AIN'T MISBEHAVIN' @ PORTHOUSE THEATRE

July 6 through 22, 2017

(330) 929-4416 or (330) 672-3884

Or http://www.porthousetheatre.com

Bob Abelman

Porthouse Theatre has found the perfect formula for a delightful evening’s escapism:  Take 30 of the best 1920’s and 1930’s jazz and swing compositions by Harlem nightclub legend “Fats” Waller, divide them among five extraordinarily entertaining performers, add a tight three-piece band, and subtract any semblance of a storyline. 

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here.

Roy Berko

“Ain’t Misbehavin’” is a musical-review which will be of interest to those who like 1920 and 30’s Harlem Renaissance swing music.  Be aware that the show, though nicely performed, has over 30 songs and no story line. 

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

Kerry Clawson

The musical revue "Ain’t Misbehavin’" is performed with style, humor, panache and great skill at Porthouse Theatre.  It’s a two-hour party where the joint really is jumpin’ as an excellent cast of five brings to life the spirit of jazz innovator Thomas “Fats” Waller.

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

Mark Horning

Bring along a loaf of bread, a jug of wine and whatever other picnic delights you wish for some open air theater that is the Porthouse tradition. This show will have you jumpin’ and jivin’ in your seat. It is the musical revue at its best.

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

Christine Howey

The Porthouse production sparks to life at times, particularly in the wonderful “Black and Blue” number that reveals the hurt behind the jazz and jive. But in general, Ain’t Misbehavin’ ain’t misbehavin’ enough.

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

9 TO 5 @ PORTHOUSE THEATRE

Through July 1, 2017

(330) 929-4416 or (330) 672-3884

Or http://www.porthousetheatre.com

Bob Abelman

Porthouse Theatre’s woefully out-of-date ‘9 to 5’ undermines as it entertains.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here.

Roy Berko

“9 to 5,” which opened Porthouse Theatre’s 49th season, has neither a great script, nor a wonderful score, but, never-the-less, is an audience-pleaser.  The sold out opening night audience was on its feet at the end, screaming and clapping their delight proving once again that Artistic Director Terri Kent knows her intended audience.

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

Kerry Clawson

"9 to 5" was a goofy yet fun and popular movie when it came out in 1980 ... But it does not translate well into a musical today.  The 2009 musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by co-screenwriter Patricia Resnick, feels uncomfortably artificial for the whole first act at Porthouse Theatre. The characters border on caricatures, most of the songs are simplistic and unmemorable, and the lyrics are very basic rather than clever.

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

Mark Horning

Pack a nice picnic dinner with a good bottle of chilled wine and some iced soda for the children and spend an enjoyable summer evening under the stars as your cares melt away. Porthouse Theatre is a delightful summer break from the pressure and hubbub of life. It’s an ideal family sharing time and a great way to introduce your young family to live theater.

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

Christine Howey

Certainly the movie 9 to 5 could be turned into a vivid and vital stage musical. But it would probably need a new composer, lyricist and writer to update the dynamics and incorporate a fresher comedic sensibility. But for now, this is the 9 to 5 we have, and the Porthouse production has enough engaging moments to keep you amused on a summer evening.

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

FOOTLOOSE @ PORTHOUSE THEATRE

July 28 through August 14, 2016

(330) 929-4416 or (330) 672-3884

Or http://www.porthousetheatre.com

Roy Berko

Artistic Director Terri Kent knows her Porthouse audience, and her show selection, casting, choice of support staff and directing all lead to a very happy full-house exiting the theatre on opening night of Footloose.   And, what delights will next season bring?

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

Kerry Clawson

Almost Paradise is a duet made in heaven between Lindsay Simon and Paul Schwensen. They not only sing this iconic number so beautifully they make you swoon, they also make a great-looking couple once Ariel finally lets her walls come down.

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

Mark Horning

This Porthouse Theatre production of “Footloose” is everything that outdoor summer theater is about.  A mixed aged cast putting together an exciting exhibition of song, dance and acting that makes for a delightful evening under the stars.

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

RING OF FIRE @ PORTHOUSE THEATRE

July 7 through 23, 2016

(330) 929-4416 or (330) 672-3884

Or http://www.porthousetheatre.com

Bob Abelman

Porthouse’s ‘Ring of Fire’ is greater than the sum of its parts.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here.

