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REVIEW: Secrets and transformation in The Huntington’s funny and meditative ‘Purpose’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

A famous preacher father, an overstepping mother, a son earnestly and blindly searching for approval while the other son and narrator just wants to be left alone while a dinner is veering off the rails.

A photo may be worth a thousand words but this family portrait doesn’t nearly tell half the story in Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ Purpose.

Directed insightfully by Josiah Davis, The Huntington continues Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s Pulitzer prize-winning dramedy Purpose live and in person at Calderwood Pavilion in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, October 11. This elaborately-staged and multifaceted production contains some adult themes and runs approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes with one intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.

The cast of Purpose; directed by Josiah Davis; photo by Marc J Franklin
Purpose
September 10 – October 11, 2026

A glowing red light, reminiscent of a theatre ghost light, stands alone center stage as a crucial safelight in a photographer’s dark room. Here we meet Omari K. Chancellor as narrator and introspective Nazareth “Scootie” Jasper, a talented nature photographer who reflects on a tumultuous weekend visit with his famous and dysfunctional family in Chicago. Nazareth is most at home in his dark room and utilizes a wide array of photographs to share this increasingly eye opening story.

Omari K. Chancellor in Purpose; directed by Josiah Davis; photo by Marc J Franklin
Purpose
September 10 – October 11, 2026

Enhanced by Marika Kent’s rippling lighting, scenic designer Se Hyun Oh unveils the inside of the Jasper family’s functional modern luxury dual level home boasting high ceilings and a variety of textures and surfaces including finely-detailed bronze, wood, and stained glass door trim. It is so impressive that a collective gasp can be heard in the audience at first glance. Framed photos of impactful leaders such as Martin Luther King, Jr. hang on the wall and the finer details such as fingerprints on the door give the house a genuine authenticity.

Omari K. Chancellor, MarHadoo Effeh in Purpose; directed by Josiah Davis; photo by Marc J Franklin
Purpose
September 10 – October 11, 2026

Chancellor proves to be an engaging and humorous storyteller as Naz who believes his peace lies in nature and his family can be a sensory overload. However, Ugo Chukwu as Naz’s troubled brother, Solomon Jr. has been released from prison and Naz is joining his family to welcome his brother home.

Ugo Chukwu, Omari K. Chancellor in Purpose; directed by Josiah Davis; photo by Marc J Franklin
Purpose
September 10 – October 11, 2026

Shy and contemplative, Naz became close with Kalyne Ashley Coleman as lively and outspoken Aziza Houston during the pandemic and share an easygoing rapport. When Naz arrives at his family home and Aziza stops by, everyone has questions, especially from Phyllis Yvonne Stickney as Naz’s strong and inquisitive mother, Claudine…and this evening has not even gotten started yet. 

A hint…the tinkling silverware is deafening at dinner.

Omari K. Chancellor, Kalyne Ashley Coleman in Purpose; directed by Josiah Davis; photo by Marc J Franklin
Purpose
September 10 – October 11, 2026

Ezra Knight brings gravitas and charisma as famous orator and preacher Solomon Jasper displaying a complicated dynamic with Ugo Chukwu as earnest Solomon Jr. Chuckwu depicts a distinct sensitivity behind the outlandish ideas of yearning Solomon Jr., a man stumbling with a quiet desperation for approval any way he can find it. Knight MarHadoo Effeh stings as Solomon Jr.’s wife Morgan who is pretty much at the end of her rapidly fraying rope and Stickney’s Claudine is trying to make dinner a joyous occasion any way she knows how.

Ezra Knight in Purpose; directed by Josiah Davis; photo by Marc J Franklin
Purpose
September 10 – October 11, 2026

The cast boasts sharp and fluent comic timing, especially from Coleman as New Yorker Aziza. She is an amusing scene stealer brimming with charm and a lively personality while drawing keen observations. Not only standing out as the sole outside observer at the Jasper family home, but Coleman’s Aziza dazzles with multicolor hair and rambunctious clothing embellished by bright neon accents, just a glimpse of Celeste Jennings’s vibrant costume design.

This production is best enjoyed as each new plot development unfolds and the plot thickens many times over during the production.  While it has its humorous moments, it also meditates and philosophizes about life, faith, humanity and why things happen the way they do and what might have been explored in a memorable scene between Chancellor and Knight.

Ezra Knight, Omari K. Chancellor in Purpose; directed by Josiah Davis; photo by Marc J Franklin
Purpose
September 10 – October 11, 2026

Purpose tackles many issues while unraveling family secrets but it is mainly about a transforming family and the ways they are all losing direction in their lives…and how beekeeping fits in with its own story to tell.

The Huntington continues Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Purpose live and in person at Calderwood Pavilion in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, October 11. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Path of a trailblazing woman in Central Square Theater’s fascinating ‘Eleanor’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Many stories start with love but this one opens with betrayal.

Mark St. Germain’s Eleanor plants one foot inside the past and the other experiencing today’s world from the Rose Garden’s lush greenery in Hyde Park, New York where President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt are buried. Donning a classic stylish blue gown, hat and pearls by costumer Rachel Padula-Shufelt, Paula Plum delightfully embodies Eleanor Roosevelt who is more than ready to share her side of the story many years later.

Thoughtfully directed by Bryn Boice, Central Square Theater continues Mark St. Germain’s Eleanor live and in person at Central Square Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts extended through Sunday, October 11. This enlightening one-woman production boasts valuable captions and runs approximately 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Paula Plum in Central Square Theater’s ‘Eleanor’ Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Enhanced by Mackenzie Adamick’s serene sound design and light designer Karen Perlow’s warm and inviting tones, set and projection designer Justin LaHue recreates Hyde Park’s stately and peaceful Rose Garden on a tiered set which includes a birdbath and park bench utilized during the production. Dynamic projections enliven tall green hedges from sweatshops to vintage New York to ocean waves to a comprehensive and illuminated family tree.

