Theater review: ‘Sister Act’ at the Woodlawn Theatre

sisteractpic — ‘Sister Act’ the musical is now playing at the Woodlawn Theatre until Sunday May 7, 2017. Photo courtesy of Woodlawn Theatre, used with permission.

Currently playing at the Woodlawn Theatre is the local production of ‘Sister Act’ starring Rebekah Williams as Deloris Van Cartier and Sherry Gibbs Houston as Mother Superior. It is based on the 1992 movie starring Whoopi Goldberg and is set in 1978 Philadelphia and has a disco/Motown feel to it. ‘Sister Act’ is the story of singer Deloris Van Cartier who witnesses a murder at her boyfriend’s nightclub and is put in protective custody in a convent.

The show begins with Deloris auditioning for her boyfriend Curtis in the hopes of singing in his nightclub. When he tells her she is not ready she breaks up with him and plans to leave town to pursue her dreams on her own. She stumbles upon Curtis and his crew as they kill someone they believe to be a snitch and she ends up going to the cops. To protect her until she can testify against Curtis in court they hide her in the last place he would look for her. Eventually she bonds with the nuns and helps them turn the troubled choir around which helps the church stay afloat.

This family friendly musical uses humor and the overall themes of dream fulfillment and the power of friendship to entertain audiences. The musical numbers vary from funny, like Mother Superior’s “I Haven’t Got a Prayer” and Joey, TJ and Pablo in “Lady in the Long Black Dress” to Sister Mary Robert’s poignant “The Life I Never Led.” “When I Find My Baby” by Curtis, Joey, TJ and Pablo is funny and disturbing at the same time and manages to elicit some nervous chuckles from the audience.

Rebecca Williams plays Deloris vividly and Walter Sanders III, as Curtis’ funny nephew TJ, steals every scene he is in. It is hard not to root for “Sweaty Eddie” as he tries to woo Deloris especially after he performs “I Could Be That Guy.” Overall it is a highly entertaining show full of humor, heart and show stopping songs.

‘Sister Act’ is now playing at the Woodlawn Theatre until Sunday May 7, 2017. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sundays at 3p.m. Tickets start at $18 and are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 267-8388.

Theater review: ‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’

The award winning musical ‘Beautiful- The Carole King Musical’ made its San Antonio premiere at the Majestic Theatre last night and the audience was treated to a night of unforgettable music. ‘Beautiful’ is the hit musical about the early life and career of the legendary singer and songwriter. Carole King starts in the music business at the age of 17 when she writes her first number one hit “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” for the Shirelles with her husband Gerry Goffin. The hits keep coming and include “Take Good Care of My Baby,” “The Loco-Motion,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling,” “One Fine Day” and many more. It isn’t until her marriage to Gerry fails and she moves to Los Angeles that she finds her voice and decides to release her solo album and the rest is music history.

Tuesday’s performance was well received as most of the audience members were familiar with the songs and were singing along to the performances. The first song “So Far Away” set the evening’s nostalgic mood especially during the artist’s performances of the songs. These included the Shirelles’ “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” The Drifters’ “On Broadway” and Little Eva’s “The Locomotion.” The Righteous Brothers performance of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling” was the highlight of the night and it made a big impact on the audience. “Neil Sedaka” provided some of the comic relief when he kept popping in and out. The entire cast shines on this production but it is Julia Knitel’s performance as Carole King that stands out because she brings the title character’s role to life. Overall it is night of music, dancing and trips down memory lane. It is a must see for music fans of all ages.

‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ plays at the Majestic Theatre until Sunday March 19, 2017. Performances are at 7:30p.m. through Thursday, 8p.m. on Friday, 2p.m. and 8p.m. on Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. on Sunday. Ticket start at $45 and can be purchased at the Majestic Theatre box office, online, through Ticketmaster online or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

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

Theater review: ‘The Tempest’ at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio

tempestpic — Allan Ross as Prospero, Grace Lamberson as Miranda and Hunter Wulff as Ferdinand in ‘The Tempest.’ Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Last Friday William Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest’ opened successfully at The Classic Theatre to a sold out audience with a library-themed set and newly renovated seating. With the weekend here, there’s three more chances to see quality classic theater in San Antonio. Thought to be one of Shakespeare’s last and greatest work it is part fairy tale and part romance with a touch of magic.

The story takes place on a remote island where Prospero, the exiled Duke of Milan, plots to restore his daughter Miranda to her rightful place as princess of Milan. Years later he develops magical powers and taking advantage that Antonio and his men are in a ship nearby he summons a storm that maroons them on the island. He is aided by Ariel, a spirit, and the slave Caliban, played by John Stillwaggon, last seen at The Classic Theatre in ‘Santaland Diaries.’

