Sometimes writers forget words.
Sometimes words forget writers.
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Top Ten Productions of 2025
10. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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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
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!
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