As an avid bibliophile, this significant quote from Library Lion could not ring more true. Extraordinary things do happen when you read.
One of the big doors that unleash a limitless imagination is the library. Unlike streaming, movies or television, a book is a movie for your mind and Library Lion, one of Time Magazine’s top 100 Children’s books, highlights the joys of reading and what to expect at the library until someone unexpected arrives.
Wisely directed by Ran Bechor with impactful music by Yoni Rechtor and dynamic music direction by Tomer Sne, Adam Theater continues Michelle Knudsen’sLibrary Lion live and in person at the Calderwood Pavilion in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, January 25. This enchanting, semi-interactive, and family-friendly musical play is not limited to the stage and runs approximately one hour and 10 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
The full cast of Adam Theater’s 2025 production of LIBRARY LION. Photo by Nile Scott Studios
The commotion is electric among this youthful crowd anticipating what is about to take place onstage. Whether young or old, this charming musical production does not disappoint. Books and other set pieces come to life in subtle, yet charming special effects refreshingly crafted with limited use of CGI or sophisticated digital screens.
Cast members from Adam Theater’s 2025 production of LIBRARY LION. Photo by Nile Scott Studio
Unveiling Cameron Anderson’s stunning multicolor and vibrant, multilayered rolling set, Library Lion features an exuberant cast which includes a realistic lion puppet created by Jim Hensen’s Creature Shop waltzing to Irene Wang’s mischievous and playful sound design. In striped garments, a puppetry trio which includes Sophie Kauffman, Sydney Grant and Sarah Nolen directed by Kate Brehm, operate and deliver a beautifully stylized lion portrayal from its powerful roars to its intricately blinking big blue eyes adorned with a multi-toned mane.
Puppeteers Sophie Kauffman, Sydney Grant and Sarah Nolen from Adam Theater’s production of LIBRARY LION. Photo by Nile Scott Studio
Eli Bijaoui’s clever and occasionally rhyming dialogue and simple, yet catchy songs by an intimate, three piece orchestra are well paced and mostly jovial as Jayden Declet as precocious Michelle and Aaron Mancaniello as reserved Kevin discover the wonders and virtues of the library with the help of Janis Hudson as charismatic and practical Ms. Merriweather, Robert Saoud as moody yet endearing Mr. McBee, and Clara Hevia as a lively yet frenzied storyteller.
l.-r. Janis Hudson, Jayden Declet and Ken Crossman in Adam Theater’s 2025 production of LIBRARY LION. Photo by Nile Scott Studio
Declet and Mancaniello share an easy rapport and start some minor chaos as they venture through the library’s doors as a clock is perpetually set to when the library opens at 9AM. In a distinctive velvet coat and bowtie, Saoud is wonderful as Mr. McBee in a sympathetic depiction of a librarian who sticks by the rules but longs for something more. In a flowing floral dress, a pleasant voiced Janis Hudson depicts Ms. Merriweather with a breezy practicality and in this performance, more than a passing resemblance to Laura Linney. It is amazing how Hudson slips into characters with such finesse. Hevia rounds out the cast with quirky style and unique energy as the library’s storyteller.
Janis Hudson as Mrs. Merriweather confronts the Lion in Adam Theater’s 2025 production of LIBRARY LION. Photo by Nile Scott Studios
You don’t need to be familiar with the pop culture references or books to enjoy this production, but you may wish to revisit or read them for the first time when they are introduced into the story.
The library is a treasured sanctuary for many reasons and the Library Lion sings its well deserved praises where you can occasionally sing-along. Library Lion offers much more than life lessons, but delivers a compassionate and imaginative storyline that does not come off as preachy or condescending. It offers humor, silliness and heart that will keep children engaged and at one point, brings the audience right into the story. I say that is time well spent.
Cast members from Adam Theater’s 2025 production of LIBRARY LION. Photo by Nile Scott Studio
Adam Theater continues Library Lion live and in person at the Calderwood Pavilion in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, January 25. Click here for more information and for tickets.
A violet pixelated galactic sky is marvelously portrayed from a spaceship bed and that is only the beginning.
Garrett McNally delivers a moving portrayal as inquisitive Auggie whose vibrant imagination spans the vast cosmos. Born with Treacher Collins Syndrome, Auggie’s world has always been limited to home schooling. However, when Auggie is about to attend fifth grade, Alison Luff as Auggie’s practical mother Isabel insists he attend public school. With guarded optimism, Auggie ventures apprehensively on this new journey.
Nathan Salstone, Garrett McNally, and members of the cast of Wonder. Photo: Hawver and Hall
Insightfully directed by Taibi Magar with Katie Spelman’s enchanting choreography and Ryan Cantwell’s uplifting music direction, American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) continues its world premiere of Wonder the Musical recently extended through Sunday, February 15 live and in person at Loeb Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This family-friendly and engaging production is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes with one intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Wonder Production Photo Nathan Salstone, Javier Muñoz, Alison Luff, Garrett McNally, and Kaylin Hedges in Wonder. Photo: Hawver and Hall
Though Wonder is not based on a true story, Auggie’s story draws from real life experiences of individuals who struggle with this craniofacial condition. It tackles bullying, prejudice, empathy and kindness, but what sets this intriguing musical apart is how it delves into perspectives. Auggie may be the central figure in this musical, but a large part of the story focuses on each character’s perspective and the unexpected struggles of those who seem to have it better than Auggie at first glance. Learning to walk in another’s shoes has never been so important.
