RSS

Category Archives: Weekend Picks

2011 March Bay Area Theatre Guide

07 Mar

If you’ve noticed, I’ve taken a little break in my theatre going over the last two months. I needed it after seeing over 60 shows last year alone. And frankly, there weren’t a lot of shows that struck my fancy over the last two months.

Right now, I have five shows on the books and a few high school productions (because they are a part of the 2011 Stage Top Honor Awards). I’m very excited about the shows I’m seeing this month. There’s so much variety — drama, musicals and even a new Cirque du Soleil show.

I’m off to New York City to also see four new Broadway shows! Look for those reviews coming up!

Here’s what I’m looking forward to seeing this month:

1. Ruined at Berkeley Repertory Theatre: Berkeley Rep proudly brings you Ruined, winner of the Pulitzer Prize. This powerful new play provides a bleak yet beautiful look at the lives of women in a land ruled by whiskey and bayonets.

Here’s a snippet of my review: “It’s rare that I leave a theatre speechless — very rare. Not only was I speechless, but I was emotionally spent by the end of the evening. Ruined, a Pulitzer Prize winning play by Lynn Nottage, is an emotional tour-de-force that never lets up. It’s actually hard to breathe throughout most of the second act.”

Website | Get Tickets

2. Xanadu at The Retro Dome: Xanadu is the hit musical that took audiences and critics by surprise when it transformed an obscure film into the hottest comedy on Broadway.

With its score of pop gems, a script that redefines musical theatre satire, and a finale lit by glitter balls and glow sticks, this hilarious, roller disco musical adventure rolls along to pop hits “(You Have to Believe We Are) Magic”, “All Over The World”, “Suddenly”, “I’m Alive”, “Evil Woman”, “Have You Never Been Mellow” and “Xanadu.”

It features Adam Barry as Sonny Malone and Sarah Alli as Kira.

Website | Get Tickets

3. The Fiddler on the Roof at Broadway San Jose: Fiddler on the Roof, the Tony Award winning musical that has captured the hearts of people all over the world with its universal appeal, embarks on its North American Tour.

Based on the stories of Sholom Aleichem, Fiddler on the Roof has been lauded by critics again and again, and won the hearts of people all around the world. Filled with a rousing, heartwarming score, which includes “Tradition,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” “If I Were A Rich Man” and “Sunrise, Sunset,” Fiddler on the Roof is a timeless classic.

Click here to find out how to enter to win two tickets to see Fiddler on the Roof at Broadway San Jose on opening night, Tuesday March 15th, 2011.

Website | Get Tickets

4. Quidam (Cirque du Soleil) at HP Pavilion in San Jose: Young Zoé is bored; her parents, distant and apathetic, ignore her. Her life has lost all meaning. Seeking to fill the void of her existence, she slides into an imaginary world—the world of Quidam — where she meets characters who encourage her to free her soul.

Quidam: a nameless passer-by, a solitary figure lingering on a street corner, a person rushing past and swallowed by the crowd. It could be anyone, anybody.

Show Schedule (March 24 – 27, 2011):
•  Thursday, March 24 at 7:30pm
•  Friday, March 25 at 3:30pm and 7:30pm
•  Saturday, March 26 at 3:30pm and 7:30pm
•  Sunday, March 27 at 1pm and 5pm

Ticket Prices
• Adults: From $40 to $115
• Children (12 & under): From $32 to $93
• Military, Seniors & Students: From $36 to $99

Website

5. Follies Concert Version at Tabard Theatre Company: The Tabard Theatre Company brings down the curtain on its 10th anniversary season with a South Bay premiere of Stephen Sondheim’s visionary musical masterpiece Follies Concert Version. Eighteen performances will be presented March 4th through 27th at Theatre on San Pedro Square in downtown San Jose.

Learn how you can win tickets here.

Website | Get Tickets

—

Which shows are you planning on seeing this month?

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on 03/07/2011 in Bay Area Theatre, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2010 November Bay Area Theatre Guide

28 Oct

This past October was a big month of theatre for The Broadway Critic. I saw six shows in New York City – some great, some awful. Here’s the list with their accompanying reviews:

  1. 10/07/10 – The Scottsboro Boys @ Lyceum Theatre – 2 out of 5 stars
  2. 10/07/10 – Without You @ NYMF (featuring Anthony Rapp) – 5 out of 5 stars
  3. 10/08/10 – Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown – 1.5 out of 5 stars
  4. 10/09/10 – Next to Normal – 5 out of 5 stars (review to be written)
  5. 10/10/10 – Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson @ Bernard Jacobs Theatre – 1.5 out of 5 stars
  6. 10/10/10 – American Idiot @ St. James Theatre – 4.5 out of 5 stars

The Bay Area had some great runs as well. Most notable was the opening of Superior Donuts at Theatreworks, the West Coast premiere of The Secret Order at San Jose Rep and RAIN: A Beatles Tribute at Broadway San Jose.

