coming of age

REVIEW: An amusing battle of wits at Hive Theatre Company’s ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

It can be a strange form of intellectual entertainment. 

The contestants range from excitable to anxious to charismatic while braving through the pressure to succeed.  With spell check just a click away, knowing how to spell complex words such as Xanthosis, Autochthonous, or Logorrhea almost seems like an archaic practice.  However, Scripps National Spelling Bees are seen all over the world and like any competition, plenty of drama is happening behind the scenes. 

Smoothly directed and choreographed by Margaret McFadden with John Eldridge’s witty music direction, The Hive Theatre Company dives into an interesting match of wits with the award-winning musical comedy, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee continuing live and in person through Sunday, February 1 at BCA Plaza Theatre at Boston Center for the Arts in Boston, Massachusetts.  This semi-interactive production runs 1 hour and 45 minutes with one intermission and contains some adult humor.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

The cast of Hive Theatre Company’s ‘The 15th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Photo credit to Margaret McFadden

Based on a book by Rachel Sheinkin and William Finn and featuring playful and insightful songs from its Grammy award-nominated album such as I’m Not That Smart, Pandemonium, and I Speak Six Languages, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee explores the lives of quirky and feverishly ambitious Putnam Valley Middle School students who are not only striving to win the bee, but to find their place in the world.

Alex Kennedy and the cast of Hive Theatre Company’s ‘The 15th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Photo credit to Margaret McFadden

Featuring a live four piece band in the background, the BCA Plaza Theatre offers a fitting scholastic vibe for a spelling bee.  Kevin Deane Parker’s modestly staged set features a blue school door, colorful metal chairs and auditorium seating.  No spelling bee should be without a sponsor and Putnam Optometrists have stepped in with a humorous slogan across the judge’s table.  Samantha Wolfrum’s wild and eccentrically charming costumes illustrate each character’s distinctive qualities.

Before addressing each one of the improvisational wizards that compete in Hive Theatre Company’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, it is important to note that the audience plays their own part in the bee.  This small cast makes a big impression, and this zany musical comedy tests the audience’s knowledge as four lucky guest volunteer spellers have the honor of taking the stage to compete with the cast.  It is an amazing experience to be a guest speller as the cast keeps them on their toes all in good fun. 

Amanda Wade and Cameron Nye in cast of Hive Theatre Company’s ‘The 15th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Photo credit to Margaret McFadden

If offered this opportunity, do not let fear and the unknown override a wonderful chance to join in the excitement of the bee along with the outside possibility of getting serenaded by some real talent.  The interactive antics are just part of what makes this improvisational musical comedy unique and doused in a bit of the “reality show” flavor.  Each performance of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee leaves its own individual and lasting impression.

From caricature voices to bizarre antics, this spelling bee cast leans into and emphasizes character quirks much more than endearing qualities than other version I have seen while relishing in their own various idiosyncrasies.  To these students, spelling can be ruthless and punishing and are certainly feeling the pressure.  Full of anxiety and neurotic awkwardness, each adolescent has their own humorous ways of coping to achieve a win paired with the difficulties of growing up.  Learning each speller’s story and why they are participating in the Putnam County Spelling Bee (and needs a win) can be insightful, comical, and moving.

Salvatore Guillermo Garcia, Amanda Wade and Maya Gopalswamy in The Hive Theatre Company’s ‘The 15th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Photo credit to Margaret McFadden

Running the Bee is Amanda Wade as Rona Lisa Peretti, former winner of Putnam’s Spelling Bee.  Peppy, orderly, and with polished vocals, Wade doles out fun facts about the contestants with palpable enthusiasm especially during the excitable number, Rona Moment #1.  She and Josh Telepman as Vice Principal Douglas Panch are responsible for quite a few clever one liners during the show, feeding off each other’s varied personalities. 

Anna Wright and Salvatore Guillermo Garcia in cast of Hive Theatre Company’s ‘The 15th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Photo credit to Margaret McFadden

Salvatore Guillermo Garcia is impressive as intense, firm, but sensitive Mitch Mahoney who hands out cure-all juice boxes to eliminated contestants as he supervises the competition.

Maya Golalswamy and Kaden Mays in Hive Theatre Company’s ‘The 15th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Photo credit to Margaret McFadden

Outlandish and peculiar, the remarkable spellers play well off each other and boast particular chemistry and harmony during the numbers, Pandemonium, My Friend, the Dictionary, and Magic Foot which fittingly features a kick line.  Maya Gapalswamy as Olive and Kayden Mays as William display some awkwardly cute chemistry.  Gapalswamy as hesitant and sweet Olive Ostrovsky is also sympathetic in a stirring rendition of The I Love You Song with Amanda Wade and Salvatore Guillermo Garcia.  Anna Wright as Logainne Schwartzandgrubenniere, an anxiously outspoken bright-eyed girl in braids with a lisp forlornly laments Whoa is Me and Alex Kennedy is memorable as Leaf Coneybear, an intense, wildly dressed savant in a cape and bow tie while Cameron Nye has more than spelling on his mind as shy and daydreaming Chip Tolentino.  Ashley Ha is ironically charismatic as socially awkward and rigid perfectionist Marcy Park especially for the athletic number, I Speak Six Languages.

Kaden Mays (center) and the cast of Hive Theatre Company’s ‘The 15th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Photo credit to Margaret McFadden

In a tricky environment where so much rides on improvisation, the cast navigates their characters while gliding through any challenging circumstances.  The show inserts a few interesting pop references and contemporary issues into this timeless musical comedy.  Some elevate the comedy while others seem out of place.  Overall, The Hive Theatre Company’s musical comedy, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a clever and original musical production that may just leave the audience feeling a little smarter.