Paula Plum in Central Square Theater’s ‘Eleanor’ Photo by Nile Scott Studios

The role of a First Lady is undoubtedly an uphill battle, especially a traveling one. Hub Theatre Company explored the distinctive plight of America’s First Ladies in their short play 46 Plays for America’s First Ladies. Eleanor Roosevelt was both a traveling and trailblazing First Lady who faced a wealth of challenges and stood up for her beliefs in the face of many forms of adversity.

Paula Plum in Central Square Theater’s ‘Eleanor’ Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Exuding determination, humility, humor and insecurity, Paula Plum remarkably engages the audience exacting Eleanor’s distinct mannerisms as well as her wisdom, quips, insights, anecdotes and recollections while tying in observations of today. Plum’s Eleanor is endearing, charismatic and funny while candidly sharing minor details such as her favorite song to stirring revelations about her past. It is a detailed and deeply personal account diving into her hardships growing up, criticisms throughout her life and her lack of self esteem and loneliness suspecting Franklin Roosevelt may not be what she expected.

Delving into domestic and political squabbles, the issues of the day, family dynamics, revelations, love, motherhood and much more, Plum seamlessly navigates Eleanor as well as other roles Eleanor recalls along the way including frank and cigar smoking Roosevelt secretary and New Yorker Louie Howe and Franklin Roosevelt’s opinionated mother with finesse and without distraction.  For example, never flummoxed and ever the professional, Plum, upon encountering boisterous rhythms just outside the theatre during the performance and without missing a cue, cleverly adlibbed whimsically as Eleanor, “Don’t you love the beat?”

Paula Plum in Central Square Theater’s ‘Eleanor’ Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Without being preachy or overtly political, Eleanor is a fascinating, educational, inspiring and enriching biographical memory play helmed by Paula Plum’s tremendous performance as Eleanor.  While Eleanor knows she has passed away, Plum breathes new life into Eleanor’s indomitable spirit and somehow this First Lady is here again.

Paula Plum in Central Square Theater’s Eleanor Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Central Square Theater continues Mark St. Germain’s Eleanor live and in person at Central Square Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts extended through Sunday, October 11. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  The wild pursuit of love and meaning in Gloucester’s Stage’s world premiere of ‘Dalloway:  First Love’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Who knew a sprawling tree would hold such meaning?

In the far off 1890 English countryside, Clarissa, deep in thought, is anticipating her 18th birthday cradled in a symbolic tree torn between coming of age and missing her late older sister. Like many literary heroines, she does not want to grow up or for her world to change as certain arrangements are being made behind the scenes as she longs to become a writer.

Fueled by Rebecca Bradshaw’s prognosticative direction, Gloucester Stage Company continues the world `premiere of Lindsay Joelle’s romantic dramedy, Dalloway:  First Love live and in person at Gloucester Stage in Gloucester, Massachusetts through Saturday, August 29.  Playwright Lindsay Joelle introduces this coming-of-age story-within-a-story production which runs approximately two hours with an intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Gloucester Stage Company’s world premiere production of “Dalloway”, written by Lindsay Joelle and directed by Rebecca Bradshaw. The play stars Josephine Moshiri Elwood as Clarisa Parry, Haley Dyana Schwartz as Sally Seton, Shobhit Piasa as Peter Walsh, and Jesse Garlick as The Slew. The production runs August 13 to August 29 at the Natti-Willsky Performance Center, 267 East Main Street in Gloucester, MA.

© 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869

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Dalloway First Love stands as a prequel to Virginia Wolff’s famous novel, Mrs. Dalloway and is also a somewhat modern take on a period piece.  I have not read Virginia Wolff’s work, but it does not seem necessary to read it in order to understand or appreciate this production.

 With subtle winks to the future of women, Dalloway First Love has one foot inside the world of 1890 and the other exploring women’s contemporary accomplishments.  As several suitors compete for Clarissa’s affections, Elwood’s Clarissa, while open to falling in love, dreams of a world with options. The famous English folk ballad, Scarborough Fair, also seems to also serve as a touchstone between classic and modern day interwoven into this period piece.

Gloucester Stage Company’s world premiere production of “Dalloway”, written by Lindsay Joelle and directed by Rebecca Bradshaw. The play stars Josephine Moshiri Elwood as Clarisa Parry, Haley Dyana Schwartz as Sally Seton, Shobhit Piasa as Peter Walsh, and Jesse Garlick as The Slew. The production runs August 13 to August 29 at the Natti-Willsky Performance Center, 267 East Main Street in Gloucester, MA.

© 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869

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Enhanced by Aubrey Dube’s soothing sound design, Scenic designer Kristin Loeffler draws from a rural landscape as this large and symbolic tree stands as the production’s centerpiece occasionally surrounded by a Victrola, dangling chandelier, decanter and dining room set.  Capitalized by Josephine Moshiri Elwood’s delicately detailed signature lilac gown, costumer Chelsea Kerl’s presents an elegant array of period pieces including puffy silhouette lace dresses as well as stately ties, button down coat and tails in velvet and pinstripes.

Bright eyed Josephine Moshiri Elwood is no stranger to period pieces having previously performed as vivacious Emma in Actors Shakespeare Company’s period play with a modern twist, Emma in 2024.  Elwood is in her element and displays charismatic charm and a way with words as pensive Clarissa, especially in a laugh out loud moment when she passionately jokes about being ravaged by gravity.  Daring, adventuresome, impressionable and somewhat naïve, Elwood’s Clarissa is an easy individual to root and become protective of as she shares her hopes and dreams apart from societal norms roaming her family’s Bourton estate.

Gloucester Stage Company’s world premiere production of “Dalloway”, written by Lindsay Joelle and directed by Rebecca Bradshaw. The play stars Josephine Moshiri Elwood as Clarisa Parry, Haley Dyana Schwartz as Sally Seton, Shobhit Piasa as Peter Walsh, and Jesse Garlick as The Slew. The production runs August 13 to August 29 at the Natti-Willsky Performance Center, 267 East Main Street in Gloucester, MA.