Set designer Matt Saunders with lighting designer Bradley King richly articulates this glowing musical’s significant themes symbolically through a multicolored and animated pixilated landscape rhythmically peppering a revolving stage. These pixels can enhance, enliven and moderate the musical’s weightier scenes, but particularly illuminating Auggie’s amazing cosmic universe. Imaginative backpacks, colorful streamers, expressive T-shirts and detailed, fanciful costumes are just a sample of Linda Cho’s exuberant costume design.
Wonder Production Photo Alison Luff and Garrett McNally in Wonder. Photo: Hawver and Hall
Wonder boasts its share of feel good moments featuring a strong cast. The chiming pop-infused score with lyrics and music by A Great Big World with Cody Spencer’s robust sound design keeps the show hopeful and optimistic even in the face of its heavier and poignant moments. Alison Luff as Isabel, Javier Muñoz as Nate, Kaylin Hedges as Via and Garrett McNally share a natural tight-knit chemistry facing the world as Hedges as Via affectionately calls her family ‘our little galaxy.’ There is a quiet earnestness built into this family when they step aside for one another. Hedges brings an affinity to this complex role with quiet yearning as Via through soaring vocals who consistently puts Auggie first in her solo, Around the Sun. Luff and McNally share a stirring bond in a fiddle-laden and powerful rendition of You are Beautiful.
Led by Melvin Abston as energetic Mr. Tushman, Beecher Prep School teachers share an idyllic infectious glee, enthusiasm, and occasionally lovable awkwardness as they navigate the curriculum with verve and charm.
Wonder Production Photo Garrett McNally and Donovan Louis Bazemore in Wonder. Photo: Hawver and Hall
Skylar Matthews charismatically shines as excitable and precocious theatre student Charlotte, especially during her engaging solo, You Didn’t Hear it From Me as she waltzes across the stage. Donovan Louis Bazemore seamlessly navigates conflicted Jack who brings warmth and sincerity to the number, Shoes. Paravi shows off sharp comedic timing while lightening a heartfelt moment with Hedges.
Garrett McNally (Auggie) and the cast of A.R.T.’s world-premiere production of Wonder bow in front of the Opening Night audience.
Nathan Salstone is no ordinary Moon Boy. From the exciting 3-2-1 Blast Off and throughout the production, Salstone’s mellifluous vocals and reflective demeanor with Auggie brilliantly elevates each scene.
Wonder is an intuitive, imaginative and heartfelt creation that celebrates the value of loyalty and friendship while sharing significant life lessons prevalent for all ages. You may step away from Wonder the Musical seeing a brighter world too.
American Repertory Theater continues its world premiere of Wonder the Musical recently extended through Sunday, February 15 live and in person at Loeb Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Set in London 1843, A Christmas Carol is the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, a wealthy, penny-pinching old miser who has no use for Christmas until his past comes back to haunt him on Christmas Eve. Only second to this tale are the amazing things I have heard about North Shore Music Theatre’s legendary production over the years.
Since 1989, North Shore Music Theatre has carved out a wonderful annual tradition retelling this thrilling Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol: A Musical Ghost Story. What I was unprepared for was how exhilarating the experience would be.
Absorbingly directed and whimsically choreographed by Kevin P. Hill with inventive Music Direction by Milton Granger, Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre continues A Christmas Carol: A Musical Ghost Story through Sunday, December 21 live and in person at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts. This family-friendly theatre-in-the round musical experience is 2 hours and 20 minutes including one intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Haunting, immersive, and meaningful, A Christmas Carol: A Musical Ghost Storyis a frequent holiday tradition with good reason. So much more than the Charles Dickens classic, North Shore Music Theatre mixes Christmas Carols, storyline twists, and calls on two athletic, infinitely energetic, and mischievous spirits invisible to the real world portrayed by Amy Bransky and Risa Michina to accompany Tommy Labanaris as an enigmatic magical narrator to unveil this thought-provoking tale of charity, compassion, and redemption. Labanaris’s charismatic vocals as narrator soothes while navigating the stage like a riveting magician.
Clocks glow, bookcases float, streets fog and mist, a weather woodstove smokes, windows and lampposts frost and a transparent wrought iron door and ornate chandeliers are all part of the innovative rising and descending set pieces by Howard C. Jones. Wondrous winter landscapes including snow covered rooftops, driving downpours, and festive, timely projections enhanced by twinkling, cheerful and ominous lighting by Jack Mehler as well as heightened special effects not limited the action just onstage engulf you in the unpredictable world of Charles Dickens.
Detailed bustles, pea coats, shimmering Victorian-era dresses in an array of patterns, flowing robes, cloaks, feathered hats and top hats are just a glimpse into Rebecca Glick’s stylish period costumes which certainly helps make A Christmas Carol a feast for the eyes. The uplifting overture, orchestrated by Milton Granger and arranged by Alby Potts and James Woodland, is tinged in popular Christmas carols, a preview of the wealth of carols and additional songs added to this festive production. The floating, live orchestra which includes a harp and recorder, are carefully spread out in sections around the theatre above and below the stage.
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Here we Come A-Wassailing, Ding Dong Merrily on High, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, and We Saw Three Ships are some of the famous Christmas Carols featured in with original songs that brighten this haunting tale.
