The Prom @ Porthouse Theatre

Through August 6, 2023

https://www.kent.edu/porthouse/prom 

(303) 672-3884

 

Roy Berko

As is the case with modern American musicals, THE PROM harks back to a Rodgers and Hammerstein-like social message of tolerance and the need to accept the beliefs and needs of others.  It is extremely relevant to today where the rights of sexual minorities, especially trans-individuals, is under both physical and political attack by right-wing bigots.  The Porthouse production, is well-conceived and brings to a conclusion a successful season.

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

Mark Horning

With the combination of seasoned regional actors with students of the Kent State University Theater and Music Departments the result is a superlative show of exceptional quality. Arrive early with your picnic dinner, stroll the spacious grounds and settle in for a great entertainment experience. You will not want to miss this show!

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

Chris Howey

This high-energy production directed with infectious spirit by Terri J. Kent is a mixture of low comedy, noble thoughts about LGBT tolerance and inclusion, and a lot of characters who've had their rough edges sanded off so they fit nice with each other. 

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

Kinky Boots @ Chagrin Valley Little Theatre

Through August 12, 2023

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.  This review falls into that category.

Mark Horning

This small stage version of the popular Broadway hit will delight the local audience, especially if they are friends with any of the local talent. It is a big show in a small theater yet somehow it all works. Well worth the price of a ticket.

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

LEAP OF FAITH

Leap of Faith 

June 30 through July 15, 2023

Blank Canvas Theatre, 78th Street Studios, 1305 West 78th St., Suite 211

440-941-0458, www.blankcanvastheatre.com

Sheri Gross

Ultimately, this production of “Leap of Faith” at Blank Canvas Theatre lies in the hands of the cast, made up of talented and engaging performers, some of whom are more successful at making up for the lackluster story than others. 

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

Chris Howey

To make familiar stories like Leap of Faith come alive, the performers need to find some special juju to fashion characters we can be passionate about. In short, they need to take an acting leap of faith. But in this production, there are no leaps or risks taken, just a dutiful shuffle to the curtain.

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

LOVE'S LABORS LOST @ OHIO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

LOVE'S LABORS LOST

OHIO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

JUNE 29-JULY 16, 2023

Ohioshakespearefestival.com

Chris Howey

Love's Labor's Lost now at the Ohio Shakespeare Festival is an LOL treat, even at the run-time of more than three hours, including the half-hour "green show" that begins the evening. Under the spirited direction of Tess Burgler, the talented OSF company squeezes old Will's comedy like a ripe orange, and out squirts a gaggle of randy dudes (both sexes now), disguises, mistaken identities, and a couple dazzling performances.

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

Once On This Island @ Beck Center for the Arts

Through August 6, 2023

www.beckcenter.org

(216) 521-2540

Roy Berko

The stage was constantly displaying well-conceived stage pictures, the choreography was not only creative, but visually encapsulating, and the entire production was a master class in how to create an audience pleasing show that developed the intent and purpose of the author. In fact, it actually made more of the storyline than Lynn Ahrens created.  This is musical theatre at its finest!  Bravo!

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

Howard Gollop

As charming and evocative as the fairytale storyline may be (ingeniously scripted by Lyricist Lynn Ahrens), what really elevates the Beck Center production into the magical experience is the surprisingly elevated production team of Broadway-caliber director-choreographer Christopher Chase Carter, scenic designer Cherri DeVol (as exuberantly lit by Emma Hansen) and costume designer Inda Blatch-Geib. 

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

Mark Horning

Combine vibrant calypso and island music with bright costuming, an unbelievable stage set, an engaging story line and exceptional dance numbers and you have a sure hit at the Beck Center for the Arts. You will be rocking in your seats as this captivating tale unfolds Come take a vacation to the islands. This is must see theater!

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

Chris Howey

Both a visual and audio treat, Once on This Island will transport you in more ways than one. It's a show worth at least one toast afterwards with frosty Margaritas.

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

Kate Klotzbach

Running now through August 6 on the Senney Theater Main Stage at the Beck Center, this blend of beautiful storytelling and exceptional talent is a summer experience that will entertain and provide an island break from the worries of the day.

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

The Marvelous Wonderettes @ Porthouse Theatre

Through July 15, 2023

http://www.kent.edu/porthouse

(330) 672-3884

 

Roy Berko

If you love the teeny-bopper music of the 1950s and 60s, and don’t care about a story line (believe me this is not DEAR EVAN HANSEN or SPRING AWAKENING), then wander out to Porthouse, sit in the beautiful tent theatre in the lush lawn and trees, and see THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES.  Me?  I’m looking forward to THE PROM, the theatre’s next production. 

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

Mark Horning

The 50s, while not perfect, were a simpler time that many reminisce about. Musically it was a period of seemingly simple tunes that were actually performed with astute complexity. This show captures that feel. Grab a picnic dinner, arrive early and enjoy the beautiful grounds prior to the show. Sincerly!    

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