The cast of Hive Theatre Company’s ‘The 15th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ Photo credit to Margaret McFadden

The Hive Theatre Company continues musical comedy, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee continuing live and in person through Sunday, February 1 at BCA Plaza Theatre at Boston Center for the Arts in Boston, Massachusetts.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Unlocking memories inside The Huntington’s stirring and remarkable ‘Fun Home’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

It’s funny what you recall in life. 

Memories can be tricky.  As time goes by, perspective changes as a person grows, transforming a memory and gradually revealing details once never considered or understood before.  Alison’s home seals in cartoonist Alison Bechdel’s intimate memories as she writes her memoirs through her work, ruminating on her childhood and upbringing to discover what makes her feel like she is stuck in life.  Alison uses cartoons because drawing as a child, she recalls, ‘I need real things to draw from because I don’t trust memory.’

Five-time Tony award-winning musical Fun Home explores different perceptions of reality within the Bechdel household.  They wrestle with it, deny it, but ultimately, must come to terms with it.  Based on Alison Bechdel’s graphic novel memoir with complex direction by Logan Ellis, Taavon Gamble’s dynamic choreography and Jessie Rosso’s compelling music direction, The Huntington continues Fun Home live and in person at the Huntington in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, December 14. This poignant musical deals in some mature themes and runs 1 hour and 40 minutes with no intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Lyla Randall and Nick Duckart in ‘Fun Home’ Directed by Logan Ellis Photo by Marc J Franklin

The Huntington is known for its extraordinary sets and Fun Home is no exception.  Beneath a delicately adorned chandelier, Fun Home takes an intimate look inside a family seemingly full of zeal and an antique house so tidy and flawless in all its finery flanked with towering bookshelves, a fireplace, grand piano, detailed wallpaper and richly placed stained glass, it neatly hides any cracks and crevices underneath. Tanya Orellana’s rolling sets meticulously combines Gothic Victorian-style details with Pennsylvania’s natural beauty in a portrait landscape of trees.  While Fun Home unveils the Bechdel family’s complicated world piece by piece, it may also quite symbolically depict Alison’s increasing ability to see the forest for the trees. 

Sarah Bockel in ‘Fun Home’ Directed by Logan Ellis Photo by Marc J. Franklin

Led by and musically directed by Jessie Rosso, this intimate, seven piece orchestra sits through an open piece of “sky” carved into the backdrop in a soothing, fiddle-laden soundtrack which blends light, airy, and melancholy.  From its opening song, It All Comes Back to the Flying Away finale, Jeanine Tesori’s captivating musical numbers hold a spectrum of rich and multi-faceted meaning.  The catchy, Partridge Family-inspired with a hint of Jackson 5 grand number, Rainbow of Love is a particular highlight, enhanced by matching reflective and fringed retro costumes, just a portion of Celeste Jennings’s colorful and era exacting costume design.

Sarah Bockel and Lyla Randall in ‘Fun Home’ Directed by Logan Ellis Photo by Marc J Franklin

With its share of comedic and uplifting moments, Alison looks back on her relationship with her enigmatic and intellectual father Bruce and her traveling and ill at ease mother, Helen.  Alison is the only individual that outwardly transforms in this piece, thanks to the exceptional work of Maren Phifer in for Lyla Randall as adorably precocious and impressionable Small Alison in braids and overalls who springs to life in an ingenious manner. Phifer performs an impeccable and chiming version of Ring of Keys and shines with Odin Vega as Christian and Caleb Levin as John in the darkly humorous title track, Fun Home in impressive harmony.  Maya Jacobson aptly depicts naïve, anxious, excitable, yet awkward Medium Alison while Sushma Saha is walking confidence as cool and collected Joan.

Caleb Levin, Odin Vega, Lyla Randall in Fun Home; Directed by Logan Ellis; Photo by Marc J Franklin

With black rimmed glasses and short dark hair, Bockel slips into Alison’s wounded façade, a mature, jaded and intellectually-driven individual.  With a dark sense of humor, Bockel is an omnipresent narrator on this emotional journey evoking confusion, warmth, sorrow, and frustration realizing every fine detail of Alison’s younger years while struggling to build strength into each new discovery.

Sushma Saha and Maya Jacobson in ‘Fun Home’ Directed by Logan Ellis Photo by Marc J. Franklin

Director Logan Ellis strives to examine the physical and intellectual similarities between Alison and Nick Dukart as Alison’s father and it is fascinating to witness their side by side similarities. Duckart allows Bruce’s flaws override what is often viewed as an overtly sympathetic performance.  He skillfully lays bares the many sides of Bruce as a critical businessman and showman with a refined intellect, and perpetually occupied to become an expert on most everything.  Seemingly a friendly, strict, and hardworking family man, Bruce is also secretive, unsettling, dazed and closed off.  Duckart’s melodious and affecting baritenor vocals captures Bruce’s complex and unspoken feelings in each number, including the poignant song Pony Girl, but most notably in his harrowing rendition of Edges of the World.

Sarah Bockel and Nick Duckart in ‘Fun Home’ Directed by Logan Ellis Photo by Marc J. Franklin

Each Alison is earnest in portraying their wrought frustration in every moment they attempt to identify and make a genuine connection to him, but especially in the bittersweet song, Telephone Wire.  Duckart depicts Bruce with a defensive irritability yet tempered with overpowering warmth for Alison which encapsulates some of the brighter moments in the musical.

Duckart and Jennifer Ellis as Alison’s conflicted musician mother Helen share tense and affective moments together and it is easy to see Helen’s teetering vulnerability within each argument and in all the weighted and lonely moments where Ellis imagines her life should be. 

Unassuming, overwhelmed, and misunderstood surrounded by outward perfection, Ellis’s Helen lives her life distancing herself from reality putting others first reflected in the heartrending and beautiful number Days and Days, a number in which Ellis brought me to abrupt tears. 