November is full of fantastic theatre openings (or continuing on from October). The Broadway Critic is planning on checking out over ten shows this month.

Here is my schedule and what I recommend seeing:

Becoming Britney at Center Rep: How does a Pop sensation wind up bald and trapped in her own musical? Becoming Britney is a caustic (but loving) PG-13 fable that chronicles the rise…the dip…and the salvation of a foolhardy celebrity phenom. The hit of the New York Fringe Festival – “It’s a production that oozes sass!” – raved NYTheatre.com – the Bay Area’s own sensation, Molly Bell, brings Britney home for it’s West Coast premiere. It’s a new Musical, y’all!

Technically this opened on October 30th but I don’t want you to forget about this production once November starts because it runs till the 14th.

Read Adam Berry’s (Man 1) full interview here.

It runs October 28 – November 14, 2010.

Website | Get Tickets

Sunset Boulevard at Palo Alto Players: Norma Desmond is ready for her close-up on our stage in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most melodic score. Sunset Boulevard weaves a mesmerizing tale of faded glory and unfulfilled ambition when this legendary silent film star has a fateful meeting with struggling Hollywood screenwriter, Joe Gillis. The consequences are passionate, volatile and breathtakingly spectacular.

Sunset Blvd is a show that’s rarely produced in the Bay Area. I’ve never seen this Andrew Lloyd Webber musical though I’m familiar with a lot of the music.

There’s only 11 performances, so make sure you secure a date to see this. It starts previews on November 5th, 2010 and runs till November 21st, 2010.

Website | Get Tickets

4 Play at San Jose Rep – Welcome to the zany world of The Flying Karamazov Brothers, where the daring and goofy take center stage. This ground-breaking blend of nouveau cirque, comedy, theatre, music, and, of course, juggling is nothing short of genius.

This exuberant and hilarious off-Broadway rave is full of fast-paced virtuosity and fun as the four brothers deliver a stupendously entertaining evening like you’ve never experienced.

Opens November 1oth and runs one week till November 14th. (Only 7 performances)

Website | Get Tickets

Cinderella at Berkeley Playhouse: I’ll be honest here, I’m not too excited to see Cinderella but I am excited to see Grammy nominated Frenchie Davis as the Fairy Godmother!

Every culture has had a Cinderella story; a story of the ultimate romantic love. The timeless fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers & Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm and elegance. Originally presented on television in 1957, the show was revised in 1997, starring Whitney Houston, Whoopie Goldberg & Bernadette Peters. That new version has been adapted for the stage.

Interested yet?

Website | Get Tickets

Company at Jewel Theatre Company – Company is winner of the 1971 and 2007 Tony Award, and was dubbed “The best musical of the year!” by New York Magazine. Set in modern Manhattan, it’s a funny, sophisticated exploration of love and commitment as seen through the eyes of a charming perpetual bachelor questioning his single state and his enthusiastically married, slightly envious friends.

The cast is filled with wonderful Bay Area actors and several that are dear friends. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing Diana Torres Koss, Lee Ann Payne, Mike Rhone, Sarah Griner and Matt Bariletti in this.

Company opens November 11th and closes the 21st.

Website | Get Tickets

The Story of My Life at Contra Costa Civic Theatre – Nominated for four 2009 Drama Desk Awards including Outstand- ing Musical, The Story of My Life tells the story of two childhood friends and how their friendship profoundly defined their lives. One, a best selling author; the other, his best friend for thirty years.

The Story of My Life is a soaring tribute to the power of friendship and the people who change our lives forever. CCCT is proud to bring you the Northern California premiere of this heart warming, intimate musical fresh from its Broadway premiere in 2009. It stars William Giammona (whom we saw in Hillbarn Theatre’s production of Chicago as Billy Flynn) and Paul Araquistain.

I’m very excited to see a Northern California premiere at a theatre I’ve never been to in the Bay Area.

Website | Get Tickets

Broadway By the Year at Broadway by the Bay: Featuring Broadway performers Marc Kudisch (3 time Tony nominee 9 to 5, Thoroughly Modern Mille, Chitty Chitty Bang), Mary Testa (2 time Tony nominee 42nd Street, On The Town), Kerry O’Malley (Broadway: White Christmas, Into the Woods, Annie Get Your Gun), Noah Racey (Broadway: Thoroughly Modern Millie, Curtains, Never Gonna Dance), Directed by Scott Coulter, Music Director Ross Patterson.

