Theater review: ‘The Color Purple’ at the Majestic Theatre

‘The Color Purple’ is the 2016 Tony Award® winner for Best Musical Revival and it is now playing at the Majestic Theatre through Sunday February 11. There are still a few chances to catch it this weekend with show times at 8 p.m. on Friday, 2p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are available at the box office and through Ticketmaster with prices starting at $35. It is based on the 1982 novel by Alice Walker and follows the life story of Celie, an African-American Southern woman, from the early to mid-20^th century.

‘The Color Purple’ begins on a Sunday morning in 1909 as fourteen-year old Celie is playing a clapping game with her younger sister Nettie. She is pregnant with her second child by her father Alphonso and after she gives birth to a son, he coldly tells her he is going to get rid of it like the last one and she quietly says goodbye to her baby, “Somebody Gonna Love You.” Years later, a local farmer asks Alphonso for permission to marry one of his daughters, so he gives him Celie and throws in a cow as part of the deal. As she grows, her life is filled with hardships but along the way she meets women that will guide her through and eventually help her regain her power and reunite her with her grown children.

Celie’s tragic story is at the center of ‘The Color Purple’ so there are no elaborate settings or lighting effects but it works. Adrianna Hicks is amazing as Celie, especially on “I’m Here” towards the end when she finally accepts herself and realizes her worth. Carrie Compere brings the strong-willed Sofia to life, beginning with “Hell No” when she fights back when her boyfriend Harpo tries to beat her. Stand out performances include “Shug Avery Comin’ to Town,” “What About Love?” and “Hell No,” which had the loudest audience reaction. Even though the main themes include empowerment and self-worth, it does have mature content, so it might not be suitable for all ages. Overall, it is a heartfelt story of the triumph of the human spirit despite all the set-backs and tragedies that come along the way. It is definitely a must-see.

Theater review: ‘Cinderella’ at the Majestic Theatre

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s ‘Cinderella’ is now playing at the Majestic Theatre and even though there were numerous little girls in their best Cinderella outfit present on opening night, this contemporary take on the classic story appeals to all ages. Since it contains elements of the original French fairy tale the prince gets a back story and Cinderella’s step sisters become more than just the sidekicks to the evil stepmother. That deeper character development makes for a more balanced story telling in which all the characters get to tell their side of the story.

The audience is introduced to Prince Topher during “Me, Who Am I” and Cinderella, whose real name is Ella during “In My Own Little Corner.” The Prince’s parents died and left him in the care of a villainous minister who is using him to prey on the poor. Jean-Michel is a rebel who desperately wants things to change. He and Cinderella’s stepsister Gabrielle fall in love and plan to reach the Prince and make him see the error of his ways. The more popular story line of the evil stepmother and Cinderella meeting the Prince at the ball are still at the center of this popular fairy tale.

‘Cinderella’ is an entertaining musical that combines humor, dazzling costumes and top notch singing and dancing. Highlights include the transformation of Cinderella’s humble clothes into gorgeous ball gowns, the horse and carriage that serve as transportation to the ball and the amazing ball room dancing. Joanna Johnson delivers a stand out performance as stepsister Charlotte, especially during “Stepsister’s Lament.” There is one more chance to watch the show tonight, Sunday, January 14, at 7:30p.m. Tickets start at $35 and are available online and at the Majestic Theatre box office.

Majestic Theatre
224 E Houston St
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 226-5700

Theater review: ‘All is Calm’ at The Playhouse

alliscalmpic — ‘All is Calm’ is now playing at The Playhouse San Antonio until Sunday December 24. Photo: The Playhouse San Antonio, used with permission.

In the middle of the holiday rush it is good to slow down and enjoy a night at the theater. Now playing until Sunday December 24 at The Playhouse San Antonio’s Russell Hill Rogers Theater is ‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914.’ George Green and Bill Gundry co-direct with musical direction by Nicholas Ponting. It stars Nick Szoeke, Nicholas Ponting, David Nanny, Aaron Ely, Robert Nauman, Eric Buchaus, Kevin Collins, Robby Vance, Kyle Krambeck, Brendan Brady, Travis Trevino and John Towry. This weekend there will be a special Holiday Double Feature on Friday and Saturday. ‘All is Calm’ will start at 7p.m. and will be followed by A Marcsmen Christmas at 8:30p.m. There is an additional cost for A Marcsmen Christmas, but they can both be purchased as a package. Other showtimes for ‘All is Calm’ are Sunday at 2p.m. and Friday December 22 and Saturday December 23 at 7:30p.m. and Sunday December 24 at 2p.m. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling the box office at (210) 733-7258.

‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ is set in 1914, at the Western Front, where out of the violence comes a silence, then a song. The show features a talented cast of all-male singers and a mixture of songs, all sung acapella. These range from war tunes like “Keep the Home Fires Burning” to seasonal carols in several languages such as “O Tannenbaum” in German and “O Holy Night” in French. When a German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht” it brings about a night of camaraderie, music and peace. Approximately 90 minutes long with no intermission, it is composed of five parts, not including the Prologue and the Epilogue. In between the songs, both sides recount what happened that night and what daily life in the trenches was like. These narratives are taken from real letters from soldiers who were there.

The show itself is not that long but it is powerful and calming. Despite the dark overtones, it is a reminder of the kindness that resides in humanity regardless of race or creed. The staging and costumes are simple, but they set the mood perfectly. The voices are remarkable and the singers work together flawlessly to bring this remarkable true story to life. Highlights include the somber “I Want to Go Home” and “Stille Nacht.” It is told in the words and songs of the men who lived it. This acapella musical highlights the beauty and power of the human spirit during the darkest of days. Sure to be a conversation starter, it is a must see for the holiday season and appeals to all ages.

Theater review: ‘The Santaland Diaries’ at the Classic Theatre

santalanddiariespic — This is the last weekend to catch John Stillwagon as Crumpet the Elf on ‘The Santaland Diaries’ at The Classic Theatre. Photo: The Classic Theatre, used with permission.

The holiday season is in full swing and with it comes the holiday cheer and the same Christmas shows as last year. Thankfully, for anyone looking for something different ‘The Santaland Diaries’ is now playing at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio. This one-man show is based on NPR comic genius David Sedaris’ experiences working as an elf in Macy’s Santaland display during the holiday rush. John Stillwagon returns as Sedaris’ not so merry alter ego Crumpet the Elf with Bart Roush directing. The show is written by David Sedaris and adapted by Joe Mantello. There is still one weekend left to enjoy this cult classic with shows on December 15, 16 and 17. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Tickets may be purchased online or by phone at (210) 589-8450.

The show begins as Sedaris’ character ponders how he got to the point of considering applying for a job as a Macy’s elf. He comes into town looking to become an actor but now he is running out of money and is ‘$20 away from walking dogs’ so he applies for and is called in for an interview. What follows is nothing short of hysterical. He disappears offstage for a couple of minutes and comes back in full elf costume to share his shame and continue his story. His colorful descriptions of the selection process and eventual training give way to his impressions of everyone from co-workers to clueless tourists who do not speak the language but got railroaded into the Santa line. Some of the funnier moments include when he is so frustrated with the job that he muses that ‘Santa’ must be an anagram for ‘Satan’ and his portrayal of over controlling parents.

‘The Santaland Diaries’ is a must see comical and sometimes irreverent behind the scenes look at life at Santa’s village. John Stillwagon’s performance is lively and energetic and he manages to get the audience to sympathize with his plight. As a bonus, anyone familiar with One Life to Live will find his bit about the show especially funny. This show is not to be missed, especially for anyone looking for an unconventional way to celebrate the holidays. On opening night, the audience consisted of adults of all ages, proving that it appeals to a wide audience, but it must be said that it contains adult language in case some find that questionable.

Disclaimer: Please note that ‘The Santaland Diaries’ is recommended for ages 14 and over as it contains mature content and language.

Theater review: ‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ at the Majestic Theatre

Last night was opening night of ‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ at the Majestic Theatre. The stage adaptation of the beloved classic film tells the story of two show business buddies who start out putting on a show in a picturesque Vermont inn and end up finding their perfect mates. Music and lyrics are by Irving Berlin with a book by David Ives and Paul Blake and it runs until Sunday December 17. Show times are 7:30p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8p.m. on Friday, 2p.m. and 8p.m. Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. Sunday.

‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ follows Bob Wallace and Phil Davis from the Western Front of World War II to a Vermont inn where they put on a successful Christmas show and fall in love. With the first scene set in 1944 during a Christmas Eve performance put on by Bob and Phil, the audience is introduced to these lovable characters who were meant to be in the spotlight, “Happy Holidays/White Christmas.” The story fast forwards to 1954 where they perform on the Ed Sullivan Show and meet Betty and Judy Haynes, a sister act, “Sisters.” Their next stop was supposed to be sunny Florida but without telling Bob, Phil changes those plans to follow the sisters to Vermont. Upon their arrival, they are disappointed to find no snow but are determined to put on a Christmas show. The show goes on despite minor setbacks and they are rewarded with a “White Christmas.”

Perfect for a family holiday outing, ‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ is full of dancing, romance, laughter and favorite familiar songs including “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep,” “Happy Holiday,” “Sisters” and “Blue Skies.” The talented cast brings this classic story to life with Sean Montgomery and Jeremy Benton brilliantly chosen for the roles of Bob Wallace and Phil Davis. Show highlights include “Sisters” by Betty and Judy and “Blue Skies” by Bob and the Chorus while “I Love a Piano” features a fabulous tap dancing number and was the audience favorite. It all wraps up with “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm” and a pleasant surprise for the audience. This family-friendly holiday show is not to be missed.

Theater review: ‘Constellations’ at The Cellar Theater

constellationspic — Kate Glasheen as Marianne and Jeff Jeffers as Roland in The Cellar Theater’s ‘Constellations.’ Photo: Daniel Baumer, used with permission.

Now playing at The Playhouse San Antonio’s The Cellar Theater is ‘Constellations’ by the British playwright Nick Payne. It is a one-hour two-hander play that explores love, friendship and the notion of free will and destiny against the backdrop of quantum physics. The story is a romantic journey that begins with a simple encounter between a man and a woman and becomes an exploration of parallel universes. Kate Glasheen stars as Marianne, a quantum physicist and Jeff Jeffers portrays Roland, a beekeeper. There are still several chances to catch this cerebral production on Sunday November 12 at 2p.m., Thursday November 16, Friday November 17 and Saturday November 18 at 7:30p.m. and Sunday November 19 at 2p.m. Friday’s performance is SOLD OUT. Tickets range from $20 to $35 and are available online and at the box office.

The central theme in ‘Constellations’ is the theory of parallel universes in which the current universe is not the only one, but that many universes exist parallel to each other. These distinct universes within the multiverse theory are called parallel universes. This might seem like a heavy subject to delve into in a stage production but since this is a one-hour show, the best way to explain the material is by exploring the relationship between the main characters. The story begins with Marianne and Roland meeting at a function where a pick-up line goes flat but after an audible signal, in another universe, there is a different outcome and they become an item. Throughout the performance, they portray the same couple with different scenarios: in one he is married, in the other he is not, in one they are engaged, in the other they are not, and so forth. Their relationship goes through so many different ups and downs and each scene change is signaled by the same audible sound effect.

Sometimes emotional, at other times funny, the audience is privy to all these different universes. At times it is hard to keep up with the shifting action, but the central idea is to explain the theory that each decision creates another universe. Both actors do an exemplary job in handling the changing emotions and personalities in each scene as well as the challenging dialogue. The set design is simple but conveys the space theme adequately. It is not necessary to be an expert in physics to appreciate the heavy-handedness of the production and it is therefore a must-see because it is sure to create a dialogue on the possibilities of what at first seems to be just an ordinary life.

The Playhouse San Antonio
The Cellar Theater
800 W Ashby Place
San Antonio, TX 78212
(210) 733-7258

Theater review: ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ at the Woodlawn Theatre

littleshop17 — ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ is now playing at the Woodlawn Theatre until Sunday November 5, 2017. Photo: Woodlawn Theatre, used with permission.

October is Halloween month and nothing says horror and creepiness like ‘Little Shop of Horrors.’ Now playing at the Woodlawn Theatre until Sunday November 5, is the horror comedy rock musical about an unlucky florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human flesh and blood. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Tickets range from $18 to $29 and are available online. This production is recommended for audiences 13 and over and parental supervision is advised due to mature language.

