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REVIEW: Domestic bliss takes a spooky turn in Sullivan Rep’s immersive ‘Blithe Spirit’

Posted on October 30, 2024 by The Sleepless Critic

It is much more interesting to feel part of the dinner party.

Surrounded by a glowing fireplace and mantel, a grandfather clock, a vintage piano, stained glass doors and a Victrola inside a cozy living room, Sullivan Rep truly sets the stage for an immersive experience. As house guests, audience members are strategically placed without a bad seat in the house to become an intimate observer in this enclosed space.

In light of the 125^th anniversary of Noel Coward’s plays directed by Dan Sullivan, Sullivan Rep performed Noel Coward’s haunting comedy Blithe Spirit live and in person from October 16 through October 26 live and in person at the Women’s Club of Newton Highlands in Newton, Massachusetts. The three act production was 2 hours and 40 minutes with an 20 minute intermission. Click here for more information and for more on Sullivan Rep’s future events.

of Sullivan Rep’s ‘Blithe Spirit’ Photo credit to Sullivan Rep

Though Blithe Spirit is partially an otherworldly experience, it is also a comedy on marriage and much more. Set in the early 1940’s, Robert Orzalli as novelist Charles and Melissa Paz as Ruth are a well to do married couple who decide to hold a dinner party with guests Brian Higgins as dubious Dr. Bradman and Carly Evans as distinctively merry Mrs. Bradman and a séance featuring Catherine Lee Christie as medium Madame Acarti. The two couples are skeptical and consider it entertainment until something goes eerily awry.

Brian Higgins, Melissa Paz, Catherine Lee, Robert Orzalli and Carly Evans in Sullivan Rep’s ‘Blithe Spirit’ Photo credit to Sullivan Rep

Blithe Spirit is helmed by a supremely capable cast. With an eccentric and enthusiastic delivery selectively rolling her R’s in a singsong lilt, Catherine Lee is a captivating scene stealer as Madame Acarti. In bright purple stockings and distinct boots, Lee humorously and masterfully encapsulates Madame Acarti infusing her subtle and unique idiosyncrasies into her daily mannerisms. A particularly fascinating highlight is Lee’s kicks and peculiar dances as she attempts to tap into the spirit world.

Catherine Lee as Madame Acardi in Sullivan Rep’s ‘Blithe Spirit’ Photo credit to Sullivan Rep

Robert Orzalli as sophisticated intellectual Charles shares an elusive tension with his new wife Ruth portrayed by Melissa Paz. They seem a happy couple and supremely cordial at first, but the mood becomes strained when Ruth asks Charles about his late wife. Logical, matter of fact and persistent, Paz also depicts Ruth with an underlying anxiety in her demure mannerisms as Charles evaluates his late wife mostly on her flaws.

Robert Orzalli in Sullivan Rep’s ‘Blithe Spirit’ Photo credit to Sullivan Rep

In silver from head to toe in Bridget Sullivan’s amazing hair and makeup design, Janis Hudson portrays youthful, spontaneous, and confident Elvira, Charles’s late first wife. Noel Coward’s dialogue can be complicated to pull off because it often contains overlapping and parallel conversations. To see these separate relationships and snappy conversations so distinctly articulated with sharp comedic timing especially between Orzalli, Paz, and Hudson is quite a feat. Ozalli’s Charles is refined, a bit narcissistic and is quite enjoying the attention while comically navigating these conversations. Blithe Spirit is about domestic bliss and dysfunction simultaneously and it is both fascinating and amusing to see how this trio pushes each other’s buttons and sparks fly in such an intimate setting.

Silk gowns and gloves, tuxedos, pearls, and diamonds are just a part of the Dan Sullivan’s primarily elegant costume design. Paul Roach’s sound design features popular music of the time and a key component in some of the production’s clever special effects with Eric Fox’s mood infused lighting.

Melissa Paz and Robert Orzalli in Sullivan Rep’s ‘Blithe Spirit’ Photo credit to Sullivan Rep

Blithe Spirit is a bit lengthy, but the suspense certainly builds in a darkly comical way and contains a few powerful twists and lasting observations about love and marriage before it brings this production to its wild conclusion.

Sullivan Rep performed Noel Coward’s haunting comedy Blithe Spirit live and in person from October 16 through October 26 live and in person at the Women’s Club of Newton Highlands in Newton, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for more on Sullivan Rep’s future events.

REVIEW: Greater Boston Stage Company gets spooky with ‘We Had a Girl Before You’

Posted on October 29, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

Just in time for Halloween, Greater Boston Stage Company stages one creepy ghost story.

Taking a cue from the success of last year’s one man show, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Greater Boston Stage Company decided to draw from a few classic and haunting tales for this one woman show, We Had A Girl Before You.

