France

REVIEW: Discovery enriches two short films: A frenetic ‘Subway Crush’ and sophisticated ‘Waltz for Three’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

A simple crush becomes something more.

In a matter of three minutes on a New York City subway, Subway Crush makes a statement about ideas of perception and interpretation that continually resonates in our digital culture.  It is a slice of digital life that escalates quickly and stands as a peek into a bigger picture ominously, candidly, and realistically captured by more than one person behind a phone. What is the truth behind what you are seeing and explores one of many ways information can be dangerously misinterpreted.

Still from ‘Subway Crush’ with cast composed of Mehdi Hadim, Bella Kouds, Danny Salvato, Satya Crasneanscki, Natalia Yi

Both written and directed by Oriana NG, Subway Crush and French short film Waltz for Three are two profoundly different films.  Crush exhibits escalation while a subtle revelation emerges in Waltz for Three.  Increasingly feverish and frenetic Crush is candidly captured as it makes a significant statement about our contemporary culture while Waltz for Three is timeless and sophisticated with a stirring emotional core.  Yet both films are built in misunderstandings that long to be resolved.

‘Still from Subway Crush’ with cast composed of Mehdi Hadim, Bella Kouds, Danny Salvato, Satya Crasneanscki, Natalia Yi

With impactful direction and written by Oriana NG, Subway Crush and Waltz for Three continue to make the film festival circuit and were recently screened at the 2026 Dances With Films New York Edition on January 15-18.  Click here for more information on the writer and director as well as future screenings.

Part of the cast of ‘Waltz for Three’

A quiet encounter has a profound effect on two people.

Surrounded by distinctive finery in a gorgeous castle in France, Agnès feels isolated. Ophélie Lehmann portrays reserved, soft spoken and unassuming Agnès who is quite certain what she wants when she invites Mikaël Mittelstadt as handsome Jean home.  However, it is not for the reasons one might expect.

Ophélie Lehmann in ‘Waltz for Three’

In many ways, French short film Les Trois Valseurs (Waltz for Three) explores two worlds.  This multilayered and unpredictable tale has a meaty emotional core for two likable people who have experienced a great deal in very different ways.  The film takes its time, but does not drag as these two make discoveries about each other.  The costuming and props, includes a distinguished victrola, an ethereal clock and a golden lighter, are delicate, detailed and gleaming and the way the two carry themselves evokes almost a dreamlike ambiance.  With hair swept up and adorned in an elegant dress, stately and enigmatic Agnès is mature beyond her years while Mikaël Mittelstadt’s Jean is charming and uncertain with his whole life ahead of him.  They share compelling chemistry and perceive each other in a new light as the film unfolds.

Mikaël Mittelstadt
in ‘Waltz for Three’

Not all the film’s questions are answered and in many ways, the answers aren’t necessary.  The genuine moments that gently unfold are encapsulated in their gradual understanding of one another.

Mikaël Mittelstadt and
Ophélie Lehmann in ‘Waltz for Three’

Subway Crush and Waltz for Three were recently screened at the 2026 Dances With Films New York Edition on January 15-18.  Click here for more information on the writer and director as well as future screenings.

REVIEW:  Lavishly dancing through France in Sullivan Rep’s ‘Can-Can’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Freedom through dance is only part of the story in Cole Porter’s Can-Can.

Considered one of Cole Porter’s later musicals, Can-Can debuted in 1953 before being adapted into a 1960 film starring Frank Sinatra and Shirley MacLaine and some of its ideas make it identifiable to its 60s timeframe.  It’s Alright by Me, I Love Paris, and C’est Magnifique are a few of the Cole Porter American Standard songs that are part of the Great American Songbook.

Directed and choreographed by Dan Sullivan with Musical direction by Hollis W. Sullivan, Sullivan Rep continues Can Can live and in person at Mother Brook Arts and Community Center in Dedham, Massachusetts through Saturday, October 11.  The action is not limited to the stage and set up like a dance hall.  It runs approximately three hours with an intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Carly Evans and Can-Can dancers in Sullivan Rep’s ‘Can-Can’ Photo credit Sullivan Rep

Taking place in Montmartre, France, Carly Evans aptly portrays shrewd and stealthy businesswoman Pistache who knows just how to live under the radar until her girls are caught by the French authorities for lascivious dancing.  The lively dancers coyly perform the satirical number, Maidens Typical of France.

Can-Can features two powerful leads in Carly Evans and Anthony Rinaldi and Dan Sullivan’s flowing, unbridled and meticulous chorography certainly make a great impression.  Anthony Rinaldi is conflicted as Judge Aristide, torn between justice and his growing affection for saucy Pistache.  Rinaldi and Evans make some beautiful music together and are certainly capable of mastering these individuals on the opposite sides of the law.  Evans as Pistache shows off her hardnosed business sense impressively for Never Give Anything Away and Rinaldi soars in the catchy number, It’s Alright with Me.

Anthony Rinaldi and Carly Evans in Sullivan Rep’s ‘Can-Can’ Photo credit Sullivan Rep

Dan Sullivan’s often lavish and splashy 1890s French forward fashion costumes by Judi Olson include bowler hats, lace, velvet, ruffles, saloon-style gowns, bustles, three piece suits, detailed parasols and top hats with Pistache’s elegant emerald green peacock gown as a particular highlight shown later in the production. 

