HERNANDO

 

HERNANDO

(to the tune of "Fernando" by ABBA)

We can hear the winds, Hernando

We remember not long ago another snowy night like this 

By the fireside, Hernando 

You are dumping show and briskly blowing drifts around

We can hear distant rumbles

And sounds of shoveling are coming from near and far

You are closer now, Hernando

Every hour, every minute, seem to last eternally

We won’t be afraid, Hernando

We aren’t young but full of life and all of us prepared to fight 

And we’re not ashamed to say

The roaring winds and shoveling almost make us cry

There is something in the air tonight

The snow’s not light, Hernando

It is snowing now for you and me

What a pity, Hernando

This snow we thought that we could move

But no place to put 

And we’ll have to do it all again

Shoveling with our friends, Hernando

And we’ll have to do it all again

Shoveling with our friends, Hernando

Now we're old and gray, Hernando

Since many years, you haven't seen a shovel in our hands

Can you hear snow blowers, Hernando?

Do you still recall the snowy night we crossed the Rio Grande?

You can still see it in our eyes

How proud we are to fight for pathways on our lands

There is something in the air tonight

The snow’s not light, Hernando

It is snowing now for you and me

What a pity, Hernando

This snow we thought that we could move

But no place to put 

And we’ll have to do it all again

Shoveling with our friends, Hernando

And we’ll have to do it all again

Shoveling with our friends, Hernando

Les Films Etranger

 LES FILMS ETRANGER


J’adore les films etranger
C'est aujourd’hui; c’est hier
Pour au moins deux heures
Je suis d’ailleurs

Dans ce-pays ici
Je ne suis pas 
Je suis d’ailleurs
Pour au moins deux heures

FOREIGN FILMS


I love foreign films
It’s today; it’s yesterday
For at least two hours
I am elsewhere

In this country
I am not
I am elsewhere
For at least two hours.


Copyright 1996 Scott C. Forrest

Random Thought 112

Sometimes writers forget words.

Sometimes words forget writers.

 

Top Ten Productions of 2025

 

10. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

(Mystic Players Revival)

Outdoor theatre with Shakespeare is alive and well thanks to the keen direction of Brian Triber The beautiful costumes and sets remind us of how and why Shakespeare's classic comedy is both relevant and still hilarious!

9. TURNING THE PAGE

(The STUDIO)

Every dance and every movement tell a story, and Artistic Director Janet Peterson knows this and how to convey it better than the best of them. This ensemble of choreographers and dancers are always a beauty to experience!

 

8. THE CHER SHOW

(North Shore Music Theatre)

The ultimate diva is brilliantly showcased through different stages of her life -- Babe, Lady, and Star. Not only do we enjoy how they interact with each other, but we love Frankie Marasa the 5th as the perfect Sonny Bono! The storytelling is unique and effective. And did I mention Bob Mackie's Costume Parade?

7. RENT

(North Shore Music Theatre)

Director Marcos Santana accepts the challenge of making this show contemporary and relevant even though it is set in a specific time & place. The ensemble blends and works beautifully together to convey the show's many important messages.

 

6. LIZARD BOY

(SpeakEasy Stage Company)

One of the best surprises of the season is this edgy, sexy, yet thoughtful and emotional original musical. Instead of taking us to a campy place, this intelligent show explores the significance of friends and relationships. The intimate cast of Keiji Ishiguri, Peter DiMaggio, and Chelsie Nectow work together effortlessly. However, Chelsie's incredible command of the stage matched by her equally powerful voice is a most memorable performance.

5, WAITRESS

(North Shore Music Theatre)

When the star of the show, Christine Dwyer, shares her powerful gift of voice with the audiences, we are truly grateful. When the rest of the cast can keep up with her, we know we are witnessing something unique. Courter Simmons offers the perfect blend of quirk and humanity to Ogie. Congratulations are in order to Keith Lee Grant! Not only does he bring beautiful life to the often overlooked role of Joe, but BroadwayWorld Boston has justifiably nominated him for Best Supporting Performer In A Musical (Professional)!

 

4. HEAD OVER HEELS

(Stage 284)

The Youth Company takes this mature material and runs with it! This comedic, Elizabethan-style love story with songs by The Go-Go's is told brilliantly by the ensemble's impressive vocals, costumes, choreography, and set design. I love the fact that not only do they have two casts, but they are aptly named the Cool Jerks and the Mad About Ewes! This is our chance to see future professionals!

