Performing Arts

REVIEW: Boston Lyric Opera’s ‘Madama Butterfly’ a mesmerizing and surprising metamorphosis

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

‘I gave my tears into the earth, now it must give me back flowers.’ 

This is just a hint of Puccini’s masterful lyrics that encapsulates profound love and loss in Puccini’s epic classic 1904 Italian libretto Madama Butterfly presented live and in person at Emerson Colonial Theatre through Sunday, September 24.  This expansive production was 2 hours and 25 minutes with one 20-minute intermission after Act 1.  Click here for more information and more about Boston Lyric Opera’s season.

After their onstage wedding Butterfly’s Karen Chia-Ling Ho and Pinkerton’s Dominick Chenes love spills out onto the San Francisco streets PHOTO BY KEN YOTSUKURA

With heartrending direction by Phil Chan and stirring choreography by Michael Sakamoto, Madama Butterfly was delivered with an altered setting and contemporary flair over a period of time from 1941 to 1983.  Puccini’s Madama Butterfly is a searing and brilliant love story and the source material for the Tony award-winning Broadway musical, Miss Saigon.  This time, Madama Butterfly’s settings ranged from Hawaii to San Francisco to Arizona.  Jeanette Oi-Suk Yew’s multifaceted lighting not only reflected the shadows and watercolor reflection in a lively nightclub but the rich purple and rose of the horizon at daybreak as moving set pieces transported the audience to contrasting settings. Featuring multicolor fans, contemporary yellow crowns, and regal military uniforms, Sara Ryung Clement’s distinctive, silky, and shimmering costumes in bursting color embellished the festivities of the Club Shangri-La in Chinatown in San Francisco, where Navy officer B. F. Pinkerton, depicted with enigmatic sweetness by tenor Dominick Chenes and soprano Karen Chia-Ling Ho as naïve, proud, bubbly and devoted Butterfly or Cio-Cio San meet in 1941.  It will be a night they never forget.

Uncle Bonze Hyungjin Son center makes a shocking revelation about Butterfly Karen Chia-Ling Ho in BLOs new production of MADAMA-BUTTERFLY PHOTO BY KEN YOTSUKURA

Boston Lyric Opera’s production of Madama Butterfly had the audience gripped in a full range of emotions as the eye level live orchestra led by Annie Rabbat articulated Puccini’s moving array of arias punctuated by magnificent drums.  Boasting angelic vocals, Chia- Ling Ho blossomed as Madama Butterfly, her coy yet fragile depiction poignant and buoyant as she navigated through a plethora of challenges during World War II and Pearl Harbor.  Chenes and Chia-Ling had captivating chemistry only enriched by powerful vocals and enthralling dialogue.  Mezzo soprano Alice Chung at first offered an understated performance as steadfast and loyal Suzuki, but Chung’s depiction gradually culminated into one of the most endearing characters of the production alongside Troy Cook as compassionate and protective Sharpless.   Baritone Junhan Choi had a reduced role as Commissioner/Registrar in Madama Butterfly compared to the engineer’s meaty role in Miss Saigon, but Choi left his mark during each of his memorable scenes in a charismatic portrayal of dark humor and dastardly wit.

Suzuki Alice Chung l. laments the news Pinkerton Dominick Chenes brings with him in BLOs new production of MADAMA BUTTERFLY PHOTO BY KEN YOTSUKURA

Michael Sakamoto’s dynamic choreography ranged from delicate to fitful, most notably as Butterfly took the stage in a traditional dance with the Club Shangri-La performers and later in a stirring dance featuring Cassie Wang.  Wang’s symbolic performance was peculiar, heartfelt, foreboding and so riveting that it may remain ingrained into the psyche long after the performance has ended.

During a visit from Officer Sharpless Troy Cook r. Butterfly Karen Chia-Ling Ho center reveals a secret in BLOs new production of MADAMA BUTTERFLY PHOTO BY KEN YOTSUKURA

Boston Lyric Opera’s Madama Butterfly took some liberties from the classic libretto that dealt in immigration, bigotry, and patriotism in a surprising array of twists and turns and proved to be a production that will not soon be forgotten.

Boston Lyric Opera presented Puccini’s Madama Butterfly through Sunday, September 24 live and in person at Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts.  This expansive production was 2 hours and 25 minutes with one 20-minute intermission after Act 1.  Click here for more information and more about Boston Lyric Opera’s season.

REVIEW: Sparkle and charm fuel Titusville Playhouse’s ‘The Prom’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Having been invited to The Prom for the second time this year, it seemed best to celebrate this time around in a frilly dress. It was especially appropriate catching a show while away on vacation and with Jordyn Linkous’s festive and glittery wig and costume design, it was easy to fit right in.

Innovatively directed and creatively staged by Niko Stamos with lighthearted choreography by Jordyn Linkous, Titusville Playhouse presents musical dramedy The Prom live and in person in Titusville, Florida through October 1.  This show contains some strobe lighting and special effects.  It runs two hours and 25 minutes with one intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Mandy Kerridge as Dee Dee Allen, Steven J. Heron as Barry Glickman and cast in ‘The Prom’ Photo credit to Titusville Playhouse

The Prom should sound a least a little familiar since its 2020 Netflix film adaptation debut with an abundance of its own star power including Meryl Streep as Dee Dee and James Corden as Barry.  Inspired by a true story, anxious Emma, depicted with self effacing humility by Delaney Sue McGough, invites a date to the Prom with none other than Myanell Enriquez as popular Alyssa, the daughter of the head of the Parent Teacher Association.  Once a group of egocentric Broadway celebrities gets wind of this human interest story, they decide to make a difference in this small Indiana town.  The Prom is a satirical blend of inspired true story and over the top musical comedy set in New York as well as in Edgewater, Indiana.  The Prom delivers plenty of humor ranging from silly to satirical with a sincere and underlying message about helping others.

