By LIZ BYRON. One of the first things most sources say about Christopher Marlowe is that he was a contemporary of William Shakespeare. This, of course, instantly sets up a comparison between the two, with Shakespeare frequently coming out on top. However, as far as the Classical Actors Ensemble‘s fall repertory goes, it’s Marlowe who’s the…
By LIZ BYRON. I was a little wary as the lights dimmed around me before Saturday’s opening of Pioneer Suite. It’s a new musical by Keith Hovis that explores the lives of three Minnesotan women in the 19th century. Why was I wary? Well, I’m always apprehensive when it comes to new musicals; there are just so many moving…
By ELLEN FERRY. The Orpheum Theatre’s production of Cinderella dazzles with the timeless charm of a grandiose Broadway musical. A breathtaking set and remarkable costume changes—coupled with the distinct ballads of Rodgers and Hammerstein—make the show a delightful theatre experience for audience members of all ages. But those hoping to be swept away in a…
By LIZ BYRON. It’s pretty simple: if the thought of pirates mixing in singing and dancing with their swashbuckling doesn’t sound awesome to you, then… well, first of all, I think you’re crazy. But second of all, you should probably stay clear of the Ordway between now and August 16, because their production of The…
By ELLEN FERRY. “It’s only acting.” Or so they say. Sarah Ruhl’s charming new romantic comedy, Stage Kiss, is a hilarious yet refreshingly honest exploration of what happens when the lines between acting and real life become blurred. Using a unique blend of comedy and drama, Ruhl playfully exposes the plight of romantic leads turned…
Edit: Due to insanely high demand, this show’s run has been extended to August 9! See http://www.lyricarts.org During my years working in a professional theatre, I witnessed more performances of Grease in a few weeks than most people would see in three lifetimes. I got a little burnt out. I’ve turned down multiple invitations to see both…
By LIZ + BRYCE BYRON. Victor + Valentine is a new play by new theater company Collective Unconscious Performance. The play centers around storyteller and puppeteer Victor von Valentine as he puts on the final performance of his world-touring Cabaret For The Broken-hearted. Featuring artistic re-tellings of classic fairy tales by Hans Christian Andersen, Victor’s cabaret includes The…
By LIZ BYRON. When a play has been performed regularly across the country for 79 years, and has spawned an Oscar-winning film version, it seems safe to assume that it’s got some pretty good things going for it. Indeed, You Can’t Take It With You is a charming and clever story with a witty script,…
By LIZ BYRON. Yes, that’s right, there is a musical based on the TV show Happy Days. Now, I have to admit that I’ve never seen a single episode of the iconic show (blame it on my age plus my general preference for books over TV as a kid), but my theatre companion had, which…
By LIZ BYRON. Carmen is a classic opera whose music is so well-known that even opera virgins will probably recognise some of the songs. Indeed, I walked into the Ordway knowing nothing about the opera but that it featured a woman, presumably named Carmen, who might at some point wear a red dress. But it…
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