Just in time for Halloween, Greater Boston Stage Company stages one creepy ghost story.
Taking a cue from the success of last year’s one man show, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Greater Boston Stage Company decided to draw from a few classic and haunting tales for this one woman show, We Had A Girl Before You.
Directed by Weylin Symes, Greater Boston Stage Company presents Trevor Schmidt’sWe Had A Girl Before You live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA through Sunday, November 5. It is 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Annie Barbour in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘We Had a Girl Before You’ Photo by Nile Scott Studios
Wearing spectacles and with hair pulled back in a tight bun is just one of Annie Barbour’s many personas as she depicts Edwina Trout, a lonely and inquisitive woman who embarks on an ardent journey to work as a lady’s companion. Longing for love and a sense of belonging, she travels with hope on a dangerous journey to Wichham Manor.
Kathy Monthei’s gloomy and effective set boasts a distant and lit manor on a high hill, a large full moon, a wide staircase, a veiled and translucent black curtain, and bronze-like etchings on the walls with a built in crawl space. The show relies a great deal on David Remidios’s moody sound design and spontaneous special effects for a few jump scares along the way.
Annie Barbour in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘We Had a Girl Before You’ Photo by Nile Scott Studios
Annie Barbour not only depicts Edwina Trout, but a number of unsavory characters on her journey such as a gruff and surly barmaid and an abusive and resentful teacher. The physical prowess that Barbour carries is substantial, but she handles it while exacting accents, mannerism, and conversations varying from a dark scowl to a hypnotic stare. Trout is far more complex of a part than it seems and Barbour handles these variations of temperament believably. ‘We Had a Girl Before You’ is not as strong of a story as a classic tale of ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,’ but it contains enough chilling content and wily twists that make for an interesting day at the theatre.
Annie Barbour in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘We Had a Girl Before You’ Photo by Nile Scott Studios
Greater Boston Stage Company presents Trevor Schmidt’s We Had A Girl Before You live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA through Sunday, November 5. It is 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
During a dark and stormy night, a group of strangers are required to gather in a mysterious mansion under puzzling circumstances. The real reason for the gathering is just one of many twists and turns in this famous dark and comedic murder mystery.
Last year, Ryan Reynolds announced he would star in a new Clue film reboot for 20th Century Studios which, like a lot of reboots, seems unnecessary since the 80’s film Clue is an enduring cult classic. The popular Parker Brothers board game (now owned by Hasbro) has been revamped a number of times as a board game and has been translated into various forms of entertainment including a live Scavenger Hunt and interactive dinner theatre. This is one mystery that people have been anxious to solve for generations. Having seen the 80’s film many times over as well as played the popular board game, this is the first time seeing it done live onstage.
The Players of ‘Clue: On Stage’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Directed mischievously by Weylin Symes, Greater Boston Stage Company continues Sandy Rustin’sClue: on Stage live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA through June 25. Clue: on Stage is family friendly, but after all, a black comedy murder mystery which has its dark turns. The violence is not gruesome, but like the Parker Brothers board game, probably most appropriate for kids ages 8 and up. This show is 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Clue is a great murder mystery farce, but it really takes a cohesive cast led by famous butler Wadsworth to make this production simmer. Recent Elliot Norton Award winner Paul Melendy is just the man for the job not only bringing a unique twist to resourceful Wadsworth, but by fostering a new take on the character as does Bryan Miner as Mr. Body. Tim Curry will always be THE Wadsworth, but Melendy makes this refreshing interpretation his own while keeping Curry’s core characteristics still intact right down to his playful eyebrow lift and smirking grin.
Paul Melendy as Wadsworth and Maureen Keiller as Miss Peacock Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Whether in moments of scheming or over thinking, the cast has compelling chemistry as funny and fascinating adversaries. Genevieve Lefevre makes a mischievous Yvette while Jennifer Ellis is pitch perfect as Miss Scarlet creating a wonderful balance of sophistication and dry humor. Maureen Keiller portrays chatty, nervous, and panicky Miss Peacock. Wearing signature black glasses, Miss Peacock’s character could be interpreted as shrill and abrasive, but Keiller’s distinct comic timing makes Miss Peacock one of the funniest parts of the production.