3. FOOTLOOSE YOUTH EDITION

(North Shore Music Theatre)

That brings me to another impressively talented cast of young performers showcasing this musical in the round. There aren't many cuts or changes made to this edition, showing us how talented they are and that they can handle and understand the text. Our Ren McCormick has complete command of the stage as does the remainder of the cast. I love how the entire female ensemble sings "Holding Out For A Hero." Hopefully someday "I Confess" will return to the show, but until then let's hear it for our future stars!

 

HONORABLE MENTIONS.

THE NUTCRACKER

(Northeast School of Ballet) This timeless production is just as glorious as ever and is a perfect way to celebrate the season! It never ceases to amaze me how the consistency and subtle changes bring this beautiful experience to beautiful life!

Jason Allen-Forrest always brings down the house! I never tire of this ballet!

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

(North Shore Music Theatre)

Anchoring this flawless production, David Coffee knows how to bring us along on his journey, and we understand why he is the way he is. His is a tortured Scrooge instead of an angry one. The cast, sets, lights, costumes, choreography, and music are just as wonderful as ever! Such a wonderful tradition!

 

2. PRIMARY TRUST

(SpeakEasy Stage Company)

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Eboni Booth's 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Drama! Her portrayal of a man damaged is as eloquent as it is heart-wrenching. "Kenneth" is tenderly portrayed by David J. Castillo. Director Dawn M. Simmons highlights the tragedy as well as the bittersweet humour. This piece will be thought and talked about for some time. Trust me.

1. JAJA'S AFRICAN HAIR BRAIDING

(SpeakEasy Stage Company)

This 2024 Tony Nominee for Best Play celebrates friends, family, and those who become both! The ensemble is totally credible as great friends who definitely have each others' backs. As recent as the show is, Playright Jocelyn Bioh manages to foreshadow the current climate. How did she know? Director Summer L. Williams knows how to style a brilliant play!

Thank you for another wonderful season of Theatre!

 

 

 

Clem Burke At His Best

 5. X OFFENDER 

     (Blondie, 1976)

    The first single from the band's first album showcases Clem's ability to balance rapid drum riffs with a solid, steady pace. he can effortlessly go back and forth between these periodic riffs and return to keep the solid beat during the verses.

 

4. BOOM BOOM IN THE ZOOM ZOOM ROOM

    (No Exit, 1999) 

    Clem helped to co-write this underrated tune, so it only natural that it is part of this list. He is playing his drums as easily and as steadily as a breeze as if he were performing this in a carefree jazz lounge.

 

3. ATOMIC

   (Eat to the Beat, 1979)

    It is easy to be attracted to this single with Debbie Harry's ethereal vocal and Jimmy Destri's haunting keyboards.  However, it is Clem's consistent, persistent drum/cymbal combination that grounds this standout.

 

2.  HEART OF GLASS

    (Parallel Lines, 1978)

    Even after listening to this #1 hit after so many years, one can still appreciate Clem's precise, clean percussion. His drum roll coupled with Debbie's "OO-OO, OH-OH" is legendary. 

1. DREAMING

    (Eat to the Beat, 1979)

    In the hands of a lesser drummer, the intricate, complicated drumming here would have been all over the place, but Clem handles every transition remarkably.  This is sold justification that he can play better than the best of them.

 

    

 

 

Top Ten Productions of 2024

10. THE ADDAMS FAMILY (School Edition)

Chelsea High School Performing Arts)

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Director/Choreographer Iliana Valentin has assembled a mature, professional ensemble of actors playing such fun homage to the famous television family! It is very clear that these talented performers are doing what they love, and they love what they are doing. Music Director Michael Bednarsky brings Andrew Lippa's Tony-nominated score to life! This is a great reminder to keep Arts alive in the schools!

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9. THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE

(Pentucket Players Inc,)

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Melissa Bisso is a gem in the role of Rona. The ensemble accentuates the quirky and emotional roller coaster spellers endure during such competitions. Director Todd Coolidge shows why this big little show still stands the test of time. This comedy-drama is the definition of great theatre.

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8. MAMMA MIA!

(Broadway in Boston/Opera House)

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Celebrating its 25th Anniversary, this show remains both fun and relevant. There are several reasons for its endurance -- an excellent score, a built-in audience, new audience members that realize how good both the the music and show are, a clever Book that avoids the "insert song right here" approach, and a heck of a good time! This current tour shows how inclusive the cast can be - and that only makes the stronger. Here we go again, and we thank you!

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7. MY FAIR LADY

(The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts)

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Another show with staying power gets the modern treatment from director Bartlett Sher. The classic story and songs remain in tact, but a little bit of shifting makes the message a bit more current. The sets are as gorgeous as the choreography. This is another loverly production.

