Cinderella @ Ohio Shakespeare Festival

December 2-12, 2021

Kerry Clawson

For Ohio Shakespeare Festival's production of "Cinderella," forget the preconceived notions about this girl being the princessy type.

In this production of the musical, Maya Nicholson's Cinderella feels much more like a real girl, one who isn't necessarily the picture of grace during the big reveal for her ballgown, but who jumps up and down with joy when it happens. And that makes the moment all the more exciting for folks in the audience.

In this Akron company's production of the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical, the Fairy Godmother is a tattooed badass who, rather than looking typically fairy-like, appears mythological and sings with throaty alto power.

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

 

BLACK NATIVITY @ KARAMUThrough December 23, 2021

Through December 23, 2021

(216) 795-7077

https://www.karamuhouse.org/

 

Mark Horning

Somebody say Amen! That is exactly what you will say and how you will feel once you have witnessed the Karamu production of “Black Nativity”. This is a hand clapping joyous shout of celebration that must not be missed. It is a sure cure for the winter blahs. Come be saved!

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

WICKED @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE

December 8 through 22, 2021

(216) 241-6000

https://www.playhousesquare.org/events

Howard Gollop

This production is a cut above the previous tour that came through Cleveland a few years back. But even in a lesser effort, "Wicked" remains the kind of celebration pre-teen girls (and older women) can savor. Only this time, the magic may transcend into a much broader appreciation.

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

Sheri Gross

The talent-filled production of Wicked at Playhouse Square has all the “wow” we need to fill our hearts, stir our souls, and open our eyes to the need for tolerance, understanding, and the importance of digging below the surface. That, along with the magic of theater,  just may change us…for good. 

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

Mark Horning

This is the type of musical extravaganza that Broadway is famous for and well worth the ticket. All of the elements come together for this extraordinary example of Great White Way Huzzah. Wicked will put your entire family under its spell.

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

Kate Klotzbach

The show is packed full of memorable songs performed by a very gifted cast... The design elements of WICKED are also noteworthy, with Susan Hilferty’s costumes taking the prize for their eye-catching color and detail. Lights, sound, set, and other technical aspects capture the spirit of Oz and the magic that is within... To sum up: WICKED is worth it. The rich story, striking songs, talented-laden vocals, and top-notch design elements make this production one to see.

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

Joey Morona

Nearly two decades after it premiered on Broadway, it’s easy to see why “Wicked” remains one of the most successful musicals of all time.

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

 

CABARET @ BLANK CANVAS

Through December 18, 2021 

(440) 941-0458

http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com/cabaret/

Sheri Gross

Director Patrick Ciamacco unpacks everything “Cabaret” has to offer, taking us on an entertaining, albeit unsettling journey. The misstep is the show’s ending, which suffers from a case of shock value, overshadowing the message. This is not the familiar ending from the US revival but aligns with the London revival, and in this space goes too far. If this were the preferred ending, it should not have been followed up with an upbeat curtain call, which seemed jarringly out of place.

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

Mark Horning

Tired of the strain of the holidays with all of its rushing around? Take a much needed break at The Kit Kat Club where you can unwind and forget about life for awhile. This cautionary tale about life in 1930s Germany during the rise of fascism is at once entertaining and enlightening. Right this way, your table’s waiting.

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

Kate Klotzbach

"Welcome to Berlin’s Kit Kat Klub, where you can forget all of your worries! The outside has no hold on you while you are in this place full of music, dancing, and love! This remount of the 2016 BCT production beckons you to come in, sit down, and be entertained."

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

 

THE TWENTIETH CENTURY WAY @ CONVERGENCE CONTINUUM

Through December 18, 2021

(216) 687-0074

https://convergencecontinuum.ticketleap.com/

 

Roy Berko

The topic of THE 20^TH CENTURY WAY, if, not the play’s production, should please con-con regulars.  The theme is intriguing and spotlights an important moment in US history that led to many bad laws being passed, gay men being persecuted and prosecuted, and great angst.  It took a late 20^th century Supreme Court decision to undue the horror.

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

Mark Horning

Fans of Con-Con will love this quirky fast moving acting romp. It will also be a delight for actors who love watching challenging rolls unfold on stage. Some people will leave having not gotten what the play is all about while others will knowingly nod in understanding. This is black box theater of a higher level.

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

Kate Klotzbach

“You can’t be charged for being something, only for doing something.” And thus spins the carousel known as The 20th Century Way, a two-person play running audiences in circles of “morality.”

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

ELF THE MUSICAL @ BECK CNETER FOR THE ARTS

Through January 2, 2022

(216) 521-2540 x10 

https://www.beckcenter.org/shows/elf

 Roy Berko

Beck’s ELF lacks the farcical quality and creativity of the movie on which it is based.  Part of the problem is the poor quality of the script.  The rest is the lack of creativity in the staging.   It may be a pleasant sit for some, but for others it will be a quickly forgettable experience.  

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

Mark Horning

This show reminds me of a certain holiday recipe; sweet potatoes, marshmallows and walnuts. It’s overly sweet, a bit gooey and a little nutty yet tons of this concoction are devoured every Thanksgiving and Christmas. With all of the seats in the theater being filled night after night who am I to argue with logic like that?

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

LIGHT IT UP! @ CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE

Through December 22, 2021

(216) 241-6000

https://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/shows/2021/light-it-up

Roy Berko

CPH presents a holly-jolly musical for holiday cheer.  

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

Mark Horning

Especially this year we all need a little extra Christmas cheer and this musical extravaganza is just the ticket. “Light It Up!” is the perfect family friendly show that will appeal to all ages. Come spend an enjoyable evening in Tinselville with this wonderful collection of holiday characters. 

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

Kate Klotzbach

This enjoyable 90-minute show (no intermission) by Jason Michael Webb and Lelund Durond Thompson is a bit of wholesome fun that will uplift the spirit. Director and choreographer Christopher Windom has successfully brought together both new and classic melodies with the energy of the talented performers to produce a unique, one-of-a-kind holiday experience.

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