Roy Berko

If you like jukebox musicals that concentrate on a series of songs, rather than developing a clear story line, are a Johnny Cash fan, want to see and hear a wonderful cast sing and play musical instruments at a high level of proficiency, and want to be in a theatre set within the lovely grounds of Blossom Center, Ring of Fire should be on your must see list!  
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

In 'Ring of Fire,' five top-notch musicians invoke the spirit of brooding, rebellious country music legend Johnny Cash in broad strokes, using 30 of the tunes he sang as the medium.
.
To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.


Mark Horning

A picnic dinner on a grassy knoll followed by a great collection of Johnny Cash standards well performed through a great sound system makes for a wonderful evening of entertainment at Porthouse Theatre.  Fans as well as casual listeners of “The Man In Black” will all love this performance.  

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

SISTER ACT @ PORTHOUSE THEATRE

June 16 through July 2, 2016

(330) 929-4416 or (330) 672-3884

Or http://www.porthousetheatre.com

Bob Abelman

Porthouse performs minor miracle with "Sister Act." 

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

Roy Berko

Sister Act is a perfect slice of summer entertainment placed in a lovely get-away setting!  Director Eric van Baars has put together a smooth running production which gets all the necessary laughs, develops the story line as well as one can with something as fluffy as he has been given, and paces the show so that it moves smoothly along.  See it!

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

HAIRSPRAY@PORTHOUSE THEATRE

July 30 to August 16, 2015

http://www.porthousetheatre.com

 or 330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884

Bob Abelman

Porthouse’s ‘Hairspray’ offers a slightly dented ‘do.    

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

Roy Berko

Director Terri Kent pulled out all the stops, added tons of shticks and gimmicks, has a rocking band, creative and well performed choreography, and a focused cast, which  resulted in a wonderful, “this you must see” theatrical experience.  
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

The underdog in all of us will love the musical 'Hairspray,' the subversive musical comedy that satirizes the ignorance of both lookism and racism, all presented in a bubblegum package.
The larger-than-life show, now playing at Porthouse Theatre, has a lot to like with its ever-idealistic heroine Tracy (the likable Katey Sheehan), some excellent comedic actors and a spirited young ensemble.

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

Mark Horning

As with all Porthouse productions, Hairspray is a delightful musical outing that combines picnicking on the green (or in one of the pavilions) with excellent Broadway musical performances.  It is a wonderful social experience that will enhance the lives of everyone in the family.  Kudos to Porthouse for the phone call and e-mail warning of the sold out Tim McGraw concert at Blossom Music Center on opening night with encouragement to plan for an early arrival.  Through this effort the show was able to start on time to a packed house.

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

VIOLET@PORTHOUSE THEATRE

July 9 to 25, 2015
http://www.porthousetheatre.com,

330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884 

Bob Abelman

This is a lovely play that is given a tender treatment. 

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

Roy Berko

While “Violet” does not have the components of a classic musical production it is a special evening of theatre resulting from a clear directing concept by Steven C. Anderson, fine instrumental performances, excellent vocalizations by the entire cast, and excellent acting. 
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.


Mark Horning

This is the perfect summer theater show for those wishing to see a light and airy musical.  Come early with a picnic dinner and make an entire evening of it.    

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

Christine Howey

This is a thinking person's musical, replete with ideas about the obstacles, superficial and otherwise, that torture us and prevent us from making the connections we need. As a result, Violet earns the rewarding ending it shares with the audience at the end of this bus ride to redemption.

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

LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC @ Porthouse

LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC
PORTHOUSE THEATRE
June 11-27, 2015

330-672-3884 or go online to www.porthousetheatre.com.

Bob Abelman

“Isn't it bliss? Don't you approve?” asks Desirée in the opening refrain of “Send in the Clowns.”  Absolutely.

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

Roy Berko

A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC is a melodramatic story, with memorable music, that gets a nice production.  It would have been aided by stressing the story’s soap-opera aspects to garner the humor built into the script, thus sending in the clowns.  As is, as represented by the opening night assemblage, audiences will enjoy this evening of musical theater on the Blossom grounds. 