Mandy Kerridge as Dee Dee Allen and Delaney Sue McGough as Emma Nolan in ‘The Prom’ Photo credit to Titusville Playhouse

With extraordinary music direction by Spencer Crosswell, The Prom boasts strong vocals from an amiable cast.  Glamour takes center stage with Mandy Kerridge as Dee Dee Allan, a self absorbed and award-winning actress.   Kerridge’s impressive vocal range and wonderful belt is on full display for It’s Not About Me and The Lady’s Improving.  Along with Steven J. Heron as warm, lovable, and lauded actor Barry Glickman, Danny Sanchez as no nonsense PR rep Sheldon, Corey Evans as openhearted Trent, and Sarah Ruth Joyner as inspirational Angie Dickinson, these seemingly shallow thespians bring some humorous moments, but their real charm is exposed by the people they meet in this fish out of water production.

Lit with soft and cheerful multicolored lighting by Davis Vande Steeg , The Prom features a dynamic set design by Niko Stamos including a digital screen that transforms settings in an instant including the store front of a 711, a monster truck rally, and the glittering festivities of a Prom.  Some clever staging includes the transformation of an Applebee’s to a balcony seat during a beautiful rendition of We Look to You as well as veiled and translucent staging for the number, Tonight Belongs to You.

Steven J. Heron as Barry Glickman and the Executive and Artistic Director of the Titusville Playhouse and Delaney Sue McGough as Emma in ‘The Prom’ Photo credit to Titusville Playhouse

The Prom deals with some serious topics including betrayal, but balances it well with the show’s overall optimistic tone.   It is positive throughout, even in the face of Emma’s most difficult challenges.  McGough’s chiming vocals in forlorn yet earnest number Just Breathe is a compelling revelation while Holly Fuller’s tight lipped delivery proves fitting for tough and immutable antagonist Mrs. Greene.  Emma’s high school classmates are painted as shallow and insensitive and as far as storytelling, it might have been nice to have at least one of them sympathetic to Emma’s plight from the start.

Cast photo Photo credit to Titusville Playhouse

The Prom contains a wealth of welcome, inside Broadway humor and references as well as notable choreography including a sweet rendition of You Happened and the Fosse-inspired choreography of Zazz.  The Prom provides a message driven and sparkling escape to fun and frivolity if only temporarily from the realities of life.  

Titusville Playhouse presents The Prom live and in person in Titusville, Florida through October 1.  This show contains some strobe and special effects and runs two hours and 25 minutes with one intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  In partnership with the city of Chelsea and Teatro Chelsea, Apollinaire Theatre staged a street fighting and adventurous summer ‘Hamlet’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Ser o no ser esa es la cuestion (To Be or not to Be)

This was the classic question posed by Apollinaire Theatre Company in partnership with Teatro Chelsea and the City of Chelsea in a bilingual production of Shakespeare’s classic play, Hamlet which took place on Fridays and Saturdays only from August 4-19 live and in person at various locations in Chelsea, Massachusetts.  Though it was not necessary to understand both Spanish and English to enjoy this show and does not take away the gravitas of Shakespeare’s eloquent text, those who understood the dialogue in Spanish may have been at an advantage.  The free production was 90 minutes with no intermission. 

Armando Rivera as Hamlet in ‘Hamlet’

Each performance featured a pre-show that offered take out or delivery dinner, live entertainment, and a pop up Beer Garden by BearMoose Brewing Company at 6:30 pm prior to the performance at 8 pm.  Click here to see what is next for Apollinaire Theatre Company and Teatro Chelsea this fall.

Alan Kuang ‘Hamlet’ rap Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Every summer for the past 20 years with donor support, the Apollinaire Theatre Company has been presenting outdoor theatre productions free to the public in partnership with the city of Chelsea.  This year’s production of the Shakespearean classic, Hamlet mixed the traditional with the contemporary while keeping the audience on its feet.  Intricately directed and cleverly staged by Danielle Fauteaux Jacques with lighthearted chorography by Audrey Johnson, the show is an immersive experience as the production expands beyond the stage and cast members can enter from anywhere.

Armando Rivera as Hamlet in ‘Hamlet’ Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Though the roads were blocked off, there was still plenty that might have distracted this focused cast.  However disruptive, outdoor disturbances such as traffic, noises or foot traffic did not distract them from their performances for an instant.  Armed with microphones, it was fascinating to watch each scene unfold complete with transportable lighting, sound, ominous sound effects with Diana Mediola and Juhi Nagpal‘s elaborate sets and props. How complicated it must have been to stage something like this while gathering an increasing and surrounding crowd led to each destination by a single notebook.

Shakespeare’s Hamlet is about the Prince of Denmark who discovers his mother has married his uncle after his father has been murdered.  An urgent message inspires Hamlet to believe ‘something is rotten in the state of Denmark.’

