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Tampilkan postingan dengan label Playhouse Square. Tampilkan semua postingan

Senin, 20 Maret 2017

hello THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME@PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - hub


Through April 9, 2017
(216) 241-6000
Or www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

Touring ‘The Curious Incident’ astounds more than it engages.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here.

Roy Berko


The script and visual technical aspects of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” is outstanding on every level.  Unfortunately, on opening night, the touring production did not take the play to the heights that it deserves.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

 "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" begins with a sudden assault on our senses, with extreme sound and light ushering us into a stressful experience in protagonist Christopher’s life.  The play, a faithful adaptation of Mark Haddon’s best-selling 2003 novel, is highly physical theater that offers excellent ensemble storytelling as well as inventive staging and multimedia effects that create the world of 15-year-old Christopher’s mind.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Howard Gollop

In a national touring production of a non-musical play (quite a rarity), “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” seemed to have grabbed Tuesday’s opening-night audience by the throats and never let go.  And it’s not just because of the behemoth title.  Yes, we discover the answer to the mystery of the dog, but the bigger mystery of autism — and how it is experienced — is what makes this stage thriller so riveting.

Mark Horning

This is a coming of age story about a sheltered young man attempting to strike out on his own. In spite of his handicaps he utilizes the talents that he has been blessed with in order to function in the real world. Combining lights, sound and choreography with exceptional acting it paints a clearer picture of the lives of these least understood members of society while leaving lots of room for post show discussion.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.
Christine Howey

In the remarkable production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by London’s National Theatre, Simon Stephens has adapted British playwright Mark Haddon’s eponymous novel into a thrilling excursion. 

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's blog Rave and Pan
To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's review at  Cleveland Scene

Laura Kennelly


Gross: As we enter the Connor Palace theatre and look to the stage what greets our eyes? A dead dog impaled by a pitchfork. And that dog and its discovery triggers all subsequent action in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.

To see a full review of this show, read Laura Kennelly's blog at artstillmatters.com
To see a full review of this show, read Laura Kennelly's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Andrea Simakis

In the moving mind blower that is "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" we literally climb into the head of Christopher Boone, a Swindon, England, teen. . . . Good art teaches us to see the world how other see it.  Great art helps us feel what it's like to walk in another's skin, connecting us to each other and reminding of our shared humanity, a vast and beautiful ocean.  It's a fitting metaphor, though no doubt one to which Christopher would object.

To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

Jumat, 09 Desember 2016

hello HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - hub



Through December 11, 2016
(216) 241-6000
Or www.playhousesquare.org


Mark Horning


For those looking for a little variety in their holiday fare this year Grinch is a sure hit that will engage the entire family. The songs, costuming and comedic acting is pure holiday entertainment that will delight the entire family while sneaking in a nice moral tale to boot. See this show before it leaves town. 

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.

Christine Howey


All in all, this is a show that will help your heart grow at least two sizes, maybe even more.

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's blog Rave and Pan
To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's review at  Cleveland Scene

Minggu, 02 Oktober 2016

hello FUN HOME @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - hub



Through October 22, 2015
(216) 241-6000
Or www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

It’s the creative juxtaposition of simplicity and complexity, and the heart wrenching and theatrically intriguing moments it produces on stage, that makes this musical such a welcome addition to this season’s lineup of Broadway roadshows.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here.

Roy Berko
Tony winner, FUN HOME, gets a well-conceived, emotionally primed production.  The touring company should be greeted on each stop of its journey with positive kudos.  This is a dramatic message musical which deserves the accolades which it has won.  It’s a must see, with the caveat that audience members are aware of the subject matter.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

FUN HOME is a refreshingly different kind of musical with a story full of urgency and raw emotion that also evokes numerous tender moments. ... It’s a contemporary musical that has a middle-aged cartoonist looking back to key episodes in her life, trying to connect the dots regarding her complicated relationship with her father.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Howard Gollop

“Fun Home” is so uncompromising in its quest for real theater rather than theatrics, it transcends normal expectations of a big Broadway show. Members of Wednesday night’s audience jumped to their feet as if they had just seen the original cast of “Jersey Boys.”

Christine Howey

Last year, Fun Home won the Tony Award for Best Musical, and this is one award that is very much deserved, since it takes two genres—comics and memoir—and boldly fuses them together into something new and remarkable. And shattering.

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's blog Rave and Pan
To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's review at  Cleveland Scene

Rabu, 21 September 2016

hello JERSEY BOYS @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - hub



September 20 through 25, 2016
(216) 241-6000
Or www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

‘Jersey Boys’ returns, again, without missing a downbeat.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's article here.