A musical and historical snapshot of the Great White Way highlighting the years of 1930 (Girl Crazy, Strike Up the Band, The New Yorkers) and 1964 (Funny Girl, Hello, Dolly!, Fiddler on the Roof). Variety hailed Broadway By the Year as “a bountiful evening of what Broadway does best!” You won’t want to miss this West Coast Premiere featuring your favorite songs from your favorite shows!

Only six performances – The Broadway Critic might be giving away tickets, so make sure you check back!

Website | Get Tickets

Coraline at SF Playhouse: Poor bored Coraline. She’s left to rattle ’round her perpetually distracted, workaholic parents’ house all by her lonesome. But late one night, her dreams of a better reality come true as she opens a big, carved, wooden door at the far end of the drawing room and passes into a perfect replica of her own world.

This is the West Coast premiere of Coraline.

Website | Get Tickets

The Color Purple at Broadway San Jose: Out of all the shows that Broadway San Jose is bringing to the Bay Area, The Color Purple is the one that I’m most excited about. I never got a chance to see it on Broadway and I’ve heard lovely things about it.

The Color Purple is a soul-stirring musical based on the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker and the moving film by Steven Spielberg. It is the unforgettable and inspiring story of a woman named Celie, who finds her unique voice in the world. Nominated for eleven Tony Awards.

As always, Broadway San Jose’s shows only run for one week. Remember to get your tickets. As with Rain: A Beatles Tribute, The Broadway Critic will be giving away tickets to The Color Purple.

Website | Get Tickets

Every Christmas Story Ever Told at San Jose Stage Company: Join San Jose Stage Company for a fast-moving, irreverent comedy that takes holiday cheer to the extreme! Every Christmas Story Ever Told is a fond and furious look at the holiday classics and traditions we all remember. From Frosty to Rudolph and the Grinch to It’s A Wonderful Life, no pop culture holiday icon is spared in this whirlwind of holiday merriment.

This is back because of popular demand!

It starts previews on November 21st, opens on November 27th and runs till December 19th, 2010.

Website | Get Tickets

Abraham Lincoln’s Big, Gay Dance Party at City Lights Theatre Company: What’s your vote? Abraham Lincoln was gay? Really?? Now that changes everything! Or does it?

This irreverent feast is perfect for anyone who thinks that we all take even the most serious issues a little too seriously. Taking its cue from Inherit the Wind – with the audience dictating how the story is told – this hilarious farce centers on a rural third-grade teacher who “outs” our greatest president at the annual Christmas pageant and is put on trial. By addressing our nation’s differences the play ultimately strives to bring red and blue together under a common banner of freedom & diversity.

It opens November 24th and runs till December 19th, 2010. South Bay Premiere.

Website | Get Tickets

On My Radar:

  • A Tuna Christmas at Bus Barn Stage Company: It’s Christmas Eve in tiny Tuna Texas, and a gallery of 22 zany citizens lives’ intersect as they attempt to celebrate with their tradition Yuletide activities. Website
  • White Christmas at West Valley Light Opera: The dazzling score features well-known standards including “Blue Skies”, “Sisters”, “I Love A Piano” and the perennial favorite, “White Christmas”. An uplifting musical, enjoyable for the entire family, it arrives in time to guarantee that Saratoga will have an unusual “White Christmas” this year.  Website
  • Godspell at Sunnyvale Community Players: SCP’s production, which will include “Day by Day” and other songs by Stephen Schwartz, takes a contemporary look at the issues and questions raised by the teachings of Jesus. Whether you are a believer or not, this show will get you thinking, even as you are clapping and humming along. Website
  • Driving Miss Daisy at Tabard Theatre Company – The Tabard Theatre Company continues its 10th Anniversary Season with the South Bay premiere of Alfred Uhry’s inspiring Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Eleven performances will be presented November 12 through 27, 2010. Website
 
1 Comment

Posted by on 10/28/2010 in Bay Area Theatre, News, Preview, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2010 September Bay Area Theatre Guide

23 Aug

Can you believe it? School is starting, summer is nearing it’s end and generally it should be very depressing, right? Wrong. There’s so much great theatre happening in September that it should keep you totally occupied from the fall blues. Currently, I have 10 shows scheduled to see in September and I have a feeling that there might be a few more that I sneak in there! It should be a great time to catch up on my shows! Lately, I’ve been so busy with performing in RENT I haven’t had time to see the shows in the area, but September is a different story.

