Bedlam Descends on the A.R.T. With A Rollicking Adaptation of Jane Austen's "Sense & Sensibility" - Through January 14th

Cast
"Sense & Sensibility" by Kate Hamill
Adapted from the novel by Jane Austen
At American Repertory Theater
Through January 14th, 2018
Photo by Ashley Garrett

Brooklyn-based Bedlam is a theater company that has a growing reputation here in the Bay State. It is always a treat when they decamp from Gotham and wend their way north to delight us Bostonians and Cantabridgians with a fresh take on familiar pieces. In the present case, they have set up shop at A.R.T. and are performing Kate Hamill's delightful stage adaptation of Jane Austen's "Sense & Sensibility." Under the direction of Eric Tucker, this gifted and energetic troupe manage to turn  a 200 year old novel into a vibrant romp that keeps 21st century audiences engaged and in stitches. It is a fun evening at the theater. As you can see from the photos below, the audience is divided, with the action taking place on the floor in the middle. So we not only get to watch the actors perform the story, but simultaneously cannot help but smile at the delight being reflected in the faces of audiences members facing us. It is a wonderful cherry on top of this sundae.

Austen's novel deals with issues of classism and the plight of English women, while at the same time critiquing the sentimental style of late 18th century novels. She achieves her aim by creating characters that are larger than life, almost caricatures in some cases. The action of the story centers on the dilemma of the Dashwood daughters, whose father's death has left them impecunious and desperate to find a man willing to marry a woman with no dowry. Greedy relatives make it necessary for them to leave their home and retire to a humble country cottage, further limiting their prospects. The suitors who do appear are - well, unsuitable. The complications make for great theater, humor, and pathos.

Ten performers play a total of twenty-one roles, sometimes cross-gendered. They are:

• Lisa Birnbaum - Mrs. Dashwood/Anne Steele/Mrs. Ferrars
• Jessica Frey - Marianne Dashwood
• Nigel Gore - A very dashing Mrs. Jennings!
• Katie Hartke- Fanny Dashwood/Lucy Steele/Lady Middleton
• Maggie Adams McDowell - Elinor Dashwood
• James Patrick Nelson -Colonel Brandon/Thomas/Lady Middleton
• Violeta Picayo - Margaret Dashwood
• Ryan Quinn - Sir John Middleton/Servant/Doctor
• Benjamin Russell - John Willoughby/John Dashwood
• Jamie Smithson - Edwards/Robert Ferrars/Lady Middleton

Cast

"Sense & Sensibility" by Kate Hamill

Adapted from the novel by Jane Austen

At American Repertory Theater

Through January 14th, 2018

Photo by Ashley Garrett

Part of Kate Hamill's motivation for writing this play was her frustration over the dearth of complex female characters in the dramatic repertoire. Her love for the novels of Jane Austen inspired her to write this adaptation that feature a number of fully realized and three-dimensional female characters. Human nature has not changed much in the two hundred plus years that have passed since Ms. Austen first penned this story. So, modern audiences can recognize themselves and their neighbors in the foibles, struggles, and proclivities of these characters. Bedlam's telling of the story is fast-paced, and fun-filled, with actors, set pieces, and props flying on and off the stage at a dizzying pace.

Cast

"Sense & Sensibility" by Kate Hamill

Adapted from the novel by Jane Austen

At American Repertory Theater

Through January 14th, 2018

Photo by Ashley Garrett

The very agile and adaptable Scenic Design is by John McDermott, Costume Design by Angela Huff, Lighting Design by Les Dickert, Sound Design by Alex Neumann, and Choreography by Alexandra Beller, cleverly combining period dances with modern gyrations.

The play will run through January 14, 2018. Do not miss it.  The "Sensible" thing to do would be to click on this link and order your tickets now.

American Repertory Theater Website

Enjoy!

Al

Merry Christmas - O Come Let Us Adore Him!

Merry Christmas!

Hopes and prayers for a prosperous and fulfilling New Year!

Al

Apollinaire Offers An Early Holiday Gift - A Lavish Production of Chekhov's "The Three Sisters"

Director Danielle Fauteux Jacques has pulled out all the stops for this vibrant and lavish production of Chekhov's "The Three Sisters," with a fresh translation by Pulitzer Prize-winner Tracy Letts. The action is set in three separate location's within the theater, allowing the audience to be fully immersed in imagining what it must have felt like to be a fly on the wall in the unhappy home of the eponymous three sisters. The first two rooms are lavishly appointed in period furnishings and art work - also designed by Ms. Fauteux Jacques. The gorgeous costume designs by Elizabeth Rocha complete the mis en scene that transported us back to pre-Revolution Russia in the hinterlands far from Moscow. Sound Design is by Camilo Atehortua.

The action begins one year to the day after the death of the pater familias, who had been a high ranking military officer. His three grown daughters are left bereft of parental guidance and purpose in life. They are each miserable in their own way, living out central themes that crop up in all of Chekhov's plays - boredom, ennui, existential despair, nihilism, and psychosomatic symptoms of rootlessness. Layer on top of these self-imposed afflictions the inability of most characters to find meaningful connection with one another, and you have the ingredients for a sometimes humorous tragedy. For underneath his persistent pessimism, the playwright buries subtle humor, sometimes in the form of Shakespearean fools.