Directed by Weylin Symes, Greater Boston Stage Company presents Trevor Schmidt’s We Had A Girl Before You live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA through Sunday, November 5. It is 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Annie Barbour in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘We Had a Girl Before You’ Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Wearing spectacles and with hair pulled back in a tight bun is just one of Annie Barbour’s many personas as she depicts Edwina Trout, a lonely and inquisitive woman who embarks on an ardent journey to work as a lady’s companion. Longing for love and a sense of belonging, she travels with hope on a dangerous journey to Wichham Manor.

Kathy Monthei’s gloomy and effective set boasts a distant and lit manor on a high hill, a large full moon, a wide staircase, a veiled and translucent black curtain, and bronze-like etchings on the walls with a built in crawl space. The show relies a great deal on David Remidios’s moody sound design and spontaneous special effects for a few jump scares along the way.

Annie Barbour not only depicts Edwina Trout, but a number of unsavory characters on her journey such as a gruff and surly barmaid and an abusive and resentful teacher. The physical prowess that Barbour carries is substantial, but she handles it while exacting accents, mannerism, and conversations varying from a dark scowl to a hypnotic stare. Trout is far more complex of a part than it seems and Barbour handles these variations of temperament believably. ‘We Had a Girl Before You’ is not as strong of a story as a classic tale of ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,’ but it contains enough chilling content and wily twists that make for an interesting day at the theatre.

Greater Boston Stage Company presents Trevor Schmidt’s We Had A Girl Before You live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA through Sunday, November 5. It is 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: Imaginary Beasts conjures a boisterous ‘The Spider and the Fly’

Posted on October 29, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

With a collection of zany characters such as a Moth, a Praying Mantis, a Gossamer Fairy, Figment, a Land Octopus, and a sleepy constable named Bluebottle, it is clear that The Spider and the Fly has no shortage of zealous imagination.

With so many productions that rely on the zip and zing of digital effects, CGI, and AI, it is exhilarating to see director Matthew Woods solely rely on homespun creativity and audience interaction to bring to life a vivid and unpredictable gothic children’s tale.

Imaginary Beasts ‘The Spider and the Fly’ cast Photo by Matthew Woods

Directed artfully by Matthew Woods, Imaginary Beasts presents live and in person Kiki Samko and Matthew Woods’s The Spider and the Fly or the Tangled Web (a gothic pantomime) through October 29 live and in person at Chelsea Theatre Works in Chelsea, Massachusetts. The show is one hour and 40 minutes with a 10 minute intermission and is recommended for children 5 and up. Click here for more information and for tickets that are quickly selling out.

Blending vintage with the contemporary, The Spider and the Fly is quite the inquisitive adventure with lots of high jinks, scheming, plotting, sleuthing, and memorable and poetic dialogue that delivers a meaningful message about inspiration, friendship, and doing what is right. A panto is a form of wintertime family entertainment in the UK that weaves in puns, wordplay, jokes, and more. The Spider and the Fly is somewhat a panto within a panto as the cast embarks on an ardent journey to inspire a writer inside the writer’s own head.

Brooks Reeves as King Cumbercrown in Imaginary Beasts ‘The Spider and the Fly’ Photo by Matthew Woods

Brooks Reeves relishes in the part of King Cumbercrown who will stop at nothing to stop the Panto from happening, even if it means corrupting everyone in his path. Reeves is up to no good and his scheming and crafty behavior is such fun to watch as Reeves’s blue face scowls and sneers at the any sign of happiness and joy behind hypno spiral goggles.

The black and purple painted set design by Jason Taschereau has a vintage and mesmerizing quality while Cotton-Talbot-Minkin’s captivating and colorful costumes exude a gothic, fanciful and vintage edge with a dash of steam punk. As the look is inspired by silent films, outrageous patterns combine with bow ties, top hats, sparkling converse sneakers, lace, corduroy, pearls, flowered shoes and boots. Though it is gothic, it is not scary, but creative, inviting, and imaginative.

Laura Detwiler as the Great Author and Brooks Reeves as King Cumbercrown in Imaginary Beasts ‘The Spider and The Fly’ Photo by Matthew Woods

The continual audience engagement fuels this wild tale that does meander and veer off course occasionally, but it is difficult to notice with such a lively cast of characters that weave in some random contemporary pop and winking adult references. The Wednesday dance challenge, Rhianna, and random television show references are just a few examples.

Jamie Semel as Young Woodby and Evan Turissini as Madame Bijou in Imaginary Beasts ‘The Spider and the Fly’

Some of the cast depicts more than one role. Evan Turissini is all drama and also relishes in the part of lovelorn, flirty, and attention-seeking Madame Bijou, especially while vying for the attention of Bluebottle, portrayed with British flair by Colin McIntire. Sophia Yael Koevary as Daisy Mae and Jamie Semel as Young Woodby share some sweet scenes. With choreographer Laura Detwiler’s dynamic choreography, Camille Charlier as the Gossamer Fairy and Lindsay Eagle as The Ghost of Mary Whosie-Whatsit perform a harmonious rendition of Mills Brothers’ The Glow Worm. Another memorable tune comes straight from the audience as the cast invites the crowd to believe in a spark, depicted by Erin FM and navigated by Beth Owens.