North Shore Music Theatre’s production of A Christmas Carol also sets itself apart by weaving in the beauty of the season within the excitement of its joyous ensemble cast led by David Coffee as miserly Ebenezer Scrooge. Coffee adds traces of sadness in Scrooge’s frank and daring boldness as a damaged soul. Scrooge toils, scowls, and his dire sense of humor is not lost on his cheerful and generous nephew Fred, portrayed with jubilant warmth and perpetual optimism by Henry Thrasher who delights in pushing his uncle’s buttons in a wide smile. In spectacles and a sour huff, Coffee is best showing hints of melancholy beneath his insistent resistance to kindness. However, his overall interpretation becomes jollier as the show progresses as his arms stubbornly sway to music, offering as increasingly lighthearted Scrooge while observing glimpses of his complicated life.
Kevin Patrick Martin portrays humble, guarded, and sympathetic Bob Cratchit while Daniella Dalli depicts loyal, patient and occasionally exasperated Mrs. Cratchit in a moving performance. Martin and Dalli deliver heartwarming and stirring moments with their large and lovely family including sweet Fiona Kelly as Tiny Tim as their voices lift for We Wish You a Merry Christmas. Kelly charms Martin and Coffee instantly with We Saw Three Ships. The joyfulness in the Cratchit household, despite their circumstances, perhaps mirror the life Scrooge might have had with Caroline Siegrist as steadfast Belle and what might have been.
Grandly adorned in a gorgeous lit crown, veil and glittering pristine gown and glowing porcelain features, Daniella Dalli delivers warmth and angelic soprano vocals as the Ghost of Christmas Past, especially for the soaring number, Dream within a Dream. Serene and gentle, she brings out thawing in Scrooge’s curmudgeonly soul.
Majestic in a crown of holly, carrying a staff with and an air of warm yet firm benevolence, Davron S. Monroe skillfully glides across the stage boasting his signature melodious timbre as charismatic, jolly and larger-than-life Ghost of Christmas Present and as half of a pair of mirthful philanthropists alongside returning Russell Garrett. Alongside Davron, Violet Black and Joseph Hobbib captivate as foreshadowing spirits.
As green lanterns glow, Mark Worth is remarkably ghoulish as Jacob Marley with some very impressive special effects. A ghastly presence with gravelly vocals and chains that seem to go on for miles, Worth as Marley does a marvelous job as a tortured and distressed soul boasted by extraordinary special effects that never overwhelm Worth’s powerful performance. The silence is deafening as Nathan Haltiwanger delivers a veiled and mesmerizing Christmas Yet to Come. I most assuredly cannot leave out Cheryl McMahon’s marvelous return as expressive and hilarious Mrs. Dilber.
Even those most familiar with this classic tale will encounter some welcome twists and surprises. If the holiday season is not spreading the merriment that is should be this year, North Shore Music Theatre’s A Christmas Carol will certainly restore that heartwarming feeling, indeed.
A Christmas Carol: A Musical Ghost Story continues at North Shore Music Theatre live and in person in Beverly, Massachusetts through Sunday, December 21. Click here for more information and for tickets.
This production boasts a great deal of elaborate presentation and what an amazing presentation it is!
John Tiffany’s innovative direction, Gareth Fry’s robust sound design and a gleaming set by Christine Jones paves the way for more than a little magic as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child continues live and in person at Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, December 20. This exciting production runs two hours and 50 minutes with one intermission and some dark imagery may not be appropriate for children. Click here for more information and for tickets.
David Fine, Adam Grant Morrison, and Maren Searle in ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Photo By Evan Zimmerman
Set Designer Christine Jones’s sterling and multi-dimensional set boasts gleaming wood and fine detail with stars and moons etched into a dome trim. Featuring spinning clocks, animated books, vaulted ceilings and swerving grand staircases, this sliding set follows its own meticulous rhythm integrating shadows which brilliantly capture the essence of Hogwarts and the iconic events of the beloved series and films. Capes swing in succession to its own mesmerizing beat in sharp and sweeping choreography that enhances the swift pace of this production.
The cast of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Photo By Matthew Murphy
The spellbinding and pulsating special effects by Jamie Harrison as well as the nostalgic return of beloved places and characters are the essential reasons why anyone, but especially Harry Potter fans, will delight in this show. As an avid Harry Potter fan having read the all the books including this screenplay and witnessed all the films, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’s Easter eggs and recognizable spells are all familiar and welcome territory. A wizard disappearing into a mailbox, characters drifting through walls, and haunting characters looming larger than life is just a glimpse into the stupendous magic that takes place live onstage.
‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ national cast Photo By Matthew Murphy
Seeing magic during recorded films is one thing, but to witness this magic materialize onstage is more than exciting. It is a thrill each and every time.
Starting during Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallowsepilogue, Harry, Ginny, Ron and Hermoine are at King’s Cross Station sending their children on the Hogwarts Express as new students to Hogwarts much like when Harry, Ron and Hermoine embarked on the Hogwarts Express for the first time years ago.
Much like J.K. Rowling’s beloved book series, this topsy turvy plot contains themes of family love, enduring friendship, and coming of age love that materializes between Adam Grant Morrison as Albus and David Fine as Scorpius. It also focuses on parenting, reputation and the consequences of one’s actions. Its winding plot is just intriguing enough to revel in the appearances of these characters and goes to great lengths to stretch the plot for the purpose of justifying revisiting all these iconic places through a time turner.
