by CHRISTINE SARKES Understood, presented by Trademark Theater, is a superbly acted exploration of young marriage, political tribalism and what it means to truly comprehend a different point of view. This two-person play written by Tyler Mills and directed by Tyler Michaels aims to tap into the deep political divisions among friends and family under…
BY SARAH SCHULTZ I would like to give Bucket Brigade Theater and the cast of Life Goes On one note: stock the seats with tissue boxes. My sister and I didn’t even make it to the second song before tears were streaming, but don’t let that deter you! This new musical did evoke deep sorrow,…
by Christine Sarkes Little Women at the Jungle Theater is a delightfully reverent new adaptation of the beloved Louisa May Alcott classic novel and perfect for a family night out at the theater. The casting is pitch-perfect, particularly C. Michael Menge (Jo March) and Megan Burns (Amy March) who infuse their characters with energy and passion. A special…
In 2009 Lin-Manuel Miranda performed a new piece at a White House Poetry Jam for the newly elected President Barack Obama. He nervously told the audience that he had been working on a hip-hop concept album based on the life of a man whom he believed “embodied hip-hop.” That man was an immigrant, a Founding Father, a Secretary of the Treasury: Alexander Hamilton (played on the tour by Joseph Morales). In the end, he created a musical that blended hip-hop, R&B, rap, blues, jazz, and the broadway sound and went on to win 11 Tony Awards. Now on its second national tour, Hamilton will be playing at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis through October 7th.
by MICHAEL J. OPPERMAN When I heard oohs and ahs from my nine year old daughter sitting next to me, I knew that Circus Juventas had mounted yet another wonderful production. The entire experience is compelling, and it starts before one even enters the Big Top. The grounds are beautifully manicured and foster a feeling…
By ERIKA SASSEVILLE and JACOB FROELICH In The Legend of Georgia McBride Playing now through August 26th at the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis, Casey (Jayson Speters) is a failing Elvis impersonator in Panama City, Florida trying to support himself, his wife Jo (Chaz Hodges), and a baby on the way. Casey’s boss at Cleo’s Bar, Eddie…
Even when the curtain closes, the party never really stops. Now through August 5th, watch for singing and dancing theatergoers spilling into the streets!
by Christine Sarkes Mill City Opera at the renovated Mill City Museum Ruin Courtyard is a breathtaking and unique summer treat. The stage is set amidst the outdoor ruins of the old factory and the nearby river sounds and evening light cast a magical spell over the production. George Bizet’s Carmen, now playing seven shows through July 24, is sexy and dramatic, making it an…
Geologist Tom Stockmann (Billy Carter) discovers that the hot springs destined to get the town back on its feet are poisoned. Tom struggles against what he knows to be right, and what the rest of his friends and family think best.
Based on the true story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, Jersey Boys ran for 11 years on Broadway and the national tour is now playing at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis through April 29th.
Whether you have read all of Shakespeare’s plays or none of them. Whether you have been a lifelong lover of musical theater, or have never heard a show tune in your life. Something Rotten! is a hilarious and brilliant show for all.
Staging portrait of myself as my father at the Uppercut Boxing Gym is the first indication that the performance will be unconventional. The gym lives in a renovated warehouse in the Northeast area of Minneapolis and carries the faint smells of oil, sawdust and sweat. The boxing ring was blocked from view on entry, the audience…