For a show about inspiration, The Spider and the Fly doesn’t need much coaching as it delves into this exciting production with a quick pace with lots of heart.

Imaginary Beasts presents live and in person Kiki Samko and Matthew Woods’s The Spider and the Fly or the Tangled Web (a gothic pantomime) through October 29 at Chelsea Theatre Works in Chelsea, Massachusetts. The show is one hour and 40 minutes with a 10 minute intermission and is recommended for children 5 and up. Click here for more information and for tickets that are quickly selling out.

REVIEW: Between laughter and rage, the Huntington Theatre, Alliance Theatre, and Front Porch Arts Collective’s leaves food for thought with ‘Fat Ham’

Posted on October 25, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

Whether in a kingdom or a small town, rumors still fly.

However, at this small town barbeque and with the audience as small town witnesses, Juicy has to overcome more than a Fat Ham to make things right within his wild and dysfunctional family.

Based partially on Shakespeare’s classic production Hamlet and conscientiously directed by Stevie Walker-Webb, the Huntington Theatre in association with Alliance Theatre and Front Porch Arts Collective presents James IJames’s semi-interactive dramedy Fat Ham through Sunday, October 29 live and in person at Calderwood Pavilion in Boston, MA. This Pulitzer prize-winning show is 90 minutes with no intermission and contains mature themes and strong language. Click here for more information and tickets.

Marshall W. Mabry IV, Lau’rie Roach. The Huntington’s Fat Ham by James Ijames. Directed by Stevie Walker-Webb. Photo by T Charles Erickson.

What is refreshing about this contemporary iteration of Hamlet is not only is it much more of a comedy than a tragedy, but it also roots itself far more into the family dynamic than even Shakespeare portrayed. Watching Hamlet, one assumes that the king and his son had a traditional and loving father-son relationship. What if it everything was far more complicated? What if the father is not the model dad that a child grows to admire? Fat Ham bears a resemblance to the classic production in key plot points, but then flips the script and transitions into its own entity that delves into the cycle of intergenerational trauma swinging from ruthless, creepy and suspenseful to not taking itself too seriously.

Rather than Hamlet standing for Juicy, the metaphorical star of this production is just what one roasts during a barbecue, a fat pig as a grill takes center stage. However, there is a struggle of who is king of this house as Juicy’s father has just died and Juicy’s uncle suspiciously soon after marries Juicy’s mom, Tedra.

Victoria Omoregie, Thomika Marie Bridwell, Lau’rie Roach, Amar Atkins, Marshall W. Mabry IV. The Huntington’s Fat Ham by James Ijames. Directed by Stevie Walker-Webb. Photo by T Charles Erickson.

Fat Ham is humorously set in ‘Virginia or Maryland or Tennessee’ and in a small town where gossip travels fast. Luciana Stecconi’s working class set design boasts tiny, multi-functional and mood setting white lights that adorn a large tree on a dilapidated back porch strewn with arbitrary clothes hanging on a disheveled clothesline. Baby shower balloons, a tire swing, grill and a fire pit surround a half decorated picnic table and chairs. Costume designer Celeste Jennings leans on frenetic colors and patterns to accentuate the essence of each character. Aubrey Dube’s rich sound design, Xiangfu Xiao’s sharp lighting, and Evan Northrup’s amazing illusion design all team up to illustrate some startling, eerie, foreboding, and pivotal revelations.

Marshall W. Mabry IV. The Huntington’s Fat Ham by James Ijames. Directed by Stevie Walker-Webb. Photo by T Charles Erickson.

In some key ways, Fat Ham’s cast improves on the Shakespeare’s classic play and Ijames diligently exposes the hypocrisy of each character. The casting is also particularly astute as Juicy, depicted with timid and burdened inquisitiveness by Marshall W. Mabry IV and Lau’rie Roach portrays lively and wisecracking cousin Tio who buries insightfulness in raunchy humor. Ebony Marshall-Oliver as self centered Tedra still shares a nurturing and sympathetic rapport with Mabry while flaunting spicy swagger with Vincent Ernest Siders as Rev/Pap. A particular scene in which Marshall-Oliver and Mabry both shine is a dynamic musical interlude that shows off their individual charisma and prowess.

James T. Alfred, Ebony Marshall-Oliver, Victoria Omoregie, Thomika Marie Bridwell. The Huntington’s Fat Ham by James Ijames. Directed by Stevie Walker-Webb. Photo by T Charles Erickson.

Vincent Ernest Siders stepped in as Rev/Pap and punctuates his performance with a domineering sneer as well as savage and manipulative taunting. Victoria Omoregie as Opal and Thomika Marie Bridwell as Rabby deliver a relatable and hilarious mother-daughter relationship while Amar Atkins bears his own burdens as Opal’s seemingly straight laced brother Larry.