Deniz Khateri as Masha
Becca A. Lew is as Olga
Siobhan Carroll as Irina
"The Three Sisters" by Anton Chekhov
Translation by Tracy Letts
Apollinaire Theatre Company
Through January 21st

The three Prozorova sisters are Olga (Becca A. Lewis), Masha (Deniz Khatreri), and Irina (Siobhan Carroll). The three actors are universally excellent and consistent in portraying Chekhovian despair. They are joined by a coterie of equally fine supporting cast members:

• Michael John Ciszewski as Baron Tusenbach, Irina's intended, but whom she does not love.
• Paul Benford-Bruce as the dipsomaniac Dr. Chebutykin, who often intones, "What does it really matter?"
• Jon Vellante as the perpetually annoyed and socially awkward soldier, Solyony. who ends up challenging the Baron to a duel because they are both in love with Irina. This character does not have many lines, but he is pivotal in conveying Chekhov's world view. He often pulls from his pocket a spray bottle of perfume and sprays his wrist. It is only at the end of the play that he remarks,"I can't seem to get the stench of corpses off of me." Chekhov seems to be saying that as a playwright, he can't get the stench of existential and self-imposed death out of his mind, for it seems to infect each of his characters.
• Evan Turissini as Andrey, the brother of the sisters. He gives up a promising career as a violinist to marry badly and become enmeshed in a life of profligacy and gambling debts.
• Olivia Dumaine as Natasha, Andrey's wife. This character undergoes a dramatic arc, and Ms. Dumaine is impressive as she takes Natasha from being a shy, socially awkward girl to becoming a shrieking harridan. She is having an affair with off-stage Protopopov.
• Brooks Reeves as Kulygin, the teacher married to Masha. He is the only character in this play to perennially proclaim that he is happy and satisfied - only because he is blind to the reality that he is being cuckolded, as Masha has fallen in love with the married Colonel Vershinin.
• Juan Carlos Pinedo as Vershinin, married to a woman who tries to get his attention by attempting to commit suicide with stunning regularity. He knew the girls' father in Moscow, and often reminisces about the place with them.
• Demetrius Fuller as Fedotik, a soldier in love with Irina.
• Robert Orzalli as Rode, another soldier who hangs out at the home of the Prozorov family, and who with Fedotik provides incidental music throughout the play.
• Arthur Waldstein as Ferapont and Barbara Bourgeois as Anfisa, both superannuated household servants who have outlived their usefulness, but who continue to hang on.
• Zaida Ramos as a young maid.
• Vijaya Sudaram and Slava Tchoul as traveling musicians.

Cast

"The Three Sisters" by Anton Chekhov

Translation by Tracy Letts

Apollinaire Theatre Company

Through January 21st

Because of the intimate setting, audience size is limited to 30 persons for each performance. Last evening, the house was full and sold out. So, do not hesitate to shop on linenfor one of the rare tickets, and give yourself a Christmas or New Years' gift of a trip to Chelsea and the home of the Prozorov family.

Apollinaire Theatre Website

Enjoy!

Al

New Rep Theatre Presents A Gritty and Glorious "Man of La Mancha" - Through December 31st

Maurice Emmanuel Parent as Cervantes/Quijana/Quixote
Ute Gfrerer as Aldonza
"Man of La Mancha"
Directed by Antonio Ocampo-Guzman
New Rep Theatre
Mosesian Center for the Arts
Through December 31st

The unifying theme for this season at New Rep Theatre is "Resilience." What could be more fitting to advance this theme than a revival of the musical tale of the beloved knight errant, Don Quixote - the "Man of La Mancha." Actually, the creators of this musical, Writer Dale Wasserman, Composer Mitch Leigh, and Lyricist Joe Darion, made it clear that there are two men of La Mancha whose stories are being told here: Don Quixote and his creator, Miguel de Cervantes.

Director Antonio Ocampo-Guzman has creatively opted to set this revival in the time of Franco's Spain. Perhaps he has chosen to depict life in a dungeon in a fascist regime to give us hope that art can help us to escape the doldrums and the mental dungeon where many of us languish as our nation tilts dangerously in the direction of neofascism. Set Designer Eric Levenson has created a gritty and impressive subterranean holding cell that gives cast members many places to hide, or to put themselves in the light, as the action of the play requires. He is wonderfully assisted in suggesting a dark and adumbrated world by the Lighting Design of Jeff Adelberg, and the Costumes by Frances Nelson McSherry. Music Direction is by David Reiffel and Movement Direction is by Judith Chaffee.

Michael Levesque as Sancho Panza
Maurice Emmanuel Parent as Cervantes/Quijana/Quixote
Ute Gfrerer as Aldonza
"Man of La Mancha"
Directed by Antonio Ocampo-Guzman
New Rep Theatre
Mosesian Center for the Arts
Through December 31st

The music that Mr. Leigh has penned is hauntingly beautiful, and several of the numbers live forever in many of our heads and hearts. In order to do justice to this score, the cast members must have strong vocal chops, and that is certainly the case for this company of actors and singers, several of whom make it clear that they have deep operatic training.