Jennifer Ellis in ‘Fun Home’ Directed by Logan Ellis Photo by Marc J. Franklin

Some things cannot be fixed.  Painful and difficult times as well as those joyful moments might not have been as once imagined.  The key is to learn from it and take the next step.

The Huntington continues Fun Home live and in person at the Huntington in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, December 14. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Learning through a child’s eyes in Boston Arts Academy and Wheelock Family Theatre’s ‘Kufre and Quay’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Imagining your first day in a new place can bring excitement, anxiousness and dread.

However, Kufre is optimistic his first day will be wonderful as he arrives from Nigeria to his new home in Inwood, New Jersey.  He daydreams about all the friends he will make and how much everyone will like him when he starts at a Harlem Youth Center in Harlem, New York.  However, things do not turn out quite like he imagines. 

Insightfully directed by John Adekoje, Boston Arts Academy with Wheelock Family Theatre continues the world premiere of Mfoniso Udofia‘s Kufre and Quay, the fifth production in the Ufot’s  nine-play family cycle which features three Ufot Nigerian-American family generations, live and in person at Boston Arts Academy in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday. July 26.  This bilingual production runs approximately two hours with one intermission and boasts open captions that come in handy during the performance.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Levi Mngomezulu in Boston Arts Academy and Wheelock Family Theatre’s production of Kufre n’ Quay by Mfoniso Udofia, directed by John Oluwole ADEkoje. Running July 10 – July 26, 2025 at Boston Arts Academy Main Stage Theatre (174 Ipswich St, Boston, MA 02215). Photo credit Annielly Camargo.

Having seen Ufot’s second production The Grove and the fourth production Her Portmanteau, it was wonderful to see the progression in the Ufot Family after watching things from Iniabasi’s perspective in Her Portmanteau and seeing things through her son’s eyes in this production.  However, you can witness and enjoy this production without watching the others.

Lighting designer Karen Perlow with Projection designer Justin Lahue innovatively lay out in multiple strips that elegantly reveal black and white photos of Harlem to framed family photos to the solar system to subtle streams to the green landscape of Nigeria.  Cliff Notez’s rich and catchy sound also contributes to the transformative quality and cultural aesthetic of this production in daydreams and reality.

The cast of Boston Arts Academy and Wheelock Family Theatre’s production of Kufre n’ Quay by Mfoniso Udofia, directed by John Oluwole ADEkoje. Running July 10 – July 26, 2025 at Boston Arts Academy Main Stage Theatre (174 Ipswich St, Boston, MA 02215). Photo credit Annielly Camargo.

It’s the hottest day of the year on Sunday, July 21, 2018 and Levi Mngomezulu as 12 year-old Kufre, the son of Iniabasi Ekpeyong and grandson of Abasiama Ufot, is adorable right from the start.  Bright eyed and charming, Mngomezulu as Kufre doesn’t realize the kind of impression he will make on the other kids and along with Ayannah Joseph as Aissatou, they have their own ideas about this new boy from Nigeria.  Until Kufre meets Ngolela Kamanampata as warm and theatre loving 13 year-old Laquasha Price or ‘Quay’ and under the guidance of Jalyse Ware as counselor Miss Ey Yo Miss, Kufre has encountered more challenges than he ever expected. 

Jackie Davis, Levi Mngomezulu, and Ramona Lisa Alexander in Boston Arts Academy and Wheelock Family Theatre’s
production of Kufre n’ Quay by Mfoniso Udofia, directed by John Oluwole ADEkoje. Running July 10 – July 26, 2025
at Boston Arts Academy Main Stage Theatre (174 Ipswich St, Boston, MA 02215). Photo credit Annielly Camargo.

Jalyse Ware beautifully portrays compassionate counselor Miss Ey Yo Miss, who helps to run Harlem’s The Zone Youth Center.  As this production does, Miss Ey Yo Miss uses theatre though a talent show to establish connection and navigates this youth group with clever finesse.  Composed of Zay Williams, Selah Thande, Jedrian Latimore, Ezra Schwartz-Bart, Londyn Lacy, Shai-Anne Neufville, Ja’Mon Johnson and Ayannah Joseph, the group shares a real rapport with each other as individuals and as a collective as they speak over one another and make humorous comments as they embark on new activities. 

Ngolela Kamanampata and Levi Mngomezulu (in foreground) in Boston Arts Academy and Wheelock Family Theatre’s production of Kufre n’ Quay by Mfoniso Udofia, directed by John Oluwole ADEkoje. Running July 10 – July 26, 2025 at Boston Arts Academy Main Stage Theatre (174 Ipswich St, Boston, MA 02215). Photo credit Annielly Camargo.

Kamanampata is delightful as Quay as she attempts to bring Mngomezulu as Kufre out of his shell, especially demonstrated in an imaginative theatre activity that Kufre is hesitant to learn.

Ramona Lisa Alexander as Iniabasi Ekpeyong and Jackie Davis as Abasiama Ufot both deliver powerful performances as they discover more about Kufre and his experiences at the Zone.

Kufre and Quay is a moving coming of age tale that gradually increases in intensity, especially in the second act.  It tackles language, misunderstandings, cultural disconnect, and how each generation affects another while discovering new ways to relate and grow together.

Levi Mngomezulu and Ngolela Kamanampata in Boston Arts Academy and Wheelock Family Theatre’s production of Kufre n’ Quay by Mfoniso Udofia, directed by John Oluwole ADEkoje. Running July 10 – July 26, 2025 at Boston Arts Academy Main Stage Theatre (174 Ipswich St, Boston, MA 02215). Photo credit Annielly Camargo.