L to R: Paul Melendy as Wadsworth Bill Mootos as Colonel Mustard and Genevieve Lefevre as Yvette Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
In a classic mustache, Bill Mootos brings comic wit to somewhat dim witted Colonel Mustard while Mark Linehan as Professor Plum and Stewart Evan Smith as squeamish Mr. Green both bring an enigmatic quality to their characters.
Sara Coombs is a good Mrs. White, but would have liked Mrs. White to be less soft spoken and more humorously cryptic. From stern to silly, Katie Pickett juggles a number of memorable roles as the story unfolds.
Paul Melendy as Wadsworth, Stewart Evan Smith as Mr. Green and Genevieve Lefevre as Yvette Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Whether in Miss Peacock’s spectacular blue and green glittering dress, Colonel Mustard’s military garb, Miss Scarlet’s vampy red dress, Yvette’s classic French maid costume, Wadsworth’s coat and tails or Mrs. White’s jet black furs, costume designer Deirdre Gerrard creates an elegant and vintage look authentic to each of the character’s iconic personas.
Paul Melendy as Wadsworth and Jennifer Ellis as Miss Scarlet Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Keeping its vintage 50s charm, Clue on Stage’s set by scenic designer Katy Monthei injects some similarities to the 80s film cult classic from the haunting and soft glow at the iconic mansion’s enigmatic front door to the comical and sophisticated portable set pieces. Lighting designer Jeff Adelberg and sound designer Caroline Eng work overtime to seamlessly and simultaneously up the ante on suspense, humor, and drama through the evolving lighting from foreboding to revealing to flashing to playful while the sound design transforms from sinister to lively to jolly.
The show’s innovative blocking and moving staging is a riot as it cleverly makes the most of every inch of the space with its transformative style and the cast’s ‘athletic’ movements choreographed by Alexander Platt and Cait Zweil.
The Players of ‘Clue: On Stage’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Sandy Rustin’s fun and comical script is no rehash of the film adaptation, but delivers fresh humor without leaving out some of the iconic quotes and scenes from the 80s film. Revisiting Clue was such an entertaining experience that I would gladly see it again.
Greater Boston Stage Company continues Sandy Rustin’s Clue: on Stage live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA through June 25. This show is 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Samantha Jane Williams and Stewart Evan Smith in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Boulevard of Bold Dreams’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Directed warmly by Taavon Gamble, Greater Boston Stage Company delivers a perfectly timed, heartfelt tribute to one of the greats with the east coast premiere of Boulevard of Bold Dreams by LaDarrion Williams live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts and streaming through Sunday, March 19. The show is 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
This year’s 95th annual Academy Awards marked a revolutionary year as Everything Everywhere All at Once not only dominated the night winning Best Picture, Best Direction, and Best Screenplay but also delivered a historic win for Michelle Yeoh as the first Asian actress to win an Oscar for Best Actress in a Leading Role. One of the actresses that presented Yeoh’s Oscar was none other than Halle Berry who was the first African American to win an Oscar for Best Actress in a Leading Role. When Berry won in 2002 she declared, “This moment is so much bigger than me.”
Michelle Fenelon, Stewart Evan Smith and Samantha Jane Williams in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Boulevard of Bold Dreams’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Hattie McDaniel’s groundbreaking Oscar win as Mammy in Gone with the Wind garnered acclaim and ongoing recognition for the barriers she broke as well as controversy while she paved the way for Halle and many other actresses including Viola Davis, Whoopi Goldberg, Diahann Carroll, Jennifer Hudson, Regina King, Octavia Spencer, Lupita Nyong’o, and Ariana DeBose. Those actresses were able to write their own acceptance speeches, sit with their cast, and although some aspects of Boulevard of Bold Dreams is fictionalized, the show delivers some eye-opening facts about McDaniel within segregated Hollywood. Facing a tough road, McDaniel had had the foresight and tenacity to make sure her name was on that Oscar ballot.
