survival

REVIEW:  Tom Stoppard’s indelible epic ‘Leopoldstadt’ at the Huntington

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Flanked with brass and crystal embellishments, a gorgeous Vienna apartment is festively adorned as a beautiful upper class family celebrates Hanukkah….and then Christmas and the Nativity.  It is subtle at first, but there lies a divide in this extended Jewish family reaching further than 1899.  Over the stretch of 56 years through war, strife, turmoil, heartache and tragedy lays a growing divide that impacts generations and it only gets more complicated.

Directed conscientiously by Carey Perloff, The Huntington and Shakespeare Theatre Company presents Tom Stoppard’s epic Tony Award-winning production of Leopoldstadt live and in person at The Huntington in Boston, Massachusetts through October 13.  This multi-generational production is two hours and twenty minutes plus one 15 minute intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

Left to right: The cast of Leopoldstadt b. Forefront (L to R): Brenda Meaney and Rachel Felstein
Tom Stoppard’s Leopoldstadt; directed by Carey Perloff
September 12 – October 13, 2024 at The Huntington Theatre, 264 Huntington Ave.
Photo by Liza Voll

The Huntington has recently been presenting family multi-generational productions which include The Lehman’s Trilogy also directed by Perloff about the Lehman Brothers spanning a 163-year period before exploring the world of the Salomon family in Joshua Harmon’s Prayer for the French Republic spanning almost 70 years. 

Leopoldstadt is inspired by Stoppard’s own family experiences which span a pivotal time from 1899 to 1955.  The show has a large cast which explores resilience, identity, grief, survival, fear, hate, and the struggle with one’s own faith in the face of growing darkness.   

The cast of Tom Stoppard’s Leopoldstadt; directed by Carey Perloff
September 12 – October 13, 2024 at The Huntington Theatre, 264 Huntington Ave.
Photo by Liza Voll

Scenic designer Ken MacDonald impressively reflects transformation over time starting with the opening of the production in an opulent Vienna apartment with built-in bookshelves packed with various selections, a large decorated window with a stellar view of the city, a feast at the dining room table with a real Christmas tree lit with live burning candles.  The Merz-Jacobovicz family is decked out in their best in colorful embroidered gowns and classic patterns in velvet and lace as the men dress in timely suits by costumer Alex Jaeger.  A portrait of a family celebrating Hanukkah and Christmas on the same day as Phyllis Kay, in a dual role as Eva and here as fascinating Grandma Emilia, uses terms seemingly lightly such as ‘Christianized’ and presenting the tree ‘for the papists.’ 

Left to right: The cast of Leopoldstadt b. Foreground (L to R): Brenda Meaney, Nael Nacer
Tom Stoppard’s Leopoldstadt; directed by Carey Perloff
September 12 – October 13, 2024 at The Huntington Theatre, 264 Huntington Ave.
Photo by Liza Voll

This extended family is its own melting pot of beliefs and heritage which is often explored through deep discussion between Brothers Nael Nacer as textile manufacturer Hermann and Firdous Bamji as mathematician Ludwig.  The conversations intensify as the show progresses between Hermann as a Jew converted to Catholicism and Jewish Ludwig as they explore politics and their stirring reasons behind their demeanors and beliefs as time and turmoil takes hold through two world wars and as a new generation enters the world.

Left to right: Holden King-Farbstein, Joshua Chessin-Yudin, Quinn Murphy, Firdous Bamji
Tom Stoppard’s Leopoldstadt; directed by Carey Perloff
September 12 – October 13, 2024 at The Huntington Theatre, 264 Huntington Ave.
Photo by Liza Voll

Another key figure in the production is Brenda Meaney in a nuanced depiction of Hermann’s complex wife Gretl who is Catholic yet enamored with Jewish tradition and takes part in a scandalous and unpredictable storyline.  Samuel Adams is also memorable in a dual role as egotistical and shrewd Officer Fritz and English journalist Percy.  However, Mishka Yarovoy is haunting in a dual role as devastated soldier Jacob and Leo who are both replete with loss.

Left to right: Mishka Yarovoy, Nael Nacer, Brenda Meaney
Tom Stoppard’s Leopoldstadt; directed by Carey Perloff
September 12 – October 13, 2024 at The Huntington Theatre, 264 Huntington Ave.
Photo by Liza Voll

This historically significant and symbolic production takes some time to build as does the nature of fascism in its escalating subtlety and the revelations in this production are deep and impactful.  The show’s affecting familial layers unfurl with resonance and familiarity as startling details take shape about these critical years including a riveting depiction of The Night of Broken Glass in 1938 infusing Jane Shaw’s stunning sound design, Robert Wierzel’s evocative lighting and Yuki Izumihara’s astonishing projections sure to stay with you long after the production has ended.  Leopoldstadt is a timeless and cautionary piece of theatre not to be missed.