Here’s my schedule and what I recommend seeing:

Smokey Joe’s Cafe – Bus Barn Stage Company: Opening September 2nd and running through October 2nd, 2010, this sizzling cast does more than justice to this smokin’ hot score of 1950′s standards like: “Kansas City”, “Jailhouse Rock” and “Saved”. I can 100% say that this show is not to be missed! (I’m co-musical directing this show.) You can learn more about the cast on the Bus Barn Stage Company’s website and get tickets there.

Get out of the September heat with the jukebox musical that was the most acclaimed of 1995 and nominated for the Tony Award for Best Musical!

Website | Get Tickets

The Broadway Critic’s Review: Chicago @ Hillbarn Theatre – 2.5 out of 5 stars

Chicago – Hillbarn Theatre: In roaring twenties Chicago, chorine Roxie Hart murders a faithless lover and convinces her hapless husband Amos to take the rap…until he finds out he’s been duped and turns on Roxie. Convicted and sent to death row, Roxie and another “Merry Murderess” Velma Kelly, vie for the spotlight and the headlines, ultimately joining forces in search of the “American Dream”: fame, fortune and acquittal. This sharp edged satire features a dazzling score that sparked immortal staging by Bob Fosse. Chicago won six Tony Awards!

Chicago is one of my favorite musicals and very interested in checking this one out because I’ve never seen an amateur production of Chicago. Here’s hoping it’s sexy! Runs September 2nd – 26th, 2010.

Website | Get Tickets

The Broadway Critic’s review: She Loves Me @ Center Rep Theatre – 3 out of 5 stars

She Loves Me – Center Rep: She Loves Me is a musical and movie with a book by Joe Masteroff, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and music by Jerry Bock. The musical is the fifth adaptation of the play Parfumerie by Hungarian playwright Miklos Laszlo, following the 1940 James Stewart-Margaret Sullavan film The Shop around the Corner and the 1949 Judy Garland-Van Johnson musical version In the Good Old Summertime. It would surface yet again in 1998 as the Tom Hanks-Meg Ryan feature You’ve Got Mail.

This show is a classic: “the crown jewel of the golden age musicals”. I saw a university production almost 10 years ago and loved it. I can’t wait to see this particular cast because it stars: Dane Paul Andres, Noel Anthony, Evan Boomer, Derek Travis Collard, Jackson Davis, Lynda Divito, Ryan Drummond, Richard Farrell, Zachary Franczak, Emma Goldin, Jason Hite, Mary Kalita, Brittany Ogle, Sharon Rietkerk, Kelsey Venter. I’ve had my eye on Hite, Kalita and Ogle!

Opens September 3rd – October 10th, 2010.

Website | Get Tickets

The Broadway Critic’s review: Black Pearl Sings @ San Jose Rep – 4.5 out of 5 stars

Black Pearl Sings at San Jose Rep: Black Pearl Sings! is the compelling musical drama that tells the story of two extraordinary women – a jailed African-American songstress and a white Library of Congress folk music researcher – whose fates have become intertwined.

A West Coast premiere that you won’t want to miss.

Runs September 2nd – 26th, 2010.

Website | Get Tickets

The Light in the Piazza at Theatreworks: Beneath the Tuscan sun in 1953, this illuminating Broadway hit celebrates the many facets of love with a vibrant heart. A protective American mother is vacationing with her radiant but fragile daughter, who falls head over heels for a passionate young Florentine. To the soaring melodies of what The New York Timescalled “the most intensely romantic score since West Side Story,” all three embark on a life-changing journey beyond danger into light.

This is one of my favorite musicals of all time. Guettel’s score is absolutely magnificent. I’m hearing great things about this production and I’m highly looking forward to revisiting this show at Theatreworks.

Runs August 25th – September 19th, 2010

Website | Get Tickets

Jerry Springer the Opera at Ray of Light Theatre: The only work in history to earn “Best Musical” honors from all four major British award groups, Jerry Springer the Opera is a fascinating mix of high art and low culture. Inspired by America’s most lurid TV talk show, Jerry Springer the Opera channels all the mayhem and excitement that held worldwide television audiences in utter rapture. After opening in London to unprecedented raves, this outlandish, shockingly hilarious opera will rage at the Victoria Theatre in the Mission for six weeks.

Can I say excited? I have the London cast recording, but I think I’m going to wait to listen to it until after I see it because I wanna be shocked!

Running September 10 – October 16, 2010.

Website | Get Tickets

Dreamgirls at Curran Theatre (San Francisco): The all-new stage production of Dreamgirls is coming to the Curran Theatre August 24 through September 26! Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, Dreamgirls tells the story of an up-and-coming, 1960s singing girl group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. Featuring the unforgettable hits: “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going”, “One Night Only” and “Listen”, Dreamgirls returns to the stage in this brand new production that sparkles like never before!

