As You Like It @ Great Lakes Theater

Through April 8, 2023

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.

Mark Horning

This show truly has it all (even singing). Even if this is your first exposure to a Shakespearean production you will find it a delightfully easy to follow story of romance, intrigue, mistaken identities and witty dialogue. It is Shakespeare done right. 

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

Chris Howey

Let's hope that Shakespeare's trans-friendly plays aren't swept off the library and school shelves like so many books in MAGA states have been, just because they dare to conjure a world where gender is not subject to government mandate. And where a play with the warm and welcoming title of As You Like It can exist without fear or favor.
To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

As You Like It, Shakespeare’s tale about nobles (and their sidekicks) wandering semi-lost in the Forest of Arden, seems a proper salute to spring. Directed by Charles Fee, this Great Lakes Theater production also allows for laughs, romance and satire aplenty.

I know, as they say, the theater requires a willing suspension of disbelief, but still. Anyway, in the hands of Great Lakes’ nimble cast, all ends well.

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

Noises Off @ Beck Center For the Arts

Through April 16, 2023

www.beckcenter.org

(216) 521-2540.   

 

Sheri Gross

The Beck Center production of “Noises Off” gives us all the opportunity to indulge in two and a half hours of absurd fun, which is something we all deserve…even though we might not be able to get the word “sardines” out of our heads for several days.

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

Howard Gollop

Every decade, there's a dependable revival of Michael Frayn's theatrical farce to end all farces, "Noises Off," deservedly so.

Perhaps an authentic British production might have rung a few extra laughs, but it's hard to fault such an amazing comedic triumph from a local company. 

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

Mark Horning

Pratfalls, slapstick, miss-direction and perfect comedic timing makes this the much see comedy event of the year. It is British comedy at its best. You will literally laugh yourself silly. Do not miss this one!

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

Chris Howey

In all, Noises Off is a physically demanding theatrical juggling act for both the performers. And despite some slow moments, this production at the Beck Center manages to keep the laughter flowing.

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

Laura Kennelly

It all begins with a plate of sardines. Or wait — maybe it all begins with a character inside another character? The one thing I’m sure about is this: Noises Off, directed by Scott Spence, now at the Beck Center, is a romping, fun farce of a play

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

 

Something Rotten @ Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Through April 15, 2023

https://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.  This review falls into that category.

 

Roy Berko

The ultimate test of the worth of a production, is the audience’s reaction.  In the case of CVLT’s SOMETHING ROTTEN!, the in-production laughing, applause and after-the final curtain comments by the audience, were positive feedback.  If you like musical theater, and want to experience a nicely conceived community theatre production this is it!

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

Mark Horning

Sometimes theater can be enjoyed just for the fun of it. This show is a perfect example, especially when exhibiting the high standards that CVLT maintains in all of their shows. Come see how many Broadway references you can catch during the show (there are 20 of them and perhaps more). Get your tickets, sit back and enjoy the fun.

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

 

THE OTHER PLACE @ Dobama

THE OTHER PLACE

DOBAMA

March 10-Apri 2, 2023

216-932-3396 or www.dobama.org

 

Roy Berko

If you are a comedy and/or a musical theater junky who is reluctant to see a “serious” play, make an exception and get thee to Dobama to experience an important and well-written script, experience a well-conceived production, with an award-winning performance.  THIS IS AN ABSOLUTELY MUST-SEE PRODUCTION!

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

While an excellent production, this show is not for everyone. In concern for the subject matter, loud yelling, profanity and intensity those of a more gentle nature may wish to pass on this production. However, you who love riding hyper-intense roller coasters, this production is right up your alley. Strap in and hang on because you are in for the wildest ninety minute ride of your life. 

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.

Aladdin @ Playhouse Square

Through March 12, 2023

https://www.playhousesquare.org/ 

(216) 241-2600

 

Roy Berko

“Aladdin” is a family-friendly, escapist musical that gets an adequate production, by a cast of mostly newbies to professional theatre.
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

There is truly Disney magic sprinkled throughout the show (The magic carpet really does fly). It is engaging for young and old alike and is a pleasing show with high moral values of true love, friendship and promises kept. This is one to take the children to see.

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

Joey Morona

Take a magic carpet ride to a whole new world. This touring Broadway musical tells the beloved Disney story of a street rat who wins the heart of a princess with the help of a manic but all-powerful genie.

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

 

Riverdance @ Playhouse Square

Through March 5, 2023

https://www.playhousesquare.org/ 

(216) 241-6000

 

Mark Horning

There is a good reason why this two hour show flies by so quickly. It is simply stunning. Between the rapid pace dancing, the various themes, the intriguing music and the lavish costumes and stage set it is impossible not to fall be totally taken about with this show as it celebrates its quarter of a century anniversary.

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

Joey Morona

First “Hamilton,” then “Hadestown.” It seems every major touring production to roll through Playhouse Square lately has featured a Cleveland native (or two) in a starring role. That streak continues this weekend when “Riverdance” comes to the KeyBank State Theater with Eastlake’s own Brandon Asazawa dancing the lead role made famous by the great Michael Flatley.

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