CLEVELAND CRITICS CIRCLE 2023 THEATER AWARDS

CLEVELAND CRITICS CIRCLE 2023 THEATER AWARDS

 

For more than 50 years, the CLEVELAND CRITICS CIRCLE (CCC) has provided support and recognition for professional theaters in our community and for the talented individuals who create and stage their productions. CCC members include local theater critics who write for print and/or online publisher(s); or who have established a distinct, credible, and consistent online presence (blog, etc.) for their reviews. 

 

On the CCC website, www.clevelandtheaterreviews.com, visitors will find capsule reviews of professional productions in the 216/440/330 area, with links to the reviewers’ full articles.

 

In addition, each year CCC honors outstanding local productions as well as select performers, directors, designers, and playwrights. (Note: The organization does not separate award recipients by gender identities.)

 

Eligible plays include those staged by Cleveland-area professional theaters during the 2023 calendar year. 

 

Members of the CCC who voted for the 2023 Awards are:  Sheri Gross (Cleveland Jewish News, The Lorain Journal, The News Herald), Mark Horning (WIX, Chagrin Valley Times, The Solon Times), Howard Golub (The Chronicle Telegram), Christine Howey (Cleveland Scene) and Roy Berko (Broadwayworld.com, CoolCleveland.com, theatrecriticism.com, www.royberko.info).  Additional nominators:  Laura Kennelly (CoolCleveland.com) and Kerry Clawson (Akron Beacon Journal)

 

(Duplicate winners and honorable mentions are listed in alphabetical order, not by order of excellence.)

 

BEST MUSICAL PRODUCTION

NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812, GREAT LAKES THEATER

            Honorable Mention

            BLACK NATIVITY, KARMAU HOUSE THEATRE

            CABARET, KENT STATE UNIVERSITY

                        FUN HOME, CAIN PARK

            ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, BECK CENTER           

            

BEST NON-MUSICAL PRODUCTION 

            LITTLE WOMEN, DOBAMA THEATRE

                        Honorable Mention

                        DOUBT: A PARABLE, BECK CENTER

                        MARY SHELLEY’S FRANKENSTEIN, CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE

                                    SKYLIGHT, NONE TOO FRAGILE THEATRE

                        THE ISLAND, ENSEMBLE THEATRE

                                   TRUE WEST, NONE TOO FRAGILE THEATRE

 

BEST PERFORMERS–MUSICAL

ALEX SYIEK, NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812, GREAT

         LAKES THEATER

            ISRAELJAH REIGN, ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, BECK CENTER

JESSIE KIRTLEY, NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812, GREAT 

LAKES THEATER

JODI DOMINICK, NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812, GREAT

LAKES THEATER

            KRIS LYONS, PIPPIN, BALDWIN WALLACE UNIVERSITY

            MICHAEL SNYDER, ROCKY, BLANK CANVAS THEATER

            SCOTT ESPOSITO, FUN HOME, CAIN PARK

                        Honorable Mention

                            MADISON SHANNON, CABARET, KENT STATE UNIVERSITY

                            CARLYN DEMANELIS, ROCKY, BLANK CANVAS THEATER

            

BEST PERFORMERS – NON-MUSICAL

CHRISTOPHER BOHAN, DOUBT: A PARABLE, BECK CENTER

DERDRIU RING, FAITH HEALER, NONE TOO FRAGILE THEATRE

KATIE SIMÓN, LUNGS, ENSEMBLE THEATRE

MARIAH BURKS, LITTLE WOMEN, DOBAMA THEATRE

NNAMDI OKPALA, THE ISLAND, ENSEMBLE THEATRE

ROB GRANT, LUNGS, ENSEMBLE THEATRE

ROBERT WILLIAMS, THE ISLAND, ENSEMBLE THEATRE

            Honorable Mention

    NATALIE GREEN, TRUE WEST, NONE TOO FRAGILE THEATRE

    RACHEL LEE KOLIS, TRUE WEST, NONE TOO FRAGILE THEATRE

    RON NEWELL, A FUGITIVE’S LESSON, CESEAR’S FORUM

    TRACEE PATTERSON, THE OTHER PLACE, DOBAMA THEATER

 

RISING STAR

            JULIANA SHUMAKER, FUN HOME, CAIN PARK

                        