Roy Berko

JERSEY BOYS retreads and newbies will all have a wonderful time.  Oh, yes, “Oh, What a Night.”  You’ll be “Beggin’” to “Stay” for another curtain call!  You’ll leave the State singing and dancing down the aisle.
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop

But the joy of “Jersey Boys” is how the cast captures the essence of The Four Seasons while creating real-life characters when not nailing a jukebox full of standards such as “You’re Just Too Good to be True,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll” and “Walk Like a Man.”  In that department, this latest tour is a solid-gold No. 1 hit.

Mark Horning

“Jersey Boys” is that kind of Juke Box Musical that you could easily see over and over again.  The current tour that has landed at Playhouse Square is exceptional.  You will find yourself tapping your feet, singing along and holding hands with your significant other.  It is two-and-a-half hours of great music that flies by in a hurry.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.

David Ritchey

Oh, what a night.  Wow!  Cleveland’s State Theatre was filled (few seats were vacant).  That means almost 2,500 people sat in sweet anticipation for “Jersey Boys.” Many had seen the show on other tours.  One friend was back for her fifth time to see the show.  I saw it for the fourth time.  Oh, what a night.

To see a full review of this show, read David's posts at Talkin' Broadway

Selasa, 23 Agustus 2016

hello KINKY BOOTS @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - hub



Through August 28, 2016
(216) 241-6000
Or www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

The other shoe drops as touring ‘Kinky Boots’ triumphantly returns.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN review here.

Roy Berko


KINKY BOOTS is the kind of musical that seeing it once is just not enough. (I’ve seen it three times and look forward to more!)  The music, the story line, the humor, the stage excitement makes this a very, very special theatrical experience.  This touring production of the show is as good as the last one through town and rivals the Broadway show.  This is one staging that deserves a standing ovation, not just the automatic polite Cleveland one, but a real, well-earned one.  Go! 

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop

In the dog days of summer, as the theater scene starts to make way for the fall, it’s hard to imagine Playhouse Square has any kick left.   But thanks to a great touring company of “Kinky Boots,” returning to the Connor Palace this week, that kick is high and mighty — and mighty sparkly and fabulous as well.
 

Mark Horning

At the end of this return touring production of Kinky Boots the audience leapt to its feet in appreciation.  You will do the same.  Tickets may be scarce for this show in its limited run.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.

David Ritchey


Kinky Boots has romped and stomped back on tour to Cleveland. Second time around may be best – or at least gives us a little time to think about this Tony-winning show.  A good script shows the audience a change in characters.

To see a full review of this show, read David's posts at Talkin' Broadway

omplete review at WestLife

Rabu, 15 Juni 2016

hello PHANTOM OF THE OPERA @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - hub


June 15 through July 10. 2016
(216) 241-6000
Or www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

In 1992, they said that the Tony Award-winning “The Phantom of the Opera” could not be financially and theatrically successful outside of New York City and London’s West End. 

A production this large and cumbersome would not draw audiences and earn a profit on tour if it skimped on its expensive production values and it could not earn a profit if it did not skimp on its expensive production values.

Wrong.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here.

Roy Berko

Phantom of the Opera newbies will undoubtedly be wowed by the reconfigured production.  Those who have seen the Broadway, or one of the early touring company editions, may be less impressed. 

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

This is the ONE…the bucket list…the “we have been waiting years to take the kids to see”…the I cannot believe it is finally back here in Cleveland…absolutely must see at all costs performance that you and your family will talk about for years and years.  It is beyond theater…it is a total experience unlike anything you have ever witnessed (unless of course you already saw it in London, Toronto, Cleveland or New York City).  Some tickets still exist, but you will need to hurry.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.

Senin, 08 Februari 2016

hello IF/THEN @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - hub


February 9 through 21, 2016
216-241-6000
Or www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

Think “It’s a Wonderful Life,” but with dance breaks.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here.

Roy Berko

IF/THEN has a wonderful score. The touring production has a strong cast and is nicely staged.  Too bad somewhere in the show’s development the sometimes confusing plot and excessive length weren’t dealt with. 
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

IF/THEN is a boldly emotional, contemporary musical that explores universal human experiences regarding love, friendship, loss and career. ... It’s an intimate tale about the leap of faith it takes to love — full of memorable melodies, beautiful harmonies and intelligent, richly painted lyrics.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Howard Gollop

Is the audience really supposed to care whether Barbie goes to her dream-urban-planner-office with the dynamic Ken-doll boss or her Manhattan dream-apartment with her Ken-doll doctor-soldier-hero?  Despite a lot of singing, dancing (repetitive organic hipster moves and grooves by Lerry Keigwin) and what can only be called scream-singing, there are no true life choices or inevitable outcomes, just Lifetime TV movie plot devices.

Mark Horning

“If/Then” is a fascinating study on the effects of choices and chance in our lives and is a good start to opening dialogs both internally and with life partners.  With very high production standards and an energetic and hugely talented cast it is a solid evening of entertainment.  To repeat some advice, keep your eyes on the lass with and without the glasses. 

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.