Armando Rivera as Hamlet and Paul Benford-Bruce in ‘Hamlet’ Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Hamlet is a compelling drama that boasts some iridescent and noteworthy special effects such as blue smoke drifting above Paul Benford-Bruce’s haunting figure on a distinctive blue tinged city fountain lit by Joe Morales.  Resolute, firm, and eerie, Benford-Bruce delivers a memorable performance as Hamlet’s father.  David Reiffel’s ominous and echoing sound design and composition lent to the foreboding mystique of the production.

Anna Riggins as Ophelia, Alan Kuang as Laertes, Paola Ferrer as Gertrude and Brooks Reeves as Polonius in ‘Hamlet’ Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Nodding to the Elsinore, Denmark setting during the late middle ages while boasting a sleek and contemporary flair, Hamlet blended the contemporary with the historical through its colorful, stately, and elegant costumes in furs, leathers, and glittering crowns by Elizabeth Rocha.

Armando Rivera as Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, led this impressive cast.   Rivera exacted the alarming rage expected of Hamlet in the face of betrayal.  Rivera excelled at Hamlet’s darkly playful, determined, and off kilter demeanor, especially in a powerful scene alone with Ophelia and with Brooks Reeves as Claudius. 

Anna Riggins delivered an absorbing performance as Ophelia with a wide smile, bright eyed virtue, and a complete infatuation and intriguing chemistry with Rivera.  Clinging to any sign of affection, Riggins offered a vulnerable and sympathetic performance.  Riggins also shared a sweet chemistry with her brother, Laertes and Ron Lacey who portrays their proud and concerned father, Polonius.  Alan Kuang is naturally charismatic in the role of valiant and forthright Laertes, especially during an all out and literal street fight with Rivera.

Play-Within-A-Play in ‘Hamlet’ Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Brooks Reeves as Claudius achieved a suave poker face, but with just enough of a devious smirk to embellish this role with Paolo Ferrer as mysterious Gertrude, they are a beguiling pair.  Claudius is a calculating character and left little room for sympathy.  Reeves particularly shined during the play-within-a-play scene as Reeves exclaimed, ‘Get me some light!’  With skillful feigned concern and sarcasm, Reeves was well suited for the role as some of that demeanor is also on display in the Old North Church’s production of Revolution’s Edge through September.

Armando RIvera as Hamlet and Brooks Reeves as Claudius Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Hamlet was not complete without the appearance of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, portrayed with jovial humor by Aloe Domizio and Paul St. Cyr respectively.  Wheeling in on lit bicycles, they made a seeming pair of silly and dimwitted bookends as Hamlet’s childhood friends.  However, like each character in this Shakespearean classic, they are more than meets the eye. 

Apollinaire Theatre Company, in partnership with Teatro Chelsea and the City of Chelsea, presented an outdoor bilingual production of Shakespeare’s classic play, Hamlet which took place on Fridays and Saturdays only from August 4-19 live and in person at various locations in Chelsea, Massachusetts.  Click here to see what is next for Apollinaire Theatre Company and Teatro Chelsea this fall.

REVIEW: New Ohio Theatre’s ICE Factory’s ‘Here I Fall Up’ and ‘How I Disappeared’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

A girl is starting to wonder if she is fall apart or is she just falling up?

Gianna Milici, Sophia Drapeau, and Lauren-Quigley in ‘Here I Fall Up’ Photo credit to Natalie Powers

Featuring chiming melodies, a girl is somehow tethered to her family’s seaside home in a way that makes her question her own sanity.  Surrounded by her sisters who narrate the story, Here I Fall Up is thoughtfully directed and composed by Beth Golison and directed creatively by Annabel Heacock and Maiya Pascouche and is just under an hour.  It was featured at New Ohio Theatre’s ICE Factory in NYC and was streaming through August 12.  Click here for more information.

The girl, portrayed sympathetically and realistically by Sophia Drapeau, ventures into dark places that keeps the audience guessing whether the girl is actually experiencing something outside this world or is it all happening inside the girl’s head?  Drapeau’s suffering throughout this production makes a real case for either and watching the girl attempt to cope with anxiety and a severe degree of agoraphobia is heartfelt, earnest, and a bit distressing to witness. The bluish and haunting shadows by Chris Voegels combined with the simple, multifunctional set by Jessie Baldinger are as imaginative as it is symbolic of a girl longing to make a connection outside the girl’s fears and vulnerabilities.

Rose Tablizo and Sophia Drapeau in ‘Here I Fall Up’ Photo credit to Natalie Powers

Here I Fall Up’s inviting, folksy, and intermittently catchy acapella harmonies from sisters and narrators Samantha Medina Chachra, Lauren Rose Quigley, and Gianna Millici combined with Rose Tablizo’s mysterious presence keeps the production a bit lighter while tackling some darker issues. 

Here I Fall Up is thoughtfully directed and composed by Beth Golison and directed creatively by Annabel Heacock and Maiya Pascouche and is just under an hour.  It was featured at New Ohio Theatre’s ICE Factory and was streaming through August 12.  Click here for more information.

Courtesy of CHUANG Stage

Does it matter where I put my roots down?

Identity should be not what one is, but who one is.  Not the labels, but the person.  That is not such an easy journey living in NYC.