Boston Arts Academy with Wheelock Family Theatre continues the world premiere of Mfoniso Udofia‘s Kufre and Quay, the fifth production in the Ufot’s  nine-play family cycle which features three Ufot Nigerian-American family generations, live and in person at Boston Arts Academy in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday. July 26. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Finding your voice in Lyric Stage Boston’s stirring ‘Crumbs from the Table of Joy’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Looking back on life can bring joy, discovery, sorrow and wisdom in unexpected ways.

Cleverly directed by Tasia A. Jones, Lyric Stage Boston continues Lynn Nottage’s family drama Crumbs from the Table of Joy live and in person at Lyric Stage Boston through Sunday, February 2.  This partially coming of age production not limited to the stage runs two hours and 20 minutes including an intermission.  Click here for more information and tickets.

Dominic Carter,* Madison Margaret Clark, and Catia* (Photo by Mark S. Howard)

Crumbs from the Table of Joy boasts a fascinating cast as each character’s motivation unravels over time and explores some hot button issues prevalent yesterday and today.  Madison Margaret Clark as impressionable and determined Ernestine recalls a pivotal time in her life close to graduating high school in the 1950s having moved from the South to Brooklyn with Dominic Carter as her strict, born again and traditional recently widowed father Godfrey and her candid sister Ermina, portrayed with sharp comic wit by Catia.  Clark’s engaging delivery is an endearing mix of fondness and reflection recalling life’s little joys such as sharing cookies and precious family moments within the thin walls of a small apartment.  As an aspiring actor, Ernestine fantasizes about how cinema solves everything and those scenes stand out as some of the brightest parts of the production. 

Catia* and Madison Margaret Clark (Photo by Mark S. Howard)

Cristina Todesco’s translucent and versatile, dual level scenic design framed by a gold embroidered vintage stage and ornate industrial lights transforms into various dim spaces including a living room with dated and crochet adorned tattered furniture.  Eduardo Ramirez’s animated lighting design combined with Aubrey Dube’s rich sound deliver carefully timed flickers of joy to instantly transport characters right within the narration from an apartment to a movie theatre to a train station in an array of flickering of lights and distinctive sound effects.  Mikayla Reid’s retro costuming ranges from sophisticated in statement ensembles and pin striped suits to handmade floral dresses and patent leather shoes.

Catia,* Thomika Marie Bridwell,* and Madison Margaret Clark (Photo by Mark S. Howard)

Glamorous and smartly dressed, Thomika Marie Bridwell’s dazzling entrance as feisty, forward, flirtatious and daring Aunt Lilly creates an immediate spark in the production with a combination of spice and outspokenness in direct contrast to Dominic Carter’s conservative and stoic Godfrey.    Godfrey is so reserved that at one point, Ernestine explains that her father says only white people can laugh on a Sunday.  Hanging onto Father Divine’s every word with intensity yet quiet zeal, Dominic Carter delivers a solid performance  as Godfrey who claims they came to Brooklyn because of Father Divine’s Peace Mission until something unexpected happens.  Bridwell’s Lilly immediately alters the atmosphere with an unexplainable tension and it stands to show whether or not it is for the better.  However, there is far more to this tale than meets the eye.

Thomika Marie Bridwell,* Dominic Carter,* and Margaret Madison Clark (Photo by Mark S. Howard)

Bridwell’s excellent performance lies in Lilly’s bold nature and expertly building tension in Lilly’s unorthodox manner of living.  Her mix of persuasive charm, laugh out loud comic timing and resolve brings to light this complex character in all of her hidden vulnerability sharing memorable scenes with the cast including Catia as Ermina and Madison Margaret Clark as Ernestine looking on with a mix of shock and admiration for their Aunt while certainly making an indelible impression.  Bridgette Hayes is also impressive as mysterious Gerte who suddenly plays a significant role that will not be revealed here.

Madison Margaret Clark, Catia,* Brigette Hayes,* and Dominic Carter* (Photo by Mark S. Howard)

A family drama that delivers some surprising twists and turns, Crumbs from the Table of Joy is a stirring production that shows real life lessons can come from the most unexpected places. 

Lynn Nottage’s family drama Crumbs from the Table of Joy continues live and in person at Lyric Stage Boston through Sunday, February 2.  This partially coming of age production not limited to the stage runs two hours and 20 minutes including an intermission.  Click here for more information and tickets.

REVIEW:  Chuang Stage’s visionary ‘Nüwa in Fairyland’ explores the nature of love and belonging

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Words matter.  Formalities matter.  Commitments matter.

Wise words firmly stated by Jen Alison Lewis as Maryanne in Brandon Zang’s Nüwa in Fairyland, an insightful coming of age tale that crosses imagination with a number of interweaving elements in order to bring consolation and understanding in the face of change.    

Directed sensitively by Carla Mirabel Rodriguez, Chuang Stage continues Brandon Zang’s Nüwa in Fairyland live and in person at The Boston Center for the Arts Plaza Black Box Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, June 1.  This world premiere, semi-interactive, and bilingual play-within-a-play runs 100 minutes with no intermission.  Pay-as-you-are tickets are available.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Jen Alison Lewis and Trevyn Wong in NÜWA IN FAIRYLAND by Ken Yotsukura Photography

Nüwa in Fairyland is primarily centered on the relationship between good natured, competitive, and playful Benji depicted by Trevyn Wong in an impressive and charismatic performance and Jen Alison Lewis as Maryanne, Benji’s protective and steadfast adopted mother.  Benji is starting to question his heritage beyond what he knows of his adopted life in America after seeing a documentary on China and Maryanne immediately feels anxious and uneasy.  Meanwhile, Bowen Huang movingly depicts a mystical creature frantically searching for a missing child.  There may be a connection here, but Nüwa in Fairyland explores a broader vision and branches out into fascinating territory and parallels that interweave imagination, reality and a certain Shakespearean play in order to cope with what is next.