© 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869

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While Elwood shares genuine and unrefined chemistry with Shobhit Piasa as Clarissa’s boastful yet well meaning childhood chum Peter who longs for something more, it is Haley Dyana Schwartz as enigmatic, manipulative, shrewd and persistent Sally who indulges her hopes and is consistently nearby with an agenda all her own.  Schwartz is captivating as Sally who boasts a seemingly charismatic zest for life.  However, Peter is not to be underestimated.

Gloucester Stage Company’s world premiere production of “Dalloway”, written by Lindsay Joelle and directed by Rebecca Bradshaw. The play stars Josephine Moshiri Elwood as Clarisa Parry, Haley Dyana Schwartz as Sally Seton, Shobhit Piasa as Peter Walsh, and Jesse Garlick as The Slew. The production runs August 13 to August 29 at the Natti-Willsky Performance Center, 267 East Main Street in Gloucester, MA.

© 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869

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Jesse Garlick shows off his range and serves ample comic relief stepping into a few characters from egotistical and entitled to outlandish to humble and heroic as The Slew.

Gloucester Stage Company’s world premiere production of “Dalloway”, written by Lindsay Joelle and directed by Rebecca Bradshaw. The play stars Josephine Moshiri Elwood as Clarisa Parry, Haley Dyana Schwartz as Sally Seton, Shobhit Piasa as Peter Walsh, and Jesse Garlick as The Slew. The production runs August 13 to August 29 at the Natti-Willsky Performance Center, 267 East Main Street in Gloucester, MA.

© 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869

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Funny and wistful, Dalloway First Love also explores several themes such as grief, status, ambition, growing up, prejudice and discovery.  Though the production could be a bit tighter in its narrative, the production is at its best when it explores Clarissa’s profound introspectiveness discovering what will be her next step.

Gloucester Stage continues the world premiere of Lindsay Joelle’s romantic dramedy, Dalloway:  First Love live and in person at Gloucester Stage in Gloucester, Massachusetts through Saturday, August 29.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: North Shore Music Theatre’s ‘Rock of Ages’ packs big dreams and spectacle into daring wry rock nostalgia

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Break out the crimped hair, fishnets, rhinestones, pleather, mullets, mutton chops and more.  Rock of Ages rewinds the clock to the electric and hair-centric 80s.

Back when Rock of Ages was celebrating the tenth anniversary of its Broadway premiere in 2019, the Bourbon Room opened as a real bar and nightclub inspired by the legendary fictional bar and nightclub in jukebox musical Rock of Ages. Though it recently closed down, if it contained half the wild antics of this edgy musical, it would have been quite the trip.

With lively direction by Kevin P. Hill, hair-raising music direction by Peter Leigh-Nilsen, and rambunctiously choreographed by Sara Andreas, North Shore Music Theatre continues Rock of Ages live and in person at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts through Sunday, August 23. Unbridled and untamed, this suggestive and semi-interactive theatre in the round musical contains mature humor and content and the action is not limited to the stage.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

We’ve come a long way since the 80s and Rock of Ages serves as a reminder of how things have changed, especially for women.  A jukebox rock musical, Rock of Ages is best enjoyed as an extended MTV music video at a time back when music videos were mainly performed on the popular platform. The rock medleys have cheek, sass, abandon and air guitar. While the real world oozes with serious drama, Rock of Ages is meant as pure entertainment and the cast really sinks their teeth into each over the top character representing a freer and bolder time.

Packed with colorful characters doused with a mix of rock raunchiness and self aware humor, Rock of Ages holds a mirror up to the era of excess and distinct self expression.  Steering this club is Matt DaSilva who is impressive as Lonny, the Bourbon’s impulsive no-holds-barred manager, resident storyteller, and sometimes lewd yet fun loving narrator.  DaSilva’s strong vocals and penchant for dark, self-aware humor, pop culture references and musical commentary work well in a script that never takes itself too seriously.  In a blond beard and sunglasses which seem right out of 38 Special, Evan Harrington excellently delivers relaxed charm and dry humor as lovable Dennis Dupre, owner of the Bourbon Room.  DaSilva and Harrington share an easy rapport and an unabashed loyalty toward the Bourbon Room and rock and roll.

Evan Harrington (Dennis) and Matt DaSilva (Lonny) in “Rock of Ages” at Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre from August 12 – August 23, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

Part love story, part rebellion, and mostly power rock musical, Rock of Ages is set in 1987 on California’s Sunset Strip where idealistic small town girl Sherrie (Chelsea Williams) and guitar strumming dreamer Drew (EJ Dohring) long for stardom and are not sure where to start.  They set their sights inside the fledgling Bourbon Room, an aging nightclub and bar in danger of being shut down unless someone takes action.

Under neon and gleaming spotlights by José Santiago, Jeffrey D. Kmiec’s glitzy set design showcases a number of locations on the Sunset Strip lined with guitars on a jungle patterned rotating stage which includes the legendary Tower Records, seedy Venus Strip Club, Dupre’s Bourbon Room and a certain graffiti nightclub bathroom stall in the distance where you can almost feel the grime. Rebecca Glick’s nostalgic costumes rise to the challenge, running the gamut from bold rock T-shirts to scantily clad to jazzercise and everywhere in between.

The cast of “Rock of Ages” at Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre from August 12 – August 23, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

Performed by costumed musicians ready to rock led by Peter Leigh-Nilson, Rock of Ages is fueled by a wide array of 80’s hits that are clearly a trip down memory lane for some including Journey, Bon Jovi, REO Speedwagon, and Foreigner driven by athletic, slick and over the top moves including pole choreography by Meadow Nguy. 

The cast of “Rock of Ages” at Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre from August 12 – August 23, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

Chelsea Williams is a soaring soprano as wide-eyed yet determined Sherrie and does a terrific job teaming up with Toneisha Harris as complex yet confident Justice in a powerful medley of Quarterflash’s Harden My Heart and Pat Benatar’s Shadows of the Night.  Harris boasts powerhouse vocals and would have liked to have heard more from her.  Williams also shines in a sweet yet intense rendition with Dohring for Extreme’s More than Words, Bad English’s To Be with You, and Warrant’s Heaven medley which includes a surprise chorus as well as powerful harmony for Damn Yankees’ High Enough.