Allan S Ross stars as the mature and intelligent Prospero and seems right at home doing Shakespeare. Grace Lamberson is equally impressive as the young Miranda. This time around the male roles are cast as females and the ladies rock the roles. The highlight of the show are the funny scenes, especially those with Linda Ford as Trinculo and Rick Clyde as Stephano. Their drunken shenanigans had the audience roaring with laughter. The most memorable quote from the show is “Hell is empty and all the devils are here.” Overall the cast and crew have done an excellent job in bring ‘The Tempest’ to the stage. It is a must see for classic theater fans and it does not disappoint.

‘The Tempest’ is now playing at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio through March 12, 2017. Show times are Fridays and Saturdays at 8p.m. and Sundays at 3p.m. and tickets are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 589-8450

Theater review: ‘Fool for Love’

foolforlovepic — Damon C Mentzer and Holly Clifford star in ‘Fool for Love’ now playing at the Cellar Theater. Photo by Daniel Baumer, used with permission.

The setting at the Cellar Theater is small and intimate and it makes an ideal location for Sam Shepard’s ‘Fool for Love.’ A dark and gloomy motel room complete with run down furniture sets the mood for the somber story. The cast is small but they deliver big as the story of two former lovers unfolds in a motel in the desert. It includes Damon C Mentzer as Eddie, Holly Clifford as May, Bill Gundry as the Old Man and Michael Zaiontz as Martin.

Right from the start it becomes clear that this couple has seen their share of drama. May wants to go on with her life without Eddie and now has a job and on the night that he shows up, a date with a man named Martin. Eddie has other plans, as he has tracked her down and traveled for days to convince her to leave with him and settle down in Wyoming. They have bonded over the years and want to be together but they are doomed to keep repeating their destructive patterns. When Martin shows up to pick up May he finds himself stuck in the middle. Throughout the play the Old Man sits to the side and talks to May and Eddie and comments on each character and about himself. It is later revealed that the Old Man has a scandalous connection to both of them and is the reason May is hesitant about her relationship with Eddie. At the end Eddie leaves without May, May packs her suitcase and leaves alone and Martin is left in the motel room too confused to do anything but just stand there looking out the window.

‘Fool for Love’ is an intense production and the combination of the setting and the story creates an almost voyeuristic atmosphere. The focus is on the night’s confrontation rather than a developing story and the past plays a major role because it comes back to haunt their present. Mentzer and Clifford work well together and their onstage chemistry is believable. Zaiontz does an excellent job as the confused and clueless Martin and Gundry as the Old Man ties it all together with his emotional and regretful performance. It is a show not to be missed but it should be noted that it contains adult language and content and may not be suitable for everyone.

‘Fool for Love’ is now playing at The Playhouse San Antonio’s Cellar Theater through Sunday February 5, 2017. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Ticket prices range from $12 – $42 and may be purchased online or by calling the box office at (210) 733-7258.

Theater review: ‘The Santaland Diaries’ at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio

santalanddiariespic — John Stillwagon as Crumpet the Elf in ‘The Santaland Diaries.’ Photo courtesy of The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, used with permission.

The holiday season is in full swing and with it comes the holiday cheer and the usual Christmas shows. 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. Crumpet the Elf, his alter ego, is expertly brought to life onstage by John Stillwagon and the show is directed by Kelly and Bart Rousch.

It all 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 and what follows is nothing short of hysterical. He disappears offstage for a couple of minutes and comes back in full elf costume and continues 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. As an added bonus, those who stick around after the show can take a selfie with Crumpet.

‘The Santaland Diaries’ is a must see comical and sometimes irreverent behind the scenes look at life at Santa’s village during the holiday rush. John Stillwagon’s performance is lively and energetic and manages to get the audience to sympathize with his plight. Hopefully there will be more unconventional shows like these in the future. It is on a limited run and final performances are at 8p.m. this Friday and Saturday and 3p.m. and 7p.m. on Sunday. Tickets may be purchased online or by phone at (210) 589-8450. Disclaimer: for adults only. It contains adult language and material.

Theater review: ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’

‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ opened last weekend at the Woodlawn Theatre and runs until December 23. It is based on the “coat of many colors” biblical story of Joseph and is completely sung through with limited spoken dialogue. Joseph was his father’s favorite and that made his 11 brothers jealous and they vowed to get rid of him. Instead of killing him they sell him as a slave to traveling merchants who take him to Egypt. Eventually he rises to power and ends up helping and forgiving his brothers despite what they did to him.