Matt Goldstein, Trevyn Yong, and Jen Alison Lewis in NÜWA IN FAIRYLAND by Ken Yotsukura Photography

Navigating its various settings with precision while making the most of its theatrical space, Qingan Zhang’s ethereal and floral scenic design is highlighted by splendid translucent imagery and a sense of immersion due to Anna Drummond’s soothing and atmospheric sound design and Ashley Yung’s ambient lighting.  From feathers to crowns to capes to embroidered armor, Sandra Zhihan Jia’s costumes blend the fanciful with the contemporary while infusing a traditional Shakespearean influence. 

Jen Alison Lewis and Matt Goldstein in NÜWA IN FAIRYLAND by Ken Yotsukura Photography

This capable cast has very good camaraderie and comedic timing as they find nuances not necessarily in the script which enhance certain sweet moments within the production.   A gleeful glance, an awkward gesture, and a delayed pause help to strengthen the bond within this small cast.  Henry Dolgoff as chatty and anxious Damian share several of these moments infatuated with Wong in an array of awkward and mixed signals.  Matt Goldstein as stern yet supportive Mr. Bailey and Lewis as Maryanne both share some soulful moments with Wong as Benji struggles with where he belongs.

Trevyn Wong and Henry Dolgoff in NÜWA IN FAIRYLAND by Ken Yotsukura Photography

However, Bowen Huang shines as stunning Nüwa in an intense, sage and sympathetic performance.  Spoken in both Chinese and English, Huang is expressive, passionate, brave, and empowered with a wonderful charisma and zealousness convincingly drawing others to her plight in an unfamiliar place.   The cast collectively explores the bonds of love in a thought provoking and multi-layered journey while both Huang and Lewis uniquely and beautifully discover the unforeseen and unyielding expectations of motherhood.

Bowen Huang and Trevyn Wong in NÜWA IN FAIRYLAND by Ken Yotsukura Photography

Directed sensitively by Carla Mirabel Rodriguez, Chuang Stage presents Brandon Zang’s Nüwa in Fairyland live and in person at The Boston Center for Arts Plaza Black Box Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, June 1.  This world premiere, semi-interactive, and bilingual play-within-a-play runs 100 minutes with no intermission.  Pay-as-you-are tickets are available.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Apollinaire Theatre Company’s ‘Dance Nation’ starts funny, then at times loses its footing

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Dance can be a cutthroat sport.  This is especially true for a group of prepubescent, adolescent, and rambunctious preteens in a dance competition who are told the results will change their lives.

However, the twist here is these teens are not actually portrayed by age appropriate preteens, but by a wide age range.  Therein lays comedy and the rub for the rest of this story.

Audrey Johnson as Amina, Schanaya Barrows as Ashlee, Katie Pickett as Zuzu (additional image below) Photos: Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Fervently directed by Danielle Fauteux Jacques with lively choreography by Audrey Johnson,  Apollinaire Theatre Company presents Clare Barron’s Dance Nation live and in person at Apollinaire Theatre Company in Chelsea, Massachusetts through May 14.  Dance Nation has mature themes.  The show is 100 minutes with no intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

A lot is at stake at Liverpool Dance Works in Liverpool, Ohio.  From dance moms to competing with a best friend, Dance Nation delves into the pressure of perfection and the discoveries of coming of age including and certainly not limited to the magic of black coffee.  It starts out with some amusing moments and it excels in depicting some of the angst, uncertainty, heartache and anguish associated with growing up.  It personifies the travesties in a young girl’s life, her changing body, the all or nothing attitude in just about everything, and the sensitivity of a young heart.  Everything is a victory or an absolute disaster.

Schanaya Barrows as Ashlee (front), Alison Butts as Sofia, Paola Ferrer as Vanessa, Erik P. Kraft as Luke Photo by Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Joseph Lark-Riley boasts a heart thumping, catchy and memorable sound design.  Elizabeth Rocha’s dynamic costumes range from delicate tutus to casual wear and Nathan Lee and Jennea Pillay’s realistic scenic design create an everyday teen dance studio complete with hanging coats, multilevel compartments for shoes and dance bags as well as metal trophies displayed like a pillar of excellence for every student to strive for. 

Dance Nation is highlighted with some fascinating performances.  Katie Pickett delicately portrays self conscious and sensitive Zuzu with a tangible anxiousness and discomfort in her own skin.  Dev Luthra portrays occasionally testy, sketchy, manipulative and yet inspiring Dance Teacher Pat.  Luthra’s rapport with the students is complicated, especially with Audrey Johnson’s complex and conflicted perfectionist Amina.  Paola Ferrer impressively juggles not only depicting a dancer, but the supportive, not quite in touch, and competitive dance mom whose child should always be the star.   Imagination sweetly runs wild with Ann Carpenter as Maeve while Schanaya Barrows savagely depicts a mix of ego, vanity and complicated uncertainty as Ashlee.

Audrey Johnson as Amina, Schanaya Barrows as Ashlee, Katie Pickett as Zuzu (additional image below) Photos: Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Then somehow, it starts to lose its way.  Dance Nation was funny until it becomes what some might call “fierce.”   Teens do speak like little adults which is part of the humor of the show, but they are not adults and the show contains some unnecessarily dark and absurd scenarios that become more frequent as the show progresses.  It can be anguish and cringe worthy to be a preteen, but some avenues in which this show takes do not resemble the average teen and it becomes too farfetched and graphic.  Perhaps the crazy scenarios are to show the kids building their wild natures and confidence, but there are several other ways to depict that without the shock value that does not lend to the progression of the story. 

With that being said, Claire Barron’s Dance Nation has its share of powerful and sound moments that resonate on a child’s tumultuous journey into adulthood with humor, sweetness, and poignancy…but beware the cringe.