Told from the perspective of six immigrant Asian individuals living in NYC, How I Disappeared is a bilingual production about grasping for acceptance in the world without assumptions or grief, but with understanding.  Directed by Tianding He and produced by CHUANG Stage, it is done creatively, though not always clearly in this abstract and Avant Garde production.

Courtesy of CHUANG Stage

How I Disappeared is just under an hour and was featured at New Ohio Theatre’s ICE Factory and was streaming through August 12.  Click here for more information.

From an individual covered in overwhelming and all encompassing remnants of NYC including a liberty hat, Broadway sign, wearing a mask and carrying a suitcase subway map to the desolate and metaphorical marine characters on the NYC subway, How I Disappeared emphasizes the intimidating, overwhelming, noisy, and isolating city atmosphere.

The glassy reflections particularly stand out in this part projection by Brian Shin-Hua Ellis and part animated puppetry by Wilden Weihn production.  From a Puffer fish to a whale wandering on a subway, each distinctive marine creature delivers a combination of bittersweet and relatable humor as the narrator describes each creature’s authentic capabilities and defenses.  Steeped in soothing blue aquatic lighting by Will DeJianne, it seems absurd witnessing them on the subway, and yet it becomes a snapshot of humanity as the show progresses.

Courtesy of CHUANG Stage

The production does have lighter moments of dancing including catchy and original live music by John Tsung and Siyi Chen as well as its fair share of silliness with underlying messages of perseverance in the face of fears, doubt, and judgment.  Staying true to oneself and anything is possible.

How I Disappeared is just under an hour and was featured at New Ohio Theatre’s ICE Factory and was streaming through August 12.  Click here for more information.

REVIEW: A dynamite Joan leads Company Theatre’s ‘Born to Do This: The Joan of Arc Rock Opera’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

The title track is more than catchy.  Not only may it inspire humming the hook long after the show is over, but it’s a clever tribute to a saint that was motivated to accomplish her mission from God at all costs.  It’s inspirational, fiery, and sung with a rock growl by Liza Giangrande, a charismatic actress with a dynamite vocal range who also portrayed Jo in Greater Boston Stage Company’s Little Women the Musical last year and received an Eliot Norton Award nomination for her performance.  Giagrande was definitely born to do this.

Liza Giangrande and cast in Company Theatre’s Born to Do This: The Joan of Arc Rock Opera Photo by Mike Scott

Giangrande does a spectacular amount of heavy lifting for this role which contains a large repertoire of original musical numbers with a large cast that take her from Domremy, France to the City of Orleans at the age of 16 to attempt to accomplish what no woman has before.

With book and lyrics by Zoe Bradford and co-directed by Zoe Bradford and Sally Ashton Forrest, music and lyrics by Melissa Carubia with collaborator Michael Hammond and musically directed by Robert McDonough, Company Theatre unveiled the world premiere of Born to Do This:  The Joan Of Arc Rock Opera live and in person at Company Theatre in Norwell, MA continuing through August 20.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Company Theatre’s Born to Do This: The Joan of Arc Rock Opera cast Photo by Mike Scott

Illustrations, painted detailed backdrops of the French countryside, and dank dungeons with wrought iron gates by Ryan Barrow are illuminated by lighting designer Dean Palmer Jr. with visual projections by Logan Puleikis.  Purple lighting, flaming lanterns and intermittent celestial brightness blended with dynamic visual projections of a gorgeous church altar, a brilliant starry sky, luminescent flames and lit church windows create the mysterious and humble atmosphere of the Middle Ages.

Francesca Miele and Dru Daniels in Company Theatre’s ‘Born to Do This: The Joan of Arc Rock Opera’ Photo by Mike Scott

Born to Do This: The Joan of Arc Rock Opera tells a broad and epic historical tale that delves into Joan Of Arc’s life, but also explores the Hundred Years’ War between France and England.  The show has an uplifting overture and begins with a glimpse into one of Joan of Arc’s victories before rewinding the clock back to her childhood.  Francesca Miele depicts the younger version of Jeanne with effervescent charm, determination, and chiming vocals.  Miele and Anne Martland share some sweet scenes together as Jeanne’s conflicted and compassionate mother with the beautiful number, Angels All Around.

Zion Amparo and Francesca Miele in Company Theatre’s ‘Born to Do This: The Joan of Arc Rock Opera’ Photo by Mike Scott

The enigmatic manner in which Jeanne learned of God’s mission is peculiar and fascinating involving Dru Daniels as Nanette and Zion Amparo as St. Michael.  It is unimaginable, and yet so clear and extraordinary.  It would have been nice to have seen Amparo’s encounters with Jeanne more often just to see the progressive building of that bond.  Amparo soars for the number One Life and the angels’ presence during battle scenes were a beautiful touch.  Laird LaCoste is enchanting as Henry IV as he flaunts around playfully for the adorable number, The King with Two Crowns oblivious to the weight of his future accompanied by Kevin Groppe as the Duke of Bedford and Bishop Cauchon by Steve Dooner who both deliver impressive performances especially for Sold for a King’s Ransom.  Giangrande and Dooner create some riveting tension, especially later in the production.