• The triple role of Cervantes/Quijana/Quixote has been entrusted to the estimable Maurice Emmanuel Parent. The signature song that sets apart all actors who aspire to portray Don Quixote is the iconic "The Impossible Dream," and Mr. Parent acquits himself nobly in this number. But even before tackling this piece, he had me believing that he was the bewildered Alonso Quijana, deluding himself that he was a knight errant, sallying forth "to fight for the right without question or pause." It is a powerful performance that also includes a rendition of "Dulcinea" that gave me chills.
• Equally pivotal to the success of any production of "La Mancha" is that of Aldonza/Dulcinea. Beautiful of form and of voice, Ute Gfrerer immerses herself in the role of the scullery maid. We are convinced that she is indeed this misused whore - "the most casual bride of the murdering scum of the earth." She tries to set Quixote straight as she pleads with him not to call her his lady, Dulcinea. One of the highlights of this production is her heart felt rendering of her cri de coeur, "Aldonza," and the skeptical "What Does He Want of Me?"
• Traditionally, the role of Quixote's squire, Sancho Panza, is played by a short, squat, middle aged actor who believably sports "a belly full of stories" - and of food. (True confession: I fit the mold, having played Sancho on two occasions a number of years ago.) So, I did not know what to think when young, tall, and fit Michael Levesque blurted out "I'm Sancho"! In keeping with the scheme of the play within the play, it made perfect sense when he strapped on a false paunch and instantly became a very credible squire. In fact, his interpretation of Sancho was one of the finest I have ever seen, encompassing his acting, speaking, singing, gesticulations, and accompanying himself on ukulele. He shone in "I Like Him," and "A Little Gossip."
• As the Governor among the prisoners and the fictional Innkeeper, Todd Yard was strong, presiding over the kangaroo court that tried Cervantes for being a bad poet. Also strong was Shonna Cirone as Maria, the Innkeeper's shrewish wife.
• Davron S. Monroe made a menacing Dr. Carrasco, intent on curing the mad Quijana of his delusions.
• As Quijana's niece and Carrasco's fiancee, Antonia, Ivy Ryan was strong in delivering her disingenuous plea "I'm Only Thinking of Him."
• Joining her in this dirge was Christina English as Luisa, Quijana's housekeeper who fancies she must protect her maidenly honor against the delusions of the mad man.
• Stefan Barner as Father Perez impressed in "To Each His Dulcinea, and the elegiac "Psalm."
• Nile Hawver was strong as Pedro the Muleteer, and lead guitarist.
• Paul James Lang was the Barber, as well as Captain of the Inquisition, ably handling the "Barber's Song."
• The remaining Muleteers/Prisoners, Brandon Grimes, Ricardo D. Holguin, Christhian Mancinas-Garcia, and Nicole Vander Laan, had their moment in the spotlight in "Little Bird."

Cast

"Man of La Mancha"

Directed by Antonio Ocampo-Guzman

New Rep Theatre

Mosesian Center for the Arts

Through December 31st

Has there ever been a time in recent memory when we stood more in need of a refreshing reminder of the resilience of the human spirit? The moving story of the knight errant offers just such a drink of cool water in the desert of despair. We have many windmills still to tilt at, and even more dragons to be slain. It is not an impossible dream - or task. "Believe Sancho - believe!"

The good news is that audiences are flocking to see this gorgeous production, so tickets are scarce. Even better news is that New Rep has responded to this tsunami of interest by adding five additional performances. So, don't leave yourself tilting at windmills; throw down the gauntlet and secure your tickets now. This is a revival that is guaranteed to revive your spirits.

New Rep Website

Enjoy!

Al

Praxis Stage Prods and Provokes with Dario Fo's "Accidental Death of An Anarchist" - Through December 17th

With each production, Praxis Stage solidifies its growing reputation for presenting works that challenge and cause audiences to see things in a new light. The current production of Dario Fo's
"Accidental Death of An Anarchist" continues that stream of plays that provoke thought. Mr. Fo was an Nobel Prize winning playwright from Milan who dedicated his work to "the proletariat." In this play, he uses an event that occurred in Milan in 1969 to highlight the world view and tactics of anarchists, while pointing a spotlight on fascist police brutality. He conflates time in telling the story of a trumped up investigation of the death of an anarchist who died of defenestration from the upper stories of the security police headquarters as he was being interrogated for his role in a terrorist bombing.

Under the direction of James Peter Sotis, the cast of six energetically and capably convey the hypocrisy of the investigation that Mlan officials launched into the death of the anarchist. Using this specific incident, the playwright cleverly shows The Maniac (an excellent Alexander Castillo-Nunez) using police tactics against them to reveal the cover-up that is being attempted. The notes provided with the playbill give audience members a thumbnail summary of the Anarchist Movement.

Other members of the kinetic cast are:

• Alexandra Smith - The Sergeant
• Daniel Boudreau - Bertozzo
• Danny Mourino - Pissani
• Michael Anderson - The Chief
• Tenneh Sillah - Feletti

Cast
"Accidental Death of An Anarchist" by Dario Fo
Praxis Stage
Directed by James Peter Sotis
First Church Boston
Through December 17th

As Fo wrote this play, he made it clear that he was leaving room for actors to improvise and to add commentary. The fourth wall is often breached as actors, especially Mr. Castillo-Nunez, interact with audience members and make comments about the play itself and about the contemporary political climate. It takes some getting used to, but in the end, it is an effective technique.

Technical Director is James St. George, Costumes by Sarah Jocelyn, Sound by Benjamin Finn.

Beginning with this evening's performance at First Church Boston - 66 Marlborough Street - this run enters its final weekend. So, make your plans now to attend by this Sunday, December 17th.

Praxis Stage Website

Enjoy!

Al

"A Christmas Carol" - North Shore Music Theatre Continues Its Beloved Yuletide Tradition - Through December 23rd

Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" must be the most enchanting, beguiling, and beloved ghost story of all time. And the annual musical version of that tale produced by the NSMT has become a perennial MUST SEE for families throughout New England. This year marks the 27th anniversary of this production. The  people who call the shots at NSMT - Owner and Producer Bill Haney and Producing Artistic Director Kevin P. Hill - keep it fresh and excellent with a dynamic mixture of actors who have been with the production for many years, as well as a constant supply of fresh talent. The formula works to perfection.

As Ebenezer Scrooge, David Coffee is the twig of holly that stirs this steaming bowl of Bishop. Appearing in his 24th production of this play, he keeps getting better. His stature garners entrance applause from the appreciative audience. His dramatic changes from frowning miser to beaming born-again child eager for Christmas morning are mesmerizing. Other veterans who anchor this production are Leigh Barrett (17th year) as The Ghost of Christmas Past and Mrs. Cratchit, Cheryl McMahon (24th year) as Mrs. Dilber and Mrs. Fezziwig, and J.T. Turner (8th year) as Mr. Fezziwig.

