Journey | The Sleepless Critic

REVIEW: ‘Traveling Shoes’ an uplifting and resonating journey of perseverance

Posted on August 25 by The Sleepless Critic

“Every song is someone’s story.”

This is just a sample of the insightfulness infused into Christian David’s melodious new musical revue workshop, Traveling Shoes. Featuring scattered testimonials, gospel history, mighty vocals and hopeful life lessons, Traveling Shoes demonstrates that traveling armed with faith and the Gospel brings joy and resilience amidst life’s sufferings.

Written and under Christian David’s direction and music direction and co-choreographed with sleek and interconnected choreography by both Christian David and Ramone Owens, C David Entertainment presented Traveling Shoes: A Revival of Sound, Soul and Story live and in person for free and for one night only on Sunday August 9 at 6PM at the Multicultural Arts Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This semi-interactive musical revue encourages the audience to clap, sing, stand, praise and respond to the music as they wish and ran 90 minutes with no intermission. This engaging show is also aiming for a Broadway run. Click here for more information and for future performances.

Christian David & Tiffany Binion in ‘Traveling Shoes’ Photo by Najee Brown

Having been to the Multicultural Arts Center before, this pristine setting with wooden doors and immaculate etchings already infuses regality into the production’s modestly staged set which includes chairs posing as pews with Bibles and a grand piano.

Doris Bumpus & Levetta Hall in ‘Traveling Shoes’ Photo by Najee Brown

Welcome to Holy Hail Baptist Church where pastors and church goers share their testimonies, suffering, joy and more importantly, community while encouraging ways in which the Gospel enriches their daily walk with God by serving others. Prior to the performance, classic Gospel recordings softly play until this charismatic group took the stage and lifted their voices for the bright and catchy original opening number, Traveling Shoes followed by the encouraging classic gospel hymn, How I Get Over. Traveling Shoes showcased skilled and powerful voices and it may be the acoustics of the venue, but vocal accompiament occasionally overpowered the lead singer.

Adorned in pearls and sophisticated black and white formal attire from ceremonial gloves right down to their shining shoes, this impressive cast is composed of two local performers and an array of cast members that flew in from California for this event. Traveling Shoes is an original work in progress and combines a tapestry of original and classic gospel songs, hymns and spirituals to demonstrate the power of the Gospel in their daily lives while finding strength during hard times.

Tiffany Binion, Doris Bumpus, Christian David & Levetta Hallin ‘Traveling Shoes’ Photo by Najee Brown

Many of the featured songs are upbeat and lively while others venture into soul stirring experiences and it is difficult to pick out ones that stand out over the others. One of the most quietly stirring moments in the production was a beautiful rendition of Peace Be Still, delivered powerfully by Michael Bradley, Dermel Warren, Tiffany Binion, and Yardley Griffin, Jr. Yardley Griffin, Jr’s You Gotta Move offers urgency in line with the musical’s core theme as well as an incredible version of At the Cross with Yardley Griffin and the cast. Dermel Warren with Christian David, Levetta Hall and Tiffany Binion deliver an inspiring rendition of Mary, Don’t You Weep as well as Were You There by Michael Bradley.

While more of a music showcase than a true narrative, Traveling Shoes delivers classic gospel hymns and spirituals including Give me that Old Time Religion featuring Christian David and the cast, Jamehl Taylor performs Oh When the Saints Go Marching In/This Little Light of Mine medley, Christian David and Yardley Griffin, Jr. perform a lighthearted and hopeful rendition of Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, a powerful His Eye is on the Sparrow by Doris Bumpus and Darren Paul and the entire company for a captivating Amazing Grace.

Doris Bumpus in ‘Traveling Shoes’ Photo by Najee Brown

Various life scenarios run through the production notably a wonderful rendition of Didn’t It Rain featuring Doris Bumpus and Levetta Hall.

Traveling Shoes references and briefly highlights the church pianist and that memorable pastor who makes an impact during the performance. Both individuals carry burdens and it would be interesting to expand on that idea and more than offering a song, insert a particular message that stands out apart from the music that would appeal to those who do not frequent the church pews. Traveling Shoes is a wonderful presentation for a church audience, but expanding on that idea to bring encouragement to those not familiar with the church may make the production that much more extraordinary.

This musical revue offers lightheartedness and humor while it also touches upon historical tragedies and injustices and how to cope when there is no answer. It works well as a segment and perhaps be expanded upon during different intervals of the production staying in line with the Traveling Shoes theme.