Sometimes it takes something big for life to change. Fat Ham explores overcoming betrayal and one’s supposed lot in life against all odds to forge a new path in a crazy world.

REVIEW: In Company Theatre’s ‘Misery,’ fandom takes a dark turn

Posted on October 19, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

Think of something so exciting and beloved to you that it may even teeter beyond reason.

To Annie Wilkes, a particular book series by Paul Sheldon is so real to her and brings immense joy to her lonely existence. That is until she encounters that author face to face.

Sharply directed by Michael Hammond on the eve of Stephen King’s 50^th anniversary as an author, The Company Theatre presents Stephen King’s Misery by William Goldman live and in person at the Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts through October 29. The show is not for children. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Company Theatre presents ‘Misery’ Carol Laing Stearns as Annie Wilkes and Joe Siriani as Paul Sheldon Photo by Zoe Bradford

Fear not.

Misery is written by Stephen King, but is much more of a psychological thriller than horror, with only a few squeamish exceptions.

King’s well known books such as The Shining, Carrie, Pet Cemetery, Salem’s Lot and It are tales that might conjure up a nightmare or two, but Misery rides much more on tension than gore. It also could stand as a personal account for King. Though the book takes place in snowy Colorado, director Michael Hammond wisely added a more personal touch by moving the production to fellow New England state Maine where several of King’s novels are set and where King himself resides. Oh, and Misery is also about an author and his number one fan.

Aside from being a horror mastermind, King is an intuitive observer of the dark recesses of the human condition which is one of the keys to his long term success. It is wonderfully evident in The Body (King’s novella that became the film, Stand by Me), The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, and Hearts in Atlantis. Misery does not address supernatural or mythical monsters, but is a cautionary tale of obsession, loneliness, isolation and infamy while also delving into two characters tied together by literature deep in the woods of Silver Creek, Maine.

Company Theatre presents ‘Misery’ with Joe Siriani as Paul Sheldon Photo by Zoe Bradford

Misery is also popular as the acclaimed film that shot first time leading actress Kathy Bates to stardom and to her first Academy Award in 1990. Famous novelist Paul Sheldon, portrayed by James Caan, gets into a car crash in a snow storm. Former nurse Annie Wilkes, portrayed by Kathy Bates, rescues him and takes him to her remote cabin to recover. Buster, depicted by Richard Farnsworth, is investigating Paul Sheldon’s mysterious disappearance.

A trio of pivotal actors drives this intense and mysterious tale led by Carol Laing Stearns as Annie Wilkes. King drew inspiration from a real person for Wilkes and Stearns makes confiding, matronly, condescending and delusional Annie Wilkes her own, though Stearns’s drawl and some inflections resemble Bates’s depiction. Stearns delivers a chilling performance as she partakes in psychological gymnastics with Joe Siriani as famed author Paul Sheldon. The two have potent adversarial chemistry and though tough guy James Caan was known for his powerful and fierce acting roles, Joe Siriani depicts Paul Sheldon as a more sympathetic, self effacing, yet moody character. A particular highlight is Stearns and Siriani’s darkly humorous depiction of Sheldon’s agonizing writing process which surely drew on King’s own experiences and Stearns’s quick thinking in handling a technical issue. Peter S. Adams amplifies the production’s dire tension as suspicious, yet affable Buster who pops in from time to time.

The Company Theatre presents ‘Misery’ with Carol Laing Stearns as Annie WIlkes and John Stamos as Barkley

With weathered floral wallpaper, a large wooden cross, vintage candelabra, and dark floor paneling, set designer Ryan Barrow reflects Wilkes’s fondness for the past in a detailed, rustic, dilapidated and functional remote cabin with complete front porch surrounded by evergreen trees. Scattered about the cabin are Easter eggs from the book and film including a couple of pig statues in the dining room and bedroom. Dean Palmer Jr’s dynamic lighting demonstrates not only extreme weather conditions and the passage of time through a secluded window, but a creepy foreboding subtly lurking throughout the production. Sally Ashton Forrest’s darkly humorous sound design is peppered with vintage classic tunes that articulate each scene and along with Cathy Torrey’s regional costume design including plaids and boots and realistic makeup, these elements complete the stark isolation prevalent in the deep woods of Maine.

As a book lover, writer, and someone who has loved something that teeters beyond reason, Stephen King’s Misery is a suspenseful and dark tale of what happens when that love goes awry.

Sharply directed by Michael Hammond on the eve of Stephen King’s 50^th anniversary as an author, The Company Theatre presents Stephen King’s Misery by William Goldman live and in person at the Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts through October 29. The show is not for children. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ a family treat and delivering more surprises than things that go bump in the night

Posted on November 4, 2022 by The Sleepless Critic

Under a glimmering moon, fog rolls in as a candle burns.