BEST DIRECTOR – MUSICAL

            VICTORIA BUSSERT, NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812,

                 GREAT LAKES THEATER

                        Honorable Mention

                              JOANNA MAY CULLINAN, FUN HOME, CAIN PARK

                              TERRI KENT, CABARET, KENT STATE UNIVERSITY

            

BEST DIRECTOR – NON-MUSICAL

            MELISSA CRUM, LITTLE WOMEN, DOBAMA THEATER

                        Honorable Mention

        DONALD CARRIER, DOUBT: A PARABLE, BECK CENTER

        JEANNINE GASKIN, TROUBLE IN MIND, SEAT OF PANTS ENSEMBLE

        SARAH MAY, THE ISLAND, ENSEMBLE THEATRE

                                SEAN DERRY, SKYLIGHT, NONE TOO FRAGILE THEATRE  

 

BEST CHOREOGRAPHER 

JACLYN MILLER, NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812, GREAT                     LAKES THEATER

Honorable Mention

        LAUREN TIDMORE, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR 

    DREAMCOAT, BECK CENTER

                    MARTIN CESPEDES, CABARET, KENT STATE UNIVERSITY

                    MONICA OLEJKO, FUN HOME, CAIN PARK

                    SARAH CLARE, LEAP OF FAITH, BLANK CANVAS THEATER

 

BEST MUSICAL DIRECTION  

MATTHEW WEBB, NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812,                             GREAT LAKES THEATER

Honorable Mention

            BRADLEY WYNER, RENT, CAIN PARK

            DAVID M. THOMAS, BLACK NAIVITY,

KARAMU HOUSE THEATRE/CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE

            LARRY GOODPASTER, ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, BECK CENTER

 

BEST SCENIC DESIGN

JEFF HERMANN, NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812,                             GREAT LAKES THEATER

Honorable Mention

    LEX LIANG, MARY SHELLEY’S FRANKENSTEIN, CLEVELAND PLAY

         HOUSE

    SEAN DERRY, SKYLIGHT, NONE TOO FRAGILE THEATRE  

 

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN 

JAKYUNG C. SEO, MARY SHELLEY’S FRANKENSTEIN, CLEVELAND PLAY

     HOUSE

                        Honorable Mention

                            RUSS BORSKI, GHOST, BALDWIN WALLACE UNIVERSITY/BECK

                                 CENTER     

    TRAD A BURNS, NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF                     1812, GREAT LAKES THEATER

 

BEST PROJECTION DESIGN

            JEREMY PAUL, THE OTHER PLACE, DOBAMA THEATER

                        Honorable Mention

        BRITTANY MERENDA, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR 

    DREAMCOAT, BECK CENTER

                                KASUMO, GHOST, BALDWIN WALLACE UNIVERSITY/BECK

                                     CENTER 

 

BEST COSTUME DESIGN

            INDA BLATCH-GEIB, ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, BECK CENTER

                      Honorable Mention

    INDA BLATCH GEIB, BLACK NATIVITY, KARAMU HOUSE THEATRE 

THEATER/CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE

    MEIKA VAN PLOEG, SENSE AND SENSIBILITY, GREAT LAKES THEATER

                MICHELLE HUNT SOUZA, CABARET, KENT STATE UNIVERSITY

    TESIA DUGAN BENSON, NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET               OF 1812, GREAT LAKES THEATER

 

BEST SOUND DESIGN

            ANGIE HAYES, FUN HOME, CAIN PARK

                        Honorable Mention

RICHARD INGRAHAM, BLACK NATIVITY, KARAMU HOUSE 

THEATER/CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE

                        SHARATH PATEL, MARY SHELLEY’S FRANKENSTEIN, CLEVELAND 

PLAY HOUSE

TOM MARDIKES & STAN KOZAK, A CHRISTMAS CAROL, GREAT 

            LAKES THEATER

 

BEST TOURING PRODUCTION  

            DEAR EVAN HANSEN, PLAYHOUSE SQUARE

 

BEST NEW PLAY BY A LOCAL PLAYWRIGHT

A LIGHT IN THE NIGHT:  A HANUKKAH PLAY, LES AND ELANA HUNTER,                    TAILSPINNERS CHILDREN’S THEATRE

 

BEST CHORUS IN A MUSICAL 

            NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812, GREAT LAKES THEATER

                    Honorable Mention

                            RENT, CAIN PARK

                            ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, BECK CENTER

      JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, BECK

               CENTER

            