The cast of Sullivan Rep’s ‘Can-Can’ Photo credit to Sullivan Rep

This musical features grand dance numbers that are often flirty and playful even occasionally including a French accordionist.  Can-Can explores love, the nature of dance, societal expectations, censorship, skewed media, the law and the art of being an artist.  A.J. Lyman as Bulgarian sculptor Boris, Andy Ross as Theophile, Ryan Pereira as Hericule, Dom Pappagallo as Etienne, Hannah Shihdanian as Model and Rinaldi as Aristide have a good natured camaraderie and perform a standout number that takes humorous and lighthearted jabs at the nature of being an artist is Never Never Be An Artist.   

Sullivan Rep Can Can Anthony Rinaldi and cast Photo credit Sulivan Rep

Dream Ballet has been popular in grand musicals such as Broadway Melody in Singin’ in the Rain, Louise’s Ballet in Carousel, and The Prologue in West Side Story which usually enhances or advances the plot of the musical.  Though performed with ballet-inspired athletic zeal, Garden of Eden Ballet didn’t seem to advance the plot in a meaningful way other than being controversial during that time.

Sullivan Rep boasts powerful leads, vivacious dance numbers and features elegant attire, yet the musical itself has its setbacks. Clocking in at approximately three hours, some of the musical’s plot points seem filler and unnecessary to the progression of the story and some of the love connections and satirical outcomes didn’t quite make sense such as in If You Loved Me Truly.

Garden of Eden Ballet in Sullivan Rep’s ‘Can-Can’ Photo credit Sullivan Rep

With that in mind, Sullivan Rep vibrantly brings Cole Porter’s Can-Can to life with an enthusiastic cast and memorable music.

Directed and choreographed by Dan Sullivan with Musical direction by Hollis W. Sullivan, Sullivan Rep continues Can-Can live and in person at Mother Brook Arts and Community Center in Dedham, Massachusetts through Saturday, October 11.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Humility and humanity shine in Company Theatre’s moving ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Two brothers on different paths are connected in a transformative tale exploring the nature of faith, virtue, honesty and what truly matters.  From Victor Hugo, author of the classic novel, Les Miserables, The Hunchback of Notre Dame certainly knows how to tug at the heartstrings while delivering an epic and compelling tale.

Insightfully co-directed by Zoe Bradford and Sally Ashton Forrest with resonating musical direction by Robert McDonough, The Company Theatre Center for the Arts presents gothic musical classic, The Hunchback of Notre Dame continuing live and in person at The Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts through Sunday August 17.  The action is not limited to the stage and runs a lengthy but well paced two hours and 50 minutes with one intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Salvatore Guillermo Garcia, Peter S. Adams and the cast of Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Jacob French as Young Claude Frollo is determined to join the priesthood while his brother Jehan, depicted by Charlie Solari, would rather lead a hard partying lifestyle with the local gypsies.  It’s a tale that bears some resemblance to The Prodigal Son parable.  Young Frollo, who considers himself holy and righteous, is appalled by his brother’s actions and the results are destined to change both their lives.

Jacob French, Dru Daniels, and Charlie Solari in Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame was released shortly after The Lion King and Pocahontas in 1996 and is considered part of the Disney Film Renaissance spanning from 1989 to 1999.  Having recently re-watched Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame, do not go into the Company Theatre thinking it is strictly a staging of the Disney musical.  Faithful to elements of the 1996 Disney adaptation with Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz’s amazing and unforgettable music soundtrack and Victor Hugo’s 1831 classic gothic novel sporadically revealed through multiple narrators, The Company Theatre assembles a powerful and inspirational tale of virtue and humility in the face of cruelty and obsession. 

Salvatore Guillermo Garcia, Peter S. Adams and cast in Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Set in 1492 Paris, Salvatore Guillermo Garcia leads the cast in riveting form as quiet and gentle hearted Quasimodo who acts as Notre Dame Cathedral’s bell ringer and is kept in the bell tower visited solely by Peter S. Adams as manipulative Dom Claude Frollo.  Starved for company and overjoyed by any shred of attention, Quasimodo anticipates The Feast of Fools, an exciting France feast day celebrated by the clergy during the Middle Ages and perhaps an opportunity to be accepted for a day.

Set designer Ryan Barrow replicates the regal stone pillars and the gold signature Notre Dame Cathedral bells brought to life by its harmonious chiming.  However, the jewel in this detailed set is a multicolored stained glass cathedral dome above the wooden balcony which lighting designer Dean Palmer Jr. brilliantly enhances and bathes the set in an array of colors rooted in the stain glass during the production. 

Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ set Photo by Zoe Bradford

So much of The Hunchback of Notre Dame hinges on its ability to capture this complex production’s powerful hymnal ambiance and The Company Theatre does that in spades not only through its strong lead vocals, but through twenty-two additional choir members consistently enhancing the action onstage.  It is at times “blow your hair back” powerful and expressive, the production’s thunderous and harmonious voices exhilarating right from its magnificent opening number, The Bells of Notre Dame.  I was visibly moved many times.

Peter S. Adams in Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Peter S. Adams as Dom Claude Frollo and Dru Daniels as Florika are both lauded operatic talents who collaborated in Company Theatre’s wonderful The Secret Garden.  Adams delivers a more measured performance as Don Claude Frollo, a manipulative and righteous priest.  Firm and commanding, Adams brings additional dimension to the role and his exchanges with Garcia as Quasimodo are as fascinating as they are bittersweet.  His rich rendition of Hellfire and Esmeralda is bold yet tormented, exposing momentary glimpses into his shielded angst.  Dru Daniels also embellishes every moment she has onstage with her magnificent vocals as Florika.