David Fine and Adam Grant Morrison in ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Photo By Evan Zimmerman
The production brings together both generations as Juliana Nightingale remarkably portrays mysterious Delphi Diggory and Larry Yando as sympathetic Amos Diggory urges Nick Dillenberg as Harry Potter to bring back Amos’s son Cedric using a time turner. When Harry refuses, Albus and Scorpius see it as an opportunity to prove themselves as great wizards.
Nightingale, Fine, and Morrison in ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Photo By Evan Zimmerman
What I did feel like the production lacked is the amount of time given to other students at Hogwarts. So much time was dedicated to the OG characters that aside from acquaintances, Albus and Scorpius seem to be the only two people that truly connect in Hogwarts which is hard to believe at such a large university with numerous cast members. Perhaps this is due to the shortening of the production which was once divided into two parts and clocked in at over four hours.
Fine is exuberantly expressive, anxious and excitable as Scorpius Malfoy. Fine defines Scorpius with bursts of chatter and bravery infused with an occasional unhinged edge while Morrison as Albus Severus Potter is more introspective and resentful trying to live up to his father’s image.
David Fine in ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Photo By Evan Zimmerman
Tom Felton may have returned in his OG role as Draco Malfoy on Broadway, but Ryan Hallahan is certainly up to the task in menacing and sarcastic ways punctuated by a delightfully upturned sneer and rich vocals as Draco. Hallahan’s Draco is an impressive adversary and protective father to David Fine as Scorpius while infusing traces of Draco’s own father, Lucius.
Dillenburg as Harry Potter is well suited for the role, though the character has become more egotistical and stubborn thinking he knows best which makes for fascinating scenes with Trish Lindstrom as softer spoken Ginny. Lindstrom amiably demonstrates Ginny’s maturity and bolder practicality, especially as she tempers Harry’s anxieties.
Matt Harrington amusingly captures quirky, outspoken, and underestimated Ron who provides more than a few playful moments. He also shares some sweet scenes with Rachel Leslie as shrewd and determined Hermoine.
David Fine, MacKenzie Lesser-Roy, and Adam Grant Morrison in ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Photo By Evan Zimmerman
Some actors in this large cast take on multiple roles with finesse. MacKenzie Lesser-Roy as giddy, giggling, bold and flirtatious Moaning Myrtle is an over the top scene stealer and unrecognizable in a dual turn as serene Lily Potter. Katherine Leask closely exacts Maggie Smith’s glorious timbre and cadence as firm, yet compassionate Professor McGonagall with winking good humor before stepping into the shoes of one of Harry Potter’s perilously disdainful villains not to be revealed here. Larry Yando impressively takes on the challenge of triple roles though some land better than others.
Wands abaze in ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Photo By Evan Zimmerman
Twists, turns, rumors and revelations abound in this elaborate production tailor made for Harry Potter fans and for those who truly enjoy onstage wizardry! Harry Potter and the Cursed Child continues live and in person at Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, December 20. Click here for more information and for tickets.
For Mrs. Johnstone, life went awry as soon as the dancing stopped.
With ominous direction by Audrey Seraphin, sharply choreographed by Audrey Johnson with Gina Naggar’s musical direction, Theater Uncorked presents the Willy Russell musical, Blood Brothers live and in person through Sunday, November 23 at the BCA Plaza Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. This poignant production is two hours and 50 minutes including one intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Sehnaz Dirik Lauren Casey and Kate Funderburk and cast in ‘Blood Brothers’ Photo by Gary NG
Two households sit side by side. One adorned in floral stained glass and expensive trim while the other door stands weathered and chipped with a dated floral arrangement hung from the door by Leonard Chasse. However, these two households will connect through an inescapable bond that neither household can possibly shake.
Sehnaz Dirik in Theater Uncorked’s ‘Blood Brothers’ Photo by Gary NG
Twins separated at birth is a story that has been told before, but this particular tale is introduced as the stuff of legend. Taking place in Liverpool, England from the 50s through the 80s, Blood Brothers is a musical about two households separated by social class. Sehnaz Dirik portrays fanciful and pregnant Mrs. Johnstone whose husband leaves her and their children. Now, a single mother trying to make ends meet, Mrs. Johnstone works for the wealthy Lyons family as their house keeper while Mrs. Lyons struggles to have children. When Janet Pohli as petty and unhappy Mrs. Lyons finds out Mrs. Johnstone is expecting twins, a manipulative plan slowly starts to take shape.
Blood Brothers doesn’t seem to fit squarely as a musical and would work just as well as a play. The show’s unconventional elements deliver a folk pop flair and the story is shared like a cautionary tale as characters sing at odd moments. Blood Brothers is a well cast production that depicts individuals of all ages with Janet Pohli as a particular standout in a commanding performance behind a meek smile as Mrs. Lyons, a woman who is not to be underestimated.
Janet Pohli and Zach Fuller in Theatre Uncorked ‘Blood Brothers’ Photo by Gary NG
James Honaker interestingly portrays her preoccupied workaholic husband Mr. Lyons who always seems half here and halfway back to work. It’s fascinating to watch them circle one another, interested in everything around them but each other.
Chris Edwards seamlessly steps into a number of roles which include some nefarious characters that haunt the production, but his main role is that of the mysterious narrator. Edwards pops up and lurks out of the shadows, especially when the production is about to take a dark turn. Edwards steps into each of these roles with ease infusing foreboding vocals and haunting reprises.