Salvatore Guillermo, Garcia, Shane Smith, Peter S Adams, and Braden Misiaszek in Company Theatre’s ‘Born to Do This: The Joan of Arc Rock Opera’ Photo by Mike Scott

However, this show has its uneven moments and does not fit squarely as a rock opera.  The music is considerable with a weighty storyline and would like to have known some of the characters better.   With so many other cast members traditional and faithful to the era in boots, plain garments, and royal vestiges, some of the other costumes in leather, feathers, sneakers, and eyeliner are so contemporary, they seem out of place.  For example, in the number, Nobody Parties Like a Bastard, the party scene seems to not quite fit with the mood and manner of the rest of the production. 

Kaileigh E Bumpus Liza Giangrande and Dru Daniels in Company Theatre’s ‘Born to Do This: The Joan of Arc Rock Opera’ Photo by Mike Scott

Jeanne is trying to accomplish a tremendous mission which makes an indelible impact, breaks societal norms, and the production makes it as plain as day that Jeanne is doing what is considered a man’s job.  It is critical to the story, but is emphasized much more than Jeanne’s accomplishments which weren’t as clear.  What warrior Joan of Arc accomplished being different is also what made her special, extraordinary, and the very reason this musical was created.  Her adversity and faith becomes her greatest strength.

Greatness isn’t always understood, and her destiny was built on exactly who she was and stands as a testament to the good she accomplishes at such a young age and an inspirational life that should never be forgotten.

With book and lyrics by Zoe Bradford and co-directed by Zoe Bradford and Sally Ashton Forrest, music and lyrics by Melissa Carubia with collaborator Michael Hammond and musically directed by Robert McDonough, Company Theatre unveiled the world premiere of Born to Do This:  The Joan Of Arc Rock Opera live and in person at Company Theatre in Norwell, MA continuing through August 20.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: Fitz and the Tantrums groovily beat the heat and a storm at Indian Ranch

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

No one can make people forget an unforgiving and sweltering heat quite like indie pop neo soul band Fitz and the Tantrums.  Though the day called for storms, nothing was going to stop their positive vibes until after these multi-platinum artists finished their set.  Their performance was politics-free, but no less personal and full of encouragement with a repertoire of groovy and upbeat sounds that make even those determined not to dance in this heat, bob and sway, get up and get down.

Fitz of Fitz and the Tantrums Photo credit Adam Klein

Fitz and the Tantrums appeared at Indian Ranch in Webster, MA on July 29 and it was one stop on a national tour that continues through October 1…so far.  Click here for more information on upcoming Indian Ranch performances and click here for more information on Fitz and the Tantrums latest national tour.

Indian Ranch is an outdoor concert venue and more which features a lakeside view and beach.  A portion of the seats do have a cover for rain and the shows are mostly rain or shine.   The VIP pre-concert experience that day started at 11:30 am and featured barbeque with a choice of hamburgers, hotdogs, or veggie burgers, baked beans, corn, salads, and an array of desserts.  Fitz and the Tantrums took the stage at 1:30pm for an almost 2 hour set including an encore.

Noelle from Fitz and the Tantrums Photo credit Adam Klein

Fitz and the Tantrums took the stage for a feel good set featuring an array of hit tunes and some songs off their new album, Let Yourself Free.   Despite the heat, the group remained dedicated to their unique and classy style in dark pants and converse sneakers as the band heated up with horn –infused rhythms and flashing, multi-colored lights.

Most of the songs were infectious, lighthearted, and boasted wild rhythms.  The enthusiastic band made the best of the heat as they encouraged the audience to dance and sing-along.  A few of the highlights included a tune that lead singer Michael Fitzgerald or ‘Fitz’ wrote for his wife, Silver Platter.  It’s a breezy, flirty and snappy single off their new album as he exclaimed, ‘Gimme-gimme that love-that love-that love.’  They also revved the audience up with the inspirational number, 123456 as the audience sang along, ‘Count it out! Shout it out!’

Noelle and Fitz from Fitz and the Tantrums Photo credit Adam Klein

Featuring an amazing saxophone solo by James King and Noelle Scaggs’s rhythmic tambourine, Fitz and the Tantrums grooved to Out of my League’s reverberating synth rhythms before delving into the knock down, get up workday struggle with Living for the Weekend.

Fitz and the Tantrums at Indian Ranch Photo credit Adam Klein

Fitz and the Tantrums kept the party going with their brief, but endlessly catchy title track, Let Yourself Free, the story of a dream with AHHHH! and didn’t leave out their biggest hits such as The Walker to the crowd’s delight.

Fitz and the Tantrums appeared at Indian Ranch in Webster, MA on July 29 and it was one stop on a national tour that continues through October 1…so far.  Click here for more information on upcoming Indian Ranch performances and click here for more information on Fitz and the Tantrums latest national tour.

REVIEW:   Company One’s ‘The Boy Who Kissed the Sky’ a heartfelt tale that rocks the cosmos

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Music lifts, transports, comforts, brings people together, and provides its own therapy to the happy and the hurt.  Though the Boy, depicted with earnest and imaginative optimism by Errol Service Jr., is not aware of it yet, a force much bigger than him is going to lead the way to his destiny. 

