Top Ten Production of 2023

10. SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE

(Pentucket Players Inc)

Director John Buzzell breathes inspiring life into this Pulitzer-Prize winning musical. It is always so moving to witness the famous painting come to life, and this production is not an exception. The sets are fresh, and the music is gorgeous. Anchored by a stellar ensemble who understands the piece, this is a refreshing afternoon.

9. THE PROM
(SpeakEasy Stage Company)

The timing could not be more perfect for this uplifting show inspired by true events. Paul Daigneault grounds this production in reality, allowing the humor to come through and be more joyous. Jared Troilo's comedic timing is always something to behold. The time is now to go out celebrate!

8. DANIEL SLOSS - CAN'T
(Wilbur Theatre - Boston)

Okay, so comedian Daniel Sloss isn't exactly a play or a musical, but he is a theatrical event nonetheless. His humor recalls the days of yore when comedians were less concerned with watching their language. Yet, his humor is quite sophisticated, and it is nearly impossible to disagree with his comments and observations of life. This current tour is not any exception. Mr. Sloss still can do it!

7. THE SOUND OF MUSIC.
(North Shore Music Theatre)

Both director and ensemble revive this classic and make it feel like a brand-new production. Even the children are finally provided the opportunity to do more than stand and sing. The costumes are stunning, and the songs are as glorious as ever. This is a gentle reminder to climb and to keep climbing.

6. THE FULL MONTY.
(North Shore Music Theatre)

Just as relevant as it was when it first premiered, this is the perfect example of how a great movie can be turned into a great musical. Grounded with such harsh reality it hurts, the humor comes from within, and the audience goes along for the trip. The ensemble is credible, and the costumes are ironically spot on. Such a vivid display of how important it is for men to express their emotions and allow themselves to admit vulnerability. When the clothes come on, the inner strength comes out!

5. MJ THE MUSICAL.
(Neil Simon Theatre)

It is easy to see why this musical has become such a fan favorite. Elijah Rhea Johnson perfectly encaptures the entertainer's innocence, dancing, artistry, and frustration. Rather than focusing on the controversy, the Tony-nominated Book focuses on the launch of the DANGEROUS Tour. The Choreography well deserves the Tony. It is refreshing to see an artist at his best, but it is concerning to see how quickly things can change. Time to celebrate and focus on the music.

4. FAIRVIEW
(SpeakEasy Stage Company)

Such a brilliant piece of theatre by Jackie Sibblies Drury that is a challenge to describe. A. It is unlike anything I have seen before. B. I don't wish to give away anything. Suffice it to say, we begin by observing an African-American Family, and soon things start to divert. Opinions are questioned, and perspectives are altered. Part observation and part active listening, this drama will remain in full view for a long, long time.

3. THE NUTCRACKER
(Northeast School of Ballet)

Denise Cecere never ceases to amaze! Every production is as unique as it is consistent. Every production showcases the best dance has to offer with familiar and new talent! The handmade costumes are stunning, and the direction of the story is at its best. A special shout-out to Jason Allen-Forrest as he celebrates his 25th year as Mother Ginger!

2.THE BAND'S VISIT
(SpeakEasy Stage Company/The Huntington)

When a band of musicians arrives in the wrong town, we witness one Masterpiece of a Musical. David Yasbek's Tony- and Grammy- Winning Score is both eloquent and mesmerizing. We learn what kind of an impact we can have on each other. Everyone comes into each other's lives, and we might not know that reason right away. And that is okay. Director Paul Daigneault perfectly captures the intimate moments within the larger moment. He and the ensemble teach us that strangers can become friends, but friends do not have to become strangers.

1. THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME STAGED IN CONCERT
(Firebird Pops Orchestra)

Maestro Brendan Kenney has done it again! One of the reasons why he succeeds is because he knows how to take a traditional concert but bring it to the next level. Or in this case to the next levels. He begins by conducting a complex score with some beautiful arrangements. Then we have the choir. Then we have the talented cast portraying the characters in the story. Then we have the choreography. All of this is combined to create one remarkably entertaining evening. Please note Peter Mill as the title character. His performance is heartbreaking and riveting. Thank you, Brendan, for performing this piece on my birthday, and thank you, Jason, for taking me to this concert!