Salvatore Guillermo Garcia with Anne Martland, Mel Carubia, and Gilbert Dabady in Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Costume Designer Kiera O’Connor has assembled an assortment of vibrant and multi-colored costumes as well as traditional vestments similar to the Disney adaptation and its time period, but adorned in Parisian masquerade masks, the shimmering and imaginative gargoyles are the ones that truly shine.  Sally Ashton Forrest’s unique, playful, ballet-inspired and symbolic choreography impressively drive Anne Martland as Hugo the Playful, Mel Carubia as Victor the Reasonable, and Gilbert Dabady as Laverne the Nurturing Gargoyle as they advise and keep Salvatore Guillermo Garcia as lonely Quasimodo company.  Paired with these intricate and sparkling ensembles, they provide not only comic relief, but work together to articulate distress, comfort, amusement and more while acting as a respite and community sanctuary for Quasimodo in the bell tower.

David J. Kim and cast in The Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

With a knowing smile, David J. Kim portrays stealthy showman and deemed King of the Gypsies, Clopin Trouillefou.  Kim’s smooth delivery and complicated demeanor makes him a charming enigma.  Kim leads the revelers in an animated rendition of Topsy Turvy and with Lopes, Roussell, Adams and Garcia in a spellbinding Rhythm of the Tambourine.

Celena Lopez and cast in Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Celena Lopes gives a mesmerizing performance as frank, saucy, compassionate, resourceful and headstrong Esmeralda, a role voiced for the Disney adaptation by a charismatic actress known for spirited female characters, Demi Moore.   Lopes performs an incredible rendition of the hopeful ballad, Someday with Jack Roussell as seemingly bombastic, egotistical and regal Phoebus de Martin and shares charming chemistry with Garcia.  However, Top of the World and stirring God Help the Outcasts is where Lopes is at her best.

Jack Roussell and cast in the Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

Salvatore Guillermo Garcia offers a paramount performance as Quasimodo, a role in which he dedicates to his late mother.  The sheer physicality and understated performance boasted by sterling vocals he delivered as Jean Val Jean in Academy of the Company Theatre’s previous production of Les Miserables make him the perfect choice for this role. Garcia embodies Quasimodo’s humble naiveté, trepidation, loneliness and yearning as well as the soft glow that passes over Garcia’s shy and meek features.  From the wondrous ache of Out There and tender Heaven’s Light to the soaring Made of Stone, Garcia caps off this meaning musical experience worth witnessing for yourself.

Celena Lopes, Salvatore Guillermo Garcia, Anne Martland, Mel Carubia, and Gilbert Dabady in Company Theatre’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ Photo by Zoe Bradford

The Company Theatre Center for the Arts presents The Hunchback of Notre Dame continuing live and in person at The Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts through Sunday, August 17.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Love takes a spectacular turn in Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston’s picturesque ‘An American in Paris’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Beneath the elegant puddle iron rivets of Paris’s Eiffel Tower on the River Seine, lies a romantic tale among an array of artists at the end of World War II where tension still resides as recalled by narrator and composer Adam in a multi-layered performance by Jared Troilo.  An American in Paris is an eloquent and classic tale, but its true emotional core in Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston’s adaptation lies in Gershwin’s rich lyrics and Rachel Bertone’s sweeping choreography.

With book and lyrics by legendary composers George and Ira Gershwin with Rachel Bertone’s multi-faceted direction and choreography, Reagle Music Theatre saved the best for last in its 55th summer season with An American in Paris continuing through Sunday, August 18 live and in person at the Robinson Theatre in Waltham, Massachusetts.  This gorgeous production is approximately two hours 30 minutes with a 15 minute intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Adam Hochberg (Jared Troilo) and Lise (Samantha Barnes) and Ensemble in Reagle Music Theatre’s ‘An American in Paris’ Photo Credit Robert Pascucci

By the end of An American in Paris’s opening musical montage as people reunite with their loved ones while war tension is still in the air during the stirring number Concerto in F, Bertone’s powerful choreography has unexpectedly brought me to tears. Ranging from delicate to lively to showy to humorous, each superb dance montage expands into a stunning progression of the production while connecting a timeless statement about our world.  Dancers utilize brightly-colored parasols, hats and scarves while Bertone’s choreography flows effortlessly and lightheartedly with each scene.

A love story as well as a ballet within a musical, An American in Paris is a treasure trove of some of Gershwin’s classic tunes including They Can’t Take That Away from Me, But Not for Me, I Got Rhythm, S’Wonderful and Shall We Dance.  In the past, I have been disappointed in the context of how some classic numbers actually apply to a particular musical, but each one of these classic tunes are lively, joyous, stirring and absolutely memorable.  Without giving much away, a particular highlight is watching the cast make some makeshift music during I Got Rhythm.  It’s simple and yet absolutely extraordinary.

Cameron McEachern’s watercolor-inspired sets are portraits in motion highlighted by a scene where detailed gold frames become props and also get swept up in a dance.  Franklin Meissner’s soft yet vibrant multi-colored lighting not only enhances each beautiful skyline but depicts silhouettes, illuminates street lights, and keep the sparkling Seine visibly flowing in the background.  Floral enhancements, Parisian furniture and an integral piano are elegantly swept on and off stage in the fanciful style of the Golden Age of Musicals.  From flowing dresses to glittering gowns to various looks that come right out of the film of the same name, Emerald City Theatricals once again enlivens each landscape with personality and zeal.    