The cast of Leopoldstadt
Tom Stoppard’s Leopoldstadt; directed by Carey Perloff
September 12 – October 13, 2024 at The Huntington Theatre, 264 Huntington Ave.
Photo by Liza Voll

Directed conscientiously by Carey Perloff, The Huntington and Shakespeare Theatre Company presents Tom Stoppard’s epic Tony Award-winning production of Leopoldstadt live and in person at The Huntington in Boston, Massachusetts through October 13.  This multi-generational production is two hours and twenty minutes plus one 15 minute intermission.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEWS:  Harbor Stage Company’s striking ‘Northside Hollow’ and Liv at Sea Productions presents absorbing ‘Liv at Sea’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

The thrill of feeling engulfed in a theatrical experience is just what Harbor Stage Company delivered when disaster struck as part of their tense drama Northside Hollow in an already intimate setting.  Harbor Stage Company’s Northside Hollow brought fascinating and immersive storytelling to the stage with authenticity and occasional humor.

Grippingly directed and written by Jonathan Fielding and Brenda Withers, Harbor Stage Company presented Northside Hollow from Tuesday, January 11 through Saturday, January 20 live and in person at Boston Center of the Arts (BCA) Plaza Black Box Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts.  The production was 1 hour 20 minutes with no intermission and had some mature language.  Click here for more information and Liv at Sea Productions with Harbor Stage Company presents Liv at Sea currently running through Sunday, January 28.

Industrial lights and mysterious headlamps play a crucial role in the production’s immersive authenticity as well as the feeling of sheer engulfment in a catastrophic event.  Strewn metal, wooden pieces and tight passages create a realistic pit and an arduous challenge to overcome.

The chilling tension took hold minutes into the production and the audience becomes a part in Gene’s mutual distress. Injured Gene portrayed with frank cynicism, humorous likability, and a wonderful drawl by Robert Kropf, is a miner in peril.  He is trapped in a collapse and is too injured to climb out alone.  Volunteer EMT Marshall, depicted with insightful practicality by Alex Pollock, arrives to rescue him, but can they escape and how did this collapse happen in the first place? 

Northside Hollow L to R Robert Kropf and Alex Pollack Photo credit to Edward Boches

The twists and odd turns are quite compelling and though the show is mildly predictable, the execution is extraordinary.  With grime caked on his face, Kropf captures Gene’s stubbornness,  worn demeanor, sardonic humor, and sheer exhaustion as he helplessly asks for the impossible – a burger.  Gene shares fascinating camaraderie with spiritually centered, focused and sensible Pollack as Marshall.  Brimming with emotion and perspective, both actors deliver powerful performances as they contemplate faith, relationships, mortality, music, morality, and life’s intricacies while merging their skills in an attempt to conquer the loneliness and fear of this moment.

Harbor Stage Company presented Northside Hollow from Thursday, January 11 through Saturday, January 20 live and in person at Boston Center for the Arts (BCA) Plaza Black Box Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts.  The production was 1 hour 20 minutes with no intermission.  Click here for more information and Liv at Sea Productions with Harbor Stage Company presents Liv at Sea is running through Sunday, January 28.

REVIEW:  Liv at Sea Productions presents absorbing ‘Liv at Sea’

It is the kind of silence that could only mean that something has changed. 

Two people in metaphorically two different places in their relationship stand in a stark and bare room.  One is at the precipice while the other is helpless witnessing it.  Both are in agony and one is longing for water.

Paige O’Connor and Nick Wilson in ‘Liv at Sea’ Photo credit to Edward Boches

Affectively written and directed by Robert Kropf, Liv at Sea continues live and in person at Boston Center for the Arts (BCA) Plaza Black Box Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, January 28. The production has some mature language, runs 90 minutes with no intermission, and contains a brief strobe light sequence.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

With bare feet on sand colored carpet, introspective indie music weaves cleverly in and out of this production by sound designer Joe Kenehan as Liv hesitates to share her true feelings.  With cheerful lighting in unexpected places by John Malinowski, the unembellished staging features an at first blank canvas that comes to life mixing cinematography by Adam Foster and art to illustrate metropolitan and creation while the symbolic black and white costumes add a single splash of color for renewal.