Michelle Fenelon and Stewart Evan Smith in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Boulevard of Bold Dreams’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Boulevard of Bold Dreams also boasts a memorable and tenacious cast. Bartender Arthur Brooks, an imaginative and aspiring director in a standout performance by Stewart Evan Smith, has big dreams well beyond his current occupation. Smith’s candor, charisma, and enthusiasm brighten each scene and his unflappable vision for his future makes it easy to root for his success in the face of any obstacle. Maid Dottie Hudson, a cynical, yet aspiring singer portrayed with wit and humor by Michelle Fenelon, has her feet planted closer to the ground. Smith and Fenelon strike a delicate balance of resourcefulness, wishful thinking and persistence when they arrived in Hollywood with little money and big ambitions. However, things are more complicated than they appear. In a distinctive and glittery blue gown, Samantha Jane Williams gracefully captures Hattie McDaniel’s humble and frank demeanor with an underlying anxiousness as she faces a potentially life changing night. Fenelon and Williams have quick and complex camaraderie as their strong vocals combine for a playful and impromptu duet.
Boulevard of Bold Dreams Samantha Jane Williams Michelle Fenelon and Stewart Evan Smith in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘Boulevard of Bold Dreams Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Kiara Escalera’s meticulous costume design recreates McDaniel’s look with precision as well as the vintage sophistication of the 1940s. Enhanced by red and gold jacquard curtains and distinguished black and gold doors, scenic designer Rachel Rose Burke elegantly recreates a section of the Ambassador’s Coconut Grove Night Club in Los Angeles.
Boulevard of Bold Dreams not only depicts life’s possibilities through McDaniel, but the extent of the segregation and racism of that time and the struggle to make their dreams come true. Whether or not a fan of the Academy Awards or Hollywood, Boulevard of Bold Dreams tells an inspiring story for all the dreamers of how one person can create lasting change one step at a time.
Greater Boston Stage Company’s Boulevard of Bold Dreams by LaDarrion Williams live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts and streaming through Sunday, March 19. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Under a glimmering moon, fog rolls in as a candle burns.
Near a tattered fence and curtains behind a pedestal table sits The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’s author Washington Irving, portrayed by Boston-based actor Paul Melendy. Poised to share his gothic novel, Washington Irving is just one of several personas Melendy charismatically manifests for Greater Boston Stage Company’s semi-interactive, one man performance of Halloween classic, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.
Paul Melendy in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
With lively direction by Weylin Symes, Paul Melendy aptly bares the weight of this local, legendary, and family-friendly tale live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts as well as virtually through Sunday, November 6. This show is just under 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.
Paul Melendy in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ Photo credit to Nile Scott StudiosPaul Melendy in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Already proving to be a wonderful talent in Greater Boston Stage productions such as The 39Steps and Miss Holmes Returns, Paul Melendy captures the spirit of Sleepy Hollow through a frenzy of distinct personalities, rapid fire mannerisms, and occasional scares. This version has a historical and contemporary context, delivering more family- friendly and comedic content than a fright fest.
Paul Melendy in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Melendy’s Icabod Crane is an eccentric, bumbling, and polite schoolmaster in love with the lovely Katrina and sets out to impress her and her family, but rumor has it that something ghostly just might be lurking through Sleepy Hollow. Feeding off the audience while drawing comedic inspiration and wide- eyed vigor reminiscent of Jim Carrey or Jerry Lewis, Melendy’s pliable features transform into a number of characters ranging from the elegant Katrina to a tough guy New Yorker to the mysterious Mister Knickerbocker. A cross between a recollection and a retelling, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow treats the audience to an assortment of dynamic characters who roam through this secluded valley along the Hudson River.
Paul Melendy in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ Photo credit to Nile Scott StudiosPaul Melendy in Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios
Melendy is an animated and quick-witted storyteller on this partially introspective journey as David Remedios’s chilling sound effects highlighted by a wild horse whinnying, Katy Monthel’s haunting scenic design, and Deirdre Gerrard’s eerie lighting elevate the production’s mysterious and uneasy tone. Add Melendy’s exuberance to the mix and audiences are in for an enjoyable ride.
The cast and creative team for Greater Boston Stage Company’s ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ Photo courtesy of Nile Scott Studios
Greater Boston Stage Company presents The Legend of Sleepy Hollow live and in person in Stoneham, Massachusetts as well as virtually through Sunday, November 6. This show is just under 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.