I can’t wait to see my first professional production of Dreamgirls.

Website | Get Tickets

The Broadway Critic’s review: Compulsion @ Berkeley Rep – 5 out of 5 stars

Compulsion at Berkeley Rep: Tony and Emmy Award-winning actor Mandy Patinkin makes his Berkeley Rep debut as Sid Silver, a man obsessed. When he learns about a young girl named Anne Frank and her extraordinary diary, Silver makes it his mission to ensure her tale is heard. But is the manuscript a work of art? A cultural treasure?

A moving story that combines stellar acting with marvelous marionettes, this world-premiere production takes us on a journey from passion to Compulsion.

Website | Get Tickets

The Broadway Critic’s review: La Cage Aux Folles @ Broadway by the Bay – 2.0 out of 5 stars

La Cage Aux Folles at Broadway By the Bay: Travel to St. Tropez where the best of times will happen when family values and outrageous comedy collide in Jerry Herman’s legendary musical La Cage aux Folles. Winner of 6 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this unforgettable and funny tale of unconditional love, and above all, the need to celebrate who we are, features the anthem “I Am What I Am” and the beloved “Song on the Sand.”

Why go to New York City to see this when you can see it here! It will be my first time seeing La Cage Aux Folles and I plan to see the Broadway revival in October!

Website | Get Tickets

The Broadway Critic’s review: Burn the Floor @ Broadway San Jose – 4 out of 5 stars

Burn the Floor at Broadway San Jose – The international dance sensation Burn the Floor visits San Jose direct from its record-breaking run on Broadway! You’ve seen Ballroom dance on shows like “Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance.” Now, with Burn the Floor, you will feel, live on stage, all the passion, the drama and the sizzling excitement of 20 gorgeous champion dancers, in a true theatrical experience, a performance with a grace and athleticism that The New York Times calls, “Dazzling!”

I missed this on Broadway, so I’m very happy that Broadway San Jose is bringing this to us! Can’t wait!

Runs only one week: September 21 – 26th, 2010. Don’t miss it!

Website | Get Tickets

On My Radar (but don’t have a set date to see it yet):

  • Sweeney Todd at Sunnyvale Community Theatre: 1979′s Tony Award-winning Best Musical, is a rare theatrical event: a heart-pounding thriller told with a howlingly sharp wit, a darkly comic smile, and one of Broadway’s most impressive scores. It features Walter Mayes in the title role. Runs September 17 – October 10th, 2010. Website
  • The Music Man at South Bay Musical Theatre: This award-winning, critically acclaimed Broadway classic is an all-American institution, thanks to its quirky characters, charmingly humorous dramatic situations, and one-of-a-kind, nostalgic score of rousing marches, barbershop quartets and sentimental ballads that have become popular standards (“Seventy-Six Trombones,” “Till There Was You,” “Lida Rose.”) Runs September 25 – October 16, 2010. Website

Anything I missed? What are you most excited to see this upcoming September?

 
3 Comments

Posted by on 08/23/2010 in Bay Area Theatre, News, Preview, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bay Area Theatre: Weekend Picks, May 14-16

14 May

Here are The Broadway Critic’s picks for Bay Area Theatre this weekend:

1. Peter Pan - Ferry Landing: “To live would be an awfully great adventure,” Peter Pan states at the end of Act 2. That statement perfectly sums up the new 360 degree production of Peter Pan - it’s an awfully great big adventure, surrounded by unimaginable, incredible effects that almost stole the show. Continue reading the full review here.

Website | Tickets

2. In the Heights - Curran Theatre (San Francisco): I saw this production on opening night and loved it. I haven’t written up my full review of this show, but I will say that many of the main characters were fantastic. While the Broadway show was ultimately more flashy and energetic, the touring cast found more heart in the story.

Website | Tickets

3. Beautiful Child – ACT (San Francisco): “Shamed by his father’s arrest during the panic of 1893, a young New York socialite traverses the railways to Chicago and meets other teenage runaways on the fringes of society. An ACT Young Conservatory performance presented in collaboration with Bird School of Music.” This looks extremely interesting. May 14–29, 2010

Website | Tickets

On My Radar:

  • Thoroughly Modern Millie at Santa Clara University – I love this show and one of my favorite Bay Area actresses is starring as Millie: Monique Hafen. Please don’t miss this one! Opens May 28th – June 5th at the Mayer Theatre, Santa Clara University. Website

Until next week…

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on 05/14/2010 in Bay Area Theatre, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Bay Area Theatre: Weekend Picks, April 30 – May 2

30 Apr

Here are The Broadway Critic’s picks for Bay Area Theatre this weekend:

1. Peter Pan at Ferry Building (San Francisco) – While this hasn’t officially opened, (so therefore, I haven’t seen it) word on the street is that Peter Pan is a totally new and exciting theatrical experience – one that you won’t want to miss out on. I’m off to see this on May 9th. I’ve also heard that they should have made it into a musical. And all this time, I actually thought it was the musical. Make sure you get your tickets soon.