Apollinaire Theatre Company presents Clare Barron’s Dance Nation live and in person at Apollinaire Theatre Company in Chelsea, Massachusetts through May 14.  Dance Nation has mature themes.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: ‘Dancing is an Old Friend,’ ‘Hilary,’ ‘Inventory,’ ‘Looking for Jack’ and ‘The Green Line’ explore isolation and more at the New York City Indie Film Festival

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

What is it like to feel stuck due to circumstances beyond your control? 

Curated by Gerard van den Broek, each film in the Documentary 12 series including Dancing is an Old Friend, Hilary, Inventory, Looking for Jack, and The Green Line at the New York City Indie Film Festival through June 19 featured people who faced unforeseen obstacles in an attempt to find peace within. 

Whether facing trauma, isolation in a pandemic, family brokenness or being caught between one nation and another, these themes invite a feeling of powerlessness until hope is found.  This particular collection of documentaries delivered some surprising twists and turns in some profound situations in an attempt to discover where one belongs in the world.

The New York City Indie Film Festival featured a variety of films from shorts to narratives to documentaries curated with common themes.  Sleepless Critic had the opportunity to review screenings on music, small businesses, love and connection and much more.  Co-founded by Executive Director Dennis Cieri and Director Bonnie Rush, this renowned festival has screened thousands of films since it was first launched in 2010.  Click here for more information, film submissions for next year, and click here to see what we had to say about NYC Indie Film Festival’s Narrative 14 series.

Directed by Marta Renzi, Dancing is an Old Friend is written by and stars Leah Barsky and Jennifer Tortorello Walker.  It is a relatable account of an amateur ballroom dancer and professional ballet dancer brought together by dance who must find new ways to connect after the pandemic put the world in isolation.  They both struggle with this new way of life but are determined to forge ahead together.

During the pandemic, the arts were hit hard.  Many professional dancers had to find alternate ways to demonstrate their art and remain in top form until the time came for them to once again take the stage.  Dancing is an Old Friend explores the momentum of their daily lives during the pandemic and a chance to examine why they live their lives the way they do and where dance factors into it now and in the future.

‘Dancing is an Old Friend’ Photo credit to New York City Indie Film Festival

What made this film fascinating is not only the captivating athleticism and style of the dancers in action, but comparing each perspective on dance itself and how it demonstrates the bonds of this friendship.  This is not a tragic account of being lost during the pandemic, but an intimate and sincere documentary that explores the good and bad in equal measure and the hope that springs forth during this life altering period of time.

What may or may not have happened is a mystery in Hilary. 

Hilary Porter, through her own drawings, illustrates a repeated and menacing alien encounter that has left her haunted.  Hilary’s harrowing recollection unfolds through her graphic narration and unusual drawings as she shares that she was always thought she was different.  Director and producer Mariana Zarpellon offers some insight into who Hilary is and how she has been affected by these encounters and though I was initially intrigued by this film, I was left with more concern for Hilary’s well being than the rationality and content of Hilary’s recollections.

‘Hilary’ Photo credit to New York City Indie Film Festival

Resourcefulness is a defining quality in any artist and nothing less than resourcefulness and love defines the story of Inventory, a documentary directed and produced by Daniella Gitlin, the daughter of sculptor, Michael Gitlin.  The film is designed not only to share her father’s relatable journey as a struggling artist, but the unconventional manner in which Michael Gitlin’s legacy is being preserved.

Interwoven into the film are classic American standards such as Someone to Watch over Me, beloved songs from Gitlin’s heritage, and past family photos to create a vintage ambiance and to smoothly rewind the clock to a time before her father’s inventory had accumulated.  It is a unique and personal story about how love and family transcends obstacles even under unusual circumstances and how the film’s most extraordinary “inventory” is not just confined to Gitlin’s art.

‘Inventory’ Photo credit to the New York City Indie Film Festival

For anyone who is searching or has searched for a family member, the idea of finding them is met with a plethora of emotions.  Sara Zeppilli Freeman captures just that and more in her deeply personal documentary, Looking for Jack.  Part of Looking for Jack’s endearing strength is it is shot much like a home movie where it is easy to put oneself in Sara’s shoes.  As Sara talks to the camera with a jittery glow, her excitement is palpable at the promise that her life is about to change.

On this special day with Sara wearing a broad smile, one can picture themselves in Sara as she excitedly waits in anticipation and trepidation to meet her father for the first time in 21 years having traveled from Boston to Portugal.  No matter the outcome, that moment of time is a monumental experience to be treasured and hopefully not regretted.  The pinnacle of the film is that building tension as Sara waits, the camera panning carefully through Sara’s surroundings for that moment of relief.

‘Looking for Jack’ Photo credit to New York City Indie Film Festival

In a land fraught with uncertainty, Yehudit Kahana is no stranger to anxiety and strife for most of her life.  Co-written with Sharon Yaish, directed, and produced by Yehudit Kahana herself and set from the early 2000s to today, illuminating documentary The Green Line focuses on Yehudit’s coming of age as she resides in Elon Moreh, a land near the Green Line which borders the Palestine territories and Israel.  Since a life changing incident occurred resulting from an innocent child’s game, Yehudit has struggled with the threat of sudden violence, terrorist attacks, and chaos in a place where she doesn’t feel she entirely belongs. 

‘The Green Line’ Photo credit to New York City Indie Film Festival

The Green Line delivers a wealth of information on certain incidents in Israel, Palestine, and the Green Line which can be confusing at times, but what is clear was how Yehudit felt in circumstances beyond her control in a harsh and threatening land determined to break free.  The Green Line has some lighter and amusing moments with family that not only shed light on Yehudit’s understandably frustrating, strict, and expected traditional place as a female in the world and in the path of the Torah, but also explores how valuable the road less taken can be.