Pictured Henri Baurel (Christopher Lewis) and Ensemble in Reagle Music Theatre’s ‘An American in Paris’ Photo credit Robert Pascucci

It was a brand new experience watching Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston’s An American in Paris having not seen a stage production or the astronomically lauded, 1951 Academy Award-winning film featuring dance dynamos Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron.  However, anyone who knows of Gene Kelly or Leslie Caron’s work is aware that those are big shoes to fill.  Without hesitation though, Jack Mullen as former GI turned artist Jerry Mulligan and Samantha Barnes as promising dancer Lise Dassin are a wonderful pair and fill those shoes with grace, brilliant charm and proficiency.

Pictured Lise Dassin (Samantha Barnes) and Jerry Mulligan (Jack Mullen) in Reagle Music Theatre’s ‘An American in Paris’ Photo credit Robert Pascucci

Jack Mullen as Jerry possesses a bit of Tom Holland charm, glowing charisma and an easy going demeanor which eases the pressures and aspirations that Barnes as Lise often feels to become as skilled a dancer as her lauded ballet dancer mother.  They have endearing and playful chemistry right from Mullen’s teasing number I’ve Got Beginner’s Luck.  Mullen rises to the challenge of the sheer stamina of this role, highlighted by a mischievous jazz-inspired number called Fidgety Feet in an enchanting and rollicking chair dance.

Jared Troilo, a fabulous dancer in his own right, takes on the part of narrator and composer Adam who has a disability and is often observing and composing the beauty in other people’s lives.  It is a meaty role and Troilo’s humble and self-effacing delivery is never more moving than in the sympathetic number, But Not For Me. 

Pictured l to r Milo Davenport (Rebekah Rae Robles) and Jerry Mulligan (Jack Mullen) in Reagle Music Theatre’s ‘An American in Paris’ Credit Robert Pascucci

With an amazing belt and unshakable self confidence, Rebekah Rae Robles shines as Milo Davenport, a woman ahead of her time especially for the potent number Shall We Dance.  Carolyn Saxon as Madame Baurel and Jean-Alfred Chavier once again make a sweet pair reuniting as Henri’s parents in this production having portrayed a pair of love interests in Reagle’s All Shook Up.  It took a minute to recognize him, but Christopher Lewis as secretive, anxious yet sophisticated Frenchman Henri also starred in Reagle’s All Shook Up as the Elvis figure Chad.  Lewis again proves his wonderful comic timing and soaring vocals sharing some boisterous camaraderie with Troilo and Mullen for S Wonderful as a trio of inseparable friends, performs a grand and splashy version of (I’ll Build a) Stairway to Paradise, and a lovely rendition of The Man I Love with Barnes.

Pictured_ l to r- Jerry Mulligan (Jack Mullen), Adam Hochberg (Jared Troilo), and Henri Baurel (Christopher Lewis) in Reagle Music Theatre ‘An American in Paris’ Photo credit Robert Pascucci

Boasting an amazingly talented cast, Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston’s An American in Paris is elegant, meaningful, and an absolute delight!  Get swept up in this beautiful musical as soon as you can.

Pictured Henri Baurel (Christopher Lewis) and Ensemble in Reagle Music Theatre’s ‘An American in Paris’ Photo credit Robert Pascucci

With book and lyrics by legendary composers George and Ira Gershwin and Rachel Bertone’s multi-faceted direction and choreography, Reagle Music Theatre saved the best for last in its 55th summer season with An American in Paris continuing through Sunday, August 18 live and in person at the Robinson Theatre in Waltham, Massachusetts.  This gorgeous production is approximately two hours 30 minutes with a 15 minute intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: The Huntington’s ‘Prayer for the French Republic’ a contemplative family drama

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

How does one live in fear?

Two linked tales unfold at times simultaneously onstage.  Having recently presented the epic multi-generational play, The Lehman’s Trilogy, The Huntington explores the world of the Salomon family whose stock in trade is selling pianos in Joshua Harmon’s Prayer for the French Republic.  Though a piano sits center stage, it is less about the family business, but about this French Jewish family’s experiences over the years residing in Paris at a pivotal time in 1944 and 2016.  The Salomon Family has resided in Paris for five generations.  Fear may change its face over the years, but somehow remains the same.

With shrewd direction by Loretta Greco, The Huntington presents Joshua Harmon’s Prayer for the French Republic continuing through October 8.  The show is two hours and 50 minutes with one ten minute intermission and contains adult content.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Left to right: The cast of Prayer for the French Republic; photo by T Charles Erickson

Andrew Boyce’s chic and moving turntable scenic design complete with crown molding, distinctive gold framed paintings, cozy fireplace, and canapé sets a signature Parisian tone as a vintage piano sits center stage.  After two starting revelations, Prayer for the French Republic unravels two tales delving  into loneliness, family, fear, love, grief, and the hardships and persecution the Jewish face, questioning the meaning behind ‘Republic for all.’