Website | Tickets

2. RENT at Palo Alto Players – Here’s another show that I haven’t seen, but recommend this weekend. RENT holds a special place in my heart, as it was the first Broadway musical that I couldn’t stop listening to. I’m intrigued to see this production. I’ve never seen anything at Palo Alto Players and I haven’t seen RENT for almost 3 years now (last time being on Broadway with Anthony Rapp and Tamyra Gray). I’m off to see this tonight! There’ll be a review up early next week. It closes May 9th.

Website | Tickets

3. Urinetown at Sunnyvale Community Players – Urinetown, the hilarious Tony Award winning musical, is closing out Sunnyvale Community Players’ 40th Season. I’d say, it’s a damn great choice. I love this show more than anything and I’ve been hearing that this production is pretty hysterical and well-worth your time. Again, another show that I haven’t seen but I’m interested in checking it out before it closes on May 9th. Plus, it has a few dear friends in it! Check out some reviews on Artsopolis.com.

Website | Tickets

On My Radar:

  • Gypsy at Hillbarn Theatre - Gypsy opens on May 7th and runs through May 30th. It will prove to be an amazing production featuring actors Annmarie Martin, Milly Boyse, Dan Kapler, Patti Appel, Cheryl Ringman, and more… More info
  • Little Shop of Horrors at Busbarn Theatre – I hear they have the most amazing Audrey! (Apparently, she had a major callback with the folks down at GLEE and sang with Lea Michele for three days.) Yes, that’s how good she is. I will definitely not be missing this one. Opens on May 20th. More info

Until next week…

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on 04/30/2010 in Bay Area Theatre, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Bay Area Theatre: Weekend Picks, April 9-11

09 Apr

Here are The Broadway Critic’s picks for Bay Area Theatre this weekend:

1. Dirty Blonde – San Jose Stage Company: I’ve seen a rehearsal for this production and I can tell you that it’s something you don’t want to miss! San Jose Stage Company continually brings groundbreaking, interesting theatre to the South Bay. It’s a fascinating play about the Hollywood starlet Mae West. Do not miss this one! Opens next weekend. Did you enter to win tickets? Make sure you do. (Contest ends today!) More info

2. Girlfriend – Berkeley Rep Theatre: “Girlfriend is the breathless testimony of a fool for love,” raves Rolling Stone, “a rock ‘n’ roll valentine that delivers subtle wisdom with an exhilarating kick.” Fall in love with the boy next door at Girlfriend. Performances begin April 9 and continue through May 9 on Berkeley Rep’s intimate Thrust Stage starring Jason Hite (read interview here) and Ryder Bach. I’ll be seeing this next Wednesday. More info

3. Lady, Be Good! – 42nd Street Moon: Jump into the Jazz Age and find out what made the Twenties roar in this iconic show written for Fred and Adele Astaire – the first solid gold smash hit the Gershwin brothers enjoyed in New York! If it’s anything like their last show, Jubilee then you won’t want to miss it. It’s apparently selling out fast! Get your tickets soon! Get info

On My Radar:

  • RENT - Palo Alto Players: One of my favorite shows is coming to Palo Alto Players. Part of the reason I want to see it is because I’m playing Mark in RENT at City Lights Theatre this summer, but also because I genuinely love this show. I haven’t seen it for about 3 years! The last time was Anthony Rapp and Tamyra Gray (who was fabulous) on Broadway in August 2007. More info

Until next week…

 
1 Comment

Posted by on 04/09/2010 in Bay Area Theatre, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Bay Area Theatre: Weekend Picks, April 2-4

02 Apr

Here are The Broadway Critic’s picks for Bay Area Theatre this weekend:

1. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at Broadway by the Bay – Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a total riot. I won lottery tickets to this on Broadway and sat on the front row as Sherie Rene Scott, Norbert Leo Butz and John Lithgow all spat on me! I remember walking out of the theatre and my stomach was hurting from laughing so hard. I’m looking forward to seeing this production because I need a good laugh and also because it’s starring Robert Brewer (who’ve I worked with a couple of times) and Tom Reardon. Check out their super cool video promoting the show!