BEST WORLD PREMIERE IN THE CLEVELAND AREA

   A LIGHT IN THE NIGHT:  A HANUKKAH PLAY, LES AND ELANA HUNTER, 

                TAILSPINNERS CHILDREN’S THEATRE

 

SPECIAL MENTION

 

PATRICK CIAMACCO FOR HIS CREATIVITY IN PRESENTING HIGH-QUALITY THEATRE ON A SHOESTRING BUDGET AT BLANK CANVAS THEATER

 

GINA VERNACI FOR HER MANY YEARS OF INSPIRED SERVICE WITH PLAYHOUSE SQUARE

 

ENSEMBLE THEATRE’S WORKSHOP READING OF A COMMISSIONED PLAY, THE PROSPECT OF EQUALITY BY RACHEL ZAKE

 

AND, A REMINDER FROM THE PAST...

REUBEN AND DOROTHY SILVER FOR THEIR 21 YEARS OF STELLAR INVOLVEMENT WITH KARAMU HOUSE THEATRE

 

Wonderland Wives @ Convergence Continuum

Through December 23, 2023

https://www.convergence-continuum.org/

(216) 687-0074

 

Mark Horning

This show takes wholesome characters that we all loved and grew up with and turns them on their ear. It’s a warped version of “Real Housewives of Wonderland” as they cut each other to ribbons and with all manner of addictions sweeping through the magic kingdom. It is a hoot and a half proving that happily ever after is not what it is cracked up to be. Bring your adult Prince Charming or Princess along for a good laugh.  

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

Skylight @ None Too Fragile

Through December 16, 2023

https://www.nonetoofragile.com/ 

(330) 962-5547

Mark Horning

The intimacy of this tiny box theater works well to draw the audience in. It is like being a neighbor with the wall removed. If you can snag a ticket to this show...DO SO! Cheers!

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

A LIGHT IN THE NIGHT: A HANUKAH PLAY

TAILSPINNERS CHILDREN'S THEATER @ JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

DECEMBER 2-20 

Roy Berko

The production, with its simple set and small cast, would be perfect for tours to first to third  grade Sunday or Jewish school classes, where the kids could be pre-taught the Chanukah story and the script’s songs, so they could be knowledgeable active participants.

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

Mark Horning

While a bit lacking on the professional level the show makes up for it with love and enthusiasm. In short, it achieves what it set out to accomplish and that is to educate and entertain both those of the Jewish faith (young and old) plus any passerby who happens to wander in. Mazel tov!

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

 

Tease The Season @ Cleveland Public Theatre

Through December 10, 2023

www.cptonline.org 

(216) 631-2727 ext. 501

 

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

While not your standard holiday fare of tinsel and holly this show takes the Christmas theme into a whole new direction with loads of laughs. It is indeed “a love letter to the holidays for anyone that is from a different culture, does not have family near or are in need of a little extra cheer.”.It is a cozy bit of warmth that we all could use during these gray months. Strip On!

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.

HAIRSPRAY (TOURING COMPANY)

PLAYHOUSE SQUARE (CONNOR PALACE)

December 5-10, 2023

216-241-6000 or playhousesquare.org

Roy Berko

The touring production was quite adequate, but could have been so much more with stronger direction, better technical aspects and a stronger cast.  The opening night audience as on their feet at the end in spite of the performance and technical issues.

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

Howard Gollop

The latest teased-up sensation comes from one of those second-run, non-union touring companies designed for overnight stops and week-long runs. Although the resulting economy of the production value for this Cleveland run is occasionally apparent, the original artistry of the original designers -- David Rockwell on sets, William Ivey Long on costumes and especially Patrick W. Lord on a spectacular video design -- mostly maintains the look and feel as full-blown Broadway.

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

Mark Horning

There are scant five shows left on this way too brief tour stop at Playhouse Square in Cleveland, Ohio so order your tickets quickly as this show will quickly sell out. This production combines the best of heart and soul with a strong back beat and a huge cast in size and talent. You will hear the bells!

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

Chris Howey

This is an early stop on the 45-city tour for this non-equity production, but it glistens in almost every respect—from spot-on performances to dances that make you want to move. As the show says in its concluding, standing ovation number: "You Can't Stop the Beat."

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

Kate Klotzbach

The best parts about the national tour of HAIRSPRAY are the visuals and choreography. With plenty of vibrant colors and groovy moves, this vibrant assault on the eyes will keep audiences entranced for the full 2 hours of the show.