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

Kerry Clawson

Under the direction of Sean Morrissey, A Little Night Music’s tale of marital infidelities is handled with a light touch and a tongue-in-cheek humor, thanks to the characters witnessing all the romantic entanglements.

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

Mark Horning

 A Little Night Music is a pleasant evening of music, intrigue and naughtiness with a few laughs thrown in for good measure.  Arrive early and bring a picnic and something cold to drink and enjoy the family friendly atmosphere of outdoor summer theater.  You may find yourself coming back time and again.  

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

Christine Howey

The talented Porthouse cast, under the direction of Sean T. Morrissey, gives this production a glossy texture that serves the material well. This includes an appearance by Terri J. Kent, producing artistic director of Porthouse, in the linchpin role of Desiree Armfeldt.

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

OLIVER @ Porthouse

July24-August 10, 2014

http://www.porthousetheatre.com

or 330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884

Bob Abelman

Many stage productions of this beloved musical have dared to bring to the surface the depth, darkness and ethnic divide that Dickens intended.  The Porthouse Theatre production is not of that ilk.  It is, instead, a pleasant diversion meant to amuse rather than engage. 

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

Roy Berko

“Oliver!” is a wonderful musical theatre script which tells a well conceived tale, has marvelous music, and, in a good production, pleases an audience.  Unfortunately, Porthouse’s version left much to be desired.

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

Mark Horning

Summer is a time for lightness…clothes, music, temperatures, food and theater.  “Oliver!” is perfect entertainment for this time.  Take a drive out to Cuyahoga Falls for an enjoyable evening of musical theater. 

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

Christine Howey

This production goes even further in soft-pedaling the unpleasant parts of the original source material. As directed by Terri Kent, this Oliver! works hard to ear its exclamation point, even though there are a couple somewhat sour notes along the way.

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

STARMITES @ Porthouse/Kent State

July 3-19, 2014

For tickets http://www.porthousetheatre.com

 or 330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884

Bob Abelman

A very two-dimensional ‘Starmites’ gets a five-star treatment at Porthouse Theatre

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

Roy Berko

Artistic Director Terri Kent and the Porthouse staff, knowing their audiences, usually play it safe, producing the tried and true musicals (e.g., “My Fair Lady,” “Sound of Music.”)  Doing “Starmites” was a stretch.  It will be interesting to evaluate how the audiences respond and whether that encourages future stretching of the boundaries.  (I’d love to see them do “First Date” or “Bridges of Madison County,” recent Broadway shows.)  As for the production, I would have preferred that, as the powers that be had picked a ridiculous farce, that director Michael Mcintosh, had pulled out all the stops and created a staging that was parallel to the bizarre sci-fi plot.

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

Kerry Clawson

'Starmites' is an ultra-bright, fantastical, over-the-top musical comedy that’s fun for all ages at Porthouse Theatre.
This comic book story-come-to-life, nominated for six Tony Awards in 1989, is dominated by tongue-in-cheek humor and tuneful melodies. It’s a ridiculously fun Innerspace fantasy adventure that’s markedly different fare from Porthouse’s usual musical classics.

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

Mark Horning

If you're looking for a nice frothy summer time treat with a decent moral back story, this is a good show to share with the family.  It’s not Hamlet, but it doesn't try to be.  Enjoy the show for what it is…nice easy to listen to music, an easy to follow story and a fun campy cast.

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

Christine Howey

You'd think that a Broadway musical that was nominated for six Tony Awards would have a lot going for it. But in the case of the regrettably titled Starmites, now at Porthouse Theatre, there's less to this show than meets the eye.

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

MY FAIR LADY @ Porthouse Theatre/Kent State

June 12-28, 2014

http://dept.kent.edu/theatre/porthouse/ShowInfo.htm or 330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884

Bob Abelman

The Porthouse Theatre's treatment of this musical theater classic is significantly less grand and interesting than what patrons have grown accustomed to.  It is more in line with dinner theater, but without the beverage service or 50/50 raffle.

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

Roy Berko
 
Under the directing awareness of Terri Kent, and the outstanding performances by Kayce Cummings and Greg Violand, the Porthouse production of "My Fair Lady," made for a fine evening of summer entertainment.

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

Kerry Clawson

Greg Violand and Kayce Cummings make a winsome pair in the Lerner and Loewe classic MY FAIR LADY, the famous tale of  an egotistical phoneticist who tutors a Cockney flower seller to speak the Queen’s English in an effort to pass her off as a high-class lady.