Left to right: (foreground) Tony Estrella; (background) Peter Van Wagner, Phyllis Kay; photo by T Charles Erickson PRAYER FOR THE FRENCH REPUBLIC By Joshua Harmon The Huntington Theatre 09/06/23 Directed by Huntington Artistic Director Loretta Greco Lighting Design: Christopher Akerlind Costume Design: Alex Jaeger Scenic Design: Andrew Boyce PRAYER FOR THE FRENCH REPUBLIC is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. http://www.concordtheatricals.com T Charles Erickson Photography Photograph © T Charles Erickson tcharleserickson.photoshelter.com

The show has an enigmatic air tied together by Tony Estrella who acts a narrator and family member.  As Estrella sets up the audience for what is next and weaving in and out of the narrative, his semi-interactive and complex role as Patrick paints him as antagonist, thoughtful narrator, and brother with a frank and natural delivery. 

Left to right: Amy Resnick, Tony Estrella; photo by T Charles Erickson PRAYER FOR THE FRENCH REPUBLIC By Joshua Harmon The Huntington Theatre 09/06/23 Directed by Huntington Artistic Director Loretta Greco Lighting Design: Christopher Akerlind Costume Design: Alex Jaeger Scenic Design: Andrew Boyce PRAYER FOR THE FRENCH REPUBLIC is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. http://www.concordtheatricals.com T Charles Erickson Photography Photograph © T Charles Erickson tcharleserickson.photoshelter.com

The show explores some traditional Jewish customs and is a study in ancestry as Amy Resnick as Marcelle takes a moment to explain this strong willed family tree.  Carly Zien is a bit of a scene stealer and delivers a crackling performance as witty, moody and seemingly unstable Elodie, Marcelle and Charles’s daughter.  Zien’s fast talking and frank delivery as Elodie offers equal amounts horror and humor as she explains the frustrating state of the world to Talia Sulla as bright eyed, lively, well meaning but increasingly outspoken Molly.  Molly’s cheery disposition is refreshing to orderly and increasingly tense psychiatrist Marcelle depicted keenly by Amy Resnick and the mother and daughter dynamic is thrust into overdrive as Resnick and Zien butt heads on almost every issue. Nael Nacer steps in as fair minded Charles for this performance and Joshua Chessin-Yudin depicts headstrong, sympathetic and unassuming Daniel, Elodie’s brother.  Chessin-Yudin and Sulla share some endearing scenes as they wrestle with the other’s point of view. 

Left to right: Talia Sulla, Joshua Chessin-Yudin; photo by T Charles Erickson

Contentions within the family and the future are laid out in a piece of clever staging as their dining room table steadily shifts.  Another noteworthy incident builds prickling tension and silent trauma as Molly overhears an argument in the next room with only Sulla’s face visible in the shadows.  Phillis Kay as Irma and Peter Van Wagner as Adolphe make a disquieting yet charming couple, but it is Jared Troilo as Lucian with Jesse Kodama/Will Lyman as Pierre Solomon who makes the greatest impact with a startling revelation that presses for more questions than answers.

Left to right: Phyllis Kay, Jesse Kodama, Jared Troilo; photo by T Charles Erickson

Prayer for the French Republic is contemplative and direct with its share of lighter moments as both tales converge to beg the question:  How do we move forward?  How to move forward in the face of fear?

With shrewd direction by Loretta Greco, The Huntington presents Joshua Harmon’s Prayer for the French Republic continuing through October 8.  The show is two hours and 50 minutes with one ten minute intermission and contains adult content.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Vocals soar as Academy of the Company Theatre presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

It may seem like a small detail, but The Phantom of the Opera’s iconic chandelier plays a pivotal role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera.  It opens the show in its sheer majesty and the Phantom is actually found hiding in the glittering and monstrous powerhouse of a special effect at one point during the Broadway production.  In fact, it is what fascinates the audience at the beginning of the musical in glorious rhythm with the thunderous and foreboding sound of a pipe organ blaring in the distance and what later crashes to makes the cast run in terror.

Directed insightfully by Sally Ashton Forrest with powerful music directed by Melissa Carubia, Academy of the Company Theatre’s Phantom of the Opera gets so many things right from Vickie Gerard-Culligan’s ornate costumes, the pitch perfect casting, its sinister lighting by Dean Palmer Jr., and its smaller scale replications of Phantom’s famous sets by Ryan Barrow, but the production’s chandelier may not quite meet some lofty expectations.

Academy of the Company Theatre (A.C.T.) presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera live and in person at The Company Theatre, 130 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts through February 19.  The musical is sold out.  Click here for more information on the Company Theatre and its upcoming events.

Alexa Cohen as Madame Giry (right) with cast in ACT’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’ Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Set in the 1700’s, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera focuses on a mysterious presence that haunts the famous Palais Garnier Opera House in Paris, France.  New opera house co-owners Ben Cavallo-Smith as Monsieur Richard Firmin and Weston Hammond as Monsieur Giles Andre make a distinguished and at times humorous pair in vintage suits with tails as they start to realize things are not what they seem.

‘Masquerade’ ACT’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’ Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Phantom of the Opera boasts some enduring yet challenging music numbers and the cast may feature students up to 18 years of age, but their vocals are well beyond their years.  Jillian Pongonis as Christine and Catrina Riker as Carlotta hit some extraordinary notes for being so young and it was a joy to hear Riker’s Think of Me and Prima Donna as she prances around the stage in signature diva fashion, bold and comical as she shouts her demands.  Carlotta’s sophisticated gowns become more extravagant as the musical progresses and the cast hits its outrageous stylish stride for Masquerade.  Salvator Guillermo Garcia, whose past performances with ACT include Jean Val Jean in Les Miserables, has a supporting and memorable role as Ubaldo Piangi.  Garcia not only does a wonderful job vocally in Hannibal and Notes with the cast, but his occasional tenuous smirks and smiles enhance the musical’s humorous moments.  