Dancing is an Old Friend, Hilary, Inventory, Looking for Jack and The Green Line were all part of Documentary 12 at the New York City Indie Film Festival which continued through June 19.  Click here for more information on this annual festival and its winners.

REVIEW: Overcoming an important theme in NYC’s Indie Theatre Film Festival’s dynamic ‘Coming of Age’ short films

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

A spontaneous escape, an evil queen, finding inspiration and discovering super strength is just the tip of the iceberg for New York City’s Indie Theatre Film Festival’s Coming of Age Shorts Screening.  These shorts explore overcoming troubles, fears, and heartache in remarkable ways including a sense of humor as demonstrated in Dianne Diep’s Cloud Gazing.  Peals of laughter can remedy almost any situation.

The New York City Indie Theatre Film Festival continues streaming through Sunday, February 20.  Click here for more information and how to stream a variety of dynamic films including animation and documentary works.

Photo credit to the NYC Indie Film Festival

In the face of chaos, there is strength.  Overcoming is such a prevalent theme in these coming of age shorts and none quite faces it like Jonah Beres as Sam Wheeler in Balloon, a boy who is relentlessly bullied at school. Who can Sam really turn to? Beres’s sympathetic eyes and careful demeanor resemble a young Dane DeHaan.  DeHaan has a knack for portraying characters with pent up emotion just on the brink of letting go.  Directors Jeremy Merrifield and Dave Testa capture a captivating burst of emotions and the awkwardness of childhood through nature, at home, and symbolically in a popping balloon. 

Jonah Beres as Sam Wheeler ‘Balloon’ Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival

Directed and produced by Dianne Diep, Cloud Gazing is a lighthearted take upon a common rite of passage in New York City.  It is the epitome of looking at the bright side as Dianne Diep as Mia makes the best of her latest apartment in the Big City.  The silly and imaginative dialogue, cinematography, and the peals of laughter from Shannon Whelan as Dylan and Dianne Diep as Mia could leave the most serious heart uplifted.  Click here for more on Cloud Gazing and Dianne Diep can also be seen in upcoming Mia:  Unraveling Series.

Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival

Profound life advice is hard to come by.  For example, ‘Life is better than a movie…buy cookies and cream’ is a notable and memorable quote from Tom’s Bench.  Directed by Richard H. Pluim, it’s a heartwarming short film taking place on a special Astoria Park bench in New York.  Most notable is the soothing and fitting Simon and Garfunkel-style closing song Come and Go by the Timber Choir. 

Adam Patterson and Kyle Stockburger on ‘Tom’s Bench’ Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival

Starting a new day holds new meaning for an unhappy wife in Expectations directed by Vic Dominguez.  It is also directed, written, and starring Kaitlin Gould.  This short would benefit with a longer screen time because Gould’s actions only bring up more questions. 

Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival

Overcoming has several meanings for a discouraged artist longing for inspiration and she may find it in a most unconventional way in You and I written directed and produced by Yiqing Zhao.  It is a quirky, colorful, and sweet film about overcoming doubt for the dream in your heart. 

To the sounds of Gymnopedie No 1, Fair is a stinging, deeply relatable, and inventive short film infusing fairy tale with stark reality as a woman, portrayed by Marissa Molnar, must overcome her current circumstances.  It is a clever and fascinating piece that has moments of charm and humor in its brief time frame. 

Marissa Molnar is ‘Fair’ Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival

School life isn’t easy for Angella Cao as Jessa in Pippi, a nod to the famous children’s book character, Pippi Longstocking.  Most notable is the moving and poignant interactions between the adorable Cao and Karoline Xu as her mom. 

Angella Cao as Jessa in ‘Pippi’ Photo credit to NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival

A woman is on a mysterious voyage in Goat.  This short film has beautiful cinematography and its share of odd humor.  Ben Lewis as Simon is an especially intriguing character.

The New York City Indie Theatre Film Festival continues streaming through Sunday, February 20.  Click here for more information and how to stream a variety of films.

REVIEW: Fueled by a nostalgic rock soundtrack and a charismatic storyteller, Merrimack Repertory Theatre’s ‘Wild Horses’ a lively and momentous tale

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Nothing brings back memories quite like a song.

The power of music is in full force in Merrimack Repertory Theatre’s (MRT) production of Alison Gregory’s Wild Horses streaming on demand through Sunday, October 17.  Merrimack Repertory Theatre previously offered the production in person from September 15 through October 3 at Western Avenue Studios in Lowell, Massachusetts.  The show contains mature language and some adult themes. Click here for more information and tickets to this virtual performance.

  • Leenya Rideout and Rafael Molina during filming at Unitas Community Center, Lowell. Photo: Kathy Wittman

Directed with heart and humor by Courtney Sale, Wild Horses delves into the life of the mother of a teenage daughter, portrayed with a blend of lively charm and excitable nervousness by Leenya Rideout, as she gets wrapped up recalling her story of a special California summer during her 13th year in the 70s while onstage at an open mic night.  Rideout evokes a sense of adventure during this musically-fueled Moth Radio Hour featuring lyrics from 70s greats Rolling Stones, Heart, Van Morrison, America, and more.

Having delivered a likable performance in the 2020 indie film, Love, Repeat, Rideout further showcases her dynamic range in this meatier Wild Horses role with a humorous, heartfelt and sometimes raunchy performance.  See what Sleepless Critic had to say about Rideout in Love, Repeat here. 

  • Leenya Rideout performing “Wild Horses” at Western Avenue Studios.