Dirik also aptly depicts tormented Mrs. Johnstone who is forced to make an impossible choice for the sake of her family and performs the lion’s share of the vocals aside from Edwards. Dirik expresses vulnerability and melancholy in her resonating vibrato without the malice she has exhibited in previous roles.
As for these legendary twins, Michael Mazzone as mischievous Mickey and Zack Fuller as shy and straight laced Eddie connect as carefree kids in a tale that spans decades. Seeming opposites, but share an instant connection like a missing link in impressionable Eddie’s life. The wide eyed gall in Mickey and his charming family seem to fill a void for this lonely and studious child.
Bold and fun loving, Lauren Casey shines as lovestruck Linda for Mickey. Casey’s gleaming smile and gentle demeanor with a bit of a tough streak is charismatic and charming. She also shows a great rapport with the rest of the cast and they run around the neighborhood on adventures.
Zach Fuller Michael Mazzone and Lauren Casey in Theater Uncorked’s ‘Blood Brothers’ Photo by Gary NG
Blood Brothers covers a great deal of topics including social class inequality, recession, family, and heartbreak while tackling the sins that could come back to haunt you. The show spans decades and it at times seems long, but has its share of bright and moving moments of two families tied together by fate.
Michael Mazzone and cast in Theater Uncorked ‘Blood Brothers’ Photo credit Gary NG
Theater Uncorked presents the Willy Russell musical, Blood Brothers live and in person through Sunday, November 23 at the BCA Plaza Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Jon feels he is nearing the end of an era…his 30th birthday.
Creatively directed and choreographed by Ilyse Robbins with lively music direction by Jordan Oczkowski, Umbrella Arts Stage Company continues Jonathan Larson’s ambitious musical Tick, Tick…BOOM! Live and in person at Umbrella Arts in Concord, Massachusetts through Sunday, November 23. This introspective and humorous musical journey runs 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Once a 2004 Off-Broadway musical, Tick, Tick…BOOM! was translated into a 2021 award-winning Netflix film adaptation directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda and scored an Academy award-nomination for Andrew Garfield before taking the stage at numerous theater companies worldwide. While creatively runs wild in the Netflix film, the Umbrella Arts musical is where you find the spark.
Anthony Pires Jr.* Vanessa Calantropo and Johnny Shea* in Umbrella Arts Stage Company’s ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ Photo by Jim Sabitus
Set in January 1990, Tick, Tick…BOOM! Is a fascinating semi-autobiographical rock musical about Jonathan Larson, a struggling writer and composer living in New York City years before he created his hit rock musical, RENT. A writer writes about what one knows and so much of this story offers glimpses into Larson’s inspiration for that wildly-successful musical.
However, this is about the struggle and this musical is brimming with it. The painstaking work of creativity and all that could go wrong illuminates Tick, Tick…BOOM! as Larson struggles to keep it all together to achieve what at times seems impossible, especially in New York City. Tick, Tick…BOOM! is not only about Jonathan Larson’s frantic life, but it is also an ode to the artist and the struggle to live that extraordinarily competitive dream while just skirting out and skimming by trying to get a chance.
Johnny Shea* in Umbrella Arts Stage Company’s ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ Photo by Jim Sabitus
Erik Diaz’s barebones set symbolically offers a different approach to this production featuring dual level scaffolding (also featured in Rent) a weathered apartment balcony, staircase and a NYC skyline. It may symbolically stand as a work in progress much like this particular period in Jon’s life. However, Johnny Shea who delivers Jon’s detailed narration stretches the imagination to conjure up each setting such as a stainless steel kitchen, butcher block table, vast views and a luminous city skyline in a purple mist, part of Ben Rush’s warm and atmospheric lighting.
Anthony Pires Jr.* and Johnny Shea* and Vanessa Calantropo in Umbrella Arts Stage Company’s ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ Photo by Jim Sabitus
At its creative center is likable narrator and lead Johnny Shea who is instantly earnest, introspective and charming as the frenetic Larson on the eve of Larson’s 30th birthday. The unconventional, imaginative, and quick-thinking Larson divides his time between writing, composing and working at the Moondance Diner. However, music and writing naturally pours out of Larson’s soul and he is often consumed by it at the expense of everything else.
For forward-thinking Larson, turning 30 is a looming chasm that soaks up every ounce of his time until that odious deadline demonstrated in the urgent and memorable number, 30/90. Shea as Larson considers turning thirty as the end of youth, but it is certainly not too old to accomplish remarkable things. Perhaps Larson always felt like he was running out of time.
This often lighthearted musical features a dynamic, infectious, and multi-dimensional soundtrack about living in your 20s in New York City and how life evolves. RENT’s influence is unmistakably evident in the catchy and humorous number featuring Anthony Pires Jr. as Michael and Shea in No More which also reflects the strong camaraderie between best friends Michael and Jon. It is also easy to recognize the roots that will develop Larson’s future work in Shea’s tender number Why.
Anthony Pires Jr.* and Johnny Shea* in Umbrella Arts Stage Company’s ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ Photo by Jim Sabitus
Inside the Moondance Diner, Sunday features beautiful harmonies and clever quips. Vanessa Calantropo as Susan and Shea as Jon deliver a flirty duet with Green Green Dress. Therapy is a fantastic and humorous number about the miscommunication of love and the chipper and lighthearted Sugar is great fun. Johnny Can’t Decide harmoniously and pensively depicts the agonizing struggle living in the uncertainty of your dream or being practical which is a prevalent theme throughout the production.