Near a tattered fence and curtains behind a pedestal table sits The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’s author Washington Irving, portrayed by Boston-based actor Paul Melendy. Poised to share his gothic novel, Washington Irving is just one of several personas Melendy charismatically manifests for Greater Boston Stage Company’s semi-interactive, one man performance of Halloween classic, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.

Paul Melendy in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios

With lively direction by Weylin Symes, Paul Melendy aptly bares the weight of this local, legendary, and family-friendly tale live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts as well as virtually through Sunday, November 6. This show is just under 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.

Already proving to be a wonderful talent in Greater Boston Stage productions such as The 39 Steps and Miss Holmes Returns, Paul Melendy captures the spirit of Sleepy Hollow through a frenzy of distinct personalities, rapid fire mannerisms, and occasional scares. This version has a historical and contemporary context, delivering more family- friendly and comedic content than a fright fest.

Melendy’s Icabod Crane is an eccentric, bumbling, and polite schoolmaster in love with the lovely Katrina and sets out to impress her and her family, but rumor has it that something ghostly just might be lurking through Sleepy Hollow. Feeding off the audience while drawing comedic inspiration and wide- eyed vigor reminiscent of Jim Carrey or Jerry Lewis, Melendy’s pliable features transform into a number of characters ranging from the elegant Katrina to a tough guy New Yorker to the mysterious Mister Knickerbocker. A cross between a recollection and a retelling, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow treats the audience to an assortment of dynamic characters who roam through this secluded valley along the Hudson River.

Melendy is an animated and quick-witted storyteller on this partially introspective journey as David Remedios’s chilling sound effects highlighted by a wild horse whinnying, Katy Monthel’s haunting scenic design, and Deirdre Gerrard’s eerie lighting elevate the production’s mysterious and uneasy tone. Add Melendy’s exuberance to the mix and audiences are in for an enjoyable ride.

The cast and creative team for Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ Photo courtesy of Nile Scott Studios

Greater Boston Stage Company presents The Legend of Sleepy Hollow live and in person in Stoneham, Massachusetts as well as virtually through Sunday, November 6. This show is just under 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.

REVIEW: In these tough times, escape down Greater Boston Stage Company’s zany production of Hitchcock’s ‘The 39 Steps’

Posted on October 5, 2021 by The Sleepless Critic

What are the 39 Steps?

Like so many Hitchcock creations, it’s complicated. However, though this Hitchcock production is presented during Halloween season, please don’t let that scare you away. The 39 Steps is based on John Buchan’s 1915 thriller novel by the same name, was adapted by Alfred Hitchcock into a classic British film in 1935, and adapted to the stage by Patrick Barlow. Though The 39 steps will certainly keep the audience on its toes, it has more than its share of comedic moments sure to deliver more laughter than frights.

Greater Boston Stage Company joyfully returned indoors to present Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller comedy mystery, The 39 Steps which continues through Sunday, October 10 at the Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA. The show runs approximately 2 hours and 15 min including an intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.

From L to R: KP Powell, Russell Garrett, Paul Melendy, and Grace Experience in ‘The 39 Steps’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company

Directed imaginatively by llyse Robbins, this dynamic crime noir boasts plenty of vintage flair as well as adventure, romance, comedy, and suspense. However, what really makes this show such fun is that it doesn’t take itself too seriously.

KP Powell and Paul Melendy in ‘The 39 Steps’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company

The 39 Steps pay tribute to Hitchcock’s body of works with a catchy story while spoofing some of his most famous works along the way. Vertigo and Rear Window is just a portion of the Hitchcock Easter eggs run amok in this production. Some of the dark and witty humor from The 39 Steps call to mind humor likened to other murder mystery comedy classics including Clue.

Shelley Barish’s modest and multi-functional set design, Daisy Long’s mercurial lighting, and Andrew Duncan Will’s exceptional, carefully-timed sound effects play a pivotal role in some of the production’s most humorous scenes. Moveable set pieces transform each scene and costume designer Rachel Padula-Shufelt’s colorful gowns, dynamic wigs, and tweed and paisley suits enliven the production’s vintage noir atmosphere.

Taking on this production was no small feat for its four stellar actors who depict a total of 150 characters. However, they were more than up for the task as they sometimes cleverly and quite literally switch roles at the drop of a hat or within seconds. With impeccable timing and snappy chemistry, these dynamic performers bring to life a variety of accents and deliver a great deal of physical comedy while delivering sharp and at times quirky dialogue.

