Theatre

Through April 4, 2015

2843 Washington Blvd., Cleveland Hts., 216-202-0938

Christine Howey

Done in modern dress, the fictional setting of “Illyria” seems much closer to the all-too-real Elyria in this neck of the woods. But this tidy version manages to capture some of the magic.

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's blog Rave and Pan

Isaac's Eye @ convergence-continuum

Through April 11, 2015

At The Liminis, 2438 Scranton Road, Tremont, 216-687-0074

Bob Abelman

“Don’t you give points for originality?” asks a young Isaac Newton when begging fellow scientist Robert Hooke for entrance into the Royal Society.  Although originality didn’t seem to count for much in the world of 17th-century science, it certainly does on the convergence-continuum stage.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's article here:  http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/

Roy Berko

ISAAC’S EYE is one of those productions that if you don’t see it, you’ll be missing a very special theatrical experience.  Good job con-con!

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

Christine Howey

So, are scientists angels or devils? As Isaac’s Eye by Lucas Hnath posits, maybe the answer is a lot more complex. And this production at convergence-continuum manages to plumb the intricacies of both science and scientific fame in a fast-paced, layered staging that continually delights and surprises.

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's review at  Cleveland Scene

The Mighty Scarabs!, Karamu House

Through March 29, 2015

2355 E. 89^th St., 216-795-7077    

Christine Howey

Calhoun’s script shines brilliantly, etching clear and entertaining portraits of people who once shared something great. Director Christopher Johnston, in addition to shaping scenes that pop off the stage, has also cast the show adroitly.

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's blog Rave and Pan

Andrea Simakis

"The Mighty Scarabs!" is a skillful collision of reality and fiction, a funny, lyrical and mournful exploration of what happens to hardwood stars, boys feted as heroes by blacks and whites alike, when the cheering stops.

 To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

 

Standing on Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays @ Cleveland Public Theatre

Through March 21, 2015

6415 Detroit Avenue, 216-631-2727

Roy Berko

STANDING ON CEREMONY THE GAY MARRIAGE PLAYS is a must see production for anyone who has empathy toward  same sex marriage movement.  It should be required seeing for conservatives who don’t understand why there is a need for a “gay agenda.” It’s also of value to return attendees as a second viewing exposes subtle materials not previously grasped, the set is new, and there have been some positive cast changes.

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

Mark Horning

No matter where you stand on the subject of gay marriage, this is must see theater.  The message is presented without being political or preachy.  It is enlightenment through entertainment which is what good theater is all about.  Leave your preconceptions at the door and simply enjoy the ride of really good theatrical performances.

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

Christine Howey
This play, directed with energy and style by Craig J. George, does exactly that, through huge dollops of humor and a couple emotional interludes that make clear why marriage rights are so important. 

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's review at  Cleveland Scene

Becky Shaw @ Dobama Theatre

Through March 29, 2015

2340 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-932-3396

Bob Abelman

It is rare and wonderful when so much comedy comes out of something as caustic as "Becky Shaw," and Dobama Theatre’s superb production doesn’t miss a gag or an opportunity to activate the gag reflex.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here:  http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/

Roy Berko

Gina Gionfriddo has written a play that is both fun and thought provoking.  It gets a marvelous production at Dobama.  This is theatre at its best.  The director, the cast, and the technical staff all deserve kudos!!!   Ah, if only every night at the theater could be like this!

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

Mark Horning

Becky Shaw is “in your face” combat theater that keeps tightening up the tension until your ears begin to ring.  It is equal parts drama/comedy/mystery/morality that takes no prisoners.  The surprise ending will having you hoping for a sequel.  See this with your spouse.  It will make your relationship look like a bed of roses by comparison.       

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

Christine Howey

Thanks to a tight production that fairly twangs under the direction of Donald Carrier, the playwright’s sharp-edged dialogue shoves the audience down a perilous, icy chute on well-oiled roller skates. 