David Coffee as Ebenezer Scrooge
"A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens
North Shore Music Theatre
Through December 23rd
Photo by Paul Lyden

The rest of this gifted and enthusiastic cast include:

• Peter S. Adams - The Ghost of Christmas Present
• Ryan Mardesich - The Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come and Young Scrooge
• Freddie Kimmel - Jacob Marley
• Tommy Labanaris - Narrator
• Russell Garrett - Bob Cratchit
• Will Geary and Brad Trump - Pearlie
• Joy Clark - Belle
• Andy Tighe - Fred
• Matthew Chappell - Old Joe
• Lianne Gennaco - Meg
• Meliisa Mitchell- Ensemble
• Cam Perrin - Peter Cratchit
• Ian Shain - Dick Wilkins
• Lorin Zackular - Ensemble
• Jack Bolitho - London Boy
• Scarlett Keene-Connole - Martha Cratchit
• Anabel Moda - Belinda Cratchit
• Asher Navisky- Boy Scrooge
• Dylan Prime - London Boy
• AJ Scott - TinyTim
• Emilia Tagliani - Fan

This production was originally adapted by Jon Kimbell, who was recognized as being in the audience on Opening Night. Original music is by Alby Potts and James Woodland. Also recognized with a 25 year plaque was Jay Daly, who has been on trumpet and served a music contractor for a quarter of a century.

Jay Daly - 25 Years on Trumpet

"A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens

North Shore Music Theatre

Through December 23rd

Photo by Paul Lyden

Scenic Design is by Howard C. Jones, Costumes by Paula Peasley-Ninestein, Lighting by Jack Mehler, Sound by Leon Rothenberg.

There are very limited tickets available for remaining performances, so if you do not want to find your family and friends proclaiming "Humbug" when you tell them you can't get tickets, go on line right now!

nsmt Website

Tommy Labanaris as Narrator

AJ Scott as Tiny Tim

"A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens

North Shore Music Theatre

Through December 23rd

Photo by Paul Lyden

God bless us, everyone!

Enjoy! And Merry Christmas!

Al

Actors'Shakespeare Project Presents "Julius Caesar" - An All Female Production - Through December 17th

Most of us are aware that for several generations, all roles in Shakespeare's plays were portrayed by men and boys - no girls allowed! So turn about is indeed fair play. Actors' Shakespeare Project, under the direction of Bryn Boice, are presenting their all female version of "Julius Caesar" at Huntington Theatre's Studio 210 through December 17th. Director Boice has made the choice, not only to cast all women in the roles, but also to transform character names into female equivalents. The audience is asked to imagine a science fiction motif, with the action taking place in some unspecified time in what feels like a very dark subterranean post-apocalyptic world. The result is an intriguing new look at the familiar action of ambition thwarted and political intrigue run amok.

Marya Lowry as Brutus
Liz Adams as Julius Caesar
Jade Guerra as Cimber
Julius Caesar"
Actors' Shakespeare Project
Directed by Bryn Boice
Huntington Theatre Studio 210
Through December 17th 

The cast is made up of some of the best of Boston actors.  The always impressive Liz Adams as Caesar sports punked-out blonde hair that made me think of Billy Idol in "White Wedding." After the assassination, Ms. Adams returns as Octavius Caesar, leading the charge to avenge the death of Julius. Marianna Bassham is impressive as Anthony, especially in delivering the iconic funeral oration. Marya Lowry is a powerful presence as Brutus, a reluctant participant in the plot to assassinate Caesar. The estimable Bobbie Steinbach forces us to look at the character of Cassius in new ways. MaConnia Chesser gives a refreshing down home patina to the character of Casca. Rounding out the universally strong cast as Julee Antonellis as Cicero, Erin Eva Butcher as Calpurnia, Jade Guerra as Metellus Cimber, and Charlotte Kinder as Portia.

Jade Guerra as Cimber
Liz Adams as Julius Caesar
Marya Lowry as Brutus
Julius Caesar"
Actors' Shakespeare Project
Directed by Bryn Boice
Huntington Theatre Studio 210
Through December 17th 

Set Design is by Cristina Todesco, Lighting by Jen Rock, Costumes by Rebecca Jewett, Sound by Amy Altadonna.

If you are familiar with this play, I invite you to make your way to Huntington Avenue and be prepared to see the familiar through different lenses and to hear the familiar lines spoken by different voices.

Through December 17th.

Actors' Shakespeare Project Website

Enjoy!

Al

Lyric Stage Breaks New Ground With "Hold These Truths" by Jeanne Sakata - A MUST SEE!!!

A very rich and satisfying season of theater in our town continues with the latest offering from the Lyric Stage Company of Boston. "Hold These Truths" by Jeanne Sakata examines the dark and shameful history of our nation locking up thousands of Japanese Americans during WWII. The story is told through the eyes and voice of one man who courageously stood up to the egregious abrogation of constitutional protections. Gordon Hirabayashi was that man, who survived to age 93 and served as a professor of Sociology.

The playwright, and the brilliant Director of this production, Benny Sato Ambush, have chosen to use traditional Japanese storytelling forms familiar to Kabuki theatre, especially the use of mute "Kurogo" - stagehands who double as silent representations of some of the characters with whom Gordon interacts during the 90 minutes of this one act play. The result is a beautiful, evocative, and very moving work of art that must be seen.

The burden of telling the story of a young college student who stood up to the machinery of the entire U.S. government falls on the shoulders of gifted actor Michael Hisamoto. Each time I have seen him perform, he has shown me more facets of his breadth and depth as an actor. He brings Gordon Hirabayashi to life on the stage in a performance that is one of the best of this season. He is mesmerizing as he walks us through the trek that Mr. Hirabayashi took in refusing to present himself for internment in a concentration camp. Along the way, he portrays a wide variety of other characters, using remarkable versatility of voice, accent, and physicality, to suggest the voices of parents,teachers, government officials, prison administrators, friends, and girlfriend. He seamlessly weaves in phrases in the Japanese language to add a layer of linguistic texturing to the monologue.