Russell Garett, KP Powell, Grace Experience, and Paul Melendy in a makeshift car in ‘The 39 Steps’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company

Paul Melendy portrays Richard Hannay with a mix of bumbling and debonair charm. Set in Scotland, he is a man on the run after a chance encounter with a femme fatale in all her forms by Grace Experience, leading to a murder mystery. What Grace Experience does particularly well is though she depicts each character distinctly, they all have the same familiar strength, resourcefulness, and truthfulness as the tale unfolds. With Russell Garrett and KP Powell quite often after Hannay, it’s a madcap adventure with high jinx galore and likable characters that range from a ludicrous man with ridiculous eyebrows to a flirtatious and outspoken innkeeper. Some of the scenes are arbitrary and self aware and a couple of gags get a bit repetitive, yet fit right into the production’s silly charm.

From L to R: Russell Garrett, Paul Melendy, Grace Experience, and KP Powell in ‘The 39 Steps’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company

Take a break from these difficult times and escape down Greater Boston Stage Company’s unconventional, madcap, and lighthearted The 39 Steps continuing through Sunday, October 10. Click here for more information, tickets, and for a closer look at Greater Boston’s Stage Company’s 22nd season.

REVIEW: Magic, mischief, and classic romantic comedy rule Company Theatre’s wondrous ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’

Posted on October 12, 2019 by The Sleepless Critic

It is not difficult to see why A Midsummer Night’s Dream is one of Shakespeare’s most performed and beloved plays. It is everything but tragic. It features magic, mischief, romantic comedy, action, and under a harvest moon, a haunting twist perfect for October and Halloween.

This particular play holds historical significance to the Company Theatre because it was the first show they ever produced 40 years ago when they were working with very little money. Company Theatre’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream is an opportunity to transform the production into what they have always hoped it to be and what a dream it is.

Cleverly directed by Steve Dooner, Company Theatre’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream continues through Sunday, October 20 at the Company Theatre in Norwell, Massachusetts. Click here for a closer look at show and here for more information and tickets.

Company Theatres A Midsummer Nights Dream set and cast

Samantha McMahon as Queen Titania and fairies Photo courtesy of the Company Theatre

Under a gigantic moon, Ryan Barrow’s enchanting set design and Zoe Bradford’s beautiful art design unleash a picturesque, woodland world full of frolicking fairies, sword fights, romance, and more surrounded by a moving and glittering landscape. The show’s fanciful Ravel and Mendelssohn-infused soundtrack, some high flying special effects, Paula Ninestein and Anna Splitz’s authentic costumes with a bit of a contemporary edge, and Ethan R. Jones’s stirring lighting design seamlessly combine to enhance this captivating work.

Company Theatre A Midsummer Nights Dream Theseus and Hippolyta

Dan Kelly as Theseus and Sarah Dewey as Hippolyta Photo courtesy of the Company Theatre

A Midsummer Night’s Dream has multiple story lines, but the cast translates Shakespeare’s work with gravitas and humor. For those hesitant about understanding Shakespeare’s work, this production is lively, lighthearted, and manageable to follow.

Part play within a play, part intrigue, part comedy, and part mystery, A Midsummer Night’s Dream essentially explores love in all of its forms from unrequited to true love to romantic comedy to love potions. This production is the source of some of Shakespeare’s most famous reflections on love such as “True love does not see with the eyes, but the mind,” and “The course of true love never did run smooth.” The show’s witty dialogue is a wonderful reminder that Shakespeare’s story lines are timeless and can translate into any contemporary story line.

Though A Midsummer Night’s Dream boasts a dignified and dynamic cast, it also excels at improvisation, hilarity, and absurdity. Dan Kelly is a regal and charismatic Theseus and Sarah Dewey a radiant Hippolyta. They glide onstage like today’s royal family. Declan Dunn delivers a remarkable performance as wild, mischievous, and mighty Puck and his conspiring moments with Jermaine Murray as King Oberon make for a clever and cunning pair.

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The women in this production are strong, beautiful, and fierce. Ariel Wigfall portrays sympathetic, yet courageous Hermia while raven-haired Joan Raube-Wilson is virtuous and stunning as Helena. Samantha McMahon is as glamorous as she is amusing as Queen Titania.

‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ also has a wealth of wonderful, improvisational moments. Suraj Ranhbhat as headstrong Demetrius, Bryant Marshall as Lysander, and especially Marco Zenelli as the energetic, bombastic, yet benevolent Nick Bottom along with his group of madcap, merry Mechanicals all demonstrate some excellent physical humor, improvisation, and zany comic relief. Where would today’s humor be without these classic comedic moments which stand as the foundation of what we are all laughing about today.

Company Theatre A Midsummer Nights Dream Mechanicals

From L to R: Marco Zanelli as Nick Bottom, Declan Dunn as Puck and Caroline Kautsire as Peter Quince

Company Theatre’s classic A Midsummer Night’s Dream continues through Sunday, October 20 at the Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts. Click here for more information, tickets, and how to support Company Theatre’s future. Also follow Company Theatre on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to learn all about their upcoming events.