Two dynamic actors take the stage for some wacky fun in Popcorn Falls, a wild, improv-inspired tale about a small, provincial New Hampshire town brimming with zany townspeople of all ages affectionately called, “kernels.” From a feline-loving librarian with a flair for the dramatic to jack-of-all-trades Joe, Popcorn Falls must find a way to save itself from bankruptcy before it’s too late.
Christopher Chew and Sarah Elizabeth Bedard in ‘Popcorn Falls’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company
Written by James Hindman and directed warmly by Lisa Rafferty, Greater Boston Stage Company presents quirky, family-friendly comedy, Popcorn Falls live and in person through October 2 at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA. This show is 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Sarah Elizabeth Bedard and Christopher Chew in ‘Popcorn Falls’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company
Doing the heavy lifting is Christopher Chew depicting a set of unique characters including the Town Mayor and Sarah Elizabeth Bedard who portrays other wild characters including Joe. They are more than up for the challenge of keeping the pace of this lively production from a broken mic wire to journeys unknown. From shifting voices to lightning-fast wardrobe changes thanks to dynamic Properties Designer Sarajane Mullins and Costume Designer Deirdre Gerrard, Bedard’s ability to transform into a wide spectrum of characters from seductress to meet cute to smarmy sometimes in mid-sentence is amusing to say the least. The kernels can make a lot of noise and the audience is in on the joke rooting on each shifting character. Christopher Chew largely portrays the straight man with few exceptions, enduring the eccentricities of each alternating character in stride while putting his own twist on his changing persona.
‘Popcorn Falls’ full cast and artistic team Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company
Kristin Loeffler’s inviting town hall set up including a brick backdrop, a chalkboard, and a town flag does little to reveal the path this duo is about to embark on while sound designer Caroline Eng enhances each running gag. Popcorn Falls doesn’t take itself too seriously, but each prop, sound, and set piece lends itself to the production’s playful and zany antics.
Sarah Elizabeth Bedard and Christopher Chew Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company
Quite a tale develops as this play kicks off in mid-action as the audience must piece together what exactly is happening onstage and what “kernel” the audience is sure to meet next. Popcorn Falls is a feel-good show for the whole family that will keep the audience guessing at each unpredictable turn. It is endearing and funny journey that saves the big, eye opening reveal for last.
Greater Boston Stage Company presents quirky, family-friendly comedy, Popcorn Falls live and in person through October 2 at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA. This show is 90 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information, discount tickets, and more.
Witnessing a phenomenon is a rare and precious thing. It was nothing short of miraculous watching Greater Boston Company’sAll is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 which details that short period in history where enemies united briefly during the depths of War War I on Christmas Eve 1914. Disillusioned and missing their loved ones, soldiers demonstrated compassion and the mercy of the human spirit as both sides sang carols, exchanged goods, and mutually wished for the war to end.
In the Greater Boston Stage Company’s lobby. Authentic combat uniform and gear from the Veteran Association of the First Corps of Cadets and Museum Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company
Directed poignantly by Ilyse Robbins and compellingly written by Peter Rothstein, Greater Boston Stage Company presents the award-winning documentary musical, All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 through December 23 as a digital performance and live in person at Greater Boston Stage Company, 395 Main Street in Stoneham, Massachusetts. The show is approximately 70 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.
It is surprising that The Christmas Truce of 1914 is not more widely known. Joyeux Noel, The Christmas Truce, various documentaries, and this show are a few of the ways that this short historical period is recorded. It should be an annual tradition like How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Frosty, Rudolph or A Charlie Brown Christmas. It stands as a significant reminder of a Christmas Eve miracle that occurred only once during War World I’s long and grueling four year time span. Most soldiers first joined thinking the war would end by Christmas.
The cast of ‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios/Greater Boston Stage Company
A dimly lit, bare stage is all that is revealed at the start of All is Calm, but what transpires as the show progresses is a rich landscape of moonlight, song, and memories. Though this show features musical interludes, it is not a traditional musical. It is more like a documentary that features stunning music and carols inviting the audience into the warmth, spirit, sacrifice, and the true meaning of the season.