Michael Hisamoto
"Hold These Truths" by Jeanne Sakata
Directed by Benny Sato Ambush
Lyric Stage Company of Boston
Through December 31st
Photo by Mark S. Howard

Mr. Hisamoto's memorable performance is supported by the silent Kurogo, played by Khloe Alice Lin, Gary Thomas Ng, and Samantha Richert. The simple Scenic Design by Shelley Barish consists of sliding screens and rice paper backdrop that suggest a delicate Japanese home, but also transforms to suggest a prison, an office, a college setting. Aiding in these transformations is brilliant Lighting Design by Karen Perlow. Costume Design is by Tobi Rinaldi, and Sound Design and Original Music is by Arshan Gailus. Projection Design is by Jonathan Carr. Choreography is by Jubilith Moore. The work of Dialect Coach Bryn Austin is very much in evidence.

Michael Hisamoto
"Hold These Truths" by Jeanne Sakata
Directed by Benny Sato Ambush
Lyric Stage Company of Boston
Through December 31st
Photo by Mark S. Howard

The constitutional struggles that were embodied in Mr. Hirabayashi's campaign to seek the protection of the law for himself and fellow Japanese Americans in no mere historical footnote. This production is being staged very intentionally at a time when we face similar assaults upon the bedrock of our nation's values and the rule of law. Do we indeed "hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal"? Several branches of our current government belie these foundational values by their actions, words, and tweets. This brilliantly conceived and executed play serves as a cautionary tale to call us to action and to greater diligence in protecting the fragile freedoms that are in jeopardy for so many today.

A technique that is used to indicate Mr. Hirabayashi aging is to have him wear different eyeglasses during some scenes. This play functions for the audience as a way of offering us new sets of lenses through which to look at the past, to view the troubled present, and to envision more clearly a future free from the abuses highlighted here.

The play runs through December 31st.  Do not miss this remarkable work of art.

Lyric Stage Website

Enjoy!

Al

Greater Boston Stage Company Presents "She Loves Me" - The Sweet Smell of Success in Stoneham Square

The setting of "She Loves Me" is an upscale parfumerie in pre-war Budapest, Maraczek's shop. The story line is a familiar one. Think of the film "You've Got Mail" or "The Shop Around The Corner." Two lonely singles reach out through anonymous correspondence and fall in love with the idea of the person they are imagining. Then they meet, and complications ensue. Before the days of eHarmony and Tinder, there were organizations called Lonely Hearts Clubs (even before Sargeant Pepper!). Individuals would be matched blindly with someone of the opposite sex with whom they would begin a correspondence. Amalia Balash (Jennifer Ellis) and Georg Nowack (Sam Simahk) have been matched, and have become smitten with the literary personas of one another.

I think I have figured out the recipe that Director Ilyse Robbins used in assembling this amazing cast to tell this simple and intimate story. Here it is:

• Crash the closing night cast party of the recent Huntington Theatre smash hit "Merrily We Roll Along."
• Throw a lassoo around some of Boston's best talent, including Jen Ellis, Aimee Doherty, Robert Saoud, Bransen Gates, and Music Director Matt Stern.
• Toss them in a van, and drive north on I-93, exiting at Montvale Avenue.
• Drop them off at the stage door of The Boston Stage Company.
• Induce Sam Simahk to return home to Boston after completing a year on the road in the National Tour of "The King and I."
• Cast as Arpad Brendan Callahan, one of the most talented high school actors working in Boston who has trained with Greater Boston Stage Company.
• Hold auditions to fill in the rest of the roles with great triple threat singers, dancers,and actors.
• Start rehearsals.
• Set them free to tell this delightful story.

"She Loves Me" appeared briefly on Broadway in 1963 starring the late Barbara Cooke. It had a short run, partly because this is a delicate little music box of a musical, and audiences were buying tickets to bigger productions like "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum," and "Oliver." Ilyse Robbins has always loved this show, ever since being cast in it as her first Actors' Equity gig. She has done us the favor of reviving the show, and opening up the little music box for us to listen to the delicate notes, and take in the fragrence of a story well told.

The book for this show is by Joe Masteroff, adapted from a play by Miklos Laszio. Music is by Jerry Bock, and Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. For this production, the wonderful foldout Scenic Design is by Brynna Bloomfield, effective and elegant period Costume Design is by Gail Astrid Buckley, mood-setting Lighting Design is by Jeff Adelberg, and appropriate ambient Sound Design is by John Stone.  As written, this story is strong in that it allows each character to reveal who they are through action, dialogue, and song or dance.

What makes this production one that you will not want to miss is the skillfully directed cast. Here are some of the things that stood out for me:

• Jen Ellis, Jen Ellis, Jen Ellis. Her interpretation of Amalia shows us a woman who is desperate for a job, opportunistic, linguistically sophisticated, vulnerable, saucy, lonely, fearful, sometimes petty, alluring, demure, and always adorable. Her sparks of conflict, and then of love, with George are incandescent. We see her revealed in the wonderful songs "Will He Like Me?" "Dear Friend," and "Vanilla Ice Cream."

Jennifer Ellis as Amalia
"She Loves Me"
Directed by Ilyse Robbins
The Greater Boston Stage Company
Stoneham Theater
Through December 23rd

• Sam Simahk, welcome home! His Georg is complex, having to navigate some unexpected obstacles - in his work at Maraczek's, and in his correspondence and romance with Dear Friend. When he sings "She Loves Me," his gorgeous tenor voice fills the theater with his sense of joy and urgency. His exuberance reminded me of the infectious joi de vivre of Gene Kelly in "Singin' In The Rain." The chemistry that reigns between Ms. Ellis and Mr. Simahk is just as evocative as the authors envisioned.