More info | Tickets

2. Ain’t Misbehavin’ at San Jose Rep – “It sparkles; it shines and most of all, it’s deliciously snazzy.” Read the full review here. San Jose Rep is swinging to the tunes of Thomas “Fats” Waller with a stellar Broadway caliber cast. The joint will be jumpin’ with an ensemble of energetic and electric performances, featuring the hottest jazz band in town guaranteed to bring down the house with a musical parade of 30 great hits! Ain’t Misbehavin’ is directed by Kent Gash and is based on an idea by Murray Horwitz and Richard Maltby, Jr.

More info | Tickets

3. The Apple Tree – The Masquers Playhouse: For my third choice, I’m recommending The Apple Tree at The Masquers Playhouse. I will note that I know nothing about The Masquers Playhouse, nor about their production qualities. Also, The Apple Tree isn’t one of my favorite shows. (I saw it on Broadway with Kristin Chenoweth and didn’t love it.) But, The Apple Tree is rarely done and so I wanted to at least, share this production with you! If you do see it, or know anything about The Masquers Playhouse, please let us know. It runs until May 1st. Maybe, I’ll get a chance to see it.

More info | Tickets

On my radar:

  • Girlfriend at Berkeley Rep - “Girlfriend is the breathless testimony of a fool for love,” raves Rolling Stone, “a rock ‘n’ roll valentine that delivers subtle wisdom with an exhilarating kick.” Performances begin April 9 and continue through May 9 on Berkeley Rep’s intimate Thrust Stage. I’m off to see this next Wednesday. Also, look for my interview with Jason Hite. More info
  • Dirty Blonde at San Jose Stage Company – I’ve seen a rehearsal for this production and I can tell you that it’s something you don’t want to miss! San Jose Stage Company continually brings groundbreaking, interesting theatre to the South Bay. It’s a fascinating play about the Hollywood starlet Mae West. Do not miss this one! Opens next weekend. More info
  • To Kill a Mockingbird at Theatreworks: “When a black man is accused on little evidence of assaulting a white woman, a small-town lawyer stands for justice in the shadow of overwhelming racism in an utterly engaging tale of heartache and joy, innocence and integrity.” Sounds fantastic! Opens April 7th, 2010.
 
2 Comments

Posted by on 04/02/2010 in Bay Area Theatre, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bay Area Theatre: Weekend Picks, March 19-21

19 Mar

Here are The Broadway Critic’s picks for Bay Area Theatre this weekend:

1. Baby – A Musical at Ray of Light Theatre – “Ray of Light Theatre is proud to present the delightful musical comedy, Baby. Continuing our 9th season after rocking the house with The Who’s Tommy last fall, Baby is a seven-time Tony award-nominated musical that The New York Times praised as “Smart, funny and often ingenious”. It runs 5 weeks, March 19 – April 18, 2010, at Off-Market Theatres in San Francisco. Directed by Dyan McBride.” I haven’t seen this production yet, but it looks like an interesting night of theatre.

More Info | Tickets

2. Ain’t Misbehavin’ at San Jose Rep – San Jose Rep is swinging to the tunes of Thomas “Fats” Waller with a stellar Broadway caliber cast. The joint will be jumpin’ with an ensemble of energetic and electric performances, featuring the hottest jazz band in town guaranteed to bring down the house with a musical parade of 30 great hits! Aint’ Misbehavin’ is directed by Kent Gash and is based on an idea by Murray Horwitz and Richard Maltby, Jr. I’m off to see this tonight – opening night. Look for a review, early next week.

More info | Tickets

3. Legally Blonde at Broadway San Jose – Legally Blonde is only running until Sunday, March 21st, so you’ll want to check it out this weekend! Don’t forget! I said, “We’re glad to have the cute, spunky Malibu blonde back in the Bay Area. It’s not a perfect cast or show, but you’ll leave the theatre laughing because you’ve had such a good time. You might even change some of your wardrobe to pink!” Read the full review, here.

More Info | Tickets

On my Radar:

  • Broadway Forever at Herbst Theatre: I saw their initial run back in February and reviewed it here. It was one of the longest nights of theatre I have ever been to, but then again there were some fantastic songs that you might not want to miss. You just might want to bring something to do during the others.
  • Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at Broadway by the Bay: I’m really looking forward to this one as it stars Robert Brewer! I worked with Robert on Bat Boy at Foothill College and The Great American Trailer Park Musical at San Jose Stage Company. Plus, I’ve never seen anything at Broadway by the Bay! It starts April 1st and runs through April 18th. More info here.
  • To Kill a Mockingbird at Theatreworks: “When a black man is accused on little evidence of assaulting a white woman, a small-town lawyer stands for justice in the shadow of overwhelming racism in an utterly engaging tale of heartache and joy, innocence and integrity.” Sounds fantastic! Opens April 7th, 2010. More info here.

