There are certain plays that hold a special place not just in the world of theatre, but in the public conscience. Tartuffe, Romeo and Juliet, The Cherry Orchard, A Doll's House: all of these have become cultural touchstones as much as performance pieces.. With this esteem also comes a challenge for anyone daring to put … Continue reading Austin Playhouse provides a smartly directed, boldly performed ‘Salesman’
“Neva” is a fine farce with a powerful message
One of the greatest wonders of theatre is being surprised. When I first heard of "Neva", the story of a group of actors, including Chekhov's widow, rehearsing against the background of the Russian Revolution, I expected something polished, staid. Instead, Theatre en Bloc's production is full of power and humor in equal measure, drawing us … Continue reading “Neva” is a fine farce with a powerful message
“Nevermore” is a polished, professional night of gothic wonder
Those who know Edgar Allen Poe probably know him for two things: for being one of the greatest writers in American history, and for having an incredibly depressing life. With their latest production, Nevermore, madcap musical mavens Doctuh Mistuh productions, led by their fearless leader Michael McKelvey, combine these two elements to create a beautiful … Continue reading “Nevermore” is a polished, professional night of gothic wonder
‘Lungs’ is an emotionally honest, intimate night of theatre
Much of theatre is chasing intimacy, that feeling of climbing into a character's skin and letting their feelings wash over you. Intimacy is a hard thing to manufacture, however, as if you go too specific, you'll end up alienating many audience members, while if you go too broad, the emotions and message get diluted. Hyde … Continue reading ‘Lungs’ is an emotionally honest, intimate night of theatre
‘Hand to God’ is a crude, but hopeful, comedy about grief and dirty puppets
Capital T Theatre has never been a company afraid to push the boundaries of “decency”, but with their latest production, they may have made their boldest choice yet, with the dirty puppet dramedy, Hand to God. With dirty puppets, rough sex, and in one scene a combination of both, this production is not one for … Continue reading ‘Hand to God’ is a crude, but hopeful, comedy about grief and dirty puppets