Comprised of ten cast members who take on several identities during the production as they recollect that time period, All is Calm boasts powerful and silvery harmonies chiming into the wintry night sung a cappella without a band. Music Director Matthew Stern does a sensational job with Erick Lichte and Timothy Takach’s vocal arrangements which includes popular carols such as Silent Night, O Holy Night, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Angels We Have Heard on High, and Auld Lang Syne.
Michael Jennings Mahoney and the cast of ‘All is Calm’ Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios/Greater Boston Stage Company
All is Calm is a beautiful ensemble piece and each cast member rises to the occasion, but when a renowned German tenor leads a stirring rendition of Franz Gruber’s Stille Nacht in No Man’s Land, it is difficult to pinpoint a more memorable moment.
Dressed in muted military uniforms and kilts faithful to the era’s period and culture by Bethany Mullins, the collaborative cast demonstrates heartwarming chemistry and yet simultaneously depicts each soldier’s growing isolation in sorrow, fear, turmoil, and anguish as they progressively experience war’s cruel reality. Integrating direct quotes from soldiers, narration, and uplifting carols such as Wassail as well as exceptional and heartrending songs such as I Want to Go Home, many times moved me beyond words.
Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios/Greater Boston Stage CompanyFull cast of ‘All is Calm’ which includes Caleb Chew, Christopher Chew, Alexander Holden, David Jiles Jr., Michael Jennings Mahoney, Stephen Markarian, Zachary McConnell, Bryan Miner, Gary Thomas Ng, and Brad Peloquin. Photo credit to Nile Scott Studios/Greater Boston Stage Company
Though the extraordinary harmonies are a large part of the production, the production’s real mastery also resides in its stillness. That brief interlude during a harrowing time where friendships were forged and sweet peace was nestled in the silence of enemies who joined together in the joy of the season and the sadness in their hearts for what was in store.
Greater Boston Stage Company presents the award-winning documentary musical, All is Calm: The Truce of 1914 through December 23 as a digital performance and live in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts. The show is approximately 70 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information, tickets, and a look at their upcoming events.
Like so many Hitchcock creations, it’s complicated. However, though this Hitchcock production is presented during Halloween season, please don’t let that scare you away. The 39 Steps is based on John Buchan’s 1915 thriller novel by the same name, was adapted by Alfred Hitchcock into a classic British film in 1935, and adapted to the stage by Patrick Barlow. Though The 39 steps will certainly keep the audience on its toes, it has more than its share of comedic moments sure to deliver more laughter than frights.
Greater Boston Stage Company joyfully returned indoors to present Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller comedy mystery, The 39 Steps which continues through Sunday, October 10 at the Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, MA. The show runs approximately 2 hours and 15 min including an intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.
From L to R: KP Powell, Russell Garrett, Paul Melendy, and Grace Experience in ‘The 39 Steps’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company
Directed imaginatively by llyse Robbins, this dynamic crime noir boasts plenty of vintage flair as well as adventure, romance, comedy, and suspense. However, what really makes this show such fun is that it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
KP Powell and Paul Melendy in ‘The 39 Steps’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company
The 39 Steps pay tribute to Hitchcock’s body of works with a catchy story while spoofing some of his most famous works along the way. Vertigo and Rear Window is just a portion of the Hitchcock Easter eggs run amok in this production. Some of the dark and witty humor from The 39 Steps call to mind humor likened to other murder mystery comedy classics including Clue.
Shelley Barish’s modest and multi-functional set design, Daisy Long’s mercurial lighting, and Andrew Duncan Will’s exceptional, carefully-timed sound effects play a pivotal role in some of the production’s most humorous scenes. Moveable set pieces transform each scene and costume designer Rachel Padula-Shufelt’s colorful gowns, dynamic wigs, and tweed and paisley suits enliven the production’s vintage noir atmosphere.
Taking on this production was no small feat for its four stellar actors who depict a total of 150 characters. However, they were more than up for the task as they sometimes cleverly and quite literally switch roles at the drop of a hat or within seconds. With impeccable timing and snappy chemistry, these dynamic performers bring to life a variety of accents and deliver a great deal of physical comedy while delivering sharp and at times quirky dialogue.