Errol Service Jr. in ‘The Boy Who Kissed the Sky’ Photo by Erin-Crowley

Directed inventively by Summer L Williams with funky musical direction by David Freeman Coleman, joyfully choreographed by Victoria Lynn Awkward and loosely based on legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix’s life, Company One presents Idris Goodwin’s celestial and groovy The Boy Who Kissed the Sky live and in person at the Strand Theatre in Dorchester, Massachusetts and now streaming through Saturday, August 12.  This far out production is 70 minutes with no intermission and pay what you can tickets are available.  Part of what makes Company One’s The Boy Who Kissed the Sky special is its commitment to the community and social change by partnering with a number of community organizations including Project Bread, Zumix, and Boston Music Project through this production.  Click here for more information and tickets.

Adriana Alvarez, Errol Service Jr. and Martinez Napoleon in ‘The Boy Who Kissed the Sky’ Photo by Erin Crowley

In many ways, musician Jimi Hendrix was deemed ahead of his time.  Part biography, part musical and part fantastic trip through time, the cosmos, and through hardship, The Boy Who Kissed the Sky envisions possibly how Hendrix got there.  It is noteworthy that Service’s boy is never referred to as Hendrix and can be translated into any dreamer’s potential.

 This production boasts a wealth of various projections by Rasean Davonte Johnson including traffic and misty rain as well as kinetic water colored special effects and cosmic imagery.  Through all of the pizzazz and psychedelic special effects lies an inspirational tale built for any dreamer attempting to overcome challenging circumstances.  Set in Jimi Hendrix’s hometown of Seattle, Washington, It also delivers a strong message about the value of hard work, keeping an eye on the prize, and believing in one’s boundless potential.

The cast of ‘The Boy Who Kissed The Sky’ Photo by Erin Crowley

The Boy Who Kissed the Sky’s energetic cast is lead by Errol Service Jr. referred to only as The Boy.  Much of the cast plays more than one role.   Service’s Boy is amiable, sympathetic, imaginative and inquisitive as he waits for his mother, depicted warmly by Yasmeen Dunkin.  Cedric Lilly is enigmatic and forthright as the boy’s veteran father, Mel and Keira “Kee” Prusmack delivers a humorous yet kindhearted performance as Mrs. Newton, the boy’s nosy neighbor.

L-R Martinez Napoleon and Errol-Service Jr. in ‘The Boy Who Kissed the Sky’ Photo by Erin Crowley

However, grooving through time and space backed by some of Hendrix’s music history and influences is Martinez Napoleon who soars as J. Sonic.  With excellent vocals, mystical charisma, and an easy rapport with Service Jr, Napoleon sweeps through the production with a smooth yet caring demeanor as Martinez attempts to demonstrate that the boy, using a broom as a guitar, is more powerful than the boy ever thought possible.

The cast of ‘The Boy Who Kissed The Sky’ Photo by Erin Crowley

Backed by Eugene H Russell IV and Divinity Roxx’s uplifting rock n roll and blues-inspired score especially for numbers A Feeling Without A Name and Way Back,  The Boy Who Kissed the Sky is a musical celebration elevated by Jimi Hendrix’s iconic fashion sense and Danielle Dominique Sumi’s dramatic and galactic 60s-inspired costume design.  An epic and renowned onstage band trio jams high above the production’s stage alongside a gigantic moon and Wooden Kiwi Productions constructed the rock n roll set equipped with giant wooden amplifiers and stereo speakers under Danielle DeLaFuente’s scenic vision.

Idris Goodwin’s ‘The Boy Who Kissed the Sky’ is appropriate for all ages and a wonderful production to anyone could use a little inspiration.

Directed inventively by Summer L Williams with funky musical direction by David Freeman Coleman, joyfully choreographed by Victoria Lynn Awkward, and loosely based on legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix’s life, Company One presents Idris Goodwin’s celestial and groovy The Boy Who Kissed the Sky live and in person at the Strand Theatre in Dorchester, Massachusetts and now streaming through Saturday, August 12.  This far out production is 70 minutes with no intermission and pay what you can tickets are available.  Click here for more information and tickets.

REVIEW: In honor of Boston’s Old North Church’s tricentennial, Plays in Place rewinds the clock for tense and engrossing ‘Revolution’s Edge’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

After 300 years, Boston’s Old North Church has stood through some of the most exciting and harrowing moments in our nation’s history.  The Old North Church’s clock has consistently kept time since 1726.  Playwright Patrick Gabridge pens an original play that explores a particularly intense dialogue set on the eve of the Revolutionary War in 1775.  Plays in Place rewinds the clock to 1775 where three individuals contemplate their fates as tensions escalate to panic, gradually making it impossible not to take action.

Nathan Johnson photo-by Nile Scott Studios

In honor of the Old North Church’s 300th anniversary and directed skillfully by Alexandra Smith, Plays in Place presents Patrick Gabridge’s engaging Revolution’s Edge, live and in person at The Old North Church in Boston Massachusetts on select days through September 19.   The production is 45 minutes with no intermission and the box pews provide an immersive view. It is an educational production that is appropriate for families.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Brooks Reeves Photo by Nile Scott Studios

From colorful waistcoats to pristine linen shirts to proper vestments, Christina Beam’s elegantly detailed costumes are perfectly authentic to its era and one couldn’t have asked for a better setting than the Old North Church, Boston’s oldest surviving church right along the Freedom Trail. 