Paige O’Connor as Liv in ‘Liv at Sea’ Photo credit Edward Boches

The audience is arranged in the center while the action is refreshingly not limited to this stage.  A dramatic tale told out of sequence and largely unconventional which includes the quirky, romantic, artistic, and brooding dreamer Liv, depicted with nonconformist charm by Paige O’Connor.  While O’Connor’s long gazes and deep and contemplative silences can weigh down a room, anxiety-laden and chatty Nick, portrayed by Nick Wilson, bends over backwards to lighten it with humor.  Many of their exchanges are strained and tense and yet both characters are distinctive and likable.  Wilson is particularly funny as he delves into an uninvited guessing game with Liv.  In charming glasses and a beard, Wilson is sympathetic and earnest as he struggles to understand his restless and distant live-in girlfriend.

‘Liv at Sea’ Photo credit to Edward Boches

A mysterious stranger, depicted by Jack Aschenbach, appears to provide a complicated bright spot in this production.  Serious, romantic and perceptive, Ashenbach unleashes a new side in O’Connor’s Liv that comes with risk in what the future holds.

Liv at Sea is an absorbing journey that explores the nature of relationships at its root and bloom as well as its endings, beginnings, and the restless uncertainty in-between with hope and ruefulness. 

Affectively written and directed by Robert Kropf, Liv at Sea continues live and in person at Boston Center for the Arts (BCA) Plaza Black Box Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts through Sunday, January 28. The production has some mature language, runs 90 minutes with no intermission, and contains a brief strobe light sequence.  Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW:  ‘34 Carmine Street,’ featured at the New York City Indie Film Festival, gets to the heart of small business

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

You’ve Got Mail, a hit film starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, explores the virtues and survival of a small business bookstore up against a number of factors including corporate bookstore chains.  Small bookstore owner Kathleen Kelly and her fictional Shop around the Corner is embraced by the community for its rich history, Kelly’s unique personality reflected in every aspect of her bookstore including the storefront, her handpicked books, and the selection of readers and performers that appear at her store.  Every aspect is meticulously designed to make a particular impression for the customer.  The Shop around the Corner’s small but knowledgeable staff would not only know each handpicked book by heart and personally assist you in making a selection, but probably knows most of their devoted customers not only by name, but as a friend.

Supporting small business has not only always been a prevalent topic, but has gained that much more significance in the last few years, especially during the height of the pandemic.  Corporate business, rising real estate prices, the tough economy, and many other factors continuously impact the survival of small businesses and without more support, they often get left in the dust. 

34 Carmine Street was part of the Documentary 14 series featured at the New York City Indie Film Festival that continued through June 19 in person at the Producers Club in New York City.  Curated by Gerard van den Broek, Documentary 14 series also included documentary films Cinema and Sanctuary and Trash Day.

The New York City Indie Film Festival featured a variety of films from shorts to narratives to documentaries curated with common themes.  Sleepless Critic had the opportunity to review screenings on music, small businesses, love and connection and much more. 

Co-founded by Executive Director Dennis Cieri and Director Bonnie Rush, this renowned festival has screened thousands of films since it was first launched in 2010.  Click here for more information, film submissions for next year, and click here to see what we had to say about NYC Indie Film Festival’s Narrative 14 series and here for what we had to say about the films in the Documentary 12 series.

Photo credit to the New York City Indie Film Festival

Directed insightfully by Beatriz Browne, renowned short documentary 34 Carmine Street makes a strong argument not only for the survival of a historic and strong minded Greenwich Village bookstore and other unique, longtime small businesses on that street, but encapsulates what makes small businesses an irreplaceable part of the community without being preachy or political.  It digs deep into a part of Greenwich Village’s history where these small businesses have survived for decades while always having something significant to say about the world.  It may also change your mind about where you shop next.

34 Carmine Street, Cinema and Sanctuary, and Trash Day were all part of Documentary 14 at the New York City Indie Film Festival which continued through June 19 in person at the Producers Club.  Click here for more information on this annual festival and its winners.

REVIEW: Cohasset Dramatic Club proves life is too short to miss the insightful musical, ‘If/Then’

Posted on by The Sleepless Critic

Mix in a dash of the Tony award-winning musical, Rent, a hint of HBO’s hit show, Sex and the City, and stir in the thought-provoking film, Sliding Doors, and what emerges is a real treat in Cohasset Dramatic Club’s musical drama, If/Then.  Set in New York City and based on a book by Tom Kitt, If/Then is an unpredictable, immersive tale that explores destiny, love, happiness, and the complexity of navigating through life’s surprises.

cdc-if-then-pic

Cohasset Dramatic Club is thrilled to debut “If/Then” through Saturday, March 25 Photo courtesy of Cohasset Dramatic Club

 

Cohasset Dramatic Club is thrilled to be the first in the US to present this stirring, humorous musical after its professional Broadway run and national tour.  Directed by Lisa Pratt and technically directed by Mark Bono, If/Then continues at Cohasset Town Hall in Cohasset, Massachusetts through Saturday, March 25.  Click here for more information and tickets.