Russell Garett, KP Powell, Grace Experience, and Paul Melendy in a makeshift car in ‘The 39 Steps’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company
Paul Melendy portrays Richard Hannay with a mix of bumbling and debonair charm. Set in Scotland, he is a man on the run after a chance encounter with a femme fatale in all her forms by Grace Experience, leading to a murder mystery. What Grace Experience does particularly well is though she depicts each character distinctly, they all have the same familiar strength, resourcefulness, and truthfulness as the tale unfolds. With Russell Garrett and KP Powell quite often after Hannay, it’s a madcap adventure with high jinx galore and likable characters that range from a ludicrous man with ridiculous eyebrows to a flirtatious and outspoken innkeeper. Some of the scenes are arbitrary and self aware and a couple of gags get a bit repetitive, yet fit right into the production’s silly charm.
From L to R: Russell Garrett, Paul Melendy, Grace Experience, and KP Powell in ‘The 39 Steps’ Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Stage Company
Take a break from these difficult times and escape down Greater Boston Stage Company’s unconventional, madcap, and lighthearted The 39 Steps continuing through Sunday, October 10. Click here for more information, tickets, and for a closer look at Greater Boston’s Stage Company’s 22nd season.
Exploring love from obsession to at first sight, Greater Boston Stage Company couldn’t have chosen a more perfect time to introduce Swan Lake, one of ballet’s most popular productions of all time, with a bold and re-imagined twist the day after Valentine’s Day.
With insightful choreography and direction by Ilyse Robbins, Greater Boston Stage Company continues Jazz Ballet Swan Lake in Blue through Sunday, March 1 at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and tickets.
Jackson Jirard (center) and the cast of Swan Lake in Blue Photo by Maggie Hall Photography
Tap dancing, ballet, and classic dance just skims the surface of the sheer energy that encapsulates Swan Lake inBlue, a brilliant production that transforms Tchaikovsky’s classic fairy tale into a lively, non-stop dance spectacle with big band flair. Swan Lake in Blue has elements of that beloved classic in swan feathers, but set in thrilling 1940’s New York City.
Costume designer Kevin Hutchins and Scenic and Prop designer Teri Oakes work together to capture the mood of 1940s New York City in bowler hats, vintage suits, and colorful casual wear right down to the cast’s 40s style Oxfords.
Steve Bass not only seamlessly composed and musically directs Swan Lake in Blue, but also performs onstage with a full big band stately dressed in black and grey vintage sophistication. The rollicking live orchestra instantly sets the mood of this vibrant, non-stop musical journey. Swan Lake in Blue features an array of gloriously energetic, athletic dancers that keep the pace joyous and thriving while integrating popular dance moves of its time like the Charleston and Swing. Each dancer gets an opportunity to shine and Jackson Jirard as Ben Kelly leads this agile group of exceptional talent.
Jackson Jirard (center) with male dance auditions. Photo by Maggie Hall Photography
Jirard is magnificent as he leaps and spins audaciously in tap shoes. Andy McLeavey as Seigfried and Jirard look like naturals dancing together, especially when Mr. Seigfried is first introduced. From Mambo to the Samba to the alluring Dance of the Swans, it is a wordless piece that invites dance to take over.
Sara Coombs as Odette Photo by Maggie Hall Photography
Swan Lake in Blue preserves the classic tale but gives it a Broadway spin involving a mobster, idyllic “swans” and a love struck Broadway producer set in a dance studio. Odette, portrayed with elegance, fragility, and anguish by Sara Coombs, is a seemingly tethered soul longing for peace. Coombs flourishes in the complex dual role which balances sass and sincerity as well as compassion and malicious glee through her carefully crafted sharp and sweeping dance moves.
Sara Coombs and Andy McLeavey as charming Seigfried share some beautiful moments. David Visini captures a dark sophistication as Von Rothbart. Visini’s unsettling, sharp, and menacing dance create a mysterious and powerful charisma every time he makes an appearance.