‘Little Shop of Horrors’ is a musical about Seymour Krelborn who stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” – after his coworker crush. Seymour is a poor young orphan living in skid row who was taken in by Mr. Mushnik, a flower shop owner. He works for him now at the shop along with Audrey, a pretty young blonde and as the story begins, they both lament their stations in life, “Skid Row (Downtown).” Every day, Seymour cares for the mysterious new plant, “Grow for Me,” that looks like a large Venus flytrap and turns out to be a foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore. It promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Seymour if he keeps on feeding it blood. After he witnesses Audrey’s boyfriend Orin being abusive to her, he longs to protect her and plots to kill him. Eventually he discovers Audrey II’s out of this world origins and intent towards global domination but not before he loses everyone he cares about.

Far from a typical musical happy ending, ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ is a wickedly fun time. Brian Hodges shines in the role of the shy and unlucky Seymour and is paired well with Paige Berry as Audrey. Despite not being a lead character, Orin the sadistic dentist, leaves audiences conflicted because they love to hate him. Chris Berry’s hilarious portrayal of Orin during “Now (It’s Just the Gas)” had the audience in stitches but is a perfect example of why this production is not for the very young. Show highlights include when Orin makes his entrance “Dentist!,” “Grow for Me” when Seymour discovers what makes Audrey flourish and “Suddenly, Seymour” when Seymour and Audrey finally get together, even if it does not last. Overall, it is a dark and tragically funny production filled with humor, drama and heart and is a must see for the Halloween season.

Theater review: ‘The King and I’ at the Majestic Theatre

kingandicast — ‘The King and I’ plays at the Majestic Theatre through Sunday October 22. Photo: North Park Lexus Broadway in San Antonio, used with permission.

Now playing at the Majestic Theatre is the national tour of the Lincoln Center Theater Production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s ‘The King and I.’ There are still a few chances to catch it this weekend with show times at 8 p.m. on Friday, 2p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are available at the box office and through Ticketmaster and prices start at $35. This musical tells the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher hired by the King to teach his many wives and children. It stars Jose Llana as the King of Siam and Heather Botts as Anna Leonowens.

‘The King and I’ starts off with Anna and her son Louis as they are arriving in Bangkok, “I Whistle a Happy Tune,” and are met by the King’s Prime Minister, the Kralahome. They start off on the wrong foot when he informs her that they are expected to live in the palace, which is a violation of Anna’s contract which stated that they were to have their own house. Despite this breech in contract, she agrees to keep her part of the bargain but constantly reminds the King that he must do the same. Eventually they become friends and with Anna’s help he slowly attempts to modernize Siam. Conflicts arise at the palace and Anna and the King become estranged but she returns when he is at his deathbed and stays with him until his death when his son Chulalongkorn takes over.

The cast may be big but they work together splendidly to make this Broadway favorite work. Jose Llana and Heather Botts have outstanding stage chemistry that makes this true story come to life. Show highlights include “Getting to Know You” when Anna meets the royal children and wives and “Shall We Dance” when Anna and the King dance towards the end of Act II. Especially poignant is “We Kiss in a Shadow” by Lun Tha, the slave girl and Tuptim, her forbidden lover. “The Small House of Uncle Thomas,” the ballet the Royal Singers and Dancers put on for the British guests, is visually stunning and showcases the depth of talent of the cast. With its combination of humor, drama, and spectacular singing and dancing, ‘The King and I’ appeals to all ages and the universal themes of family and love, in all its forms, are relatable and timeless.

Theater review: ‘You Can’t Take It With You’ at The Classic Theatre

youcanttakeitcast — ‘You Can’t Take It With You’ is now playing at The Classic Theatre. Photo: Siggi Ragnar, used with permission.

Now playing at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio is the comedic play ‘You Can’t Take It With You’ by George S Kaufman and Moss Hart. It is directed by Mark Stringham and stars Andy Thornton, Catherine Babbitt, Jim Mammarella, Christi Eanes, Byrd Bonner, Allan S. Ross, Randee Lutterloh and Megan VanDyke. This is the final weekend to catch this hilarious production as it runs until Sunday October 1 with show times on Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Tickets are $32 for general admission and $28 for senior, military, educator and SATCO and $17 for student. They are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 589-8450.