With rich vocal arrangement and orchestrations by Stephen Oremus, this intimate onstage band can impressively jam and the musical’s small and mighty cast interacts with the band while delivering rich and powerful harmonies along this uninterrupted musical journey. With the exception of Shea as Jon, Anthony Pires Jr. as Michael and Vanessa Calantropo as Susan smoothly and humorously capture many other roles as Jon allows his story to unfold. Calantropo especially stands out for the soaring number, Come to Your Senses.
Anthony Pires Jr.* Johnny Shea* and Vanessa Calantropo in Umbrella Arts Stage Company’s ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ Photo by Jim Sabitus
Tick, tick BOOM! explores the little victories, the larger victories, and the gut-wrenching defeats in Larson’s personal and professional world. However, what is genuinely important becomes poignantly clear and what truly inspires his work changes as the musical progresses.
Umbrella Arts Stage Company continues Jonathan Larson’s ambitious musical Tick, Tick…BOOM live and in person through Sunday, November 23 at Umbrella Arts Center in Concord, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets.
A surprise party goes awry and one ambitious investigator is on the scene.
With fast paced direction by Tyler Rosati and versatile music direction by Bethany Aiken, Greater Boston Stage Company continues murder mystery musical farce Murder for Two live and in person through Sunday, November 9 live at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts. This semi-interactive whodunit two hander is 90 minutes without an intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Jared Troilo in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Murder for Two’ Photo by Niles Scott Studios
Katy Monthei’s vintage mansion setting creates a homey atmosphere which includes dated wallpaper, cluttered bookshelves, several mismatched lamps, various knickknacks on scattered shelving, Egyptian rugs, framed portraits and a sleek black piano all framed by incandescent theatrical bulbs.
Jared Troilo is “aw shucks” charming as determined and inventive New England police officer Marcus who dreams of one day being promoted to detective. What better way to impress his boss than to solve this small town murder mystery of who murdered famed novelist Arthur Whitney.
One of the brightest spots of this production is Troilo and Will McGarrahan’s sublime turns on the piano. Whether competing or complementing each other while making some amazing music together, this multi-talented duo sure know how to captivate an audience. Their madcap piano workings are creative and thrilling. As they tickle the keys at brisk and elegant paces, the rhythms work with Cost’s dazzling lighting to elevate the show’s playful suspense and navigates the show’s various moods, new thoughts, and each of McGarrahan’s frequent transformations into various murder suspects from toddler to elder.
Will McGarrahan in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Murder for Two’ Photo by Niles Scott Studios
The brisk musical elements boast vaudeville and vintage Broadway flair while satirizing the nature of musical theatre. For example, a cell phone ringing onstage is hilariously mistaken for an audience member’s rudeness.
It is also greatly entertaining watching this comedic duo share great chemistry occasionally making each other laugh and other times barely holding it together during the production’s sillier moments. It is no small task to put a show on of this caliber and both rise to the occasion. Troilo is a straight man Dean Martin to McGarrahan’s Jerry Lewis as McGarrahan slips into various accents, mannerisms, and rapidly poses as numerous suspects using merely a prop or piece of wardrobe separating each distinct character thanks to Chelsea Kerl’s jocular costume design from a multicolor scarf to a feather boa to a pink tutu and even a cocktail umbrella.
Will McGarrahan and Jared Troilo in Greater Boston Stage Company’s Murder for Two’ Photo by Niles Scott Studios
However, the show’s infectious charm cannot entirely make up for and a muddled murder mystery plot. Using only this dynamic duo, it is still difficult to picture the scene of the crime and not enough distinction separating the various suspects. Picturing multiple people in the room and the blocking at times doesn’t quite make sense and would be better understood with more than two people. When Greater Boston Stage Company presented the one man Sleepy Hollow classic, its narration seemed to drive the story more clearly and perhaps that is what is missing here.
This production is far funnier than suspenseful and not to be taken seriously and perhaps this is all part of the joke, but it became difficult and a little frustrating visualizing this intriguing murder mystery you are also trying to solve alongside Marcus.
Jared Troilo and Will McGarrahan in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Murder for Two’ Photo by Niles Scott Studios
Jared Troilo and Will McGarrahan are two bright talents and such likable characters and yet, following the plot is a challenge to say the least. If you can put that aside, Murder for Two features a wonderfully likable and impressive duo for an amazing and lighthearted evening.
Greater Boston Stage Company continues murder mystery musical farce Murder for Two live and in person through Sunday, November 9 live at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets.
This musical biopic seems by the numbers until three Chers materialize to infuse a clever and adventuresome twist.
Much like Cher herself, The Cher Show is a spotlight driven, bawdy, and spirited look at Cher’s upbringing and career and how Cherilyn Sarkisian overcame her shy demeanor to become what she proudly proclaims ‘a warrior goddess.’
Bathed in dazzling, spotlight-soaked flair and a marvelous rising and bejeweled spinning stage by Jack Mehler, Star, depicted with Cher’s absorbing dry humor and distinct husky contralto vocals by Sara Gettelfinger, emerges in sequined black donning signature high heels and risqué style, but she is definitely not alone. Turning back time is a thrill when two other Chers share the spotlight and help navigate her life based on all she knows now.
With Kevin P. Hill’s vibrant direction and an array of slinky and dynamic choreography by Sara Andreas, North Shore Music Theatre presents The Cher Show live and in person through Sunday, November 2 at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts. The theatre-in-the-round production runs 2 hours and 45 minutes with one twenty minute intermission, the action is not limited to the stage and contains some adult themes. Click here for more information and tickets.