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

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT @ BECK CENTER

BECK CENTER--SENNEY THEATER

DECEMBER 1-30, 2023

www.beckcenter.org 

Roy Berko

 Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a fun show for audiences of all ages.  As evidenced by the extended applause at the end of the show, and the many instances of audience delight displayed during the production, despite some questionable directorial decisions, the cast and crews efforts were appreciated.

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

Howard Gollop

But the really ingenious element in this show is the dancing computer visuals by Brittany Merenda, plus sets by Sheri Prough DeVol and lights by Steve Shack. Together, they transform ordinary set pieces into a bejeweled production that would make the scenic design of Webber's subsequent "Phantom of the Opera" look ordinary in comparison.

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

Looking past the small faults and adding together the positive virtues of this production it is still well worth the price of the ticket to see. The chorus numbers alone make it worthwhile. Go, Go, Go see this show.

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.

Laura Kennelly

Sibling rivalry has never been more deliciously portrayed. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, directed by Scott Spence, now playing at the Beck Center’s Senney Theater (the larger one), offers a festive family musical that skips the traditional holiday motifs (candy canes, gingerbread men, jingle bells and St. Nick) in favor of straight shots of comic joy.

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

 

Black Nativity @ Allen Theatre (Karamu House)

Through December 16, 2023

https://karamuhouse.org/ 

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

Co-directors, Tony F. Siras and Errin Weaver, conceived a production that gives a true Afrocentric twist to the nativity that clearly stresses that Afro-people were there, are here and will be around for years to come!
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 Horning

If you are looking for a holiday show that is truly inspiring then I suggest you get tickets right away to the Karamu House production of Langston Hughes’ “Black Nativity” on stage in the Allen Theatre at Playhouse Square in Cleveland, Ohio. You will find yourself singing and dancing along with the performers. Somebody say “Amen”!

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

 

LITTLE WOMEN

LITTLE WOMEN

DOBAMA

December 1-31, 2023

216-932-3396 or www.dobama.org/ 

Roy Berko

At this time of holiday, yet living in a world of stress and strife, it is nice to be able to go back in time and relive one of the English language’s epic tales.  The Dobama production nicely develops Louisa May Alcott’s sappy, but well-intentioned picture of life in a by-gone era, where melodrama ruled in literature.

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

Sheri Gross

As the chill of winter begins to set in, there is nothing cozier than curling up with a good book. But if you are someone who also has the itch to make plans on the weekend, you can achieve both of those things by making a trip to Dobama Theater and cozying up to the adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel “Little Women.” 

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

Mark Horning

While not perfect, this show takes us back to a gentler but to some degree highly sacrinated time where drama held sway over substance. It is a pleasant painting of a simple by-gone era. Like a hot cup of tea next to a fire on a winter’s eve it warms the soul and creates a feeling of well being. Savor the moment.   

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

Chris Howey

The latest iteration of Little Women—now at Dobama Theatre as adapted by Heather Chrisler—lights up the stage with four characterizations of Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth that are so sharp you could use them to field dress a musk ox. 

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

Kate Klotzbach

If you’re looking for a touching tale that is huge on whimsy, adventure, and family, then the stage adaptation of LITTLE WOMEN written by Heather Chrisler and directed by Melissa Crum is the perfect warm-fuzzy for you this December. This smartly-directed gem is full of feel-good fun and all of the emotions of growing up.

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

Shakespeare In Hollywood @ Ohio Shakespeare Festival

Through December 17, 2023

https://www.ohioshakespearefestival.com/ 

(303) 574-2537.  

 

Mark Horning

What can be better than comedic Shakespeare? Ken Ludwig and Ohio Shakespeare Festival takes us on a wild ride of fantasy in this supernatural screwball romp that pokes fun at not only Shakespeare but the entire 30s movie industry including the Hays Office that wielded way too much power. This delightful show is well worth the trip to Akron. Bring a friend.

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.
 

The Wizard Of Oz @ Near West Theatre

Through December 3, 2023

https://www.nearwesttheatre.org/ 

(216) 961-6391

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

It is always nice to find a non-holiday themed show to escape the challenges of the season. This is such a show. While its length may be a bit long, the action moves at a break neck speed. Come see the show to witness what superbly trained volunteers can accomplish after eight weeks of intensive work and where dreams really do come true.