Yardley Griffin, Jr in ‘Traveling Shoes’ Photo by Najee Brown

Moonbox Productions presented a musical called Crowns which explores several themes including the significance of church hats as a symbol of much more while running a narrative through that. Though Traveling Shoes is a metaphor, it resonates at key points during the production. I do believe there can also be a story that can run through this, perhaps adding a protagonist surrounded by the company. The viewer can witness the protagonist on a journey of discovery who may be a first-time attendee at the church perhaps wearing the shoes while keeping the theme prevalent throughout the production.

“We declare victory before we see it.”

Traveling Shoes is a multifaceted music revue guaranteed to encourage, uplift and bring hope in these troubled times. It may stay with you long after the production is over.

Christian David & Yardley Griffin in ‘Traveling Shoes’ Photo by Najee Brown

Click here to learn more about C David Entertainment presented Traveling Shoes: A Revival of Sound, Soul and Story and for future performances.

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

Posted on August 21 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.

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.

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: Boston Ballet delivers lighthearted and triumphant ‘Don Quixote’

Posted on March 24, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

Armed with oversized artillery and a makeshift helmet, Don Quixote is a chivalrous and enchanting hero like none other.

Boasting a wealth of delightful physical humor, resplendent costumes, and exuberant choreography, the Boston Ballet presents Rudolf Nureyev’s uplifting and family friendly romantic comedy Don Quixote through Sunday, March 26 at Citizens Bank Opera House in Boston, Massachusetts. This production is approximately two hours 48 minutes including two intermissions. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Daniel Rubin as Don Quixote, Isaac Akiba as Sancho Panza and John Lam as Gamache Photo by Rosalie O’Connor Photography

A crowd toss, a tense and impressive knife dance, formidable puppetry, and every one of Don Quixote’s grand entrances are just a few of Don Quixote’s indelible moments when the company is not thrilling audiences with daring and athletic lifts and dives.

Isaac Akiba as Sancho Panza Photo by Rosalie O’Connor Photography

Delving into the wise words of Don Quixote author Cervantes, ‘The most perceptive character is the fool because the man who wishes to seem simple cannot possibly be a simpleton.’ Whether in love or in battle, My’kal Stromile’s charismatic and natural assurance as Don Quixote stands out amid his occasionally wild and rowdy surroundings. Chivalrous to a fault and a sympathetic admirer, Don Quixote, accompanied by his trusty and comedic sidekick Sancho Panza portrayed winningly by Angel Garcia Molinero, set out on a quest through Spain to find his ideal Dolcinea.

Ji Young Chae as Kitri and Jeffrey Cirio as Basilio Photo by Rosalie O’Connor Photography

Don Quixote encounters a vast array of dynamic characters from dryads to gypsies to matadors in distinct and exceptional garb in this consistently upbeat and lighthearted production. Viktorina Kapitonova dazzled audiences when she portrayed Cinderella in Boston Ballet’s 2019 Cinderella and that exuberance, determination and confidence shine through as Kitri. A red rose in her hair, Kapitonova’s bright smile lights for Basilio, portrayed impressively by Lasha Khozashvili. Kapitonova and Khozashvili are marvelous together as they perform a playful pas de deux, their captivating chemistry sweet and jubilant. Kapitonova also has some amusing moments with Rasmus Ahlgren as Lorenzo. Chyrstyn Fentroy’s spitfire Mercedes has spicier chemistry with Paul Craig as equally charming Matador Espada. Fentroy and Craig’s sharp and sweeping pas de deux is enthralling in daring lifts and leaps. One of the highlights of the performance is Fentroy’s thrilling knife dance. The matadors are elegant and gallant in bolero jackets in black and gold. Later, Jon Lam delivers a complex and powerful solo dance as a rowdy lead traveler .

The company demonstrates a plethora of visually impressive comedy ranging from absurd to mischievous to self deprecating. Lawrence Rines Munro as wealthy and foppish nobleman is an amusing scene stealer through his over the top expressions and comedic stances. On another notes, Addie Tapp is wonderful as Queen of the dryads delivering sweet chemistry with an enamored Stromile as Quioxote in a fanciful display as her dryads glide along the stage. Kaitlyn Casey intrigues as a mysterious bride.

Viktorina Kapitonova as Queen of the Dryads Photo by Rosalie O’Connor Photography

Boston Ballet’s Don Quixote’s resplendent visions of beauty vary from muted colors to floral pastels to bold and exotic creations inspired by Spain’s reformation era. In silks, lace, flowing capes and skirts, bolero jackets as well as ethereal, glittering and majestic attire, costume designer Nicholas Georgiadis effectively captures Quixote’s distinctive journey with finesse. The multi-functional fans frequently used by the company are characters in themselves for flirtation and comedy. From giant windmills to rustic wagons to towers and cannons, Georgiadis also helmed the production’s distinctive set design. Brandon Stirling Baker’s emotive lighting is especially prevalent for Don Quixote’s vivid and haunting visions.