Chelsea Williams (Sherrie) and EJ Dohring (Drew) in “Rock of Ages” at Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre from August 12 – August 23, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

In cherry red glasses, Lily Kauffman gives off Cheri OTeri comedic vibes as spunky and resourceful renegade Regina.  In hippie fringe, she’s all spirit, heart and hilarity for Twisted Sister’s We’re Not Gonna Take it, an amusing rendition of Starship’s We Built this City and Styx’s Too Much Time on My Hands with Tom Galantich as Hertz and Michael Schimmele as Franz and the cast.  Schimmele offers some refreshing and sometimes goofy comic relief as naïve Franz and Galantich is of a sterner variety but they both play well off each other, especially featuring a certain wrecking ball in Europe’s The Final Countdown.

With strong vocals and a large ego, Nathaniel Hackman makes a grand entrance as mysterious and charismatic Stacy Jaxx in chaps, cowboy hat and female entourage (in a nod to another famous 80s rocker) to Bon Jovi’s Dead or Alive. 

The cast of “Rock of Ages” at Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre from August 12 – August 23, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

That is just a taste of the wide range of rock numbers in store.  The musical is not for everyone, but you may find yourself bobbing your head, singing along, or perhaps a bit stunned at the performances and the catchy tunes you may or may not have lived through, but nonetheless have stood the test of time in their own way.  What is great about music is you might change, but the song remains the same.

North Shore Music Theatre continues Rock of Ages live and in person at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts through Sunday, August 23.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: Retail therapy takes on new meaning in Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s lighthearted comedy ‘Buyer and Cellar’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

“Well, hello gorgeous.”

What does an unemployed and rather desperate actor and a wealthy multi-talented celebrity have in common?

They share a kit kat bar and a dream.

Exploring the psyche of the have and have nots, Jonathan Tolins’s fictional one man comedy, Buyer and Cellar brings to light the weighty and wild world of excess on the journey of discovering what is truly important.

Victor L. Shopov in Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s ‘Buyer and Cellar’ Photo credit Lauren Elias

With lighthearted direction by Daniel Bourque, Hub Theatre Company of Boston continues Buyer and Cellar live and in person at Club Café in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, August 1.  The action is not limited to the stage and runs approximately 100 minutes with no intermission.  Pay-what-you-can tickets are available.  The production occasionally contains adult and unfiltered language.  Purchase a drink during this show and Club Café offers a full menu.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Victor L, Shopov in Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s ‘Buyer and Cellar’ Photo by Lauren Elias

Buyer and Cellar is a fictional tale, but is based on real life aspects of Barbara Streisand’s life drawn from Streisand’s book, My Passion for Design which sits on a lighted pedestal.  Streisand’s book offers insight into her legacy and the story behind building her dream home.  While the show revolves around Barbara Streisand, you do not necessarily need to be a fan to appreciate this production.

From Funny Girl to Yentl, sound designer Gage Baker weaves inflections of Streisand’s most memorable film theme songs into the playful and whimsical sound design.  Under a sparkling disco ball, Club Café always offers a little extra in its vibrant space and Justin Lahue takes full advantage of that space through the tiered set and surrounding projections scattered throughout Club Café’s back room.  A variety of projections include some of Streisand’s most coveted and iconic ensembles, store fronts, book racks and a peek into the architecture from the book. Two vintage wardrobe stands ostentatiously adorned and topped off with a pink feather boa situated side by side for colorful ambiance and a sophisticated chair and ottoman is a wink to Barbara’s style.

Victor L. Shopov in Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s ‘Buyer and Cellar’ Photo by Lauren Elias

One of the most fascinating aspects and the center of this production is that Barbara Streisand built a shopping mall in the cellar of her Malibu mansion in the late 2000s.

Yes, really.  It’s mindboggling to think Streisand has that many possessions and all the more intriguing are the eccentric stories behind them.  With a wealth of pop culture references and self aware humor, Victor L. Shopov amicably portrays down-on-his-luck California actor Alex More who has had just about enough working for Disneyland and is looking for his big break. Central Casting arranges a bizarre new opportunity in which Alex is tapped by gravelly throated estate manager Sharon to become the shopping mall’s very first employee.  Confusion, havoc, mystery and even monotony ensue on the job before Alex is face-to-face with Streisand herself.  

Shopov is a candid and engaging storyteller infusing animated and eccentric voices emphasizing various mannerisms and avoiding impressions.  He perfects a mix of imaginative and real life voices with flair including a humorous and exacting take on Barbara delicately sampling a morsel of food with her incomparably long nails. Navigating between awestruck, sarcastic, earnest and dubious, Shopov’s Alex takes this amusing and outrageous journey through Streisand’s wonderland through panic and in stride.  However, nothing beats Shopov’s hilarious talent for narrating and delivering commentary on one particular film that won’t be revealed here.

Victor L. Shopov and Barbara in Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s ‘Buyer and Cellar’ Photo by Lauren Elias

Buyer and Cellar is a funny tale about another side of a legend.  One may long to be rich.  However, not everything is what is seems, even for someone who seems to have it all.

Hub Theatre Company of Boston continues Buyer and Cellar live and in person at Club Café in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, August 1.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Silence speaks volumes in Gloucester Stage Company’s clever and multi-faceted British play ‘Betrayal’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

 “I think of you sometimes.”

The passing thought and echoes of an ex can come and go.  In the aftermath of an affair, some things may also become crystal clear.

With layered direction by Shana Gozansky, Gloucester Stage Company continues Harold Pinter’s British drama, Betrayal live and in person at Gloucester Stage Company in Gloucester, Massachusetts through Saturday, August 1.  This semi-autobiographical and non-linear production runs approximately 85 minutes with no intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Gloucester Stage Company’s production of “Betrayal”, written by Harold Pinter and directed by Shana Gozansky, starring Liza Giangrande, Michael Underhill, Tanner Efinger, and Jeremy Beazlie, runs at the theater from July 11 though August 1, 2026.

