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01-23-14 |
Ballroom with a Twist 2 |
DuPont Theatre |
Wilmington, DE |
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| Attended only because it was part of the subscription series. A bunch of reality TV "stars" "singing" (histrionics) and "dancing" (twerking). Luckily there was an intermission so we only had to suffer for one hour. |
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02-06-14 |
The Mousetrap |
REP - Thompson Theatre |
Newark, DE |
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| As well as most of Agatha Christie's stuff is, this one remains largely a mystery because it has never been put on the screen, large or small. Apparently due to an agreement with the original theatre in London, a filming was prohibited until after the stage run. 62 years later, it is still running, making it the longest production ever. After finally seeing it, I now know why, since it contains all the classic elements of the parlor game who-done-it, without being cliched. I'm proud to say I got it about 3/4 of the way through, but I'll bet many didn't see it coming. (review) |
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02-19-14 |
The Exonerated |
Delaware Theatre Company |
Wilmington, DE |
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| Six sad but compelling stories of death row inmates released after additional evidence proved their innocence. While the writers insisted that the purpose was not political, it is hard to come away with any support for the death penalty. (review) |
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03-13-14 |
Faust |
REP - Thompson Theatre |
Newark, DE |
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| Expecting the bizarre from director Heinz-Uwe Haus, who previously staged a disappointing production of Auturo Ui, we were pleasantly surprised. The staging was both simple and flashy, (literally with some pyrotechnics) plus a few acrobatics thrown in. Not unexpected though was the superb acting. The three leads were terrific, Mic as the devil, Stephen as Faust, and a returning Sara Griffin as Gretchen. |
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03-26-14 |
Man of La Mancha |
DuPont Theatre |
Wilmington, DE |
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| Almost 50 years after it's debut on Broadway, after numerous references to tilting at windmills, and listening to countless versions of The Impossible Dream, I was surprised at how little I actually knew of the story. I didn't realize it was a play within a play told while being held in prison during the Spanish Inquisition. I suppose it didn't really matter, since the message of hope was the point and it still resonates. Starring Jack Curenton as Don Quixote, who first played the role 30 years ago. |
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05-01-14 |
wit |
REP - Thompson Theatre |
Newark, DE |
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| If it is every actors' ultimate dream to play a dramatic death scene, then Kathleen Pirkl Tague can happily retire after her phenomenal 100 minute performance. A tear jerker to be sure, but sprinkled with some humor and "wit", this tale of a strong willed professor dying of cancer was a powerfully moving experience. Great finale to another fine season. |
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05-29-14 |
Million Dollar Quartet |
DuPont Theatre |
Wilmington, DE |
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| We've seen a number of these impersonation shows, but this may be the best of the bunch. All 4 actors did a great job, though all changed my opinion of the characters a bit. Tyler Hunter did a respectable job as Elvis, though it has been done so often, it's hard to see it as special; James Barry as Carl Perkins cast him as a bitter yet sad character; John Countryman was hilarious as Jerry Lee Lewis; but the best of the bunch was Scott Moreau who nailed Johnny Cash. |
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09-06-14 |
Tarzan - The Stage Musical |
Milburn Stone Theatre |
North East, MD |
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| While it is no REP, Cecil College is able to put on a very enjoyable show. The leads were especially good, though the minor players, not so much. Have never seen the play before, so not sure if the set was especially creative or if it was a copy, but in either case, it was impressive. Music by Phil Collins, but nothing memorable. |
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10-02-14 |
Angels In America |
REP - Thompson Theatre |
Newark, DE |
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| It has been fascinating watching Michael Gotch grow as an actor since his days in PTTP. He puts in another stellar performance as Prior Walter in this still relevant tale of AIDS in the '80's. Sparse set, but effective, with a spectacular finish. |
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10-16-14 |
Sister Act |
DuPont Theatre |
Wilmington, DE |
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| Not having seen the movie, I can make no comparison, but after this performance, I have little desire to catch up. The music was mediocre, the storyline filled with cliches, though the acting and singing were acceptable. Occasional funny moments, but nothing special. |
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11-20-14 |
Macbeth |
REP - Thompson Theatre |
Newark, DE |
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| One of the Bard's more exciting, yet gruesome plays. Excellent performances all around as usual, and while the set was unique, it was somewhat underwhelming. Liked the use of puppets for the wierd sisters and ghosts. |
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11-29-14 |
A Seussified Christmas Carol |
Indianapolis Children's Museum |
Indianapolis, IN |
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| Clever idea which kept the attention of it's intended audience of kids. Acting was acceptable, but overall kind of lame. |
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12-11-14 |
Cirque Dreams Holidaze |
DuPont Theatre |
Wilmington, DE |
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| Homogenized, family friendly version of Cirque du Soleil with a holiday theme. Pleasant enough, but too much fluff and not enough dazzling gymnastics. |
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