Boston Ballet in Rudolf Nureyev’s Don Quixote, photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy of Boston Ballet

Skillfully conducted by Mischa Santora, Ludwig Minkus’s brilliant score varies from fanciful to powerfully epic to mischievous, setting the perfect tone for this unique and amazing classic tale.

Boston Ballet presents Rudolf Nureyev’s uplifting and family friendly romantic comedy Don Quixote through Sunday, March 26 at Citizens Bank Opera House in Boston, Massachusetts. Boston Ballet’s upcoming lineup includes Our Journey and Sleeping Beauty. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: Despite boat’s limited view of the band, sold-out 70s funk and disco ‘Booty Vortex’ boat cruise still made waves

Posted on September 2, 2018 by The Sleepless Critic

Taking off from Boston Harbor to Gilligan’s Island and Hawaii Five-O’s adventurous theme songs, this was one three hour tour that kept party cruisers on their feet. Plenty of sun poured into the boat as fans wore their shiny, disco best boarding the Mass Bay Lines off of Rowes Wharf boat to witness the annual return of the nine piece 70s Funk and Disco band, Booty Vortex on their sold-out 21+ Booty Boat cruise Sunday, August 26 at 4 p.m. The cruise offered a cash bar and various concessions. Click here to find out Booty Vortex’s full schedule as well as a closer look at their talented band members.

This particular Mass Bay Lines boat was not ideal for a concert cruise. The roof where the band played was completely covered and attendance at full capacity, which offered limited ways to see the band perform up close. Booty Vortex’s past performance on the Provincetown II provided an open floor plan and dance floor so attendees had more room to move and witness the band take the stage. However, the band’s upbeat tunes provided plenty of reasons why Booty Vortex has developed such a strong following.

Past performance on Provincetown II for Rock and Blues concert cruises.

Calling themselves Boston’s finest funk and disco band, Booty Vortex is indeed unconventional, full of character, and possesses a bit of a wild side. Their enthusiasm is infectious, their voices powerful, and their music, a collection of mostly 70s disco cover songs, are tailored for a truly devoted 70s and retro dance crowd.

From saxophone to keyboard player, Booty Vortex delivers a full retro, big band sound. Some of their lively sense of humor is found in their self-proclaimed group member names composed of Huggy Bear Jeremy D. Valadez on saxophone, Brass Tornado Mark Coronado as Manager and Trumpet player, Gold Fingah James Tootle as MD/Keys and Vocals, Minty Fresh Dave Burnett on Bass, E-Bop Erik Barnes on Guitar, Tiger Lily Eva Davenport as Media and Vocals, Pixie Stix Maureen Medieros on Percussion, Rufus Russell Bogartz on Trombone, and Papi Erick B. Cifuentes on Drums.

Full Booty Vortex band on Mass Bay Lines boat Photo credit Erin Frawley/Booty Vortex

The nine piece extravaganza has a unique style, their music not too hard or loud and songs range from danceable to at times, mellow. They charmed audiences with pop tunes and disco hits such as Hues Corporation’s Rock the Boat, Lakeside’s Fantastic Voyage, Patti Labelle’s Lady Marmalade, Alicia Bridges’ I Love the Night Life, Tavares’s Heaven Must Be Missing an Angel, A Taste of Honey’s Boogie Oogie Oogie, George Benson’s Give Me the Night, Donna Summer’s Bad Girls, The Trammps’s Disco Inferno, Rose Royce’s Car Wash, Bee Gees’s You Should Be Dancing, Hot Chocolate’s You Sexy Thing, Chic’s Freak Out, Dee-lite’s Groove is in the Heart, KC and the Sunshine Band’s Get Down Tonight and Shake Your Booty, prompting the crowd to sing along.

Photo courtesy of Jeanne Denizard

Under sunny skies with no need for a jacket, the Booty Boat cruise provided some of Boston’s most beautiful sights including the Boston Harbor Islands and a lovely and hazy view of the city. It was primarily a smooth ride, with just a few instances of rockiness.

Booty Vortex will next appear at the C-Note in Hull on September 8. Photo credit to Erin Frawley/Booty Vortex

Easing their way back to Rowe’s Wharf, Booty Vortex closed out the evening with Sister Sledge and Jade’s We are Family and Journey’s hit Don’t Stop Believing. Booty Vortex next takes the C-Note stage in Hull on September 8. Click here for more of their future tour dates around Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter.