shakespeare

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

REVIEW:  In partnership with the city of Chelsea and Teatro Chelsea, Apollinaire Theatre staged a street fighting and adventurous summer ‘Hamlet’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Ser o no ser esa es la cuestion (To Be or not to Be)

This was the classic question posed by Apollinaire Theatre Company in partnership with Teatro Chelsea and the City of Chelsea in a bilingual production of Shakespeare’s classic play, Hamlet which took place on Fridays and Saturdays only from August 4-19 live and in person at various locations in Chelsea, Massachusetts.  Though it was not necessary to understand both Spanish and English to enjoy this show and does not take away the gravitas of Shakespeare’s eloquent text, those who understood the dialogue in Spanish may have been at an advantage.  The free production was 90 minutes with no intermission. 

Armando Rivera as Hamlet in ‘Hamlet’

Each performance featured a pre-show that offered take out or delivery dinner, live entertainment, and a pop up Beer Garden by BearMoose Brewing Company at 6:30 pm prior to the performance at 8 pm.  Click here to see what is next for Apollinaire Theatre Company and Teatro Chelsea this fall.

Alan Kuang ‘Hamlet’ rap Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Every summer for the past 20 years with donor support, the Apollinaire Theatre Company has been presenting outdoor theatre productions free to the public in partnership with the city of Chelsea.  This year’s production of the Shakespearean classic, Hamlet mixed the traditional with the contemporary while keeping the audience on its feet.  Intricately directed and cleverly staged by Danielle Fauteaux Jacques with lighthearted chorography by Audrey Johnson, the show is an immersive experience as the production expands beyond the stage and cast members can enter from anywhere.

Armando Rivera as Hamlet in ‘Hamlet’ Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Though the roads were blocked off, there was still plenty that might have distracted this focused cast.  However disruptive, outdoor disturbances such as traffic, noises or foot traffic did not distract them from their performances for an instant.  Armed with microphones, it was fascinating to watch each scene unfold complete with transportable lighting, sound, ominous sound effects with Diana Mediola and Juhi Nagpal‘s elaborate sets and props. How complicated it must have been to stage something like this while gathering an increasing and surrounding crowd led to each destination by a single notebook.

Shakespeare’s Hamlet is about the Prince of Denmark who discovers his mother has married his uncle after his father has been murdered.  An urgent message inspires Hamlet to believe ‘something is rotten in the state of Denmark.’

Armando Rivera as Hamlet and Paul Benford-Bruce in ‘Hamlet’ Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Hamlet is a compelling drama that boasts some iridescent and noteworthy special effects such as blue smoke drifting above Paul Benford-Bruce’s haunting figure on a distinctive blue tinged city fountain lit by Joe Morales.  Resolute, firm, and eerie, Benford-Bruce delivers a memorable performance as Hamlet’s father.  David Reiffel’s ominous and echoing sound design and composition lent to the foreboding mystique of the production.

Anna Riggins as Ophelia, Alan Kuang as Laertes, Paola Ferrer as Gertrude and Brooks Reeves as Polonius in ‘Hamlet’ Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Nodding to the Elsinore, Denmark setting during the late middle ages while boasting a sleek and contemporary flair, Hamlet blended the contemporary with the historical through its colorful, stately, and elegant costumes in furs, leathers, and glittering crowns by Elizabeth Rocha.

Armando Rivera as Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, led this impressive cast.   Rivera exacted the alarming rage expected of Hamlet in the face of betrayal.  Rivera excelled at Hamlet’s darkly playful, determined, and off kilter demeanor, especially in a powerful scene alone with Ophelia and with Brooks Reeves as Claudius. 

Anna Riggins delivered an absorbing performance as Ophelia with a wide smile, bright eyed virtue, and a complete infatuation and intriguing chemistry with Rivera.  Clinging to any sign of affection, Riggins offered a vulnerable and sympathetic performance.  Riggins also shared a sweet chemistry with her brother, Laertes and Ron Lacey who portrays their proud and concerned father, Polonius.  Alan Kuang is naturally charismatic in the role of valiant and forthright Laertes, especially during an all out and literal street fight with Rivera.

Play-Within-A-Play in ‘Hamlet’ Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Brooks Reeves as Claudius achieved a suave poker face, but with just enough of a devious smirk to embellish this role with Paolo Ferrer as mysterious Gertrude, they are a beguiling pair.  Claudius is a calculating character and left little room for sympathy.  Reeves particularly shined during the play-within-a-play scene as Reeves exclaimed, ‘Get me some light!’  With skillful feigned concern and sarcasm, Reeves was well suited for the role as some of that demeanor is also on display in the Old North Church’s production of Revolution’s Edge through September.

Armando RIvera as Hamlet and Brooks Reeves as Claudius Photo credit to Danielle Fauteux Jacques

Hamlet was not complete without the appearance of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, portrayed with jovial humor by Aloe Domizio and Paul St. Cyr respectively.  Wheeling in on lit bicycles, they made a seeming pair of silly and dimwitted bookends as Hamlet’s childhood friends.  However, like each character in this Shakespearean classic, they are more than meets the eye. 

Apollinaire Theatre Company, in partnership with Teatro Chelsea and the City of Chelsea, presented an outdoor bilingual production of Shakespeare’s classic play, Hamlet which took place on Fridays and Saturdays only from August 4-19 live and in person at various locations in Chelsea, Massachusetts.  Click here to see what is next for Apollinaire Theatre Company and Teatro Chelsea this fall.

REVIEW:  Actors’ Shakespeare Project and Theater Offensive stage bold classic ‘As You Like it’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

The name says so much.  Directed zealously by Harold Steward, Shakespeare’s As You like It is wide open to interpretation and Actors’ Shakespeare Project and the Theater Offensive take full advantage of Shakespeare’s broad title and sentiment with their production of As You Like It continuing live and in person at Tufts University’s Balch Arena Theatre in Medford, MA through June 25. The show has some mature themes. Click here for more information and tickets which includes pay what you can seats.

Mishka Yarovoy and Fady Demian in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

As You Like It has a modern spirit in its colorful and unique two story setting by Ben Lieberson of pastel hued Arden complete with textured trees.  Greatly considered a musical comedy, Harold Steward navigates its contemporary sound design filled with club and classic love songs as well as rich harmony such as Blow, Blow, thou winter wind sung live in the forest.  Even love struck Mishka Yarovoy as Orlando hums a classic Annie Lennox tune and a shimmering chime can be heard between scenes.   Steward’s dynamic costumes have a certain edge and whimsy, but the play itself is traditional Shakespeare in its text and Balch’s beautiful and traditional Shakespeare staging in the round is framed in alternating neon pinks, greens and blues by Amanda E. Fallon.

Gabriel Graetz, Bobbie Steinbach, and Lindsay Eagle in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

As the story goes, As You Like it focuses on family rivalry as well as forbidden love and the lengths in which one must go in the name of it.  As one who has depicted Shakespeare’s Henry V onstage, As You Like It features swapped gender roles popular in many of Shakespeare’s productions.  Bobbie Steinbach delivers a standout performance as Jaques who declares the classic monologue, ‘All the World’s A Stage’ with depth and contemplation as only a sage storyteller can.  Steinbach has charisma, stature and is a bit of a scene stealer expressing all of Jacques’ melancholy and musings.  Fady Demian in one of three roles is memorable as old shepherd Corin as he delivers some zingers petering around Arden.  Lindsay Eagle delights as the ruthless Charles and the infatuated Phoebe as Nathan Malin’ s poor shepherd Silvius, in hopeless love with Phoebe, gazes on.  Malin and Eagle have quite a few awkwardly amusing moments, but Malin’s sheer enthusiasm, goofy charm, and sharp comic timing bring lighthearted cheer to the production, breaking any tense moment.

Nathan Malin and Lindsay Eagle in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

Mishka Yarovou portrays reserved, shy, and unassuming Orlando who falls for the absolutely glowing Rosalind, portrayed by Genevieve Simon.  Simon shares a playful and exuberant chemistry and equally charming is the camaraderie and love between Simon and Regine Vital as Rosalind’s witty and beautiful cousin Celia.  They are inseparable and Vitale shines as Celia who spends much of the production a spectator of love.  Vitale’s reactions throughout the show are relatable, humorous, and express much of what the audience is thinking.

Regine Vital and Genevieve Simon in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

Love games, familial love, love notes, love in disguise, love triangles, love lessons, love schemes, fool’s love, silliness, unpredictable matches, ideas on wives versus maids, and many other amusing high jinx dwell in the Forest of Arden lit by a series of multicolored lamps.  Much of Shakespeare’s wisdom is entwined about love and life, but personal favorites include that love is to be made up of sighs and tears as well as all adoration, duty, and observance.  While Shakespeare explores idealistic and romantic love, it also examines the solid foundation of true love, one full of duty and grace which cannot easily be broken.

Genevieve Simon and Mishka Yarovoy in Actors’ Shakespeare Project’s As You Like It (2023). Photo by Nile Scott Studios.

Actors’ Shakespeare Project and the Theater Offensive take full advantage of Shakespeare’s broad title and sentiment with their production of As You Like It continuing live and in person at Tufts University’s Balch Arena Theatre in Medford, MA through June 25. The show has some mature themes. Click here for more information and tickets which includes pay what you can seats.

REVIEW: Dating just got complicated for Dating Drama shorts at New Ohio Theatre’s New York City’s Indie Theatre Film Festival

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

The New Ohio Theatre presented its 7th annual NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival live and in person at New Ohio Theatre, 154 Christopher Street in NYC from February 16-19 and then virtually from February 20-26.  The New York City Indie Film Theatre Festival presented a variety of films from short films to features on a variety of topics and some films contain mature themes.   Click here for more information and to learn more about New Ohio Theatre.

Photo credit to New Ohio Theatre

The Sleepless Critic was knee deep in short films and tackled the Dating Drama and the Friendship Bonds shorts which focused on a variety of perspectives on relationships.  Click here for the Friendship Bonds short film review.

New Ohio Shorts ‘Full Disclosure’ Photo credit New Ohio Theatre

Dating is not for the faint of heart.  Sharply written and directed by Mia Rovegno, Full Disclosure opens up the rapid fire, neurotic world of dating in a part confessional stream of consciousness romantic comedy that will keep the viewer guessing till its twisty conclusion.  Charise Greene as Darleen and Ryan Pater as Trent display cute chemistry that swings from obscure to anxious to downright impressive in a sequence of traditional dating scenarios as Zera Bloom’s cheerful, low key instrumental score keeps this lighthearted rom com quite the charmer.

New Ohio Theatre Dating Drama Shorts ‘eXcape’ Photo credit New Ohio Theatre

Two exes face the end of their relationship.  One is about to move out, but soon realize they are trapped inside their apartment.  Lindsley Howard as Jess and Mariah Naomi Sanchez as Marianna attempt to navigate their rocky relationship on a riddle-filled quest for answers in eXcape. Boosted by Kate Eberstadt’s tense soundtrack, eXcape is a somewhat predictable scenario, but boasts some adventurous and bittersweet moments during this down-to-the-wire mystery.

New Ohio Dating Drama Shorts ‘Jules and Dee’ Photo credit New Ohio Theatre

Featuring a retro punk soundtrack by Jim McCarthy, written and directed by Juliet Perrell and co-directed by Edna Luise Biesold, Jules and Dee take a wild, comedic, and modern twist on Shakespeare in a play within a play showcasing the awkward mayhem that takes place behind the scenes at the Cherry Lane Theatre.  Though it loses its way a bit at times, a spicy Jules by Julie Perrell and Delia Bannon as Dee make a fun pair and it features a refreshing twist ending.

New Ohio Dating Drama Shorts ‘Made in Heaven’ Photo credit New Ohio Theatre

Directed by Yiqing Zhao, Made in Heaven explores the mother daughter relationship and those relationships that are kept hidden from the world.  Named after a café, Made in Heaven is a story about matchmaking, cupcakes and an undercover plot to unlock those secrets.  Yiqing Zhao aptly portrays Serena’s firm and discerning mother Jo and delivers some intriguing scenes with Regina Ohashi as poker faced Ivy.  Elizabeth Chang is likable as conflicted Serena, but this story leaves more questions than answers and would benefit from an extended version to get to know the characters better. 

New Ohio Dating Drama Shorts ‘Me Myself vs I’ Photo credit New Ohio Theatre

 Capturing a whirlwind of emotions including excitement, nervousness and anxiety especially exemplified in the landscape of today’s social media world, Uzunma Udeh as Zoom shows off comedic chops and charisma in Me, Myself vs I.  Created auspiciously by Uzunma Udeh and Tamera Vogl, Me Myself vs I is a well done narrative within a zippy timeframe.

New Ohio Dating Drama Shorts ‘Red’ Photo credit New Ohio Theatre

Directed by Katia Koziara and written by Phoebe Dunn with Ben Brown, Red swiftly turns up the heat as Phoebe Dunn and Ben Brown embark on what becomes an unorthodox date.  Though the two develop some tension as the film progresses and boasts a clever title, knowing the characters better would have made the film a bigger thrill.

New Ohio Dating Drama Shorts ‘You Can Kiss Me’ Photo credit New Ohio Theatre

Two unhappily married people think they have found hope in something new in You Can Kiss Me, a film by Jan Jalenak.  Penelope, portrayed sympathetically by Brandi Nicole Wilson, thinks she has led a predictable life and longs to be adventurous and enigmatic Meg, portrayed by Ylfa Edelstein, tends to keep her personal life close to the hip.  Though the film leads to some implausible scenarios, Brandi Nicole Wilson delivers stirring scenes with both Edelstein and Andrew Elvis Miller as Paul.  The film’s intensity is enhanced by music composed by Jay Purdy including Jensen Smith’s Cello Kiss.

New Ohio Dating Drama Shorts ‘Intimacy Workshop’ Photo credit New Ohio Theatre

What starts out as an absorbing comedy takes an unexpected turn in Intimacy Workshop, written and directed by Eddie Prunoske.  To the soothing sounds of Clair De Lune, a dynamic assortment of men takes on awkward encounters in a workshop about the bonding experience.  Intimacy Workshop has some light, comedic dialogue but could have done without a gory, embarrassing and over the top twist that veers the film off course.

The New Ohio Theatre presented its 7th annual NYC Indie Theatre Film Festival live and in person at New Ohio Theatre, 154 Christopher Street in NYC from February 16-19 and then virtually from February 20-26.  Click here for more information and to learn more about New Ohio Theatre.

REVIEW: Fueled by Go-Gos pop-punk nostalgia, The Umbrella Stage Company’s ‘Head Over Heels’ a frothy farce with a unique beat

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

The expression, ‘Out with the old, in with the new’ takes on new meaning for Umbrella Stage Company’s dynamic musical, Head Over Heels, a gender-bending jukebox musical comedy which includes a case of mistaken identity that integrates the renaissance with contemporary themes and the 80s in Arcadia, a land that thrives on a beat.  If that seems like a lot, it’s because this ambitious show tackles a lot in its approximately 2-hour time frame. 

The cast of ‘Head over Heels’ Photo courtesy of Gillian Mariner Gordon/Umbrella Arts

With resourceful direction by Brian Boruta, The Umbrella Stage Company presents Head Over Heels the Musical live and in person at the beautifully-renovated Umbrella Arts Center, 40 Stow Street in Concord, MA through Sunday, May 8.  This show may not be appropriate for young children.  Click here for more information at for tickets.

Who else to handle a beat but the Go-Gos!  Following a string of jukebox musicals such as Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia! (featuring music from Abba), Movin’ Out (featuring music from Billy Joel), Good Vibrations (featuring music from the Beach Boys), Moulin Rouge and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (both which deliver covers of contemporary pop songs), 80s pop princesses the Go-Gos handle this production’s unique beat.  This lighthearted show highlights many of the Go-Gos snappy, feel-good numbers such as Vacation, Our Lips are Sealed, Head Over Heels, and We Got the Beat along with some lesser known tracks that don’t land as well.

Kai Clifton as Pythio and cast Photo courtesy of Gillian Mariner Gordon/Umbrella Arts

Head Over Heels is lively and cheerful in presentation from overhead neon lights, versatile surrounding white columns, and a live band veiled behind translucent curtains onstage by set designer Janie Howland to bold and bright period costumes in pink, green, and yellow weaving 80s glam with a rock-n-roll edge by Brian Simon and Johnny Cagno to the rollicking, up-tempo choreography by Lara Finn Banister.

Temma Boudreau as Philoclea and John Breen as Musidorus Photo courtesy of Gillian Mariner Gordon/Umbrella Arts

Based loosely on Sir Phillip Sidney’s The Arcadia, Head Over Heels is a farce that follows a few Arcadian love stories with one taking a cue from Shakespeare as love struck shepherd Musidorus, portrayed by John Breen, must disguise himself in order to gain approval to marry Princess Pilocleas, portrayed by Temma Beaudrea.  Beaudrea and Breen have a brimming, awkward, and excitable chemistry as they fight not only the royal rules, but the predictions from a mysterious oracle that ultimately sees the kingdom’s demise unless things change.  Meanwhile, Philocleas’s sister, Pamela, portrayed with humorous narcissism by Bri Ryder, is proclaimed fairest in the land, but a groom might not be what she has her sights on after all.

Damon Singletary as Basilius Photo courtesy of Gillian Mariner Gordon/Umbrella Arts

Damon Singletary as King Basilius brings gravitas and humor to the king’s bombastic nature while Kate Pickett’s flirty and dry sarcasm makes Gynecia a scene stealer.  Robert Saoud as Dametas portrays the sympathetic and seemingly sole voice of reason.   While the majority of the characters are so fixated on what each of them wants, Dametas and Kai Clifton, a commanding presence as Pythio, may be the only ones capable of seeing the bigger picture.  Singletary and Saoud deliver some amusing scenes together as they share differing outlooks on this kingdom’s shaky ground. 

Katie Pickett with cast Photo courtesy of Gillian Mariner Gordon/Umbrella Arts

The humor ranges from irreverent to absurd to charming.  Head over Heels makes some deliberate and clever points in its storytelling, but can get more fixated on what each character stands for rather than giving the characters more depth.  However, If you enjoy a frivolous farce dipped in 80s nostalgia, this “trifle” as Sir Phillip Sidney has called his prose, this one may be for you.

The Umbrella Stage Company presents Head Over Heels the Musical live and in person at the beautifully-renovated Umbrella Arts Center, 40 Stow Street in Concord, MA through Sunday, May 8.  This show may not appropriate for young children.  Click here for more information at for tickets.

REVIEW: Normalcy takes an eerie detour in Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s ‘Solitaire Suite’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

One thing rings true:  No good can come from a dying phone.

A dark highway and a last minute errand kick off the world premiere of Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s family-friendly supernatural thriller Solitaire Suite, a rich, engaging play by Trent England that explores a family’s strange occurrence over one evening.  With a dreamlike and tense score that underlies its various twist and turns, Solitaire Suite’s relatable cast are just part of what makes this as alluring a zoom production as it would be a stirring podcast.

Directed by Daniel Bourque, Solitaire Suite is nestled between two Shakespearean productions in Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s current season. While Shakespeare’s Much Ado about Nothing thrilled audiences last year and next is Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost in the spring, Hub Theatre Company of Boston took a break from soliloquies and bravado for this psychological thriller continuing on Hub Theatre’s YouTube page on live stream and on Hub Theatre’s Facebook page through Saturday, February 27. Tickets are on a pay-what-you-can basis.  Click here for more information.

Solitaire Suite Screen Shot courtesy of Hub Theatre Company of Boston

Having seen a few of Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s productions, it is refreshing to see them present such a vast array of work over the years from period pieces to dark fantasy to southern rom-coms and  now what is deemed twilight zone meets zoom. 

Marty Mason bears most of the weight of this production as Celeste, a former city-lover turned suburban mother whose mysterious son keeps her guessing.  She delivers a natural and nuanced performance, sharing the evocative, lively, and multi-layered account of her family’s evening.  Cristhian Mancinas-Garcia is charismatic as Celeste’s quick-witted and laidback husband Pete and Michael Lin portrays their introverted and mysterious son, Tiger.

Solitaire Suite veers off into different directions and each detail is a window into each character’s psyche.  The dramatic and haunting cinematography, with sound design and digital design by Kyle Lampe and Justin Lahue respectively, contributes to the production’s ominous and suspenseful tone that takes on not only some supernatural aspects, but the tension brimming just beneath the surface within this seemingly close family.

Solitaire Suite unpacks a lot within its under an hour runtime and though all your questions might not be answered, the production is thought-provoking well beyond the production’s close.

Solitaire Suite continues through Saturday, February 27 and is also available on Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s Facebook page. Click here for more information and their current production. Hub Theatre’s next production is Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost this spring.

REVIEW: Hub Theatre Company of Boston makes virtual ‘Much Ado about Nothing’ something special

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

It was love in the time of Covid.

Hub Theatre Company of Boston puts a 2020 twist on Shakespearean romantic-comedy classic, Much Ado About Nothing.  This lighthearted production not only battles the perils of love, but a modern-day pandemic. 

Shakespeare was no stranger to the times we are living in today.  He watched theatres close during the Great Plague of London in the 1600s and used his time wisely, writing King Lear, MacBeth, and Antony and Cleopatra during that time of isolation.  Tailoring this romantic comedy into 2020 isn’t too far of a stretch, especially in the humorous and clever manner in which Hub Theatre approaches these changes, not taking themselves too seriously.

Hub Theatre Company of Boston offered live streamed performances of Shakespeare’s Much Ado about Nothing until November 21 on a pay-what-you-can basis.  Astutely directed and adopted by Bryn Boice, the virtual performance is still available to watch on Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s Facebook page.  Click here to learn more about Hub Theatre Company of Boston and their future productions.

It is difficult to put together a show in the best of circumstances so Hub Theatre of Boston smartly steered into the skid by presenting this classic production, developing what theatre would have considered obstacles into strengths using the power of Zoom.  Romantic partners kiss (offstage), couples and groups schedule rendezvous in breakaway rooms, and masks are weaved right into the story varying from silly animals to refined Venetian costume masks.

Part of what keeps Much Ado about Nothing a relevant, insightful, and easily modern piece is its foundations inspired endless inspiration for contemporary rom-coms.  Adding tech talk and Covid-speak such as ‘turn off the cameras,’ ‘swipe right,’ ‘privacy issues,’ ‘your mic is on,’ and ‘venmo to payment’ does not seem too out of place onstage or on a laptop.  Its exuberant and mischievous tone steeped in romance, gossip, tricks, and trappings have universal and timeless appeal. 

This lively cast zealously adapts the production’s modern charm as they deliver wit, humor, and ripening drama in equal measure.  As Hero (Micheline Wu) is getting ready to marry Claudius (Jaime Hernandez), mutual friends decide to do some matchmaking of their own with sworn singles Benedick (Jon Vallente) and Beatrice (Lauren Elias). 

Wu is natural, charming, and sympathetic as blushing Hero and she shares sweet chemistry with Hernandez who delivers a robust performance as lofty and serious Claudio.  Sarcasm, wit, and banter are not lost on outspoken, headstrong, and stubborn Elias and Vallente, who exhibit crackling chemistry as Beatrice and Benedick.  One favorite line Hub Theatre gloriously did not change was when Benedick asks Beatrice, “You take pleasure then in the message?”  Beatrice replies, ‘Yea, just so much as you may take upon a knife’s point.’  Their bickering is as biting as ever.

Nettie Pickering brings gravitas to her portrayal as Don Pedro and providing contemporary comic relief are the hackers or in traditional terms the Watchmen led by officer Dogberry (John Kinsman) boasting a Boston accent.  Kinsman’s conceited and controlling Dogberry is amusing on his own, but shines in scenes with his watchman, portrayed with streetwise sass by Borachio (Lorraine Kanyike) and Conrade (Jessica Golden).   

Chelsea Kerl’s dynamic, edgy costumes and Justin Lahue’s bold digital design keep the show bright and buoyant even in its darkest moments…and there are a few.  Michael John Ciszewski has a flair for portraying dastardly characters and his elitist, tyrannical depiction of Don John is no exception.

The revelations hold up and pay off in Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s modern adaptation of Much Ado about Nothing.  A recorded version is still available on Hub Theatre Company of Boston’s Facebook page.  The production is on a pay-what-you-can basis.  Click here for more information on Hub Theatre Company of Boston and their eighth season.

REVIEW: Theatre KAPOW shows they have perfect timing with Peter Josephson’s ‘A Tempest Prayer’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

It is no surprise that Theatre KAPOW added Peter Josephson’s A Tempest Prayer, based on Shakespeare’s The Tempest, to their 13th season entitled, ‘We Can Get through This.’  Having lived through the Great Plague of London, Shakespeare was sadly familiar with the anguish of isolation and solemnity that encapsulates a person during a pandemic and the closing of theatres.  It is a perfect choice for this indelible year.

Peter Josephson’s  A Tempest Prayer, a solo retelling of William Shakespere’s The Tempest also starring Peter Josephson, was live streamed at various times from Theatre KAPOW’s studio in Manchester, NH from November 13 through November 15.  Click here for more information on season 13 and how to support them on Giving Tuesday on December 1.

Theatre KAPOW company member and award-winning actor Peter Josephson takes on quite a lot capturing the essence of a Shakespearean classic while displaying a full range of emotions not only as Prospero, but as other mystical figures.  It is a harrowing journey within a man’s psyche stranded with his daughter on a mystical Mediterranean island imprisoned by his thoughts.  He knows there is a way to escape, but must come to terms with himself in order to find freedom.   If the show’s surroundings and lead actor’s struggles do not seem a bit familiar in this odd year of 2020, maybe you’re adjusting better than you might expect.

Peter Josephson in ‘A Tempest Prayer’ Photo courtesy of Matthew Lomanno Photography/Theatre Kapow

Though A Tempest Prayer is a solo retelling, Josephson portrays other mystical characters on the island in innovative ways while simultaneously making him look that much more unhinged.  He uses marionettes for the illusion of interaction and Prospero’s daughter Miranda looks lifelike in a moving CGI portrait.  Multiple camera angles, the dark and ominous island setting, and stirring sound effects by Matt Cahoon, Tavya Young, and Jake Hodgins all contribute to Peter’s captivating torment.

Josephson gives a fierce and gripping performance as Prospero expressing his inner turmoil as he struggles to forgive, the weight of his ills threatening to drive him mad unless he can let go.  He’s menacing, fearful, shrewd, and human.  It is easy to witness this turmoil and have empathy while he is wracked by loneliness and confinement.  He paces and ponders the insignificance of life as he attempts to propel himself into a brave new world and appreciate what he does have.

Peter Josephson in ‘A Tempest Prayer’ Photo courtesy of Matthew Lomanno Photography/Theatre Kapow

Perhaps you are your own worst enemy.  Perhaps more than anyone surrounding you, the unbearable truth is that the biggest struggles are the ones you endure within yourself.  Letting go is the key to making things better if only it were that easy.

Sleepless Critic had the honor of interviewing Peter Josephson on a past production he performed with Theatre KAPOW. Click here for the interview.

Theatre KAPOW’s 13th season is underway.  Click here for more information about Theatre KAPOW, their mission, and how you can support them on Giving Tuesday on December 1.

REVIEW: PTP/NYC presents enthralling family mystery, ‘The House in Scarsdale’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Dan has a complicated relationship with his estranged family.

Director Christian Parker of ‘The House in Scarsdale’ Photo courtesy of PTC/NYC

Directed by Christian Parker and written by playwright and actor Dan O’Brien, Dan embarks on more than just a spiritual journey in The House in Scarsdale: a memoir for the stage.  The House in Scarsdale is the third play within Potomac Theatre Project(PTP/NYC’s) virtual series that has been running each weekend from September 24 through Sunday, October 18.

 Dan O’Brien’s The House in Scarsdale streamed from Thursday, October 8 through Sunday, October 11 and Caryl Churchill’s Far Away continues through Sunday, October 18 on PTC/NYC’s YouTube channel.   Viewings are free, but donations are welcome to support PTC/NYC with ten percent of the proceeds supporting The National Black Theatre.  Click here for the complete list of productions in PTP/NYC’s virtual series.

  • Alex Draper as Skip and several other characters
  • Dan O’Brien as himself
Photo courtesy of PTC/NYC

 In what can be described as a play within a prospective play, The House in Scarsdale visits the darkest of dysfunction as Dan, a journalist, visits various family members and others to learn more about his family’s past for his upcoming autobiographical play.  Audiences travel alongside Dan on his journey from the Garden State Parkway to as far as Europe as he investigates a possible family secret. What makes this show unique is not only is it a mystery, but as the details unfold, how much of the truth do you really want to know about your family?  Every family has their problems, but some secrets cannot be fathomed. 

The House in Scarsdale stars the show’s own playwright Dan O’Brien as Dan and Alex Draper portrays several dynamic characters throughout the production.  Draper seamlessly sinks right into each role, navigating an assortment of colorful characters from Dan’s resentful grandmother to his eccentric uncle.  Draper is expressive and spirited, clearly enjoying each transition.  His conversations with O’Brien have moments of dark humor, relatable family banter, and a good dose of stark, stirring honesty. 

The show is figuratively and literally on a journey to learn more about Dan’s troubled family, a family so dysfunctional that poor Dan has been cast out of his family circle hence its ironic opening quote by John Cheever, ‘Come back, come back, my wretched, feeble and unwanted child.’ Dan understandably wants to know why. As Dan’s extended family recall his family’s wild tendencies and various psychoses, Dan’s low key and unassuming demeanor makes one think that perhaps he has been through much more than he lets on. 

Dan is a quiet, inquisitive soul and depicts his emotional detachment with a skilled subtlety.  His conflicted nature between trepidation and yearning is fascinating as he ventures deeper into his family history becoming so invested and anxious about what he might find, he even visits a psychic.  Some of his family recollections are universal and lighthearted and every family has a degree of unhealthy dysfunction, but other memories are dreadfully concerning. 

So, as some answers come to light and more questions arise, how much is Dan like his family and how much of the story can be trusted?  The House in Scarsdale lures you in and leaves you engrossed in its outcome, hoping for a light at the end of this tunnel.

Potomac Theatre Project or PTC/NYC is located at 330 West 16th Street in New York City. Click here for more information and how to support PTP/NYC’s current and upcoming productions.

REVIEW: Theatre@First delivers a compelling and haunting ‘Hamlet’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, William Shakespeare’s work has garnered the most screen adaptations of any author in history in any language.  Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet boasts the most screen adaptations, but it’s hard to imagine Hamlet being far behind.

Shakespeare’s Hamlet has taken the stage and screen by storm from looser adaptations such as Disney’s stunning The Lion King in musical, animated, and live action form to Shakespeare on the Common to several films starring everyone from Laurence Olivier to Mel Gibson to Benedict Cumberbatch.  Why?  It’s a thrilling classic tale beloved by many about love, betrayal, and retribution with a haunting twist.

Theatre@FIrst Hamlet cast Johanna Bobrow

The cast of Theatre@First’s ‘Hamlet’ Photo courtesy of Johanna Bobrow/Theatre@First

Directed purposefully by Elizabeth Hunter, Theatre@First continues Shakespeare’s Hamlet through Saturday, November 23 at Unity Somerville in Somerville, Massachusetts.  Click here for more information and tickets.

