Queens Girl-Black in the Green Mountains

Through March 8, 2026

https://karamuhouse.org/ 

(216) 795-7070

 

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

With all the high tech gadgets that have overtaken modern theater it is nice to come across a bit of true theater magic. This show is a prime example of how low tech can still tell an entertaining story by letting our imaginations fill in the blank spots. Come be wowed and entertained.

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.

 

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

“Primary Trust” wades into some emotional waters, intelligently dipping into mental health, trauma responses and coping mechanisms, but it never succumbs to the weight of these topics. Instead, the play uses humor to help balance the drama, leaving audiences contemplative of heavy topics, but with satisfied smiles at the end of the night. It also provides a message of hope, and in a time when loneliness is a growing epidemic, the value of a show that serves as a beacon of optimism cannot be overstated. 

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

In a world of screens and the infinite scroll, it’s easy to get lost in our algorithms and FYPs. Cleveland Play House’s breezy yet profound production of “Primary Trust” reminds us how much human connection matters.

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.