Sam Simahk as George

"She Loves Me"

Directed by Ilyse Robbins

The Greater Boston Stage Company

Stoneham Theater

Through December 23rd

• Aimee Doherty is often at her best when she and Ms. Ellis are cast in complementary roles. Her Ilona Ritter is struggling with her own romantic complications and loneliness. She befriends newly hired clerk, Amalia. They get to exchange some "girl talk" in the shop's upstairs work room as they sing "I Don't Know His Name." Her time to shine comes when she describes having her eyes opened when she meets her new optometrist beau in "A Trip To The Library."

Aimee Doherty as Ritter

"She Loves Me"

Directed by Ilyse Robbins

The Greater Boston Stage Company

Stoneham Theater

Through December 23rd

• Robert Saoud is gently wondrous as senior clerk Ladislav Sipos, a humble man trying not to get fired from his position as the pre-war Hungarian economy stumbles. He poignantly proclaims his philosophy of life in the moving "Perspective." He uses Russian nesting dolls as props to demonstrate his view of the world and his place in it - Matrioshki at Maraczek's! Whether intentional or not, those nesting dolls serve for me as a metaphor for each of the characters in this play. "If you take the time to pry me open, you just might find that there is more inside than initially meets the eye."
• Jared Troilo skillfully manipulates us into hating his smarmy Lothario, Steven Kodaly. He gets to show of his impressive vocal range as he dramatically departs Maraczek's with his swan song "Grand Knowing You."

Jared Troilo as Kodaly

"She Loves Me"

Directed by Ilyse Robbins

The Greater Boston Stage Company

Stoneham Theater

Through December 23rd

• As the owner of the shop, Tom Gleadow is perfectly cast. He is at times officious, at other times avuncular, and then fragile and vulnerable when he learns about his wife's infidelities. His reminiscences of his lively youth in "Days Gone By" is a delight. It is like watching Ebeneezer Scrooge gleefully returning to Mr. Fezziwig's Christmas party.
• As the young messenger and clerk-in-training, Arpad, Brendan Callahan is a revelation. This student from St. John's Prep fully inhabits the role, and rules the stage when he pleads for a chance to be promoted to clerk as he sings "Try Me." This young actor has a bright future, and an already impressive past and present.
• Ensemble members Sarah Coombs and Bransen Gates are dressed to the nines as they tango while Amalia and George spar at the cafe. The birthday boy was in fine form last evening.
• Nick Sulfaro as Headwaiter sets the right tone for the lovers' hideaway as he croons "A Romantic Atmosphere."
• Additional ensemble members are Sean Mitchell Crosley, Angelo McDonough, Jennifer Mischley, and Sara Jane Morse Mullins.

As he always does, Matt Stern adds a deft touch as Music Director and conductor of the 9-piece band.

Here is one final observation that may convince you to come see this show, and to bring others with you to share the joy. The plot is a familiar one, and I could see the denouement coming from a mile away. I was prepared not to be moved when the big reveal happened, but the skill of Jennifer Ellis and Sam Simahk is at such a level, that the look of recognition and sheer joy that erupted on the faces of Amalia and Georg at the key moment caused me to experience chills and tears over which I had no control. That is the sweet smell of theater at its best!

Through December 23rd.

Greater Boston Stage Website

Enjoy!

Al

Review of "In Extremis Leadership" by Brigadier General Thomas A. Kolditz - Leading As If Your Life Depended On It

Brigadier General Thomas A. Kolditz is in a unique position to write about leadership in extreme situations. His "In Extremis Leadership" draws from his experiences teaching at West Point and the Yale School of Management, leading in combat in the Middle East, and mentoring members of the award winning Black Knights Parachuting Team from West Point. To supplement his own personal observations about leading in extreme conditions - when life and limb are at risk - he and his team of researchers interviewed a number of other extreme leaders. Those interviewed included mountain climbing instructors, parachutists, combat veterans, firefighters, and police SWAT team members.

The author's purpose in writing this book was first of all to examine the unique attributes of leadership that must be present and exercised in extreme situations when lives are on the line. Secondly, he and his team extrapolated those lessons that could be applied to any other leadership challenges - in the business world, academia, the athletic field, and elsewhere. In evaluating the common threads that emerged, General Kolditz identifies these common traits among extreme leaders:

• They are inherently motivated
• They embrace continuous learning
• They share risk with their followers
• They have a common lifestyle with their followerds - no elitism
• They have high competence, trust, and loyalty - and inspire these things in others

The book is filled with fascinating vignettes and interviews that highlight how these extreme leadership attributes are played out in a variety of life and death scenarios.

This book would be extremely helpful to anyone who is a leader, or who aspires to be a leader, in any field of endeavor. It is a major addition to the growing corpus of leadership books, and is offered as part of a series by The Frances Hesselbein Leadership Institute.

Enjoy!

Al

Review of "Call An Audible" by Daron K. Roberts - A MUST READ That Inspires and Challenges

Daron K. Roberts has written a compelling book that should inspire every reader to dream big. There is a good reason that Sports Illustrated named "Call An Audible" one of the best sports books of 2017. It transcends sports, and adresses issues of vision, discipline, work ethic, humility, work-life balance, and overcoming obstacles.

I was particularly moved in reading this book because I was behind the scenes for some of the chapters of the author's life, and I can attest to the veracity of the stories that he tells of making the unusual decision to pursue a career as an NFL coach in lieu of accepting offers to practice law upon graduating from Harvard Law School. Robert Frost would have definiely called Daron's choices "the road less traveled." I do not know of any other Ivy League law graduates who would be willing to humble themselves and start at the bottom of the barrel as an unpaid volunteer to break into coaching at the NFL level. Beside his love for football, the author was also motivated to establish a career in coaching to give himself a platform from which he could influence the next generation of young African American males, teaching life skills along with coaching football skills. His journey is one that had many peaks and valleys, and his account of the journey provides plenty of food for thought and lessons in values and principals.