Violand lets the audience in on how confounded Higgins really is by women when he sings tunes such as "I’m An Ordinary Man," elevating himself with lyrics such as "Let a woman in your life and invite eternal strife." 

Lead actress Cummings gets to squawk and snort plenty as the feisty Eliza, who exhibits great physical humor and decidedly unladylike body language.

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

This show about the Cockney ragamuffin Eliza Doolittle being transformed into a refined lady never gets old, as long as the performers are up to the task. And happily, this production at the Porthouse Theatre has two stellar performers in the key roles.

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

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF

Porthouse Theatre
July 26-August 11, 2013

http://dept.kent.edu/theatre/porthouse/ShowInfo.htm or 330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884

Bob Abelman

“Fiddler” is a delight from start to finish, with each musical number more moving and well delivered than the next.  This stellar production ends a rather spotty season at Porthouse Theatre on a high note.   

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's News-Herald article here.

Roy Berko

Nothing but admirable praise can be heaped on Eric van Baars and his Porthouse cast of FIDDLER.  This absolutely must see production is everything one would want in the creation of the tribute to a way of life destroyed, but lived!  L’Chaim!

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

Kerry Clawson

Cleveland-area actors George Roth and Tracee Patterson make an absolutely perfect couple in Porthouse Theatre’s captivating production of the beloved musical Fiddler on the Roof.
It’s a tour de force for Roth, who brilliantly creates the heartwarming Tevye, patriarch of a family of Jewish peasants. Roth brings finely tuned humor, beautiful singing and a huge heart to the role of the milkman...

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

Fran Heller

From the first plaintive notes of a violin...to the poignant strains of "Anatevka"as the villagers prepare to leave their homeland, there are so many highlights that one scarcely notices almost three hours have passed.
Director Eric van Baars maneuvers a cast of 32 with such seamless finesse that any distinction between seasoned pros and musical theatre students all but disappears.

To see a full review of this show, read Fran Heller's review at the Cleveland Jewish News


Christine Howey

There is plenty of heart and poignancy in this tale, as the show’s book by Joseph Stein was spun from an original story by the famed Jewish author Sholem Aleichem. And that is what this solid production delivers in spades, as directed by Eric van Baars. 

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

WORKING @ Porthouse Theatre

July 4-20, 2013

http://dept.kent.edu/theatre/porthouse/ShowInfo.htm or 330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884

 

Bob Abelman

Leaving “Working: The Musical” at Porthouse Theatre, there is a greater sense of having just done one’s civic duty than having spent the evening being entertained. The show seems better suited as the opening act at a U.S. Department of Labor corporate event than sandwiched between musical haymakers“South Pacific” and “Fiddler on the Roof” in Porthouse’s summer repertoire.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's News-Herald article here.

Kerry Clawson

Director Jim Weaver’s strong young cast of 12 singers, all of whom are in college or have recently graduated, are often successful in bringing out the humanity of 25 varied characters who share their feelings about how work does or does not define them. These real middle-class workers’ words, which seek meaning in their work and their personal lives, were originally transcribed by Terkel.


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

  Fran Heller

"Working" is not a great musical. What it is, is an entertaining and sometimes moving tribute to the workingmen and women in America in song and movement.
In an age of economic uncertainty, job insecurity, lingering unemployment and increasing disparity between the haves and have-nots, it is good to be reminded about ordinary people who helped build this extraordinary country.


To see a full review of this show, read Fran Heller's review at the Cleveland Jewish News

Mark Horning

“Working” is a pleasant evening of musical theater in the outdoors.  The cast (made up of mostly Equity membership candidates and non-candidates) does a great job of singing and acting.  It will not take much work for you to feel entertained.

To see a full review of this show: http://www.examiner.com/review/porthouse-theatre-s-production-of-working-cannot-be-dampened-by-storms

Christine Howey

If you’ve worked for a living, inside the house or out,Working is a show that rings many bells. And this production is delivers the goods, for the most part, with energy and consistency.