With a love for music almost as much as horses, Rideout sings, strums an acoustic guitar, and proves an energetic and engaging storyteller sharing her experiences from a studious perfectionist to a teenager not afraid to break a few rules with the encouragement from her daring friends.   With no shortage of excitement, scandal, humor, and heartache, Rideout’s onstage demeanor switches from responsible mother in need of a night out to wide eyed, youthful innocent with all the angst that goes with it.  She blends what she remembers with her current wisdom, dwelling in the sacredness of youth. Ranging from teenage pranks to rites of passage, Rideout recalls these stories with wistfulness and passion, interacting with the audience like old friends.

  • Leenya Rideout during filming at Unitas Community Center, Lowell. Photo: Kathy Wittman

Costume designer A. Lee Viliesis has Rideout ready to rock in an animal print scarf, Fender T Shirt, and ripped jeans and accompanied by guitarist Rafael Molina, she slips right into this adolescent spirit longing to be wild and free.  All that is necessary is a little courage.

Here’s to the ‘freedom takers’ with Merrimack Repertory’s production of Wild Horses continues streaming through Sunday, October 17.  Click here for more information and to get a closer look on MRT’s new season.

REVIEW: Company Theatre unveils remarkable ‘Fun Home’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

The crowd roared.   Even with a half-full Company Theatre crowd that adhered to Covid-19 requirements opening night on Friday, March 13th, this enthusiastic audience was more than ready to be taken away by what theatre does best.  Company Theatre co-founder Zoe Bradford provided a special Fun Home introduction and mused, “Theatre has a way of helping you escape reality.”

Company Theatre Fun Home Airplane

Riley Crockett as Small Alison and Michael Hammond as Bruce Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Five-time Tony award-winning musical Fun Home explores different perceptions of reality within the Bechdel family.  They wrestle with it, deny it, but ultimately, must come to terms with it.  Based on the graphic novel memoir by Alison Bechdel and directed by Zoe Bradford and Jordie Saucerman, The Company Theatre presented musical Fun Home on Friday, March 13 at Company Theatre at 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts and plans for the show’s return when the theatre reopens.  Click here for more information.

Under a softly lit, lattice rooftop, Fun Home takes an intimate look inside a family seemingly full of zeal and an antique Victorian house so tidy and flawless flanked with a fireplace, grand piano, and large casement windows, it neatly hides any cracks and crevices underneath.  With elegant scenic design by Ryan Barrow and Zoe Bradford as well as rich, emotive lighting by Ethan R. Jones, The Company Theatre unveils this absorbing musical that lures the audience into the Bechdel family’s complicated world.

The Company Theatre Fun Home Looking On

Aimee Doherty as Alison, Michael Hammond as Bruce, and Riley Crockett as Small Alison Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

It’s funny what you recall in life.  Memories can be tricky.  As time goes by, perspective changes as a person grows, transforming a memory and gradually revealing details once never thought of or understood before.  That lattice rooftop seals in cartoonist Alison Bechdel’s intimate memories as she writes her memoirs through her work, ruminating on her childhood and upbringing to find out what ultimately makes her feel like she is stuck in life.  Alison uses cartoons because drawing as a child, she recalls, “I need real things to draw from because I don’t trust memory.”

With its share of comedic and uplifting moments, Alison looks back on her relationship with her enigmatic and intellectual father Bruce and her traveling and ill at ease mother, Helen.  Alison is the only individual that outwardly transforms in this piece, thanks to the exceptional work of Riley Crockett as adorably precocious Small Alison, and Jaclyn Chylinski who is impressive as naïve, anxious, and excitable Medium Alison.  Crockett performs an impeccable version of Ring of Keys and shines with Charlie Flaherty as Christian and Owen Veith as John in the darkly humorous title track, Fun Home.  Melissa Carubia is smooth and charismatic as cool and collected Joan.

The Company Theatre 'Fun Home'

Riley Crockett as Small Alison, Charlie Flaherty as Christian, and Owen Veith as John Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre  

With black rimmed glasses and short dark hair, IRNE award-winner Aimee Doherty slips into Alison’s façade, a mature, jaded and intellectually-driven individual.  With a dark sense of humor, Doherty narrates this emotional journey evoking confusion, warmth, sorrow, and frustration in her fine features while building her strength in each new discovery.

Michael Hammond, in a tenacious performance, embodies the many sides of Alison’s father Bruce.  With black rimmed glasses, dress pants, and a collared sweater, he is critical man with a refined intellect, and perpetually occupied to become an expert on most everything.  Seemingly a friendly, strict, and hardworking family man, Bruce is also secretive and closed off.  Each Alison does a brilliant job in portraying their wrought frustration in every moment they attempt to make a genuine connection to him, but especially in the bittersweet song, Telephone Wire.  Hammond’s engaging and affecting vocals capture Bruce’s perplex feelings in each number, including the poignant song Pony Girl, and most notably his harrowing rendition of Edges of the World.

Amy Barker skillfully portrays Alison’s unassuming, overwhelmed, and misunderstood mother, Helen.  Surrounded by outward perfection, she lives her life distancing herself from reality reflected in the heartrending and beautiful number Days and Days.  Always putting others first, she is a repressed woman following the traditional values of her generation within the confines of her home.

The Company Theatre Fun Home Full Cast

The full cast of ‘Fun Home’ Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Led by and musically directed by Matthew Stern, the intimate, seven piece orchestra features a soothing, fiddle-laden soundtrack that is a combination of light, airy, and melancholy.  From its opening song, It All Comes Back to the Flying Away finale, Jeanine Tesori’s captivating musical numbers hold a spectrum of rich, multi-faceted meaning.  The catchy, Partridge Family-inspired song, Rainbow of Love is a particular highlight, enhanced by cheerful retro costumes and illustrating Small Alison’s hope of escape.

Company Theatre’s Fun Home is on hiatus and plans to return when the Company Theatre reopens.  Click here for more information.  Follow Company Theatre on Facebook for further updates.