Christine Howey
The music is almost uniformly repetitive and dull, and the storyline manages to bury a familiar and yet mildly interesting concept under a heaving mound of clichés and self-satisfying bromides.

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's review at  Cleveland Scene

Andrea Simakis

"If/Then" feels like a live cocktail party in a high-rise bar somewhere in Manhattan where snide jokes about flyover states win you another round.

To see a full review of this show, read Andrea Simakis' blog or visit Cleveland.com here.

Rabu, 13 Januari 2016

hello ANNIE @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - hub



Through January 17, 2016
216-241-6000
Or www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

Late in the second act of “Annie,” billionaire industrialist Oliver Warbucks (a wonderful Gilgamesh Taggett) sings about his empty life in "Something Was Missing."   The lyrics also apply to the tour of this musical, and what is missing is any semblance of spontaneity.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here.

Roy Berko


How can one not like a story about an orphan kid who finds herself being adopted by a billionaire, a stray dog who is saved from the pound, a billionaire with a heart, a bunch of singing and dancing orphans, and a female villain who gets her due  punishment?  Add fine singing, some fun comedy shticks, and clear characterizations.  Leapin’ Lizards, even if it’s a little tired, you’ll probably like seeing “ANNIE, ANNIE, ANNIE!”

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

David Ritchey

Everything went well.  But, everything lacked that spontaneity and energy of an opening night. No one is to blame.  The anxiety was normal and, I assume, by the time the show has finished its scheduled tour in Portland, OR, in May, everyone will have settled in place and peace will surround the cast.

To see a full review of this show, read David's posts at Talkin' Broadway

Mark Horning

This is a good family theater experience that everyone will enjoy.  Although it has a short run through to Sunday, January 17, 2016 it would be worth your effort to gather the clan for a fun evening of musical theater.  There is a load of cuteness throughout and hummable songs to take home as well. Top notch performances, orchestra and stage sets add to the fun.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.

Art Thomas

Opening night demonstrated that this show still resonates with children. In the plus column are a competent cast with standout performances by Lynn Andrews as Miss Hannigan and local favorite Gilgamesh Taggett as Oliver Warbucks. One can almost look past the totally uninspired choreography.  

Click here to read the complete review at WestLife

Senin, 28 Desember 2015

hello ELF @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE'S CONNOR PALACE - hub



December 29, 2015 to January 3, 2016
216-241-6000
Or www.playhousesquare.org


Roy Berko

ELF THE MUSICAL is a total holiday delight.  The story line is nicely developed, the visual elements of the production pleasing, the music nicely textured, the choreography sparkles, and the acting is top-notch.  This definitely makes for a delightful experience for youngsters and adults.  
 
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.


Mark Horning

In case you are not tinseled out by the holidays and are looking for a good show to take the family to (especially the little ones) you can do no wrong by taking them to see this delightful Broadway show that just happens to have a Christmas theme.  It is chock full of nostalgia and good feelings.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.

Jumat, 27 November 2015

hello THE WIZARD OF OZ @ PLAYHOUSE SQUARE - hub



December 1 through 6, 2015
216-241-6000 
Or www.playhousesquare.org

Bob Abelman

This touring ‘Wizard of Oz’ proves that there’s no place like homage.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article  here.

Roy Berko


Yes, Dorothy, I’d love to come back again and again to see you and the rest of the cast of THE WIZARD OF OZ.  This was a very special production that showed the value of new electronic media techniques used to their highest level of creativity to help reinvent a well-loved story.  Yes, the show takes us “Over the Rainbow,” and is filled with “Wonders of the World,” as we “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” through “The Merry Old Land of Oz,” and come to appreciate that there is no place like home.  Too bad the show only stays here for a very short run.  Go!  Enjoy!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop

Fortunately, the orchestrations by David Cullen and Graham Hurman (vocal and dance music) ingeniously gel old and new music, plus work in a bit of Mussorgsky’s “Night on Bald Mountain.” The result is a reasonably cohesive, if not seamless, score...  What elevates this “Oz” is not the cast members — who are great singers but ultimately unexceptional actors (with the exception of Morgan Reynolds as the Scarecrow) — but the production value.

Mark Horning


If you are a family looking for a wonderful first time big theater experience for your children, you need look no further than “The Wizard of Oz: The Musical.”  It is the stuff that dreams are made of as well as memories that will last a lifetime.  Reserve your ticket NOW so that you can be off to see the Wizard!

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.


Christine Howey

All in all, this Wizard is a splendid adaptation and actually serves as a wonderful companion piece to the movie.

To see a full review of this show, read Christine Howey's blog Rave and Pan

Art Thomas

You'll enjoy the music from the movie in this production which also boasts new music and lyrics from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. The four core characters connect with the audience fully and the production design is the perfect frame for the enchanting choreography. 

Click here to read the complete review at WestLife

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