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

SOUTH PACIFIC
Porthouse Theatre @ Blossom Center
June 13-29, 2013

http://dept.kent.edu/theatre/porthouse/ShowInfo.htm or 330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884

Bob Abelman

Porthouse Theatre delivers a pretty but passionless ‘South Pacific.’  Its talented cast and the work of Rodgers and Hammerstein are done an injustice by the absense of an orchestra. 

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's News-Herald article  here.


Roy Berko

Under the directing abilities of Terri Kent, the Porthouse production of SOUTH PACIFIC makes for a fine evening of summer entertainment. 

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


Kerry Clawson

Porthouse Theatre’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's South Pacific is a satisfying evening of theater that brings alive the emotional content of the American classic.
Leading the way is Equity actor Greg Violand with his soaring vocals as middle-aged French planter Emile, who creates a romantic chemistry with beauty Kayce Cummings as young nurse Nellie Forbush.

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

Fran Heller

The hills are alive with the sound of musicals this summer season, beginning with "South Pacific," the landmark musical that dealt with the issue of racism five years before Brown vs. the Board of Education and more than a decade before the Civil Rights era.
The bubbly Porthouse production, directed with sparkling clarity by artistic director Terri Kent and a talented ensemble makes for an evening of great entertainment.
A spoonful of medicine about the evils of prejudice doesn't hurt either.

To see a full review of this show, read Fran Heller's review at the Cleveland Jewish News

Mark Horning

“South Pacific” at the Porthouse Theatre is a comfortable evening of great songs, comedy and drama performed extremely well in a cozy intimate environment.  You will find that it is truly “Some Enchanted Evening.”

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

Christine Howey

Happily, this Porthouse production does the rich material justice, for the most part. Under the direction of Terri Kent with choreography by MaryAnn Black and music direction by Jonathan Swoboda, this version has a splendid blend of fine voices along with romance, slapstick, and cultural relevance.

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

THE SOUND OF MUSIC
PORTHOUSE THEATRE
July 26 through August 12
http://dept.kent.edu/theatre/porthouse/ShowInfo.htm or 330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884

Bob Abelman

Unlike its recent production of “Damn Yankees,” which imploded under the weight of its own datedness, the Porthouse Theatre's “The Sound of Music” is delivered on gossamer wings and as fresh as when first produced for the stage in 1959 and then on film in 1965.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here.

Roy Berko

Porthouse’s THE SOUND OF MUSIC is a crowd pleaser that brings out the best of the script through good pacing, fine singing, dancing and line interpretation.

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

Kerry Clawson

The classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical The Sound of Music is bursting with heart at Porthouse Theatre in a joyful production directed by artistic director Terri Kent.

Every detail — from a massive, beautifully hand-painted mountain mural to the thrilling harmonies reverberating from the nuns' sacred music — shows this production has been mounted with loving care.

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

Fran Heller
This "Sound of Music" is a satisfying summer evening's entertainment for all ages. Guaranteed you'll be humming all the way home.

To see a full review of this show, read Fran Heller's review at the Cleveland Jewish News

Christine Howey

This production of the Broadway classic at Porthouse Theatre offers plenty for the S of M lovers to wrap their arms around. Director Terri Kent keeps the long show clipping along while milking some genuine emotion out of a couple touching scenes.

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

THE WORLD GOES 'ROUND
Porthouse Theatre--Kent State
July 5-21, 2012
330-672-3884 or http:dept.kent.edu/theatre/porthouse/ticketinfo.htm

Roy Berko

Musical revues tend not to be my favorite form of theatre.  I prefer storylines.  But, more productions like  THE WORLD GOES ROUND, as directed and choreographed by Sean Morrissey, could make a review lover out of me.  Go to Porthouse. Sit back and relax, and let the talented and well directed cast carry you away on a fine musical trip to Kanter and Ebb’s Broadway.
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.


Kerry Clawson

Most people know Kander and Ebb best from their cynical, darker shows Chicago and Cabaret. But the musical revue The World Goes ’Round, which debuted off-Broadway in 1991, is most memorable for its yearning love songs, which unfold effortlessly through the talented young professional cast members at Porthouse. The 12 young actors sing their hearts out in a production that’s sophisticated, slick, funny and entertaining.

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


Christine Howey

Director and choreographer Sean Morrissey has tutored his charges well, and come up with some inventive staging twists that keep things interesting. The result is a plethora of musical delights, just right for a summer evening.

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