Until next week…

 
Leave a comment

Posted by on 03/19/2010 in Bay Area Theatre, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bay Area Theatre: Weekend Picks, March 5-7

05 Mar

Here are The Broadway Critic’s picks for Bay Area Theatre this weekend:

1. Lady, Be Good – Tabard Theatre Company: “Enjoy the Fascinating Rhythm of this fast-paced lighthearted musical comedy with songs by George & Ira Gershwin. Delight in their trademark wit and charm in this show that premiered on Broadway in 1924 starring Fred & Adele Astaire.” First off, it’s Gershwin – my all-time favorite composer and secondly, it’s a South-Bay premiere. So, you better get tickets (there are already a few dates sold-out).

Get tickets | More info

2. Rock ‘n’ Roll at San Jose Stage Company – This extraordinary theatrical event, from four-time Tony Award winner Tom Stoppard (The Coast Of Utopia), makes its South Bay debut in a uniquely intimate production at The Stage. It’s closing weekend! Make sure you go!

Get tickets | More info

3. Concerning Strange Devices from the Distant West at Berkeley Rep- A drama by Naomi Iizuka directed by Les Waters. “The intricate parts of this world premiere nestle together like a delicate puzzle…or erotic glimpses of an enigmatic tattoo. Expose yourself to the mystery of Strange Devices.”

Get tickets | More info


 On My Radar:

  • Legally Blonde – Broadway San Jose: OMG you guys! Legally Blonde is finally coming to San Jose, next week. Remember that these Broadway San Jose productions are only there for one week – Mar 16, 2010 through Mar 21, 2010. You’ll see a review of this on The Broadway Critic at the end of next week! I haven’t seen it since it premiered in San Francisco at it’s pre-Broadway try-out. More Info
  • Baby at Ray of Light Theatre: Baby is rarely done, so it’s interesting to see Ray of Light pick this show. Is there anything more exciting, frightening and utterly transformational than impending parenthood? Hopefully the musical is exciting and not frightening! More info
  • Ain’t Misbehavin’ at San Jose Rep – Life and love are song and dance in this sexy, funny, jazzy musical featuring the seminal Fats Waller tunes: “Honeysuckle Rose,” “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” “Black & Blue,” “The Joint is Jumpin’” and “I’ve Got a Feeling I’m Falling.” Starts on March 13th – April 18th, 2010. More info
 
Leave a comment

Posted by on 03/05/2010 in Bay Area Theatre, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Bay Area Theatre: Weekend Picks, Feb 26-28

26 Feb

Here are The Broadway Critic’s picks for Bay Area Theatre this weekend:

1. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Foothill Musical Theatre – It’s been getting rave reviews! Check out the review in the SJ Mercury News. I posted a preview of this last week! Check out the comments in the preview to see some of the audience’s reactions. I’m off to see it tonight and I’m very much looking forward to it! Sounds like a W-I-N-N-E-R!

Buy tickets | More info

2. Curtains at Diablo Theatre Company – I was off to see this production last night, but got stuck in an awful traffic jam and unfortunately missed it. I’ve heard wonderful things about it and my friend, Andrew Willis-Woodward is in it. It’s closing this weekend, so don’t miss it!

Buy tickets | More info

3. Chicago at Notre Dame de Namur University – First off, it’s Chicago – one of my favorite musicals of all-time. Second off, there are some big Bay Area theatre names attached this production: Greg Fritsch – Director, Dottie Lester-White – Choreographer and William Liberatore – Musical Director. It looks like they have an outstanding cast as well. I’ve never seen anything at NDNU, so I’m very excited to check this out.

Buy tickets | More info

On my Radar:

  • Rock ‘n’ Roll at San Jose Stage Company – This extraordinary theatrical event, from four-time Tony Award winner Tom Stoppard (The Coast Of Utopia), makes its South Bay debut in a uniquely intimate production at The Stage. More info
  • Ovo at Cirque du Soleil’s tent on Taylor – I called it “… a theatrical and athletic feast of epic proportions.” Read full review here.
  • Lady Be Good at Tabard Theatre Company – Lady Be Good, a Gershwin musical, opens next week, March 5th at Tabard Theatre Company. I can’t help myself from being excited about this one because I absolutely love Gershwin. More info
 
1 Comment

Posted by on 02/26/2010 in Bay Area Theatre, Weekend Picks

 

Tags: , , , , ,

← Older posts
 
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 87 other followers