© 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869

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Written in 1978, Harold Pinter’s Betrayal is a deeply personal play inspired by Pinter’s illicit real life affair with a BBC journalist.  It delves into the lies, danger, suspicions, surprises, and secrets you hide from others as well as the ones you tell yourself when love takes an unexpected turn.  I couldn’t help but notice the British holiday film, Love Actually shares a passing resemblance to Betrayal in one of its many popular plot lines and famous playwright Jason Robert Brown was inspired to pattern Pinter’s reverse chronological narrative style in Betrayal into his famous musical, The Last Five Years.  Instead of building a story from the beginning, Pinter innovatively begs the question, “How did we all get here?”

Gloucester Stage Company’s production of “Betrayal”, written by Harold Pinter and directed by Shana Gozansky, starring Liza Giangrande, Michael Underhill, Tanner Efinger, and Jeremy Beazlie, runs at the theater from July 11 though August 1, 2026. © 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869 GSC-Betrayal-260708_063

Jeffrey Petersen’s intriguing avant guarde set serves as various locations featuring white chairs, a pastel background, a skewed mirror and red carpeting.  While Amanda E. Fallon’s flashing shadows, silhouettes and psychedelic lighting in conjunction with Julian Crocamo’s jagged piano-infused sound design reverberates to rewind the clock, it is curious that the audience can bear witness to pieces of the action backstage.  Perhaps an act of transparency in this complicated affair.

Gloucester Stage Company’s production of “Betrayal”, written by Harold Pinter and directed by Shana Gozansky, starring Liza Giangrande, Michael Underhill, Tanner Efinger, and Jeremy Beazlie, runs at the theater from July 11 though August 1, 2026.

© 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869

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Time leaping from 1977 to 1968, Betrayal redefines and explores the nature of betrayal in all its forms.   This witty cast share captivating chemistry and sharp comic timing. Liza Giangrande depicts romantic, complicated and disillusioned Emma who is married to Tanner Efinger as scholarly book publisher Robert, but sees an opportunity for freedom in Michael Underhill as dashing, married, and Robert’s oldest friend and fellow book publisher Jerry. Rounding out the cast is Jeremy Beazile who offers his own humor as the Waiter.  Aside from an immense love of literature, Giangrande is compelling as Emma sharing playful and exciting chemistry with Underhill as Jerry and an enigmatic and restrained rapport with Robert.

Gloucester Stage Company’s production of “Betrayal”, written by Harold Pinter and directed by Shana Gozansky, starring Liza Giangrande, Michael Underhill, Tanner Efinger, and Jeremy Beazlie, runs at the theater from July 11 though August 1, 2026. © 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869 GSC-Betrayal-260708_129

Nia Safaar Banks creates posh ensembles not only faithful to the late 70s in psychedelic patterns, floral, and velvet coats, but creations that reflect the distinct personalities and vast differences in one another which is never better defined than in Michael Underhill as relaxed Jerry and Tanner Efinger as intellectual Robert.   In sneakers and denim, Jerry is adventurous, dark and dashing while Robert is anxious, serious and seemingly safe in a distinguished sweater vest.

Gloucester Stage Company’s production of “Betrayal”, written by Harold Pinter and directed by Shana Gozansky, starring Liza Giangrande, Michael Underhill, Tanner Efinger, and Jeremy Beazlie, runs at the theater from July 11 though August 1, 2026.

© 2026 Shawn G. Henry • 978-590-4869

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Pinter’s eccentric style of storytelling is always fascinating even at its most absurd which also exposes pointlessness, but here Pinter relies more on subtlety than absurdity.  It is a production with a deeply meticulously restrained emotional core.  Distressed sighs, ironies, layered conversations, loaded pauses, and the dignified and carefully composed comments are the real allure of this production embedded within Betrayal’s scandal. Betrayal is eccentrically understated with a wealth of humor, repression, symbolism, contradictions and revelations in an innovatively told tale.  It takes a novel approach to each scene, especially the lack of awkwardness where it should be awkward and the profound meaning behind what is left unsaid.

Gloucester Stage Company continues Harold Pinter’s British drama, Betrayal live and in person at Gloucester Stage Company in Gloucester, Massachusetts through Sunday, Saturday, August 1.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: Not only the coat dazzles in North Shore Music Theatre’s inspiring ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

The only thing more magnificent then Joseph’s dream coat is the tale behind it. 

 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has been entertaining audiences for close to 60 years with its exuberant story fueled by Academy Award-winning duo Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s uplifting and versatile music. An interactive, endearing, and humorous production, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat offers a wide spectrum of music genres for any taste and all ages including calypso and rock and roll which accompanies this unique retelling of a sacred tale of treachery and unceasing hope.

Meticulously directed and dynamically choreographed by Gerry McIntyre with lively music direction by Robert L. Rucinski, Bill Hanney’s North Shore Music Theatre continues family-friendly musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat live and in person at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts through Sunday, July 19.  This semi-interactive production is not limited to the stage and is exceptionally navigated within its theatre in the round staging.  It runs 2 hours and 10 minutes with one intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Olivia Valli (Narrator) and Youth Choir in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at North Shore Music Theatre July 8 – July 19, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

Based on the Book of Genesis and set in the land of Canaan and Egypt, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat unconventionally explores the incredible journey of Joseph and his brothers as Joseph faces strife from the most unexpected places as he discovers his destiny.  It is immensely a collaborative ensemble piece featuring an enthusiastic cast led by Olivia Valli as Narrator who not only shares Joseph’s tale with the audience, but the surrounding energetic youth choir gathered onstage.

Eric Jordan Young (Jacob) and the cast of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at North Shore Music Theatre July 8 – July 19, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

Bursting with vibrantly designed costumes mixing the traditional with the contemporary, costumer Rebecca Glick not only rises to the occasion, but makes a distinct, daring, and memorable impression in each ensemble and most notably in Joseph’s striking coat. From glimmering headdresses to traditional Jewish and Egyptian garb to shimmering and brightly colored designs that recall another defining era, the costumes are consistently remarkable.  Set designer Baron E. Pugh leans on Egyptian influence featuring the Egyptian Eye of Horus while José Santiago’s lighting design enhances the show’s kaleidoscopic vision in multi-colored lights and innovative sets which takes full advantage of the theatre in the round staging. 