Gilbert Dabady as The Phantom and Jillian Pongonis as Christine Daae Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Pongonis may be slight in stature, but her powerful vocals exceed her years as does Gilbert Dabady as The Phantom.  Dabady and Pongonis’s duet of The Point of No Return may seem a bit mature for their ages, but Angel of Music and  Music of the Night are beautifully performed and Pongonis’s stirring rendition of Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again is a must see.  Dabady is mysterious and threatening as the Phantom, his deep and resounding vocals all the more menacing offstage. Dabady and Pongonis are a complex and charismatic pair while Charlie Flaherty is well suited for the daring and charming Raoul.  Amid a pale blue rooftop, Christine and Raoul perform a sweet rendition of All I Ask of You. 

Charlie Flaherty as Raoul and Jillian Pongonis as Christine Daae in ACT’s ‘Phantom of the Opera’ Photo courtesy of Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Clever blocking and reigned in sets aptly accommodate the Company Theatre stage. Tints of haunting purple, vintage marble columns, nostalgic lighting, eerie skulls, an angelic stone statue, onstage gold lined opera box seats, a brass organ, monkey music box, and a candelabra lit lair on a misty lake help recreate iconic scenes and special effects that bring this somewhat opera within an opera to life.  As a big Phantom of the Opera fan, Academy of the Company Theatre’s Phantom of the Opera captures this moving and mystical musical best known for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic soundtrack and makes the magic of the longest running show on Broadway last a little longer in Norwell. 

Academy of the Company Theatre (A.C.T) presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera live and in person at the Company Theatre, 130 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts through February 19.  The musical is sold out.  Click here for more information on the Company Theatre and its upcoming events.

REVIEW:  Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘All is Calm:  The Christmas Truce of 1914’ moving and miraculous

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Witnessing a phenomenon is a rare and precious thing.  It was nothing short of miraculous watching Greater Boston Company’s All is Calm:  The Christmas Truce of 1914 which details that short period in history where enemies united briefly during the depths of War War I on Christmas Eve 1914.  Disillusioned and missing their loved ones, soldiers demonstrated compassion and the mercy of the human spirit as both sides sang carols, exchanged goods, and mutually wished for the war to end.

In the Greater Boston Stage Company’s lobby. Authentic combat uniform and gear from the Veteran Association of the First Corps of Cadets and Museum Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company

Directed poignantly by Ilyse Robbins and compellingly written by Peter Rothstein, Greater Boston Stage Company presents the award-winning documentary musical,  All is Calm:  The Christmas Truce of 1914 through December 23 as a digital performance and live in person at Greater Boston Stage Company, 395 Main Street in Stoneham, Massachusetts.  The show is approximately 70 minutes with no intermission.  Click here for more information and tickets.

It is surprising that The Christmas Truce of 1914 is not more widely known.  Joyeux Noel, The Christmas Truce, various documentaries, and this show are a few of the ways that this short historical period is recorded.  It should be an annual tradition like How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Frosty, Rudolph or A Charlie Brown Christmas.  It stands as a significant reminder of a Christmas Eve miracle that occurred only once during War World I’s long and grueling four year time span.  Most soldiers first joined thinking the war would end by Christmas. 

The cast of ‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios/Greater Boston Stage Company

A dimly lit, bare stage is all that is revealed at the start of All is Calm, but what transpires as the show progresses is a rich landscape of moonlight, song, and memories.  Though this show features musical interludes, it is not a traditional musical.  It is more like a documentary that features stunning music and carols inviting the audience into the warmth, spirit, sacrifice, and the true meaning of the season.

Comprised of ten cast members who take on several identities during the production as they recollect that time period, All is Calm boasts powerful and silvery harmonies chiming into the wintry night sung a cappella without a band.  Music Director Matthew Stern does a sensational job with Erick Lichte and Timothy Takach’s vocal arrangements which includes popular carols such as Silent Night, O Holy Night, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Angels We Have Heard on High, and Auld Lang Syne.

Michael Jennings Mahoney and the cast of ‘All is Calm’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios/Greater Boston Stage Company

 All is Calm is a beautiful ensemble piece and each cast member rises to the occasion, but when a renowned German tenor leads a stirring rendition of Franz Gruber’s Stille Nacht in No Man’s Land, it is difficult to pinpoint a more memorable moment. 

Dressed in muted military uniforms and kilts faithful to the era’s period and culture by Bethany Mullins, the collaborative cast demonstrates heartwarming chemistry and yet simultaneously depicts each soldier’s growing isolation in sorrow, fear, turmoil, and anguish as they progressively experience war’s cruel reality.  Integrating direct quotes from soldiers, narration, and uplifting carols such as Wassail as well as exceptional and heartrending songs such as I Want to Go Home, many times moved me beyond words. 

Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios/Greater Boston Stage Company
Full cast of ‘All is Calm’ which includes Caleb Chew, Christopher Chew, Alexander Holden, David Jiles Jr., Michael Jennings Mahoney, Stephen Markarian, Zachary McConnell, Bryan Miner, Gary Thomas Ng, and Brad Peloquin. Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios/Greater Boston Stage Company

Though the extraordinary harmonies are a large part of the production, the production’s real mastery also resides in its stillness.  That brief interlude during a harrowing time where friendships were forged and sweet peace was nestled in the silence of enemies who joined together in the joy of the season and the sadness in their hearts for what was in store.