REVIEW: Hingham Civic Music Theatre’s ‘Shrek the Musical’ an absolute treat for the whole family

Posted on October 27, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

Aaron Stolicker as Pinocchio, Catherine Bennis as Witch, and Hannah Ford as Sugar Plum Fairy

Nicole DiRuzza as Pig #1, Abby Randall as Pig #2, and Denise Feeney as Pig #3

Katie Duff as Mama Bear, Joel Leonard as Papa Bear, and Nolan McHugh as Baby Bear Photo courtesy of Pat Sherman/Hingham Civic Music Theatre

Hingham Civic Music Theatre’s fun-filled Shrek the Musical has all the earmarks of a delightful Halloween treat for the entire family. Some audience members were seeing double as the musical’s dynamic duo, Shrek and Donkey, were not only present onstage, but also in the crowd. In the spirit of the season, some children opted to dress as their favorite Shrek character, which is encouraged (though not required). This exciting production balances sweetness and hilarity through a few amusing tricks and special effects, which is all part of the story. However, what makes Shrek’s tale so enduring and lovable is its underlying authenticity. Underneath it all, life is best lived without a mask.

Chris DiOrio as Shrek Photo courtesy of Hingham Civic Music Theatre

Directed by Lisa Pratt, musically-directed by Mark Bono with choreography by Tara McSweeney Morrison, Hingham Civic Music Theatre continues its 69^th season with Shrek the Musical in its final weekend from Friday, October 27 through Sunday, October 29 at Hingham Town Hall in the Sanborn Theatre in Hingham, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets. Click here for a clip from the musical.

Through its richly-painted set pieces by Lisa Pratt and colorful, meticulous costumes by award-winning costumer, Kathryn Ridder, the visuals in Shrek the Musical are likened to the popular Dreamworks film adaptation, right down to the Gingerbread Man’s gumdrop buttons. However, having seen the film adaptation, Shrek, based on the book by William Steig, and the film’s many film sequels, Shrek the Musical expands the film’s premise, offering additional scenes and an upbeat, fanciful, rock-tinged soundtrack, composed by Jeanine Tesori. I’m a Believer by the Monkees is also included. Shrek’s real magic lies is its innovative ability to cleverly blend authenticity, sadness, adventure, and humor. Tesori’s soundtrack encapsulates this tone in songs such as Big Bright Beautiful World, a sometimes humorous number about strength in the face of adversity and loss. Debbie Rawson Stratton and Danny Hannafin as Mama and Papa Ogre offer a tender blend of impressive harmony as an adorable Young Shrek, portrayed by Nolan McHugh, looks on.

Shrek the Musical focuses on a lone, but not seemingly lonely green ogre portrayed with warmth, pensiveness, and gruff charisma by Chris DiOrio. Shrek lives a quiet life in a swamp until some of literature’s most beloved fairy tale creatures arrive, forcing him to embark on an epic quest to save life as he knows it.

Chris DiOrio steps right into Shrek’s quiet awkwardness and offers a softness in his quiet moments as well as an amusing ferocity when his temper flairs. Stubborn and humble, DiOrio is thrown for a loop when he meets Brendan Smith as Donkey, who keeps the energy kicking as a cheerful chatterbox. Their instant, snappy chemistry clearly demonstrates why they are a dynamic duo for the ages. A towering presence, Brendan offers a hint of Eddie Murphy’s iconic vocals combined with his own charm. A particular highlight is Brendan’s slick choreography and gravitas during a James Brown-style rendition of the song, Make a Move. Packed with familiar anecdotes and fairy tale references, Chris and Brendan also have some fun with their duet, The Travel Song.

Leslie DiOrio, Chris DiOrio’s real life wife, portrays bold, graceful, and idealistic Princess Fiona. Wearing a shining green renaissance gown, Leslie depicts Princess Fiona with grace, humility, and earnestness, especially in a many-faceted, tender rendition of I Know it’s Today. Chris and Leslie have a lively and sweet chemistry, even when they don’t see eye to eye. Chris DiOrio’s endearing version of If Words Fail is also not to be missed.

From his first appearance onstage, Anthony Light literally and figuratively takes his character, Lord Faquaad, to a whole new level. Absurd and hilarious, Anthony Light’s delusional arrogance and clever costuming is a treat, showing off his unapologetic pompousness in The Ballad of Faquaad, accompanied by the show stopping Duloc Dancers.

Brendan Smith as Donkey, Chris DiOrio as Shrek, Anthony Light as Lord Faquaad, and the Duloc Dancers: Halle Pratt, Molly McLellan, Nicole DiRuzza, Alex Huntington, Catherine Bennis, Hannah Ford, Denise Feeney, and Abbey Randall Photo courtesy of Pat Sherman/Hingham Civic Music Theatre

Hingham Civic Music Theatre has a few tricks up their sleeves by way of special effects as each cast member delivers their own wild, off-beat charm. With a large cast full of iconic fairy tale creatures including a magnificent dragon, a deceptive Pinocchio, Three Little Pigs, Witch, and a Gingerbread Man equipped with an uproarious squeal, the impressive cast is non-stop fun and never loses heart.