Top Ten Production of 2022

 

10. A Beautiful Noise Musical (Emerson Colonial Theatre) This exciting pre-Broadway run has previews right here in Boston! Playing homage to one of the greatest entertainers of our time, audiences will have a joyous experience. The show comes to life as Will Swenson shows us just how much he is enjoying playing Neil Diamond, and Will shows us just how much Neil Diamond enjoys performing!

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9. LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (North Shore Music Theatre) The plant is back, and you had better hide the plant food! So much dark, delicious fun is to be had in this raucous revival. However, Ryan Knowles runs away with the production is his multiple roles including but certainly not limited to the dentist. This production proves that it is not easy being green!

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8. FOOTLOOSE (Theatre By The Sea) Anchored by JP Qualters as Ren McCormack and directed Bob Richard, this multi-talented cast tells us that it is okay to dance and celebrate again! More timely than ever, this message is expressed further by Diane Laurensen's impressive choreography.

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7. THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY (North Shore Music Theatre) Matt McClure is outstanding in the titular role, and he is accompanied by some of the best in the business. One of the many aspects of this show that makes it stand out is that the actors play their own instruments and have the talent to pull it off. Hats off to the cast and director Marcos Santana for providing a thrilling Second Act that provides permission to the audience to enjoy the music knowing what is ahead for Buddy Holly. Again, there is a time to have fun, and that time is now.

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6. THE INHERITANCE (SpeakEasy Stage Company) Matthew Lopez has much to say and is not afraid to say it all in his two-part six-and-one-half-hour epic. Director Paul Daigneault finds the moments within the entire moment and invites his audiences into the conversations. Much credit is due to the actors for their memorization and creating relationships that are relatable. It is exciting at the conclusion of Part One to know there is more to come, and Part Two does not disappoint.

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5. RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN'S CINDERELLA (North Shore Music Theatre) The recent Revival is brought to elegant life! The beautiful costumes are here to behold including Cinderella's transforming dress inspired by Tony-winning William Ivey Long's inspiration. Director Kevin P. Hill re-creates the magical moments including the humor, and fun is had by all ages. It is a perfect example of how to make the impossible possible.

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4. ONCE ON THIS ISLAND (SpeakEasy Stage Company) One of the many interesting aspects of this musical is that nothing really happy happens. Yet, the point is to find the joy in every moment. This stellar cast, gorgeous costumes, expert musical direction, and brilliant directing remind us all why this musical is so beloved. Everyone has a story to be told, and now is the time to be heard.

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3. ENGLISH (SpeakEasy Stage Company) Billed as a "comedy," this exquisite piece by Sanaz Toossi finds the humor in everyday life. Four students in Iran are learning English; each for their own reasons. We as the audience members realize just important their journeys are and how much we can take certain things in life for granted. Every character is relatable because we all speak the same language.

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2. THE NUTCRACKER (Northeast Youth Ballet) The Ballet is back and is more beautiful than ever! This is the best way to celebrate the season. What a joy it is to see performers and dancers doing what they love and love what they are are doing. The direction is still spot-on, and the costumes are gorgeous! Welcome back!

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1 Firebird Christmas: Holiday Pops 2022 Firebird Pops Orchestra) Talent like this must be congratulated. The talent in question is one Maestro Brendan Kenney! During the pandemic, Mr. Kenney formed an orchestra, and his revolutionary video caught both local and national attention. Now he is sharing his passion and knowledge of music in sold-out concerts. Combing both traditional and his own interpretations of our favorite songs, he is not afraid to include tunes that might be new to us. Include the Choir Firebird Vox and Tenor Fred C. Vanness Jr., and the stage is complete! To quote Shakespeare,

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"If music be the food of love, play on!"

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Thank you for a great year of Theatre!

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HAPPY NEW YEAR!!