While working himself up the ladder within the NFL coaching fraternity, there were stops along the way with the Kansas City Chiefs, Detroit Lions, and Cleveland Browns. Mr. Roberts also coached at West Virginia University. At every stop along the way, he had to prove his worth by being willing to do the toughest jobs that no one else wanted to do, beginning with the humble task of running - and keeping running - the Chief's antiquated copier.

One of the most moving sections of this book is the author's account of his decision to leave the fast track of NFL coaching. Between seasons, he was home in Texas, and his son brought him to his knees in remarking that he had never seen his father eating breakfast before. It hit him like a sledgehammer that he has been so busy proving himself as a coach, that he was failing as a father. So he made the painful choice to leave coaching. He accepted an invitation from the President of the University of Texas, his alma mater, to create a Center For Sports Leadership & Innovation on the Austin campus. It is from this platform that he now carries out his vision for influencing the next generation of student athletes.

Center for Sports Leadership Website

In addition, he oversees a non-profit called "4th and 1," They run a summer camp for high school athletes from underrepresented groups, and uniquely combine sports training with ACT preparation and diagnostics, professional development, and life skills classes.

4th and 1 Website

This book is a MUST READ for anyone looking to influence young people, as well as for motivated young athletes and scholars who could use a boost in hearing from a role model whose hard work has placed him in a position to multiply his talents, and to use them to influence others on a global scale.

Enjoy!

Al

"The Color Purple" Is Vibrant At The Boch Center Shubert Theatre - Through Sunday

Based on Alice Walker's novel, "The Color Purple" has moved audiences in movie theaters and on Broadway. The current national tour brings this moving story back to Boston at the Boch Center Shubert Theatre. It is a show you do not want to miss. It never fails to move me to tears and to deep reflection about how men treat women. In the current social and political climate, this story of female empowerment is as relevant as it ever was.The cast of this production is powerful, passionate, and talented.

This production is based on the recent Broadway revival, which used a simple set and pared down story line. It allows the characters to tell their story straight to the heart. I was caught up in the saga of Celie (Adriananna Hicks) learning from Shug Avery (Carla R.Stewart) how to stand up for herself and see herself as beautiful. Their love for life and for each other comes across most powerfully in the gorgeous number "What About Love?" Ms. Stewart also shines in "Too Beautiful For Words" and "Push The Button." Ms. Hicks had members of the audience leaping to their feet after her bravura performance of "I'm Here."

Adrianna Hicks as Celie
Cast
"The Color Purple"
Boch Center Shubert Theatre
Through December3rd

J. Daughtry as Harpo and Carrie Compere as Sophia had us laughing with their outrageous duet "Any Little Thing." The three church ladies serve as a gossiping Greek chorus in this show, and they were wonderfully portrayed by Brit West, Bianca Horn, and Angela Birchett. Gavin Gregory brought the character of Mister through a redemptive arc and shined in singing the haunting "Celie's Curse." Boston audiences saw a familiar face in Jared Dixon as Grady. Erica Durham as Squeak lived up to her character's name and offered some comic relief when she squared off against Sophia. N'Jameh Camara was strong as Nettie, Celie's sister. C.E. Smith's booming voice as the Preacher was on display in the rousing anthem "Mysterious Ways." Other cast members playing multiple roles include Darnell Abraham, Amar Atkins,Kyle E. Baird, Gabrielle Reid, J.D. Webster, Clyde Voce, Nyla Watson, Nikisha Williams, and Michael Wordly.

Book is by Marsha Norman and Music and Lyrics are by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray. This production is Directed by John Doyle. Set Design is by John Doyle, Costumes by Ann Hould-Ward, Lighting by Jane Cox, and Sound by Dan Moses Schreier.

This company must leave town after Sunday's performance, so you have only a few days left to get your tickets to be transported back into Celie's world and to "see what God has done."

Boch Center Website

Enjoy!

Al

Moonbox Productions Presents The Delightful British Comedy "The 39 Steps" - Through December 9th

There is nothing quite like physical British humor to tickle the funny bone. Such is the case with Moonbox Productions current offering of "The 39 Steps" by Evan George Patrick Barlow based on the Hitchock film, which in turn was based on a novel by Scottish novelist John Buchan. Director Allison Olivia Choat has wisely chosen to invite the audience into the creative process, encouraging us to suspend disbelief, and to go along with the four actors playing multiple roles, as well as very obviously serving as stage hands to make set changes in the middle of a scene. There is much physical humor and many sight gags, and the cast has been well chosen to carry out the hilarity with cheekiness and aplomb.

Kevin Cirone plays the straight man, Richard Hannay, a 30-something British man in the midst of a midlife crisis, who muses about how dull and meaningless his life is - until a femme fatale by the name of Annabella Schmidt (a sultry Sarah Gazdowicz) shows up and we are off to the races. Mr. Cirone and his dashing pencil mustache are the thread that ties together a picaresque series of adventures in a London music hall, along the rails, dangling from a bridge, and trekking across the heather-covered and fog be-shrouded hills of the Scottish highlands. Matthew Zahnzinger plays more roles than I can count - male and female - and each character is given a distinctive accent. Mr. Zahnzinger's mastery of arcane dialects is worth the price of admission. His counterpart is the equally adept Bob Mussett, whose mousy turn as Mr. Memory is a highlight, as is the scene in which Zahnzinger and Mussett portray two superannuated Scottish men acting as hosts for a political rally.

Bob Mussett and MatthewZahnzinger
as a pair of Scottish innkeepers
"The 39 Steps"
Moonbox Productions
BCA - Plaza Theatre
Through December 9th

This is a play that is not really plot driven, but which delivers its value by drawing the audience into the sheer silliness of the presentation. The actors are clearly having a ball telling this outlandish tale, and we cannot help but be swept up in the spirit of the piece. After the play, a friend of mine remarked: "Wasn't it fun just to be able to laugh in light of all of the heaviness we have been dealing with lately?" How true!