‘You Can’t Take It With You’ is set in New York City in the large house of the Sycamore family and the story unfolds in three acts. The family consists of the patriarch, Grandpa Vanderhof, an eccentric old man who keeps snakes as pets and has never paid his income tax. His daughter Penny spends most of her day writing a series of unfinished plays. She is married to Paul who makes fireworks in the basement with the help of Mr. De Pinna, a delivery man who showed up one day and never left. Essie is one of Penny and Paul’s daughter. She is a candy maker who has always dreamed of being a ballerina and spends most of her days pirouetting and pliéing around the house. Her husband Ed is an amateur printer and plays the xylophone. Alice is the other daughter and the only ‘normal’ member of the family. She loves her family but is sometimes embarrassed by their eccentricities.

Alice comes home from work one day and announces that she is dating Tony, a young man she met at work. She plans to invite them over for dinner and the family promises to be in their best behavior. This would not be the crazy play it is if things went as expected and it does not. The madness includes a tax collector, a Russian ballet instructor, a Russian grand duchess and an accident with the beforementioned fireworks. Rheba, the housekeeper and her boyfriend Donald try to keep things from getting out of control but get caught in the middle.

Some of the best plays have universal themes that become timeless and resonate with any audience. Such is the case with ‘You Can’t Take It With You.’ No matter how hard the Sycamores try to act ‘normal,’ Tony’s wealthy and uppity parents meet them with resistance. The cast is big but they all work together to make the action flow seamlessly and there is always someone coming or going. Because the venue is small and intimate, some of the scenes can be overwhelming when there is too much going on onstage. Andrew Thornton is perfect as Paul Sycamore and John O’Neill’s portrayal of Mr. De Pinna is spot on. Overall, it is a must see show filled with humor and a few life lessons mixed in.

Theater review: ‘The Bodyguard’ at the Majestic Theatre

Now playing at the Majestic Theatre is the stage adaptation of the 1992 Oscar-nominated Warner Bros. film. It is adapted by Academy Award-winner Alexander Dinelaris and tells the story of former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard Frank Farmer who is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge but what they do not expect is to fall in love. Grammy® Award-nominated and multi-platinum R&B and pop recording artist Deborah Cox stars as Rachel Marron and television star Judson Mills stars as bodyguard Frank Farmer. There are still three chances to catch the hit musical with show times at 8p.m. on Saturday and 2p.m. and 8p.m. on Sunday. Ticket prices begin at $35 and are available online, at the box office, through Ticketmaster online or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

The first scene introduces audiences to superstar Rachel Marron and her music as she performs ‘Queen of the Night’ all the while unaware of the threat she faces from a stalker. Her manager hires Frank Farmer, a former Secret Service Agent to protect her and upgrade the security protocols. This version changes the focus of the story from the bodyguard to Rachel Marron. She collaborates with her sister Nikki on a new song, ‘Greatest Love of All’ and insists on performing her music as usual until she has a close call with the stalker while performing at the Mayan. From there they take the necessary precautions to keep everyone safe but when Rachel performs at the Oscars, Frank gets injured trying to protect her. Eventually they go their separate ways as he takes another job and she continues with her tour, ‘I Will Always Love You.’

With more than a dozen songs in the production, ‘The Bodyguard’ is more of a Whitney Houston tribute than a Broadway musical. It appeals to her fans and has a nostalgic feel from the first song to the iconic final performance of ‘I Will Always Love You.’ It is considered a romantic thriller but has occasional funny moments. Show highlights include Rachel’s concert-like performances and the hilarious karaoke scenes with the drunken college girls attempting to sing ‘Where Do Broken Hearts Go’ and Frank’s failed attempt at karaoke. It features such classic songs as ‘So Emotional,’ ‘One Moment in Time,’ ‘Saving All My Love,’ ‘Run to You’, ‘I Have Nothing’ and ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody.’ A word about the curtain call: give Stefan Raulston, who plays the assassin, a break. He is only playing a role. On opening night, he was booed when he took his bow.

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