It's been over a decade since Lin-Manuel Miranda stood before the president to perform a hip hop song about the life of Alexander Hamilton. Little did he know that one day that simple song would lead to one of the most celebrated pieces of media of the 21st Century, the record-breaking Tony, Grammy, and Pulitzer … Continue reading ‘Hamilton’: Historic hip hop Broadway mainstay gets powerful, poignant production
As a critic, I try to walk into most productions as blind as possible. I may read a play to get some context, or look up some information on a historical figure if they're the subject of a work, but on the whole, I try to remain as impartial as possible, keeping expectations minimal and … Continue reading Broadway in Austin’s ‘Cats’ is a whimsical piece of pure nostalgic spectacle
As our military industrial complex becomes more integrated in modern times, what does it really take for a woman to succeed as an officer? That's the question at the heart of Lila Rose Kaplan's intriguing work, 100 Planes, being given a worthy interpretation by Filigree Theatre and director Elizabeth V. Newman. Here, we follow Lieutenant … Continue reading Filigree’s ‘100 Planes’ is subtle, yet powerful, examination of women in the military
Though it doesn't get much attention today, when it was released 2007, the film Waitress was a bit of a revelation, one of the most celebrated romantic comedies of its time, proving Keri Russell had a life beyond Felicity. Though its fame faded in the years that followed, the story gained a new life thanks … Continue reading ‘Waitress’ is a hearty slice of Southern charm, with a big dollop of heart
I have always been fond of plays performed in atypical places. I have seen plays in parks, bars, homes, and everything in between, and though the productions aren't always better for it, when things go perfectly, the locale adds another dimension to the performance. As I walked into the lecture hall where Actually, the new … Continue reading ‘Actually’ is an emotionally acute examination of race and sex in modern America
AUSTIN ARTS WATCH 