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

A Christmas Carol @ Great Lakes Theater

Through December 23, 2023

https://www.greatlakestheater.org/ 

(216) 241-6000

 

Mark Horning

No matter how many times you have seen this show it is still worth seeing once again with those you love. It is a touchstone of Christmas comfort and joy that we all need this frantic time of the year. Take a much needed break from the hubbub of the holidays and share this experience with those closet to you. It is a tradition well worth beginning.

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

ROCKY

Through December 16, 2023

WWW.BLANKCANVASTHEATRE.COM 

440-941-0458

Howard Gollop

Just as the original "Rocky" was the little 1976 movie that could, the local Blank Canvas Theater's production of the short-lived 2014 Broadway musical version of "Rocky" was the little show that could. In addition to leads with amazing singing/acting abilities -- Michael Snider as the titular failing Philadelphia boxer and Carolyn Demanelis as his mouse-to-powerhouse girlfriend Adrian -- the Blank Canvas Theater production team is a knock-out force. That proves especially true with the final fight scene on a thrust-stage rink that puts the audience into the nail-biting immediacy of the real thing. The show itself (which, oddly enough, began in Germany before moving to Broadway) features a fetching score and an involving book that honors the Sylvester Stallone film without slavishly imitating it.

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

Sheri Gross

This Cleveland premiere of “Rocky” on stage at Blank Canvas has some hits, some misses, but a lot of heart.

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

Mark Horning

If you have had your fill of the “holly jolly” and would like a little action in your holiday viewing this is an excellent show to seek out. It’s a familiar story that we all know and love that is told with heart and soul. It’s a fun evening of theater that will knock you out. YO!

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

Chris Howey

What works best is the casting throughout. In the linchpin roles of Rocky and Adrian, Michael Snider and Carolyn Demanelis display genuine chemistry, showing us how these shy, romantically hesitant people find their way to each other. Snider has a powerful voice and it helps that he kind of looks like an athlete, say a young version of Bernie Kosar. Demanelis also sings well when she's not forcing the volume, but she perfectly underplays her role which draws Rocky (and the rest of us) towards her.

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

PIPPIN @ BW

PIPPIN

Baldwin Wallace University--Musical Theatre Program

November 9-19, 2023

Roy Berko

When someone goes to a musical theatre production at Baldwin Wallace, they probably go with the knowledge that program is ranked as one of the best of its type in the country and the performers are of high quality. They should also be aware that these are students who are not only performing in a show, but are getting a learning experience.  The unevenness of the recently closed production of PIPPIN was not due to the talent of the students, but the decisions of the guest director and a student musical director.  As is, the show was enjoyable, but not of the usual high BW level of achievement.

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

Chris Howey

Pippin, the vehicle that made Ben Vereen as Leading Player a star, and it is now playing at Baldwin Wallace University. As staged by director Nathan Henry and Choreographer Gregory Daniels (who has re-staged much of signature Fosse moves along with adding his own), the play is a treat for those who have never seen Fosse live—especially since it is performed by a BWU cast of singers, dancers and actors who exude professionalism with each and every jazz-hand.

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

Laura Kennelly

Pippin, the musical now at Baldwin Wallace University’s Kleist Center for Art & Drama, explores what might happen to a royal prince who yearns to do “something extraordinary.” The Broadway show directed by Bob Fosse (with book by Roger O. Hirson and music and lyrics by Stephen Schartz) premiered in the 1970s, but it’s been revived numerous times.

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

TROUBLE IN MIND @ SEAT OF PANTS PRODUCTIONS

THE PIVOT CENTER--2937 WEST 25TH STREET

November 3-19, 2023

https://seatofthepants.org/productions

Roy Berko

The company’s use of an intensive rehearsal period known as “process driven production method,” paid off.  There is no doubt of clear character development, smooth flow of action, and meaningful stage pictures.  All in all, the show makes for both a rich experience regarding evaluating yours and societal attitudes, as well as a fine theatrical experience!  This is must see theatre!

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.

Chris Howey
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol @ Clague Playhouse

Through December 3, 2023

www.clagueplayhouse.org 

(440) 331-0403

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

If you have become jaded by the yearly renditions of “the same old same old” then you owe it to yourself to see an entirely different take on a Christmas classic. This is superb acting with plenty of room for your imagination to take flight as we learn “the other side of the tale”. Bring the entire family for an enjoyable evening of fine community theater.