Cherilyn was not always one to bathe in the limelight and at nearly 80 years old, she has quite the story to tell. As chatty and anxious Babe, depicted with mellifluous vocals and fretful naiveté by Madeline Hudelson, Cherilyn often felt like an outsider due to her dyslexia, half-Armenian heritage and unconventional looks. Hudelson’s confidence appears only in bursts as self consciousness takes over. However, Angie Schworer, fabulous as Cher’s confident firecracker mother Georgia, is a constant source of strength, sage advice and beauty. Georgia advises, ‘The song will make you strong.’ To anyone who loves music, no truer words were ever spoken.
In feathers and sequins, Schworer also makes a grand cameo as a legendary celebrity that will not be revealed here. Andrew Tufano also delivers a memorable performance as Rob Camilleti.
Cher fulfills most people’s two fondest wishes in this musical. Not only can Gettelfinger’s Star turn back time, but accompanied by Hudelson as Babe and Charissa Hogeland as Lady, Star can turn to her other selves to revisit her past. A trio of Chers who interact, are aware of each other, and support each other do not just provide a wealth of comedic and heartfelt moments, but breaks the pesky rules of a classic biopic in an inspired and spectacular way. Gettelfinger, Hogeland, and Hudelson share an admirable bond where anything can happen which comes in handy as Cher was required to grow up fast in this sink-or-swim industry.
Mehler’s glitzy and sequin-fringed set displays an immersive array of projections which includes 60s petal-inspired illustrations, Vegas pizzazz, an opulent mansion, Broadway theatre, and western flair enhanced by chandeliers and authentic Sonny and Cher logos.
Starting out with her own sewing machine, Cher always set her own bold and risqué fashion standard before later joining forces with the legendary visionary and controversially-daring fashion designer Bob Mackie, who originates the Broadway and tour costumes seen in this musical. Dan Fenaughty, who depicts a trio of roles in this production, is memorable as Mackie complete with clever quips and a mischievous gleam, especially during Ain’t Nobody’s Business. Magnets are used to accommodate the numerous fashion styles and quick changes throughout the production. The Cher Show’s costume coordinator Rebecca Glick and wig and hair designer Rachel Padula-Shuflet presents these ostentatious costumes in all of its nostalgic, feathered, and sparkling runway glory.
Frankie Marasa 5th is in on the joke as good humored Sonny Bono at first with self deprecating charm, a gradual magnetic charisma and a quirky sense of humor. Fast talking with shrewd business sense, Marasa 5th shares endearing yet complicated chemistry and half of an impressive deadpan comedic duo with each Cher. One of the best moments of the musical is with Hudelson’s Babe and their powerful rendition of I’ve Got You Babe which was met with a roar from the audience. He also shines in Little Man and later for All I Ever Need is You.
The Cher Show’s quick pace features a wide array of nostalgic hits over six decades including the catchy harmony of Da Doo Ron Ron, Be My Baby, and The Shoop Shoop Song as well as It’s All or Nothing, a poignant Bang Bang (He Shot Me Down), Believe and Heart of Stone. Gettelfinger, Hogeland, and Hudelson form a powerhouse trio as they recall Song for the Lonely. However, Gettelfinger truly shines with soaring vocals for The Way of Love. The drum-infused and Fosse-inspiredThe Beat Goes On is also a sleek standout as well as the sultry and athletic chorography featuring Milena Comeau in The Dark Lady.
You don’t have to be a fan of Cher to appreciate her journey. The Cher Show lightheartedly celebrates her remarkable career and variety of hits, but is also an honest and frank depiction of her insecurities, challenges, and fears within her failures and triumphs. Through it all, Cher’s strength relentlessly shines through as the beat goes on.
North Shore Music Theatre presents The Cher Show live and in person through Sunday, November 2 at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and tickets.
Ominously directed by Christopher V. Edwards and boasting MacKenzie Adamick’s searing sound design, Actors’ Shakespeare Project continues William Shakespeare’s Macbeth live and in person at the Dorothy and Charles Mosesian Center for the Arts in Watertown, Massachusetts through Sunday, October 26. This classic production is not limited to the stage, is semi-interactive, and runs approximately two hours and 25 minutes including one intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Omar Robinson and Brooke Hardman in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s ‘Macbeth.’ Photo by @benjaminrosephotography
Set during the dire 1960s Cold War, this is a production built in shadows playing on the walls, materializing from hidden corners and creeping along the stage. With an alarming array of red glare and sparks, Elmer Martinez’s eerie lighting design not only enhances Adamick’s affecting sound design, but embellishes Macbeth’s menacing plot focusing on a Scottish general named Macbeth, portrayed with charismatic cunning by Omar Robinson, who is enticed by power when he is told he is destined to be king. Alongside Brooke Hardman who impressively depicts traumatized, bitter and ruthless Lady Macbeth with a fiery vengeance, this dangerously ambitious duo set out to fulfill their seeming destiny. What make Robinson and Hardman’s joint performances stand out is in the love and the inner turmoil Robinson as Macbeth and Hardman as Lady Macbeth share in the soft and crumbling moments that manages to elicit a consistent element of sympathy during their mounting struggles.