Olivia Valli (Narrator) and the cast of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at North Shore Music Theatre July 8 – July 19, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

With rich vocals and an unassuming demeanor, Nikita Burshteynr warmly portrays humble, naive and forthright Joseph.  Burshteynr’s soothing, heartrending and sympathetic vocals master signature numbers such as Any Dream Will Do and Close Every Door.

Nikita Burshteyn as Joseph in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at North Shore Music Theatre July 8 – July 19, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

Joseph may have a dazzling coat, but the narrator holds her own decked out in Rebecca Glick’s enviable wardrobe.  Clever, cheerful and a charismatic silvery soprano, Valli is a compelling Narrator not separate from the plot and it is delightful to watch her relaxed charm provide amusing asides, offer advice and occasionally act as the production’s conscience while sweetly interacting with the beaming Youth Choir.

Carefully arranged as a coordinated rainbow in pinks, greens, purples, blues, yellows and reds, the Youth Choir’s angelic and lively voices bring exuberance while accompanying Joseph and the narrator to a heartwarming Any Dream Will Do and endearing harmony to a memorable candlelit rendition of Close Every Door. 

Brent Thiessen (Pharaoh) and the cast of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at North Shore Music Theatre July 8 – July 19, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

Charming and funny whether rejoicing or scheming, the united choreography between Joseph’s eleven brothers reflects their tight knit bond especially during a country themed tune with the wives, One More Angel in Heaven featuring Brady Miller who possesses great comic timing chewing the scenery as Reuben.  Another lively number that highlights the brothers’ united front is Benjamin Calypso, a catchy rendition delivered energetically by Rendell DeBose as Judah who at one point takes part in a conga line.

The cast of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at North Shore Music Theatre July 8 – July 19, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

Rock n roll royalty takes a comedic turn in the show’s rollicking number, Song of the King, featuring Brent Thiessen as Pharaoh.  Theissen convincingly captures the essence of a certain king not to be revealed here.  Naomi Kakuk dazzles with sleek athleticism as Mrs. Potiphar in a racing rendition of Potiphar.

Naomi Kakuk (Mrs. Potiphar) with Eric Jordan Young (Potiphar), and the cast of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at North Shore Music Theatre July 8 – July 19, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

Unveiling a world in rich and glorious color, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat may be a tale of long ago, but stirs in contemporary touches such as disco balls, sunglasses and soft serve ice cream in amusing and unlikely places to appeal to a younger audience as well as an era-inspired tribute to the original Joseph.  It contains valuable life lessons on faith, jealousy, suffering, betrayal, and resilience for dreamers that can be solemn at times, but with far more uplifting and whimsical moments, it’s difficult to feel down for long.

The cast of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at North Shore Music Theatre July 8 – July 19, 2026. Photo © Paul Lyden

North Shore Music Theatre continues family-friendly musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat live and in person at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts through Sunday, July 19.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  Stakes are high in Dan Hunter’s intense and enigmatic ‘Black Cat’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

A woman paralyzed by fear.  What is haunting her?

Dan Hunter creates an intriguing mystery about family, memory, sickness, secrets and science within a trio of skilled neuroscientists in ‘Black Cat.’  It keeps you guessing who is telling the truth until the very end.

Directed insightfully by Steven Bogart and produced by Hathalee Higgs, Hunter Higgs LLC presented Dan Hunter’s mystery drama ‘Black Cat’ as an Incubator and Visiting production live and in person at Boston Playwrights’ Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, June 28.  The production ran approximately 90 minutes with no intermission.  Click here for more information.

Boston University’s Boston Playwrights’ Theatre provided a perfect setting for this production which took place inside a university neuroscience laboratory in the near future of November 2026.  Cristina Todesco’s detailed and commercial dual level set design featured realistic lab workspaces with a white board strewn with calculations, brimming file cabinets, a wooden staircase connecting each floor and an impressive kitchenette off the second floor. Zachary Connell’s mercurial and multipurpose lighting with Aubrey Dube’s screeching and foreboding piano-infused sound design augments the fluctuating intensity of each scene.   

The set of Dan Hunter’s ‘Black Cat’ at Boston Playwrights’ Theatre. Photo by Ailsa Smith

Christopher James Webb as Dr. Gideon Wells states, “In science, you need vision, money and time.”  When University research grants and funds for Parkinson’s disease are running out, time is of the essence to find a way to move forward, especially after Wells claims to have made a startling discovery.  Black Cat featured a trio of skilled scientists seemingly striving for the well being of the lab and the university.  Yet, other motivations soon come to light.  As each character confronts one another, a number of pieces fall into place. 

Liz Eng and Christopher James Webb in Dan Hunter’s ‘Black Cat’ at Boston Playwrights’ Theatre. Photo by Ailsa Smith

Adrienne Krstansky delivers a layered performance as anxious and witty Dr. Clare Eccles who has just learned she has won the Hall of Fame for her research.  She is the head of the department and yet has been guarded, moody and holes herself in her office.  Krstansky has previously demonstrated her ample skills in a memorable performance of Gloucester Stage Company’s The Glass Menagerie and it is wonderful to see her again.  Krstanky strikes a convincing poker face as she attempts to keeps her fears and escalating state at bay.   

The cast of Dan Hunter’s ‘Black Cat’ at Boston Playwrights’ Theatre. Photo by Ailsa Smith

Christopher James Webb roars as complicated neuroscientist Dr. Gideon Wells.  Webb steers this meaty character with finesse from avid listener to domineering, conceited, condescending and cagey.  Both Wells and Eccles are wildly intelligent and share a long history.  It is fascinating to see how they bicker, compete, reminisce and get under one another’s skin. 