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

C

GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY

KEY BANK NORTH COUNTRY--CONNOR PALACE

NOVEMBER 31-DECEMBER 19, 2023

216-241-6000 OR PLAYHOUSESQUARE.ORG

 

Roy Berko

The singing voices are strong, the music well-played, the technical aspects well done.  The sound system leaves much to be desired as spoken voices are not well-heard. Don’t expect the usual Broadway glossy set, special effects, fancy costumes, or electronic effects.  If you are a Dylan-fanatic, are into his music and/or want to sit back and listen to his songs, while paying a little attention to a slight story, this will be your thing!  Me?  I’m looking forward to FUNNY GIRL and COMPANY, later in the season offerings. 

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

Howard Gollop

How well Dylan's '60s folk-rock songs fit into Depression-era Duluth is still something for debate, but McPherson further ups the  ante by framing the whole production as sort of a "Prairie Home Companion" -- that famous folksy variety show broadcast from downtown St. Paul, downstate of Duluth. If Dylan's music doesn't quite thematically match up with the play, it certainly fills the bill for live variety revue.

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

Sheri Gross

Girl From the North Country” is complicated and dark; and during a time when many of us are carrying a lot of sadness and fear about the state of our world, and also take to heart a lot of the issues at the forefront of the plot, it may not have a smooth landing. But it is definitely a show that takes risks, pushes the envelope, and lifts up some of Dylans masterful music that we may never have discovered otherwise. 

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

Mark Horning

While this is a very well produced show with excellent singing, dancing, acting and a strong story line it is a truly depressing story. There is no glossy Broadway set, lighting, costumes, videos projections or pyrotechnics. Nary a sequin can be found in sight although there are three disco balls that are used a lot. It is simply an evening of acting with unrelated songs thrown in. If you are a Dylan fan, you will appreciate the various renditions.    

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

Chris Howey

This towering and teetering collection of deliciously downbeat vignettes and mystically evocative songs manages to worm its way into your mind and heart, leaving you licking your fingers and burping contentedly when the 150-minute show is concluded.

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

Laura Kennelly

The national tour of Broadway’s Girl from the North Country at the Connor Palace Theatre offers a fine music-centered evening — and may just make a few new Bob Dylan fans (not that he needs any more).

Writer and director Conor McPherson combines Dylan’s songs with orchestrations by Simon Hale to weave a minimal storyline into a Picasso-like mélange. Don’t go expecting a typical Disney musical. This is not one.

It’s a tough look at how life can go very wrong in a very cold place, yet hope can lead people to venture into new dreams. So it’s not a total downer, but the show’s appeal comes more from the powerful singing, both in solo and supporting choruses. Girl from the North Country explores longing, love and joy — sometimes (and often surprisingly) simultaneously.

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

Joey Morona

‘Girl from the North Country’ reveals the brilliance of Bob Dylan’s music and the flaws of a jukebox musical

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

 

CABARET @ Kent State University Musical Theatre Department

Kent State University--Wright-Curtis Theatre

October 27-November 9, 2023

330-672-2787 or www.kent/theatredance

Roy Berko

KSU’s CABARET is one of the highest quality college performances this reviewer has ever seen.  Every aspect was well-conceived.  Terri Kent and Martin Cespedes are to be commended for their vision and execution and every person who participated in bringing this show to stage should be proud of their accomplishments!  Applause, applause, applause.

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

THE ISLAND @ Ensemble Theatre

Ensemble Theatre @ Notre Dame College 

www.ensembletheatrecle.org 

216-321-2930

 

Roy Berko

THE ISLAND helps to keep the history and human torture of apartheid alive, and like plays, books and films about the Holocaust, keeps the vision, thoughts and memories of those horrible times alive, so that they are never repeated again.  This is an absolutely must-see production!

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

Thousands of men and women were imprisoned on Robben Island (including Nelson Mandela) and this work is a fitting testimony to their grit and their knack to survive and not be oppressed no matter how harsh the conditions. This show is a political statement that needs to be shared over and over again. Come be amazed.

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

Chris Howey

Under the eloquent direction of Sarah May, these two fine actors [Robert Williams & Nnamdi] create a complete world on their almost bare stage. Beyond the specific and telling reference to actual prisons and prisoners, it reminds us that we are all chained together on a little island called the world. 