Claire Mitchell, Amanda Esmie Reynolds, and Jade Guerra in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s ‘Macbeth’ Photo Photo by @benjaminrosephotography
In Marissa Wolf’s mix of elegant and edgy retro-style uniforms, costumes and wigs, Jade Guerra, Amanda Esmie Reynolds, and Claire Mitchell form a diabolical trio who administer various forms of agony rather than casting spells. They participate in their own form of dark treachery in collective actions that manipulate various characters. They are gleeful and petty as psychedelic and harrowing projections by Sue Rees emphasize their psychological and hallucinogenic hold on others. Bold, darkly funny, and chilling, the weird sisters are unsettling whether they are quietly observing, swarming a character or plotting their next move.
Many cast members aptly depict dual roles and Mitchell and Reynolds alongside Chingwe Padraig Sullivan also make a dangerous impact during the production.
Jesse Hinson, Omar Robinson, and Dennis Trainor Jr. in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s ‘Macbeth’ Photo by @benjaminrosephotography
Jesse Hinson portrays a dual role warmly as Macbeth’s right hand man Banquo and as an enigmatic doctor sporadically appearing during the production. It is easy to see the easy camaraderie between Hinson and Robinson as they consult and confide in each other.
Actors’ Shakespeare Project always had a talent for articulating Shakespeare’s dialogue with precise authenticity and a contemporary edge. With Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s Romeo and Juliet, the expressive nature and the contemporary veil over the dialogue worked well and had a natural flow.
However, this Macbeth doesn’t land as well leaving little to interpretation during a brief tangent that spells out and struggles to connect an array of cultural references during a distracting Porter scene. In the middle of the Cold War, this tangent yanks me out of the illusion and breaks the fourth wall which made it difficult to reconnect to the action after this contemporary detour.
Shakespeare’s Macbeth is an incredibly powerful tale and stands as a classic for a reason. It has stood the test of time with a gripping plot, resonating lessons and impactful moments potent enough to allow its content and rising shadows speak for themselves.
Jesse Hinson and Brooke Hardman in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s ‘Macbeth’ Photo by @benjaminrosephotography
Actors’ Shakespeare Project continues William Shakespeare’s Macbeth live and in person at the Dorothy and Charles Mosesian Center for the Arts in Watertown, Massachusetts through Sunday, October 26. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Well, that escalated quickly. One bold move brings an awful lot to light inside this English summer cottage and it’s not quite the morning after anyone was expecting.
Playfully directed by Michael Hammond, Company Theatre continues Sandy Rustin’s romantic comedy, The Cottage live and in person at the Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts. This quick paced production is not limited to the stage, contains some mature humor and runs approximately two hours with an intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
The cast of Company Theatre’s ‘The Cottage’ Photo by Zoe Bradford
The Cottage debuted onstage in 2013 and though this production is set in England, it toured domestically until it made its Broadway debut in 2023 directed by Jason Alexander. Though it takes place in the 1920’s, this amusing production also dryly comments on some aspects of the 20s from a contemporary perspective.
Tackling love and marriage, The Cottage centers on Emilee Leahy as relentlessly optimistic and fanciful Sylvia who is enjoying a summer affair in 1923 with Joe Rich as distinguished barrister Beau, but this tale is much more than a romantic love triangle. This engaging comedy picks up immediately and the plot thickens so quickly, I was concerned the show would run out of steam early. However, The Cottage has a wealth of twists and turns in store and it is amazing how much people learn from one another when things truly hit the fan.
Emilee Leahy in Company Theatre’s ‘The Cottage’ Photo by Zoe Bradford
Matching coordinated day hats and coats, flowing silk garments, three piece suits, suspenders and lace embellishments are just a few of the glamorous 20s pieces from Kiera O’Connor’s upscale costume design. Sally Ashton Forrest’s swing jazz-inspired sound design and Ryan Barrow’s ornate and detailed art deco dual level set stylishly rewinds the clock to 1923 complete with rotary phone, Victrola, piano, wooden stairwell, delicate silk flowers, rural paintings and family portraits on vintage pastel floral wallpaper, glamorous furniture and multicolor Persian rugs. Dean Palmer Jr.’s warm pastel-toned lighting embellishes the cottage’s welcoming charm and dramatically heightens the impact of each revelation as the tale unfolds.
Joe Rich in Company Theatre’s ‘The Cottage’ Photo by Zoe Bradford
This engaging cast boasts great comic energy and work well together with Rustin’s sharp and quick-witted script. In all of its comic and escalating chaos, this capable cast kept it together with finesse. With singsong vocals, naiveté and a flower blossom in her hair, Emilee Leahy shines as Sylvia who is not to be underestimated. Leahy especially demonstrates a charming depth to Sylvia as her confidence is shaken. Joe Rich as Beau and Timothy Pick as good humored Clark share considerable rapport and lighthearted banter. Rob Gullicksen brings thrill to unpredictable Richard while Elizabeth Nelson-Childs as formidable Marjorie and Jaqueline Hausman as game loving Dierdre are also impressive in their contrary roles. Each role also manages a degree of sympathy even among this group of flawed and insecure characters.
Rob Gullicksen, Emilee Leahy and Joe Rich in Company Theatre’s ‘The Cottage’ Photo by Zoe Bradford
Lies and misjudging is just a portion of this romantic comedy’s intensifying plot and this beloved cottage contains its own share of secrets. Overall, it is a fun, flirty and lighthearted production and it is refreshing to see something not to be taken too seriously.
Company Theatre continues Sandy Rustin’s romantic comedy, The Cottage live and in person at the Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets.
