The Last Five Years Having thoroughly enjoyed the soundtrack, the show could offer little surprise in the form of plot twists. So the only thing that could surprise me about the Chance Theatre’s production of the show is how the show actually flows…because the soundtrack is never enough. Their decision to stage it around a hexagon raised portion of the stage brings different aspects of the performance to prominence, highlighting the ups and downs that Jamie and Cathy’s relationship goes through. Another really cool bit was the use of the “boxes.” The stage was bare most of the time except for two boxes that move toward the front and then back to the rear of the stage as the show progresses, mirroring the relationship as it comes back together and shatters apart. Because I don’t like to be extremely judgmental with material that I mostly enjoy, I am very hesitant … Continue reading →

IT CAME FROM BEYOND (click for the homepage) If you love the 50’s as much as I do, you have to see this show. It is a hilarious send-up of that classic age with fantastic music and lyrics. Taking place at a high school in the 1950’s, Harold has a new comic book that will make or break his science project due tomorrow. However, slacker Steve is paired with Harold by their teacher, Mr. Fielding during a two-hour detention session in…the Twilight Zone. For you see, Harold’s new comic book doesn’t just tell a story, it affects and reflects the world around him as everything goes wrong and aliens invade from…BEYOND! Biggest selling point for me was Kevin Earley, whom I saw as Terry in the Colony Theatre’s production of Sideshow and as Sherriff Joe in the Laguna Beach Playhouse production of Spitfire Grill. But when I get there, I … Continue reading →

An intriguing re purposing of space…City of Angels is unfortunately a show that can’t really be pulled off in small spaces very well…at least not like this…but yay Cy Coleman! The theatre companies historical page on the show

The reason I’m not too happy with The Lion King is that it’s difficult (nigh impossible) to adapt everything word-for-word from an animated feature for a musical…but still…The Lion King is a treasured movie in my eyes (being one of the last “great ones”) and while (I think) I can overlook minor adaptation alterations…some things just scream at me! I mean, I almost couldn’t enjoy the show for the sheer fact that these were humans dancing around like lions…for crying out loud, Cats is more immersive than this. About the only thing I could enjoy about the show is the technical superiority of all the effects. They look pretty darned sweet…and I love all the puppets and dolls and masks and stuff…but for some reason I just can’t suspend disbelief for this musical…I can’t explain it. Beyond that, the music sounded great as did the singing…but that’s all I can … Continue reading →

I hate to admit it, but I really loved this musical. Actually the only reason not to love is because of all the pink merchandise, so I don’t really hate to admit it. It was just a lot of fun. From the energetic comedy to the powerhouse performances to the songs that make you want to dance in the aisles, this musical deserves it’s 8 Tony’s. Although, I hope that Harvey Fierstien did NOT get one of them. He’s on the original Broadway recording and he doesn’t sing…he just says all the lines with that gravelly, vomit inducing groan of his and I HATE IT! The national tour features a cross-dressing man who can actually sing! And it really completes the show. Probably my 2 favorite characters were the Female Authority Figure and Penny, Tracy’s best friend who is…a little on the dumb side. Tracy: There’s going to be armed … Continue reading →

A Producer’s Update – The National Tour came around to OCPAC and I got to see the show again. HOORAY! Oh yeah, the original Roger DeBris (Gary Beach) isn’t on the national tour, but I got over it fast. Now some notes… Franz was wonderfully portrayed. Perfect throwback to Kenneth Mars. Biaylstock – He’s no Nathan Lane, but he’s good. Ulla’s accent is too…”heavy” for me. I love Katie Huffman on the CD. It’s nice to see the entire show. I love the pigeons. The singing sounded a little funny? The Blind Violinist was not only a really good mime, but he (the person) reminded me of the grave-keeper from Van Helsing. Count the references – 1) It’s good to be the king; 2) Blind Violinist; 3) Teutonic Twat; 4) What nice guys… November 23, 2003 Well if being in a metro train on my way to an already started … Continue reading →