Hingham Civic Music Theatre presents Shrek the Musical with Facebook Friday Ticket discount special on Friday, October 27 at 7:30 p.m. Click here for discount details. A final evening performance will be held on Saturday, October 28 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday’s final matinee performance takes place on October 29 at 2 p.m. All shows are held at Hingham Town Hall, 210 Central Street in Hingham, Massachusetts.

Click here for further details, tickets, and how to support Hingham Civic Music Theatre. Be sure to follow Hingham Civic Music Theatre on Facebook for upcoming events and more.

Itamar Kubovy of modern dance troupe, ‘Pilobolus,’ discusses fascinating footwork and Celebrity Series of Boston return

Posted on October 24, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

Ever since Celebrity Series of Boston’s annual, free season opener Let’s Dance Boston at Dewey Square on September 13 featuring dancers that brought the audience to its feet, the 2017-18 has been a non-stop celebration. Adding to the excitement from Friday, October 27 through Sunday, October 29, international modern dance troupe, Pilobolus, returns to Boston to share their distinctive, always fascinating moves in Pilobolus Maximus: Beyond the Limits of Dance at the Boch Center Shubert Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets.

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Photo courtesy of Grant Halverson/Celebrity Series of Boston

Pilobolus has taken the stage in over sixty countries and thrilled audiences with television appearances at the Academy Awards, the Oprah Winfrey Show and the Olympics as well as made film appearances in Little Miss Sunshine, The Devil Wears Prada and Snakes on a Plane. Executive Producer of Pilobolus, Itamar Kubovy, discussed Pilobolus’s fascinating footwork, its unique name, and the troupe’s love for Boston.

Sleepless Critic: This is your 12th performance with Celebrity Series of Boston. You must know Boston pretty well.

Itamar Kubovy: We love performing in Boston and that’s not just lip service. We’ve always found our audience to teach us a huge amount about our work. The laughs, gasps, and paper rattling teach us about the work we are making. In Boston, we encounter a crowd that makes us better at what we do and allows us to sharpen our performances.

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From the program, ‘Branches’ Photo courtesy of Ben McKeown

SC: Pilobolus is named after speedy barnyard fungus. In the dance, I can see the symbolism behind the name. Is there an interesting story behind it?

IK: Jonathan Wolken, the co-founder who named the company, had a scientist dad studying the Pilobolus fungus in his biology lab, an organism about ¼ of an inch tall that grows in cow dung and has a large eye at its tip that always leans toward light. When the time is right to reproduce, the fungus shoots its head off of its body at the fastest acceleration known in nature. This alacrity and attraction to the light inspired Jonathan to name their first dance and the fledgling company after the phototropic fungus.

SC: It seems like a quite a physically demanding job for these dancers. What kind of routine keeps the dancers in shape and how do they best prepare for a performance?

IK: When our dancers are in the studio, they work 9 to 5 Monday through Friday. They are lifting each other and working with tremendous physical intensity for close to 40 hours a week. The additional prep involves body maintenance, stretching, group work, and yoga. Regarding the prep right before the show, we warm-up with an open curtain so the audience coming in watches the dancers move on the stage. Both the audience and dancers need some time to prepare and we try to share that time. It makes the show all the more exciting when the lights go down.

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International dance troupe, Pilobolus in Pilibolus Maximus: Beyond the Limits of Dance Photo courtesy of Grant Halverson

SC: I imagine live performances and sometimes dangerous stunts can hold some surprises every once in a while.

IK: They do, but the work these people do together day in and day out really limits the risk based on the trust they build between one another. Most importantly, these dancers know how to instantly adjust when something goes wrong. While we certainly have our moments of injury, we have a great deal of confidence going into every show.

From the program, ‘On the Nature of Things’ Photo courtesy of Ben McKeown

SC: Improvising is invaluable. How is trust developed between other members of the group?

IK: Trust is mysterious, but there is no doubt in my mind that the physical giving of one’s weight and balance to another person, literally putting yourself entirely in their hands over and over again speeds that process up. Some of the principals in which our process is based is the human physical connection by sharing, giving, and taking weight. Trust is a powerful by-product of caring touch.

From the program, ‘Echo in the Valley’ Photo courtesy of Ben McKeown

Pilobolus Maximus: Beyond the Limits of Dance will take the Boch Center Shubert Theatre stage at 265 Tremont Street in Boston, Massachusetts from Friday, October 27 through 29, as part of their national tour. A free, post artist performance artist talk moderated by Peter DiMuro of the Dance Complex will be held on opening night. Click here for more information and for tickets. Click here for more information on Celebrity Series of Boston, their full schedule, and how to support them during their 79^th season. Learn more about their season and get updates through Facebook and Twitter.