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.
(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.
(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!
(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!
(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!