Not a bad seat in the house as the audience gathered in Unity Somerville’s church basement for Theatre@First’s Hamlet.  The show is an immersive experience as the production expands beyond the stage and cast members can enter from anywhere in the venue.

Shakespeare’s Hamlet is about a Prince of Denmark who discovers his mother has married his uncle after his father has been murdered.  An urgent message inspires Hamlet to believe “something is rotten in the state of Denmark.”

Theatre@First’s Hamlet is a stylish, compelling drama that boasts some iridescent and impressive special effects as a translucent figure paces from a mysterious location.  It is not revealed which actor portrays that particular figure, but his moving and affecting presence is a highlight of the production.

Theatre@First Hamlet Laertes Nathan Phillip Andrew Harrington as Polonius and Evelyne Cardella Ophelia Johanna Bobrow

Clowning…. Nathan Phillip Johnson as Laertes, Andrew Harrington as Polonius and Evelyne Cardella as Ophelia Photo courtesy of Johanna Bobrow/Theatre@First

The show also blends the contemporary with the historical through its more casual tone and costume choices while Shakespeare’s alluring text and action sequences remain the same.  Carolyn Jones’s and Katie Caroll’s costume design nods to the late Middle Ages setting in Elsinore, Denmark while also boasting a contemporary flair.  For example, Hatem Adell portrays Hamlet wearing stone washed jeans and a crown on his t-shirt while Gertrude, depicted by Ron Lacey, wears a gown more faithful to the historical time period.  Makeup artists Meg Boeni, Mack Caroll, and their assistants did an extraordinary job transforming the cast into their respective roles.

Hamlet features a capable cast that occasionally engages the audience.  The dialogue can be a bit rushed at times in its conversational tone which lessens the gravitas of Shakespeare’s eloquent text.  Andrew Harrington is an unforgettable presence as Polonius.  Wearing a beard and a bow tie, Harrington has natural comic timing with a distinctive voice and lighthearted demeanor.  A bit of a scene stealer, he humorously engages the audience with his offhanded and frank observations while offering wisdom and insight to his children.

Theatre@First Hamlet Hatem Adell and Evelyne Cardella Ophelia Johanna Bobrow

Evelyne Cardella as Ophelia and Hatem Adell as Hamlet Photo courtesy of Johanna Bobrow/Theatre@First

Evelyn Cardella glows as Ophelia with a wide smile, bright eyed virtue, and complete infatuation with Hamlet.  Playful and charming, Cardella has a sweet chemistry with Nathan Phillip Johnson as her brother, Laertes and Andrew Harrington as their warm and wise father, Polonius.  Cardella navigates the character with vulnerability and heartfelt poignancy as her emotions turn on a dime.

Theatre@First Hamlet Nathan Philip Johnson as Laertes and Myra Hope Eskridge as Claudius Johanna Bobrow

Nathan Phillip Johnson as Laertes and Myra Hope Eskridge as Claudius Photo courtesy of Johanna Bobrow/Theatre@First

Hatem Adell certainly has exacted the alarming rage expected of Hamlet in the face of betrayal.  Adell delivers the famous “To Be or Not to Be” soliloquy with finesse.  He also excels at Hamlet’s darkly playful demeanor, especially in a powerful scene alone with Ophelia.  Nathan Phillip Johnson also gives a memorable performance as valiant and forthright Laertes, infusing a natural charisma in each scene.

Myra Hope Eskridge as Claudius delivers a suave poker face, but lacks the devious nature expected of the character.  Claudius is a calculating character and leaves little room for sympathy.  A brief exchange with Laertes later in the production showed just a glimpse of Claudius’s true nature.

Hamlet is not complete without the appearance of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, portrayed with fresh humor by Chantelle Marshall and Julia Kennedy respectively.  They make a seeming pair of jolly, dimwitted bookends as Hamlet’s childhood friends, dressed identically and interchangeably.  However, they are more than meets the eye.

Theatre@First Hamlet Hatem Adell Rosencrantz Chantelle Marshall and Guildenstern Julia Kennedy Johanna Bobrow

Hatem Adell as Hamlet joined by Chantelle Marshall as Rosencrantz and Julia Kennedy as Guildenstern Photo courtesy of Johanna Bobrow/Theatre@First

Get thee to Theatre@First’s final performances of Hamlet through Saturday, November 23 at Unity Somerville, 6 William Street in Somerville, Massachusetts.  Click here for more information, tickets, and how to support Theatre@First.