Evan Turissini and Brooks Reeves Photo-by Nile Scott Studios

Three individuals composed of a reverend/doctor, his slave, and a sea captain are metaphorically tied together during this strained window in history.  They are contemplating the state of Boston, the nation, and their future.  Each clings to a different perspective of their future in terms of family, loyalty, occupation, politics, and identity.  Two are a friendship divided through conflict and one is left without a choice as they articulate their thoughts and struggles while the world seems to be collapsing around them.

Gabridge’s passionate script has an intensity rooted in fear that looms quietly and then builds throughout the production.   It also brings out the best in this trio of performers.  Revolution’s Edge teeters from warmth to anxiousness to manipulation, but each evokes a note of consideration and compassion, even while blinded by fear. 

Evan Turissini and Brooks Reeves Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Evan Turissini portrays American ship captain, vestryman, and patriot Captain John Pulling Jr. with reason, devotion, and compassion for the others, but is squarely dedicated to his cause.  Turissini and Brooks Reeves as complicated Rev. Dr. Mather Byles Jr, a reverend and doctor with ties to England and America, share some pivotal and contentious moments that bring out some indelible performances.  Huddled closely together, it is engrossing to watch their war of words.  Byles’s impatience and manipulative side is particularly exposed in a significant conversation with Byles’s slave Cato, depicted sympathetically and astutely by Nathan Johnson.  Johnson is faced with agonizing sacrifices and is truly the heart of this production.

Nathan Johnson and Brooks Reeves Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Revolution’s Edge cleverly weaves some of Boston’s most significant events including the Boston Tea Party and Revere’s Ride while the audience is still privy to dangerous events in motion right outside the church’s windows.

Though this would be especially fascinating for visitors of Boston and historians, Revolution’s Edge is an exciting and deeply educational window into a harrowing moment in history.  Witnessing it knowing how the world is now brings intricate and profound meaning.

In honor of the Old North Church’s 300th anniversary and directed by Alexandra Smith, Plays in Place presents Patrick Gabridge’s engaging Revolution’s Edge live and in person at The Old North Church in Boston Massachusetts on select days through September 19.   The production is 45 minutes with no intermission and the box pews provide an immersive view.   Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Dive under the sea with Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston’s magical ‘The Little Mermaid’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Sebastian is right. 

Life under the sea is better than anything we have up here especially if it is Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston’s lively and family-friendly production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid.  Having witnessed Disney’s 1989 classic The Little Mermaid several times, one of the many reasons to see Reagle Music Theatre’s stage version is it contains additional songs and scenes while still delivering all the beloved dialogue, music, and costumes from the 1989 film.  It was refreshing to see that The Little Mermaid has so much more to say.

Directed and choreographed exuberantly by Taavon Gamble with buoyant music direction by David Coleman, Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid through Sunday, August 6 live and in person at the Robinson Theatre in Waltham, Massachusetts.  This production is 130 minutes with a fifteen minute intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Ariel (Kayla Shimizu) and Sebastian (Davron and ensemble perform ‘Under the Sea’ in Reagle Music Theatre’s Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Photo by Herb Philpott

Less than 35 years after the release of Disney’s 1989 classic film and not too long after the release of Disney’s live action remake The Little Mermaid this year, Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston has chosen a grand time to bring this land and sea classic to life onstage.  Some will recognize the set pieces and settings from the 1989 film, but Reagle’s production also boasts a great deal of originality as well.

From shimmering fins to uniquely- shaped, brilliantly colored costumes adorned with carefully structured headdresses, Emerald City Theatrical delivers Caribbean charm in all of its animated splendor.  Tony Ferrieri’s layered aquatic scenic design combined with Franklin Meissner Jr’s impressive lighting enhances the complexion and depth of the production’s kaleidoscopic waves, transforming from welcoming to at times threatening along a backdrop steeped in puffy clouds.

King Triton’s Kingdom Disney’s The Little Mermaid presented by Reagle Music Theatre thru August 6 in Waltham Photo by Herb Philpott.

Based on the Hans Christian Anderson tale and the Disney film, The Little Mermaid is about a curious mermaid princess named Ariel, depicted with vibrant charm and soaring vocals by Kayla Shimizu, who falls in love with not only a human prince, but the world on land.  She is offered a way to escape the sea, but will she take it?

Ariel (Kayla Shimizu) singing Part of Your World in Reagle Music Theatre’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ through August 6. Photo by Herb Philpott

The Little Mermaid boasts a completely lovable cast led by Ariel, portrayed with enthusiastic, wide eyed wonder by Kayla Shimizu.  Shimizu’s compelling performance and powerful vocals are remarkably reminiscent of Jodi Benson, the actress who voiced Ariel in the 1989 film.  Shimizu shines with splendid renditions of Part of Your World, The World Above and If Only.  Shimizu shares captivating moments with Ray Robinson as amiable and refined Prince Eric, sweet camaraderie with endearing Kenny Lee as shy, friendly and adorable Flounder and brave, streetwise, and frank Jack Mullen as seagull Scuttle.  Having depicted Will Parker in Reagle’s previous musical, Oklahoma, Mullen again demonstrates his sharp comic wit and jubilant dance moves in a hilarious rendition of Positoovity. 

Positoovity from Disney’s The Little Mermaid presented by Reagle Music Theatre in Waltham. Photo Herb Philpott.

A vision in deep, sparkling red, Davron S. Munroe is exemplary as strict and critical crab Sebastian who assists King Triton, portrayed with wise regality by Cristhian Mancinas-Garcia.  In a display of bursting color and enchanting merriment, Munroe’s calypso-infused rendition of Under the Sea is stupendous and Kiss the Girl not only has tender charm, but delivers a humorous and delightful depiction of twilight, especially as frogs look on.

Ariel (Kayla-Shimizu) and (Sebastian Davron) and ensemble perform Under the Sea in Reagle Music Theatre’s Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Photo by Herb Philpott

Sibling rivalry has never been more fun as showcased through Ariel’s mersisters consisting of Kindred Moore, Aimee Coleman, Joy Clark, Ellie Lauter, Aubrie-Mai Rubel and Olivia Foght.  They are gorgeous beauty queens who gossip, laugh and try to upstage each other.  They perform a catchy, 50s style rendition of She’s in Love with Flounder where even the fishy puns are cute.

Kenny Lee as Flounder and the Mersisters perform ‘She’s in Love’ from Disney’s The Little Mermaid presented by Reagle Music Theatre in Waltham. Photo Herb Philpott.

Rich Allegretto as Grimsby is also impressive as Prince Eric’s traditional yet sympathetic advisor and Teddy Edgar as deranged and passionate Chef Louis is hilarious even in a brief appearance for a marvelous rendition of Les Poissons.  Edgar’s menacing eyes and passion for food make every moment count! 

Katherine Pecevich as Ursula and Eels in Reagle Music Theatre’s Disney’s The Little Mermaid thru August 6. Photo by Herb Philpott.

A trio of dastardly proportions takes shape in Katherine Pecevich as Ursula and Ursula’s two lurking and smirking neon electric eel henchmen portrayed by Miki Grubic as Flotsam and  Alan Cid as Jetsam.  With wild hair and a black and purple glittering gown, Pecevich’s slippery manipulations and brash, yet shrewd machinations match whatever Cid and Grubic have in their co-conspiring minds.  Even though Ursula is the main attraction, Cid and Grubic’s functioning and eye catching costumes do a bit of their own scene stealing.  However, Pecevich’s charisma shines in a devious rendition of Poor Unfortunate Souls, her husky vocals only second to her maniacal laughter.

Directed and choreographed exuberantly by Taavon Gamble with buoyant music direction by David Coleman, Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid through Sunday, August 6 live and in person at the Robinson Theatre in Waltham, Massachusetts.  This production is 130 minutes with a fifteen minute intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  ‘Zebra 2.0’ at New Ohio’s ICE Factory boasts an unconventional meet cute with fascinating zip

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

One is nicknamed Zebra and another knows everything there is to know about Zebras….except how Zebras feel.

Zebra 2.0 is technological ice breaker and a breakthrough unlike any other.  An interesting meet cute for the modern age, AnomalousCo, Wistaria Project, and Romanian Cultural Institute’s sci-fi rom com Zebra 2.0 was presented at New Ohio Theatre’s ICE Factory in NYC and is now streaming through August 12.  The show runs for 1 hour and 30 minutes.  Click here for more information and how to stream the film.

Alina Mihailevschi and Tim Craig in ‘Zebra 2.0’ Photographer: Jarrett Robertson

A computer and a woman meet in a lab.  She calls it Al and Al nicknames her Zebra 2.0.  As Al coordinates a line of numbers, inquisitive Zina, energetically depicted by Alina Mihailevschi, realizes that Al, portrayed with intellectual charm by Tim Craig, have much more in common than either of them realized.  Zebras are only the beginning.

Zebra 2.0 has an enchanting way of delving into various topics such as the environment, biology, science, books, music, immigration, standardized tests, employment, and the nature of being human in a clever and fascinating manner.  Though Zina only chance meets Al as she cleans up a laboratory, her friendly and candid conversations with Al spark some compelling results.  Written by Saviana Stanescu and directed by Jeremy Goren, Zebra 2.0 combines method and sentiment into a sweet, intense, and astute production with resounding messages about humanity.  Tim Craig is impressive, gradually molding Al into a charismatic and sympathetic character and Mihailevschi epitomizes lonely, zealous, friendly, rebellious, and imaginative Zina who longs for knowledge and dreams of a better life.

Tim Craig and Alina Mihailevschi in ‘Zebra 2.0’ Photographer: Jarrett Robertson

John Jannone, Michi Zaya,  and Amy Liou’s luminous projection and  video, Duncan Davies’s incredible multicolor lighting and Ras Badejo’s epic music and sound combine to make Al into a dazzling, fervent, and a powerful entity that blurs fantasy and reality inside a pristine, windowless, and futuristic space by Xinan Helen Ran.  These special effects display some of the most exciting scenes in the production only second to Craig and Mihailevschi’s humorous and engaging chemistry that just might deliver greater meaning than anything Al can calculate.

Alina Mihailevschi and Tim Craig in ‘Zebra 2.0’ Photographer: Jarrett Robertson

Written ambitiously by Saviana Stanescu with elevated direction by Jeremy Goren, AnomalousCo, Wisteria Project, and Romanian Cultural Institute’s sci-fi rom com Zebra 2.0 was presented at ICE Factory in NYC and is now streaming through August 12.  The show runs for 1 hour and 30 minutes.  Click here for more information and how to stream the film.