Set Designer is John Paul Devlin. Lighting Design is by Jeffrey E. Salzberg, Costume Design by Erica DeSautels, and Sound Design by Dan Costello, who must be singled out for the haunting bagpipe cues. Daniel Blackwell is the Dialect Coach.

One of the things I love about Moonbox Productions is their commitment to partner with local charities for each show that they produce. The current partnership is with Y2Y - Young Adults Uniting To End Homelessness. Located in Harvard Square, Harvard students operate a homeless shelter for youth who would otherwise be living on the street.  They also offer a suite of educational and social services, empowering the residents to become part of the solution to homelessness among young people. A portion of each ticket sold goes to supporting Y2Y. On line donations are also encouraged. Admission for the performance on the 22nd will be nonperishable food items or a donation to Y2Y.

Y2Y website

Sarah Gazdowicz as Annabella
Kevin Cironeas Richard Hannay
Bob Mussett as Mr. Memory

"The 39 Steps"

Moonbox Productions

BCA - Plaza Theatre

Through December 9th

It is no mystery why this play was such a hit with last night's audience. It is well written, cleverly directed, and flawlessly acted by a quartet of gifted performers. It is worth making the trip to Tremont Street - even if you have to walk more than 39 steps to get to the Plaza Theatre.

For tickets to other performances, follow this link:

Moonbox Productions Website

Enjoy!

Al

Huntington Theatre Company Presents A Delightful "Tartuffe" - To Thine Own Selfie Be True!

I have loved Molière since I saw my first production of "Tartuffe" back in college. So, I have been looking forward to this Huntington Theatre Company production of the French playwright's hilarious comedy exposing hypocrisy and the Parisian "religious right" of his day. I was not disappointed. Director Peter DuBois has made some brilliant choices in setting the action in modern day Paris, with an emphasis on the tools of 21st century technology to enhance the telling of the story, He gives us selfie sticks, noisy rotary aircraft, fragile cell phones, and one memorable taser. The result was that I felt that someone had taken a taser to my funny bone, for I frequently erupted in spasmodic laughter at the antics on stage.

DuBois builds a bridge between the 17th century and the modern day setting of this production by opening the piece with a series of quick tableaux showing characters in period costume and wig, establishing their basic characteristics and foibles. It felt like we were seeing a progression of 5 second gifs come to life.

One of the many things I love about the Huntington is their commitment to blend well known actors from New York, Hollywood, or London, with gifted talent based in Boston. This ensemble is a wonderful example of this casting philosophy. The truth that "there are no small parts" has never been more true than in this current production. Every member of the cast takes their moment in the spotlight and uses it to advance the story.

Frank Wood as Orgon
Brett Gelman as Tartuffe
"Tartuffe"
Directed by Peter DuBois
Huntington Theatre Company
Through December 10th
© Photo: T. Charles Erickson

Tartuffe is diabolically portrayed by the gifted Brett Gelman, looking every bit like Rasputin trying to win Senate approval for a slot in the Trump cabinet. Tony award winner Frank Wood is Orgon, who has fallen under Tartuffe's spell to such a degree that he adamantly refuses to believe his family when they bring him evidence of Tartuffe's perfidy and hypocrisy. His comely trophy wife is Elmire, played to the seductive hilt by Melissa Miller. She is the object of Tartuffe's less than holy zeal. Sarah Oakes Muirhead is Mariane, Orgon's daughter whose hand has been promised to Valère, played well by Gabriel Brown. But Orgon has decided to break his promise and give Mariane to Tartuffe. She would rather betake herself to a nunnery. Ms. Muirhead gets to display some wonderful physical comedy in demonstrating Mariane's woeful state. Her brother, Damis, played magnificently by Matthew Bretschneider, is the prototypical disaffected Millenial wedded to his selfie stick. He sees through Tartuffe, but Orgon disowns him instead of listening to him. Jane Pfitsch as the outspoken maid, Dorine, almost steals the show. Her saucy zingers and rejoinders to each member of the family and hangers on are priceless. Matthew J. Harris is strong as Cleante, Orgon's brother-in-law. He attempts to be another voice of reason warning against the excesses of Tartuffe, but he too is rebuffed. Paula Plum, arguably the doyenne of the Boston stage scene, makes a formidable impression as Madame Pernelle, Orgon's mother and patroness of Tartuffe. Her rant in the opening scene shows the grandmother in high dudgeon, excoriating everyone in sight. Her up-swept lacquered wig establishes her character as unassailable. The performance earned exit applause as she flounced from the stage - exiting stage right, brandishing her cane as a weapon. Omar Robinson as An Officer of the Court enters the action late in the game, but his vertical entrance and his turning the tables and taser on Tartuffe are highlights. Steve Barkhimer's flexibility is on full display as he handles the disparate roles of Laurent, Tartuffe's self-effacing acolyte, and Monsieur Loyal, the bailiff who comes to dispossess Orgon of his home. Finally, Katie Elinoff, Madame Pernelle's mousy maid, is usually seen, but not heard. But when she is heard, we are jarred out of our seats.

Paula Plum as Madame Pernelle
Frank Wood as Orgon
"Tartuffe"
Directed by Peter DuBois
Huntington Theatre Company
Through December 10th
© Photo: T. Charles Erickson

This wonderful cast are very comfortable with the English translation in verse by Ranjit Bolt. They are well supported by the visually arresting Scenic Design by Alexander Dodge, which includes an occasional table made from a gilded tree stump! Eye-catching costumes are by Anita Yavich, Lighting Design by Christopher Akerline, Sound Design by Ben Emerson, Choreography by Daniel Pelzig, Original Music by Peter Golub, Flying by Foy.

Cast
"Tartuffe"
Directed by Peter DuBois
Huntington Theatre Company
Through December 10th
© Photo: T. Charles Erickson

This production is a total delight, and will run through December 10th. Treat yourself to some laughs and book your tickets now.

Huntington Theatre Website

Enjoy!

Al