Sara Coombs and Andy McLeavey Photo by Maggie Hall Photography
Tchaikovky’s immortalized Dance of the Swans takes on a new, alluring spin as Briana Fallon and Gillian Gordon join Coombs decked out in feathery, white fringed dresses. It’s a daring, yet fitting departure of Tchikovsky’s original dance and like the imaginative Swan Lake in Blue, includes a few winks to the original.
Greater Boston Stage Company continues Jazz Ballet Swan Lake in Blue through Sunday, March 1 at Greater Boston Stage Company at 395 Main Street in Stoneham, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and tickets and here for more on Greater Boston Stage Company’s 20th season.
Miracle on 34th Street is a simple tale with a big message.
During this time of year, faith is a predominant theme within many holiday productions such as faith in humanity, in God, and in a “right jolly old elf.” From Twas the Night Before Christmas to A Christmas Carol, the holiday spirit shines through, a temporary feeling that really should last all year long.
Set in New York City, Miracle on 34th Street is about a mysterious man who becomes a last minute replacement for Santa Claus at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. He befriends Susie Walker, a precocious little girl portrayed with grace and charm by Addison McWayne, who is far too sensible for childish things including believing in Santa Claus. Natalie Wood rose to fame in her role as Susie Walker with Maureen O’Hara as Doris Walker in the beloved 1947 film.
Jon Savage’s vibrant set design includes a lovely, towering, and whimsical Christmas tree that contributes its own unique part in the tale. The famous parade is just one of the events that take place in the aisles during this semi-immersive production.
Though this production of Miracle of 34th Street is not considered a musical, it does have its share of musical moments. From gift wrapping to sweeping the store shelves, the store workers do more than whistle while they work, swaying and lifting their voices in a variety of spontaneous Christmas carols such as The 12 Days of Christmas, Sleigh Ride, and The Nutcracker Suite led by the mirthful vocal stylings of David Jiles Jr. as Mr. Adams.
Packed with a likeable cast of characters including a lively and noteworthy performance by Gary Thomas NG as Alfred, Miracle on 34th Street shows it is sometimes better to see with the heart rather than the head. Gary Thomas NG is captivating as Alfred, a humble and gleeful janitor full of holiday cheer. NG depicts Alfred with a song in his heart as he spontaneously leaps for joy across the stage. His comic scenes with William Gardiner as gentle, jovial and unfailingly forthright Kris Kringle are a particular highlight as they compete in board games and engage in candid conversations. With warm charisma and that signature twinkle, William Gardiner fills Kris Kringle’s red suspenders with finesse and of the many iconic conversations he has with McWayne’s Susie, their playful dialogue about imagination is just wonderful.
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In a red coat and distinctive 50s red lipstick, Sara Coombs portrays Doris Walker, an astute and shrewd businesswoman. It is amusing to watch Walker and her “mini-me” daughter Susie as they inadvertently duplicate each other’s mannerisms. Susie is seemingly as mature, confident, and shrewd as her elegant mother. Showing a great rapport with each cast member, Michael Jennings Mahoney is refreshing as fun loving and laid back Fred. Barlow Adamson exacts Macy store manager Mr. Shellhammer’s nervous and priceless tense expressions prevalent during the holiday season.
Having last seen Juliet Bowler in an affecting performance at Flat Earth Theatre’s Not Medea, it is no surprise that Bowler show off her talents as insecure, strict and secretive Leslie Sawyer. Her cold disdain and devious manipulations reach Grinch-like proportions. Sara Gazdowicz also takes an amusing turn as a fast talking, accent-rich NYC cop.
Juliet Bowler as Mrs. Sawyer, Barlow Adamson as Mr. Shellhammer, Sara Coombs as Doris Walker, and William Gardiner as Kris Kringle Photo courtesy of Nile Scott Studios/Greater Boston Stage Company
While some performances demonstrate holiday spirit in pomp and spectacle, Greater Boston Stage Company delivers that feeling with a gentle nudge of heartwarming cheer. Greater Boston Stage Company’s Miracle on 34th Street through Sunday, December 22. Click here for more information and tickets. Click here to learn more about Greater Boston Stage Company and their upcoming 2020 productions.