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's review at  Cleveland Scene

The Pianist of Willesden Lane @ Cleveland Play House

Through March 22, 2015

Allen Theatre, PlayhouseSquare, 216-241-6000

Bob Abelman

All of us readers of the Cleveland Jewish News have a personal story to share about Kristellnacht and its life-altering impact on our families. But none of us, save for Mona Golabek, have the remarkable skill and unique opportunity to set those stories to classical music and share them on stage.   

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here:  http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/

Roy Berko

THE PIANIST OF WILLESDEN LANE is a special theatrical and musical event.  An absolute “must see,” the script and the production educate, entertain and enrapture!  Kudos to  Mona Golabek and Hershey Felder for creating an experience that viewers will long remember.
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

Mona Golabek offered a soulful performance of her one-woman show "The Pianist of Willesden Lane," a gripping, 90-minute piece with no intermission at Cleveland Play House’s Allen Theatre. The Grammy-nominated classical concert pianist told from the piano the story of her mother’s Kindertransport flight from Vienna to London just before World War II broke out. Golabek expertly interspersed the music of Chopin, Beethoven, Debussy and Grieg with the dramatic true story of her mother, Lisa Jura.  This inspiring show about the life-affirming power of music for one girl through the dark history of the Holocaust is a must-see for audiences of all ages.

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

Mark Horning

This is theater of such magnitude that it is no surprise that tickets for the sold out performances are becoming dear.  Mona Golabek gives what can only be described as a once in a lifetime theater experience that will evoke sincere changes in the way you look at performances from now on.  It is a story of love, hope, talent, luck, perseverance and sacrifice.  It is the ultimate theatrical experience.   

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

Christine Howey

This show, which is touring many cities, is a tight and captivating package highlighted by Golabek’s entrancing talents at the keyboard of her Steinway grand piano. The piano is not only the key set piece on the mostly black stage, it is absolutely central to Golabek’s life.

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's blog Rave and Pan

Andrea Simakis

Though the details of her life fascinate, Lisa Jura's story stands in for the more than 10,000 children spared from the gas chambers by a seat on the Kindertransport.

As their numbers dwindle with each passing year, so do their stories of survival. This is something Golabek knows. Her every stroke of the gleaming keys echoes the words that swirled up from the ashes of a war torn world: "Never forget."

To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

Art Thomas

This show is storytelling at its finest, with a performer who is first of all a top notch concert pianist. There are moments of powerful sadness, but the overarching element is hope for the future. 
 
Click here to read the complete review at WestLife

Dirty Dancing @ PlayhouseSquare

Through March 22, 2015

Connor Palace, PlayhouseSquare, 216-241-6000

Bob Abelman

When the dancing stops and the dry ice settles, it is clear that “Dirty Dancing” is merely a color-by-number musical whose fanatical devotion to the duplication of the movie's storyline and cinematic sensibilities is more disorienting and disappointing than engaging.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here: 

http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

If you go to see DIRTY DANCING THE CLASSIC STORY ON STAGE expecting the emotional and sensual overload that many experienced from the film, you will be very disappointed.  The only way to watch this touring production is to sit back, take the unspectacular staging, the mediocre acting and dancing, and soap opera story for what it is.  The opening night audience slowly got to its feet as the curtain call proceeded.  Was the show that good?  No, but take into consideration this is Cleveland.  Cleveland, the home of  polite people who stand at the end of almost every show, deserving or not.

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

Kerry Clawson

The 1987 film "Dirty Dancing" captured viewers' hearts and imaginations with its incredible dancing and the undeniable chemistry of its stars — Patrick Swayze as Johnny and Jennifer Grey as Baby.  "Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story on Stage" tries to keep the love going but fell flat Wednesday night at Playhouse Square’s Connor Palace. That’s because Gillian Abbott, who just assumed the role of Baby for the Cleveland run, and swing Josh Drake, filling in as Johnny for Samuel Pergande who’s suffering from a hand injury, had very little chemistry together Wednesday night.