Christopher James Webb and Liz Eng in Dan Hunter’s ‘Black Cat’ at Boston Playwrights’ Theatre. Photo by Ailsa Smith

Thickening the plot is Liz Eng as clever, determined and ambitious post doctoral neuroscientist Chai Lin Anderson caught in the middle of Wells and Eccles which forces her to make her own difficult choices.  Anderson’s encounters with Wells and Eccles range from nurturing to threatening and Eng levelheadedly handles herself with diplomacy.  She carefully and cleverly hedges her bets between Wells and Eccles while navigating her own enigmatic motivations behind the scenes. 

Liz Eng and Adrianne Krstanky in Dan Hunter’s ‘Black Cat’ at Boston Playwrights’ Theatre. Photo by Ailsa Smith

Boasting a mix of drama and dry humor, Black Cat deftly creates a number of suspicions and illusions as this trio in crisis endures the fears of what the future holds for them. Black Cat is also a snapshot into memory, the inaccessible causes of dementia and Parkinson’s disease which affect so many, and raises a number of questions in which some purposefully go unanswered.  It is a production that will leave you still pondering these three compelling characters long after the show is over.

Directed insightfully by Steven Bogart and produced by Hathalee Higgs, Hunter Higgs LLC presented Dan Hunter’s mystery drama ‘Black Cat’ as part of the live and in person at Boston Playwrights’ Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, June 28.  Click here for more information.

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REVIEW:  Greater Boston Stage Company adds an illustrated personal touch to uplifting family musical classic ‘Annie’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

There’s nothing like the promise of tomorrow and no one delivers plunky optimism quite like Annie.

Even in the worst of circumstances, Annie can always find a silver lining which can be demonstrated in a moment when a homeless person complains of empty pockets to which Annie responds, ‘At least you got pockets.’

Generations have grown up with some version of little orphan Annie and her trusty dog Sandy who meets billionaire tycoon Oliver Warbucks in 1933 Depression-era New York.  It is a classic family tale for all ages with the eternal promise that no matter what happens, there is always hope.  As the intimate, sweet-sounding orchestra chimed its first triumphant, horn-infused notes of the overture from the stage highlighting song snippets of It’s a Hard Knock Life, Fully Dressed, and Tomorrow, Greater Boston Stage Company proves this steadfast musical favorite never goes out of style.

Livia Quist as Annie and Gideon as Sandy Photos by Nile Scott Studios.

Warmly directed by Tyler Rosati with Bethany Aiken’s uplifting musical direction and Ceit Zweil’s endearing chorography, Greater Boston Stage Company continues Annie: The Hit Broadway Musical live and in person through Sunday, June 28 at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts.  This family-friendly musical classic runs two and a half hours including an intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Part of what makes Annie such fun to produce is although the tale remains the same, there is always room to perform it a little differently each time.  Having originally watched the beloved 1982 film adaptation featuring a brilliant cast including Tim Curry, Carol Burnett, Bernadette Peters, Aileen Quinn as well as the late great Albert Finney, I’ve gone on to see Annie film and stage adaptations performed in a variety of ways featuring a small and large cast.  Greater Boston Stage Company features a seemingly smaller cast but the sentiment remains the same and is no less effective.   

Ainsley Moulton as Molly and Livia Quist as Annie in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Annie’ Photos by Nile Scott Studios

Katy Monthei’s layered and folded set appears uniquely illustrated by children and opens like a book playfully illustrated with markers and crayons featuring homemade drawings, rainbows, sunshine and a drawn city skyline.  However, the most striking are the orphans’ illustrations of their imagined families.  The folded set is impressive as it turns to various scenes, but can occasionally create a tighter space for the characters.

The cast of Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Annie’ Photos by Nile Scott Studios

Kelly Baker’s costumes run the gamut of 1930s vintage flair featuring a wide spectrum of patterns faithful to the era including pinstripes, plaids and paisley as well as elegant coat and tails, bowler hats, mother of pearl broaches, pinafore dresses, furs and silks. 

Livia Quist as Annie in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Annie’ Photos by Nile Scott Studios

Donning a soft curled redheaded bob, signature red sweater and weathered pinafore dress, Livia Quist portrays a little and mighty Annie with angelic features and big expressive eyes.  Quist is one of two Annies that take the stage during this musical’s run.  Quist is darling, emotive and has a talent for sadness behind a smile and vice versa.  Endearing and sympathetic, she is unlike any other Annie I’ve ever seen.  Her powerhouse vocals light up Maybe with delicate yet spunky Ainsley Moulton as Molly as well as the show’s signature song, Tomorrow.  In long braids and an earnest smile, Moulton’s Molly is mischievous roaming about in the most unexpected of places and Brianna Brien is also impressive as tough talking bully Pepper who tests Annie several times during the musical. 

De’Lon Grant as Oliver Warbucks Photos by Nile Scott Studios

Quist’s Annie shares endearing and lighthearted moments with De’Lon Grant as dapper and driven Oliver Warbucks and charming him into seeing a movie in New York City with her is a particular highlight.  De’Lon boasts textured and soaring vocals as workaholic, urgent and tough-minded New York City billionaire tycoon Oliver Warbucks as he pays tribute to his beloved city with N.Y.C. before later performing a tender rendition of Something was Missing.  Quist also shines with Michael Sáenz as a jovial FDR.

Ceit Zweil as Miss Hannigan in Little Girls in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Annie’ Photos by Nile Scott Studios

In a black haired bob and a whistle around her neck, Ceit Zweil depicts an exasperated and sassy Miss Hannigan and certainly makes the part her own.  Dramatic, smarmy and dreaming of a better life, Zweil’s skilled depiction shows a woman who may have once been glamorous, but spends her days stunned, fed up and dreaming of a better life.  Tough and street smart, Zweil is a stylish alto demonstrating a sharp vocal growl, belt and a way of turning a phrase.  Zweil shows off her strident vocals for Little Girls as the orphans demonstrate their frequently amusing knack for pushing her buttons. 