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

Kate Klotzbach

No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

 

Mary Shelly's Frankenstein @ Cleveland Play House

Through November 12, 2023

https://www.clevelandplayhouse.com

(216) 241-6000

Roy Berko

The production, though not as compelling as it could be, tells the tale as Mary Shelly intended it.  If you think of the Frankenstein tale as true horrifying and scary, the monster as epitomized by Boris Karloff in the films FRANKENSTEIN AND THE BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN, or ridiculously humorous as portrayed in ABBOTT AND COSTELLO MEET FRANKENSTEIN or HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA, this is not it.  This is a straight-forth telling of the Shelly tale, with the ominous over-tones of what might be in this age of Emotional Intelligence.

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

Howard Gollop

Playwright Catlin carefully intertwines the sad tale of a man-made monster ostracized from society to real-life victims of that stifling early-19th-century society for other reasons. Their true-life horrific fates, like the monster in their melodrama, are strikingly revealed at the end of the play. Director Michael Barakiva keeps David Catlin's intriguing work befittingly lugubrious, perhaps too successfully. He has ample help setting the mood with scenic and costume designer Lex Liang, whose elegantly macabre flourishes transform the in-the-round Outcalt Theater stage (seating on all four sides) making the audience members feel like they've stepped right into the dark, rich world of the novel.

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 production is by far the most evenly balanced of the season. Equal elements of sex, love, horror, grotesque, apathy and even bits of comedy abound as well as an unworldly stage set and special effects that draw us in completely. This is not only a faithful rendition of the novel but an intimate view of the protagonists as well. This is must see theater.   

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.

Laura Kennelly

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, now at Playhouse Square’s Outcalt Theatre, weaves a mesmerizing tale about monsters both human and human-made.

Playwright David Catlin has cleverly interspersed Mary Shelley’s well-known horror tale with the somewhat less well-known story about its genesis. It was 1816 and the wealthy, but socially outcast George Gordon, Lord Byron, had invited a trio of other British misfits (poets, teenage free-lovers) to join him and Dr. Polidore (his physician) in his Swiss lakeside villa. ....

Bottom Line: A beautifully executed version of a terrifying fantasy. Recommended.

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

Dracula: The Bloody Truth @ Great Lakes Theater

Through November 5, 2023 

https://www.greatlakestheater.org/

(216) 241-6000

 

Roy Berko

Many will find DRACULA: THE BLOODY TRUTH to be a laugh riot, others will wonder why their seatmates were reacting, while they aren’t.  I, unfortunately, was in the latter group.  Too bad, for with all the angst in the world, I was hoping for two-hours, with intermission, of humorous escape.  Oh, well . . 

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

Howard Gollop

Based on a British comedy troupe trifle by Le Navet Bete and John Nicholson, this "Dracula" embraces the sure-fire comedy tropes of an imploding theatrical endeavor. (Think "The Play that Goes Wrong," "Peter Pan that Goes Wrong" and their illustrious precursor "Noises Off.") Trouble eventually catches up with Helsing, his fellow actors and, alas, Great Lakes Theater itself, as the chaos eventually overwhelms the company and stifles the comedic and dramatic inertia  Everything just dissolves into unending pratfalls, falling set peaces and winking-comedy bits that eventually weigh the entire production down. 

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

Hopefully with upcoming shows this production will hit its mark and be more enjoyable than its opening. There is a fine line between comical and silly. With a little work on timing this balance can be achieved. As in all live theater, it is a work in progress. If you are looking for a safe Halloween type show to take the family, this one would work well.

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.

Laura Kennelly

Under the direction of Charles Fee, and with the mighty efforts of four actors playing 40 characters, the opening night show offered an impressive display of physical comedy. Nothing seemed static as performers switched characters and sexes as needed for the storyline. Age-bent bodies turned into nimble youths in the blink of an eye.

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

Zombie Prom @ Blank Canvas Theatre

Through November 4, 2023

http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com/

(440) 941-0458

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

This is the perfect Halloween treat for the entire family. The underlying theme of inclusion is well presented with a sprightly musical score that smooths away the grim premise. The Friday show I went to was sold out and may be the case as word of mouth gains momentum. Don’t delay, buy your tickets right now. 

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

Chris Howey

'Zombie Prom' at Blank Canvas Theatre Will Leave You Irradiated by a Zany, Fun Performance

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