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

Mark Horning

While any opinion will do little to change the guaranteed sellout that this production will enjoy, go see this badly acted show for the music and some dance but don’t expect to be wowed.           

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

Christine Howey

Dirty Dancing is a hybrid musical that gives you more than your money’s worth in terms of visual and auditory pizzazz. And, you know, it has the iconic bits: "(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life" and the swan dive lift. But if you’re looking for the unvarnished heart of the original, you can find that on Netflix.

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's blog Rave and Pan

Andrea Simakis

"Dirty Dancing" onstage is as critic-proof as the flick was when it opened in theaters nearly 30 years ago. (For the record, this reviewer has been known to draw the shades, ignore phone calls and abandon dinner plans upon encountering a "Dirty Dancing" cable marathon.)

To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

Art Thomas

You'll see some great dancing, with duplications of the poses and images from the movie. There's the addition of two key songs given to a pair of feisty singers. The plot line remains thin and the cartoonish nature of the show indicates that no one takes it too seriously....which is how it should be. 
 
Click here to read the complete review at WestLife

The Book Club Play @ Actors' Summit

Through March 15, 2015

Greystone Hall, 103 High St., Akron, 330-374-7568 

Bob Abelman

Director MaryJo Alexander recognizes this play’s potential and is skilled enough to follow up on it.  Through clever casting , fast pacing, and a concerted effort to reel in what comes across on the page as disingenuous, Alexander finds common ground between what is acerbic and what is asinine.  There are still moments when one brand of comedy wins out over the other and when an actor cannot find the humanity in the humor.  But the end result is a very funny play that will appeal to just about everyone.  

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's article here: 
http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/


Kerry Clawson

As heavy-handed as the unlikable Ana is, playwright Karen Zacarias’ comedy, now running at Actors’ Summit in downtown Akron, is heavy-handed too. There’s nothing subtle or surprising about her humor: The play’s heightened sense of self-awareness leads to trite-sounding dialogue that overstates the obvious.  The comedy, which premiered in 2008 in Bethesda, Md., feels dated and overly simplistic now as it proffers a sort of book club for dummies to explain what the 'Twilight' series and Twihards are.

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


Mark Horning

The Book Club Play is an absolutely delightful way to spend an afternoon or evening.  The writing is smart and witty and the comic timing is superb.  There are some truly funny moments that have a universal appeal even to those not in book clubs.  This one is a real page turner.

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

Dial "M" for Murder @ Great Lakes Theater

Through March 22, 2015

Hanna Theater, 2067 E. 14^th St., , 216-241-6000

Bob Abelman

The biggest mystery in this classic psychological thriller is what the good folks at Great Lakes Theater have in store to keep the plot twists camouflaged, make the abrupt turns sufficiently disorienting, and serve up Tony’s  pathology in a fresh and interesting way. As it turns out, what they have in store is not nearly enough.  

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here:
http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko
 
Great Lakes production of DIAL “M” FOR MURDER makes for a wonderful escapist evening of theatre.  Anyone liking murder mysteries, good acting, and good staging will enjoy this production.  As to the theatre’s evolving pattern of staging a mystery each season, as long as they continue in the vein of their DEATHTRAP, MOUSETRAP, and DIAL “M,” let’s have some more!
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

Dial M for Murder is a surprising disappointment from what many consider the gold standard of classic theater in Cleveland.  In theater, the two most difficult genres to pull off are comedy and mystery.  In both, timing is everything.  In this slouthfest time seems to stand still.  Hopefully some of the bugs can be worked out as the performances continue.

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


Andrea Simakis

Great Lakes Theater's 'Dial "M" for Murder' gleams, but there's too little life beneath the surface sheen.
 
To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

Art Thomas

The script and music are solidly rooted in the 1950's but Charlie Fee's production has nods to this decade. The result is a show that is relevant to the technology savvy denizens of the 21st century. Imagine, young people will learn about the archaic phones with dials! This is a handsome and well conceived production. 

Click here to read the complete review at WestLife