Tader Shipley as Grace and Ceit Zweil as Miss Hannigan in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Annie’ Photos by Nile Scott Studios

Tader Shipley warmly depicts sophisticated and determined Grace Farrell, Oliver Warbucks’s levelheaded secretary.  Shipley’s bright eyes enliven with admiration and reverence when speaking of De Leon’s Warbucks.  Grace’s breezy yet professional demeanor fits in well with Warbuck’s no nonsense moxie.  However, Shipley as Grace’s veiled exchanges and frequent battle of wills with Zweil’s Miss Hannigan are a riot.

Livia Quist and the Orphans in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Annie’ Photos by Nile Scott Studios

The orphans’ version of Fully Dressed and A New Deal for Christmas is sure to make you smile. From feigned footsteps to cowbell to kazoo, sound designer Adam Smith fascinatingly rewinds the clock depicting vintage radio programs and how radio created sound effects in the 30s.  Christian David delivers lighthearted flair as jocular radio announcer Bert Healey and the gum chewing New Yorker Boylan Sisters were a treat.

Ceit Zweil as Miss Hannigan, Mark Linehan as Rooster and Kathy St. George as Lily St. Regis in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Annie’ Photos by Nile Scott Studios

Polished in a pinstriped and purple paisley suit, Mark Linehan brings pizzazz and charisma as smooth talking Rooster, Miss Hannigan’s conman brother.  With local favorite Kathy St. George as Lily St. Regis, they make an amusing, sleazy pair and with Zweil, a trio of conspiratorial adversaries with a rollicking version of Easy Street.

Livia Quist as Annie, De’Lon Grant as Oliver Warbucks and cast in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Annie’ Photos by Nile Scott Studios

Wearing thick scarves, layers period hats and surrounded by newspaper headlines, a group of homeless New Yorkers delivered a spirited version of Hooverville which dials into social injustices during the Great Depression and the not so unfamiliar financial tension of today.  However, from select city shoppers to matching uniformed house staff to government officials, this enthusiastic cast enhances the joy in this classic tale and Giselle’s noticeably vibrant and knowing smile performing a variety of roles capturing this production’s uplifting spirit.

Raise your spirits with Greater Boston Stage Company Annie:  The Hit Broadway Musical continuing live and in person through Sunday, June 28 at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts.  Click here for more information and tickets.

REVIEW:  Comedic suspense and more drives Central Square Theater’s ‘The Mystery of Irma Vep: A Penny Dreadful’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Mummies and vampires and werewolves – oh my!

However, as Paul Melendy as Nicodemus quips, “Don’t be skeered.”

Offering much more absurdity and laughter than horror or gore, The Mystery of Irma Vep leans on comedic suspense in 1930s Mandacrest Manor.  Seeing a Penny Dreadful for the first time with some hesitancy, I’ll take it.

With striking direction and transformative set design by David R. Gammons, Central Square Theater concludes their season with Charles Ludlam’s gothic satire The Mystery of Irma Vep:  A Penny Dreadful continuing live and in person at Central Square Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts extended through Sunday, June 21.  This two hander adult production displays valuable captions, contains nudity, the action is not limited to the stage and runs two hours including one intermission.  If you are unaware of what a Penny Dreadful means, see here.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Gabriel Graetz and Paul Melendy Photo credit to Maggie Hall Photography

Taking cues from classic gothic romantic literature, The Mystery of Irma Vep:  A Penny Dreadful focuses on the highly anticipated appearance of Paul Melendy as new mistress of Mandacrest Manor Lady Enid Hilcrest, the new wife of Gabriel Graetz as widower and Egyptologist Lord Edgar Hillcrest.  However, does Lord Edgar’s late wife, Irma Vep, still haunt these eerie halls?

Gabriel Graetz and Paul Melendy Photo credit to Maggie Hall Photography

A gleaming and almost sterile looking white foyer in Mandacrest Manor by David R. Gammons is much more than it seems illuminated by Jeff Adelburg’s flashing, tense and vivid lighting which take on a variety of crude shapes and sizes scattered around the room with a glowing fireplace. Composer Nate Tucker skillfully exacts a carefully executed sound design and special effects crucial in this twisted vintage gothic Victorian mystery.  Costumer Seth Bodie creates eccentric, vintage, outrageous and vibrant ensembles varying from grand robes with gold trim to 30s three piece suits to revealing negligees.

Paul Melendy and Gabriel Graetz Photo credit to Maggie Hall Photography

In a production that can be less than subtle, striking the right tone is paramount and this duo certainly has a way with words and sharp comedic timing in every over the top scenario which includes stuffed animals, a picnic table cloth and a tree stump.  Gabriel Graetz and Paul Melendy work remarkably well off each other in every incredulous expression, wild accent, or improvisational and self aware moment.  They also take a lot of complicated cues from each other even during the production’s most awkward scenarios in this vintage melodrama while inviting the audience in on its campy humor and its occasionally moving moments.

Gabriel Graetz and Paul Melendy Photo credit to Maggie Hall Photography

Melendy steps into each melodramatic character distinctly, but boasting scratchy vocals, a meandering gate and a slovenly appearance, Melendy’s Nicodemus may be my favorite character and one that is not to be underestimated.  The mysterious groundskeeper is protective and shrewd as he lurks about the manor.  Melendy as naïve and vampy chorus girl Lady Enid Hilcrest is self conscious under the suspicion of Graetz as stern and traditional housekeeper Jane who also portrays Lord Edgar Hillcrest…and you get the idea.  Depicting an actor reacting to portraying multiple characters is no easy feat, but both do so seamlessly.  Special accolades to the costume and stage hands for those glorious lightning fast costume and prop changes!  

Gabriel Graetz and Paul Melendy Photo credit to Maggie Hall Photography

Not a fan of the superfluous nudity even if it was for bizarre comedic purposes, but this production is funny and two great actors performing this campy gothic mystery made me laugh anyway. 

Central Square Theater concludes their season with Charles Ludlam’s gothic satire The Mystery of Irma Vep:  A Penny Dreadful continuing live and in person at Central Square Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts extended through Sunday, June 28. If you enjoy the soundtrack to this production, it is available on Spotify.  Click here for more information and for tickets.