Greater Boston Stage Company presents the award-winning documentary musical, All is Calm:  The Truce of 1914 through December 23 as a digital performance and live in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts.  The show is approximately 70 minutes with no intermission.  Click here for more information, tickets, and a look at their upcoming events.

REVIEW: Reagle Music Theatre’s ‘La Cage aux Folles’ a rollicking, madcap extravaganza with heart

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Robin Williams had many memorable roles, but one of his most amusing roles was alongside Nathan Lane in the 1996 film adaptation of “La Cage Aux Folles,” “The Birdcage.”  Who could forget when Robin gave that dance tutorial?

Though “The Birdcage” was set in Miami Beach, the musical production of “La Cage Aux Folles” is set in Saint Tropez, France.  With European flair and heart, Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston presents the wild, gender-bending, and hilarious musical, “La Cage Aux Folles” through Sunday, August 18 at Robinson Theatre in Waltham, Massachusetts.  Click here for more information and tickets.

Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston La Cage aux Folles James Darrah as Albin with the Cagelles

James Darrah as Albin (center) and Les Cagelles Photo courtesy of Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston

A translucent, glittering blue curtain was just a glimpse of the glitz behind it as the musical’s catchy and exotic overture began, peppered with European flair.  Directed by Susan Chebookjian with book by Harvey Fierstein and music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, “La Cage aux Folles” is about Georges (J.T. Turner) who runs a drag night club and Albin (James Darrah) is the show’s star attraction.  When Georges’s son announces his engagement, everyone realizes they are in for a lot more than they bargained for.

With amazing choreography by Susan M. Chebookjian and Daniel Forest Sullivan, “La Cage aux Folles” bursts with color, razzle dazzle, and unlike “The Birdcage,” features a lot more dance numbers delivered by the sharp and athletic Les Cagelles.  The opening, gender bending tune, We Are What We Are, is a nimble display of tight choreography while the signature number, La Cage aux Folles is stylized, bizarre, and fascinating.  The show is also semi-interactive, which contributes to some of the productions most amusing moments.

Matthew Wright and Alison Pugh’s fantastic costumes are flashy, elegant, and over the top featuring wild, multi-colored wigs, shimmering gowns accented with furs and other costumes using an array of materials such as velour and silk with a bit of 70s flair.  The colorful set, by David Allen Jeffrey, is equally exotic featuring velvet couches and gold accents as well as its share of seaside, Mediterranean flavor and little French nuances at Cafe Renaud.

Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston La Cage aux Folles J.T. Turner as Georges

J.T. Turner as Georges Photo courtesy of Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston

The quirky, madcap cast is an excellent study in contrasting perspectives and family dysfunction.  In a purple velour coat with bowtie, J.T. Turner delivers a charming, comical, and tender performance as Georges.  Love struck and irresistibly likable, Georges is the heart of the show.  He has a beautiful rapport with Jonathan Acorn as his son, Jean-Michel and James Darrah as Albin, delivering heartfelt renditions of Look over There and wistful Song in the Sand.  The impressive comic timing between Turner as Georges and Darrah as Albin doesn’t get much better than during the number, Masculinity, especially while demonstrating their best John Wayne.

Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston La Cage aux Folles Cafe Renaud

James Darrah as Albin (center), J.T. Turner as Georges (right) and cast Photo courtesy of Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston

James Darrah as Albin, who possesses more than a passing resemblance to Nathan Lane, delivers a dramatic, engaging, and powerful performance as Albin.  Often not so fashionably late, Albin contends with his longing to hide from the world and his undeniable need to make an entrance.  His rendition of I Am What I Am is a Tour de Force performance, the best number of the show.  Full of bravery, yearning, and emotional weight, it is an anthem for those who feel like they do not belong.

Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston La Cage aux Folles James Darrah as Albin

James Darrah as Albin in Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston’s “La Cage aux Folles” Photo courtesy of Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston

Jonathan Acorn as anxious Jean-Michel is madly in love with his fiancée Anne.  She delivers a sweet and earnest performance by Lily Steven.  Theirs is a sweet love story and Acorn’s beautiful timbre is on full display during the affectionate number Anne on my Arm.

The show cuts loose with adventurous and delightful Maureen Brennan as Marie up against Rich Allegretto as relentlessly frowning, disdainful and uptight M. Dindon.   Speaking of cutting loose, Benz Atthakarunpan’s energetic, smirking Jacob delivers more than a few self deprecating moments in outrageous and surprising costumes while Ellen Peterson brings cleverness and a great set of pipes to Jacqueline.

Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston La Cage aux Folles Dinner

J.T. Turner as Georges, Jonathan Acorn as Jean-Michel, Lily Steven as Anne, Rich Allegretto as Dindon, Maureen Brennan as Marie, and James Darrah as Albin Photo courtesy of Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston

The show is a bit lengthy, but delivers more than its share of laughs from the dynamic and charismatic cast.  With pizzazz and heart, Reagle Music Theater of Greater Boston presents their final musical of the summer, “La Cage Aux Folles” through Sunday, August 18 at the Robinson Theatre, 617 Lexington Street in Waltham, Massachusetts.

Click here for more information and tickets.  Follow Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston on Twitter and Facebook for upcoming events and more.