Is the path to happiness completely random or is destiny derived from the right choices?  Elizabeth Vaughn, portrayed masterfully by Ann McCoy, is a successful urban planner who decides to make a fresh start in New York City.  Everyone seems to think they know what is best for her, which helps lead Elizabeth onto two, unexpected paths.

Featuring a vibrant cast with realistic conflicts and fleshed out characters, Ann McCoy as conflicted, soulful Elizabeth Vaughn is the heart of the show, a meaty role originated by Idina Menzel on Broadway.  Dressed in a sharp black pants suit, McCoy is more than up to the challenge, portraying a woman who was once certain of life’s direction, but lately, her confidence has waned.  McCoy impressively depicts Elizabeth’s cautiousness through a shift in her eyes and yet, also brings out the character’s lively impulsiveness.  She heeds other people’s advice, but ultimately follows her heart.  A soprano, Ann McCoy’s vocals dip and soar, hitting challenging notes with ease.  This is especially evident in the numbers, You Learn to Live Without and Always Starting Over.

One of McCoy’s greatest strengths is the natural, unique chemistry she shares with each cast member.  Elizabeth is single, but not lonely.  Michelle Margulies portrays Kate’s incredibly charming and outspoken friend.  Margulies as Kate is engaging, fun-loving, and a bit of a scene stealer.  She is Elizabeth’s biggest fan and only has her best interests at heart.  Perpetually optimistic, Margulies offers a soulful and comical rendition of the number, It’s a Sign, playfully engaging the crowd.

CDC If Then Ann McCoy and Michael Warner

Ann McCoy as Elizabeth and Michael Warner as Josh depict great chemistry in ‘If/Then’ Photo courtesy of Cohasset Dramatic Club

Ann McCoy and Michael Warner are local community talents known for various productions on the South Shore, shine in their roles.  Michael Warner is compelling as caring, forthright, and unassuming army surgeon Josh, a man also clearly torn between two life choices.  He delivers a touching rendition of the song, Hey Kid.  Elizabeth and Josh’s chemistry is hopeful and passionate.  They create great harmony together, especially during the song, Here I Go.

While Josh is practical, Ricky DeSisto is a natural as impulsive and endearing Lucas.  With his earnest, idealistic nature and fair share of cynicism, one cannot help but root for him through life.  Through lighthearted teasing and sweet glances, Elizabeth and Lucas have a warm, playful chemistry.    Their song together, Some Other Me is moving.  Rob Buckel-Gillis portrays hopeful, supportive David, a surgeon.  He is hopeful, likable, and optimistic.  Lucas and David share a tender duet, The Best Worst Mistake You Ever Made.

CDC If Then Michelle Margulies Ann McCoy and Ricky DeSisto

Michelle Marguies as Kate, Ann McCoy as Elizabeth and Ricky DeSisto as Lucas in ‘If/Then’ Photo courtesy of Cohasset Dramatic Club

Elegantly dressed in a suit and tie, Mike Nakashima portrays Stephen, a complex character with mysterious intentions.  Determined and serious, Stephen and Elizabeth share a career-minded camaraderie as he encourages her to follow her dreams, seeing her boundless potential.

With music and lyrics by Brian Yorkey,  an intimate band including Music Director Sarah Troxler on piano, guitarist Jack Byrne, percussionist Michael Hobbs, bassist Jon Lay, Clarinet/Flute/Saxophone Glenn Silvia, and Cassie Sulbaran on Viola bring to life this upbeat, contemporary musical with a libretto.  Clever blocking brings part of the band onstage.

Costume and props designer Irene Vifides lend to New York City’s urban vibe and signature style through big, designer purses, fashionable shoes, and impressive, colorful costumes that vary from sophisticated, city attire to a casual night in.  Scenic artist Denise Feeney and Scenic projection designers Erin and Patrick Dzierzak and Dramatic Sounds create urban ambiance with recreated city sounds, black and white city skylines, and a wealth of broad, colorful landscapes depicting a few of New York City’s most famous landmarks.  One of this show’s many highlights is the humorous depiction of NYC’s tiny apartments.  Cohasset Dramatic Club brings to life a captivating musical depicting how complicated life can be and proving it’s also too short to miss If/Then.

Directed by Lisa Pratt, musically directed by Sarah Troxler, and choreographed by Tara Morrison, Cohasset Dramatic Club presents If/Then through March 25 at 7:30.  All performances will be held at Cohasset Town Hall 41 Highland Ave in Cohasset, Massachusetts.   Click here for more information and for tickets.

Other ways to support Cohasset Dramatic Club is to become a volunteer and make a donation.  Sign up for their email list to learn about upcoming events and more.  Click here for more about the Cohasset Dramatic Club and follow them on Facebook.