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6. MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET

(North Shore Music Theatre)

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Nothing rocks live theatre like talented actors who also play their own instruments! Based on a photograph, this brilliant Tony-nominated Book by Colin Escott & Floyd Mutrux tells us what might have happened the night when Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Elvis Presley met at Sun Records in Memphis. Not only do we get to enjoy their great music, we get an insight into how dramatic their personal lives were. This is a golden opportunity not to be missed!

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5. COST OF LIVING

(SpeakEasy Stage Company)

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This Pulitzer Prize winner for Drama receives the royal treatment from Director Alex Lonati. Unapologetic in its text, this Slice of Life examines loneliness and the need for connection. This stellar cast stays away from cliche and sentiment, making the messages that much stronger. We learn that the cost of living is high, but it is worth it.

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4. THE DROWSY CHAPERONE

(Lyric Stage Company)

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Larry Sousa directs one of the most clever musicals to grace the stage. It never ceases to amaze me how intelligently this space can be used, especially for a show that is not exactly small-scale. This production belongs to Paul Melendy whose conversation with the audience is so natural that one would think he is making it up as he goes along. He has the proper balance of self-awareness and inner sadness. Here's looking at you!

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3. PRU PAYNE

(SpeakEasy Stage Company)

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Pulitzer Prize Nominee Steven Drukam examines the heartbreak and frustration that a confident, intelligent woman endures when her memory begins to fade. Director Paul Daigneault examines this piece with humanity and grace. Karen MacDonald excels (when does she not??) in the title role, and we not only see but experience her pain as she tries to learn how to cope. Her performance and this production will stay with us for a long time.

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HONORABLE MENTION. THE NUTCRACKER

(Northeast School of Ballet)

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Every year I am fortunate to see this beautiful production, and every year it appears on my Countdown. The reason is simple. Denise Cecere knows how to tell a story. In addition to the outstanding dancing and the amazing costumes, the tale comes to brilliant life with many hidden gems along the way. It is a pleasure to experience this consistent masterpiece and see the subtle changes. Of course, Jason Allen-Forrest as Mother Ginger never ceases to amaze!

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Per Lee Ann Womack - when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance!

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2. TITANIC THE MUSICAL

(North Shore Music Theatre)

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Known for choreographing and directing upbeat musicals, Kevin P. Hill takes the reign of this epic production. Peter Stone's Tony-winning Book focuses less on the physical elements of the disaster and more on the humans involved. Giving insight to the separate classes, we have an appreciation of who was on board and what was happening socially at the time. We are offered an inside look at those in charge who led to the ultimate demise. His denouement plays a loving tribute to everyone involved.

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Maury Yeston's Tony-winning score is as majestic as it is haunting. When the time is appropriate, the events are sung and performed with humanity and devastation. Hill controls all of the action and takes advantage of the theatre's intimacy, making the audiences truly involved. Not an easy production to witness, modern audiences can take away many lessons learned. Godspeed!

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1. A STRANGE LOOP

(SpeakEasy Stage Company)

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Michael R. Jackson's ultimate show-within-a-show eventually becomes even more than that. Kai Clifton as Usher handles the complexity and aspects of his character with ease and sophistication. On the first level, he is in a musical in which he is writing a musical. He has conversations and disagreements with his own Thoughts, and the actors playing his Thoughts perform with individually and intelligence.

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The show's self-exploration delves into several dark places. However, Jackson's Score provides humor and wit as does his clever, sophisticated Book. Director Maurice Emmanuel Parent navigates the Pulitzer- and Tony-winning musical effortlessly. For those who feel they are on the road to self-discovery, it is a comfort to know that you are not alone!

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Thank you for a great year of Theatre!!

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!!

 

 

 

 

PEOPLE, PLACES, & THINGS AT SPEAKEASY STAGE

PEOPLE, PLACES, & THINGS AT SpeakEasy Stage Company is one of the most challenging and one of the most important productions one can experience.

 

The incomparable Marianna Bassham is at her most vulnerable, demonstrating all sides and angles of a woman struggling with both addiction and her determined desire to feel better.

Director David R. Gammons is unafraid to showcase his talented cast and brilliant set design to invite the audience into the mind of a person suffering. 

 

It does not matter who we are; we can all relate to the main character on some level. 

 

This is because everything out of her mouth is the truth. 

 

Let us hope that Duncan Macmillan's outstanding script reminds us that people facing this healing process deserve patience and understanding and that they should never be reduced to a "noun." 

 

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