Boston Camerata’s Artistic Director Anne Azema talks Fortune and greed in classic satire ‘The Tale of Fauvel: A Political Fable from Medieval France’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

With a dose of comedy and memorable music, The Boston Camerata kicks off its 64th season with an enduring satire on hypocrisy, abuse, and greed called The Tale of Fauvel: A Political Fable from Medieval France on Sunday, October 28 at the First Church of Boston at 4 p.m.  Based on a 14th century poem the Roman de Fauvel, this compelling piece focuses on corrupt rulers and the effect they have on society.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

 

The Boston Camerata’s Artistic Director Anne Azema portrays Fortune in this political fable.  She describes her pivotal role, the show’s contemporary significance, and plans for the future.

Sleepless Critic:  You took on the role of Fortune in Tale of Fauvel: A Political Fable from Medieval France. No doubt Fortune must play a powerful role in this piece.

Anne Azema:  Fortune or Lady Luck, a kind of pagan Goddess surviving into the Christian Middle Ages, is a powerful presence and presented as a female in medieval literature. According to the Carmina Burana text, she holds the world in her hands, sits on her wheel, will raise some and crush others – and will leave you shirtless, with a bare back.  Fauvel, the Orange-Maned Horse, has put in his mind to conquer the entire world by wooing and then marrying Fortune.  Little does he know Fortune’s answer to his courtship is a severe put-down.

SC:  This show is a satire, but it carries a contemporary significance ahead of the midterm elections.

AA:  Fauvel began Camerata’s long series of story-telling programs, an effort that continues to this day.  I think Fauvel’s truculent criticism of hypocrisy, abuse, and greed in public life continues to be as relevant as the headlines in today’s newspapers. Some of the lines from 1310 seem so relevant, it will give you shivers.

Anne Azema and Shira Kammen Courtesy of The Boston Camerata
Director Emeritus and narrator Joel Cohen Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata
Timothy Leigh Evans as Fauvel Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata
Michael Barrett, voices Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata
Steve Lundahl, winds Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata
Shira Kammen on vielle, harp Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata

Steve Lundahl, winds Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata
Shira Kammen on vielle, harp Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata
Michael Barrett, voices Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata
Timothy Leigh Evans as Fauvel Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata
Director Emeritus and narrator Joel Cohen Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata
Anne Azema and Shira Kammen Courtesy of The Boston Camerata

SC:  What was it like working with the cast?

AA:  A complete joy!  Our core team has performed this piece in various configurations before.  Aside from our three singers, we will have two instrumentalists and a narrator, who will share, in irreverent English verse, the adventure of our Horse, Fauvel.

We are also happy to include Longy School of Music of Bard College students and Brandeis students.  They will all take part in the revels of Fauvel’s Wedding Night!

SC:  What inspired you to bring it to the Boston Camerata stage this season?

AA:  Its manuscript source is interesting on many levels so it is well known both to musicians and literary types who have an interest in early repertoires.  It’s a vehement diatribe in verse against the abuse of power in Paris of 1310, but there is a visual aspect to the book which includes beautiful illuminated miniatures. The music, an anthology so to speak, of varied genre and style of pieces, were songs that were circulating in Paris at the time.  They were either recycled from other sources to fit the narrative or composed to illustrate the purpose.

Camerata developed a first version of Fauvel in the 90s as a commission for Warner/Erato.  Within the Boston Camerata’s repertoire are programs both recently created and ‘classic’. Our Fauvel falls into this latter category. We are delighted this production continues to be in demand both here and in Europe.

SC:  What sort of music will this show offer?

AA:  Written many centuries ago but very accessible, the music is direct and acoustical.  It’s a mixture of voice(s) and instruments in a small setting. The public is close to the performers and has an ‘organic’ access to them.  The trademark to our performances is a blend of spontaneity, energy, and emotional commitment with careful research and scholarship.

SC:  Though this show has its moments of humor, this piece is message-driven. What is the best reason you think people should see this show?

In the end, I believe what is important is spending an entertaining hour or more together. Although the music is seven centuries old, it is totally enjoyable.  Its beauty and energy will bring you to another powerful place and frankly, speaking of humour and satire, we all need to blow off a little steam in this highly fraught moment.

Boston Camerata Fauvel (2)

The cast in action. Photo courtesy of the Boston Camerata

 

SC:  Boston Camerata’s 64th season boasts a wonderful lineup including Christmas performances Puer Natus Est: A Medieval Christmas and Gloria! An Italian Christmas in December. How do you select each season’s performances?

AA:  My choices are driven by my personal interests, the teams we have, the repertory book we want to keep alive, and by our mission to create new programs combined with touring and recording demands. The idea is to keep us and our audiences alert, perky, and open to new experiences.

SC:   I understand you are also a soloist, often writing your own pieces, touring, or recording. Please tell me about that.

I just returned from touring Canada with a One Woman Show, a show which presents music of the 12th and 13th century. These recitals, alone or with colleagues, offer a different way of connecting with the public and demand a deeper relationship with the music.

SC:  What work you are currently working on?

AA:  I will continue to look at narratives/storytelling and prepare several recording and media projects in the coming seasons.  Besides our medieval shows, we’ve been involved in early American music. We are also working on the release of our Naxos CD recorded last season in the context of a Canadian, American, and Dutch project. We recorded The Harmonia Mundi CD in September and that will contain some powerful, motivating American songs of resistance and rebellion!

For one day only, The Boston Camerata presents The Tale of Fauvel: A Political Fable from Medieval France on Sunday, October 28 at the First Church of Boston at 4 p.m.  Click here for more information and tickets and be sure to follow The Boston Camerata on Facebook for all their latest news.