The story begins with the introduction of the brothers and their obvious dislike for Joseph for being their father’s favorite, especially after his father gives him a coat of many colors during “Joseph’s Coat.” This disdain grows as Joseph tells them of his dreams which suggest that in the future they will bow down to him. Travis Eades does an outstanding job of bringing the character of Joseph to life and his vocals are strong, especially during his poignant solo on “Close Every Door.” The brothers work well together as a group and play off each other’s strengths during group performances like “One More Angel in Heaven,” “Those Canaan Days” and “Benjamin Calypso.” The scene stealer of Act II is Trey Hoadley, who plays Pharaoh and gives an “Elvis-like” performance on “Song of the King.” He even goes down to the audience and gives one of his scarves away while the audience cheers him on. “Joseph Megamix” wraps up the night as the cast, now dressed in colorful tie-dye outfits, performs a medley of the night’s songs as they dance with the audience and file past them to the lobby.

Overall “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor” is filled with humor, catchy musical numbers and universal themes of family and forgiveness. The cast is big and sometimes the stage looks crowded but the family friendly story line makes it a must see for the season. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Additional show dates are on Wednesday December 21 and Thursday December 22 at 7:30p.m. Tickets are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 267-8388.

Theater review: ‘Jersey Boys’ at the Majestic Theatre

jerseyboyspic16 — ‘Jersey Boys’ is playing at the Majestic Theatre until Sunday December 11. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

There is plenty to do in town this chilly weekend but for anyone looking for something to do indoors there are still four more chances to catch ‘Jersey Boys’ at the Majestic Theatre. ‘Jersey Boys’ is the story of Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy De Vito and Nick Massi, known collectively as Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. It is the true story of a group of blue collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks who became one of the biggest American pop music groups of all time.

After a successful opening night on Tuesday, ‘Jersey Boys’ is still going strong playing to an older crowd who undoubtedly remembers Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons during the highlight of their careers. The show starts with a French rendition of December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night) and gives way to Tommy DeVito, played by Matthew Dailey, who shows up, introduces himself and begins to narrate the story of the band. Throughout the show they each take turns narrating from his point of view. This is an excellent way of bringing the audience into the story and thereby making it more personal. Show highlights include their first hit “Sherry” and “My Eyes Adored You” which Frankie Valli, played by Miguel Jarquin-Moreland, sings to his wife. While Act One is the story of the band’s inception, Act Two is a highlight reel of their best hits. Judging by the audience’s reaction during “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” this was the audience favorite performance of the night. It is a must see for die hard fans.

‘Jersey Boys’ is now playing at the Majestic Theatre. Upcoming show times are 2p.m. and 8p.m. Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. on Sunday. Ticket prices begin at $30 and orders for groups of ten or more can be made by calling (210) 226-5967. Single ticket orders must be done in person at the box office. Disclaimer: contains adult language.

Theater review: ‘School for Scandal’ at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio

Gossip and malicious intent never go out of style and such is the case in Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s ‘School for Scandal.’ This 1777 comedy of manners stars John O’Neill and Christi Eanes and is now taking center stage at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio. This updated version is set in contemporary London where the cast of characters carry cell phones and love dishing out and spreading rumors regardless of who it affects.

‘School for Scandal’ opens in Lady Sneerwell’s house where she has gathered with friends to get all the newest gossip. They are a group of wealthy bored socialites who delight in making fun of people and spreading rumors and gossip. Then there is the older gentleman Sir Peter who is married to a much young woman and they constantly argue but seem to enjoy every minute of every fight. When Sir Oliver, who is Joseph and Charles’ long lost uncle, returns home he does so in disguise with the intent of finding out what is really going on. He soon finds himself in the middle of all the scheming and gossiping and what ensues is nothing short of hilarious.

Even though the setting and clothing are contemporary the language of the original play still stands so sometimes it is difficult to follow the action. Despite that, it is an amusing play and the cast works well together and appear to be having a ball with their characters. Some of the funniest scenes are in the second act. One is in Joseph Surface’s library when Lady Teazel, Sir Peter’s young wife, visits him and she has to hide when Sir Peter arrives. It is physical comedy gold and Zach Lewis’ performance is top notch and reminiscent of Jim Carrey in the movie ‘Liar, Liar.’ Another is when Charles Surface tries to sell the family’s portraits to Sir Oliver and they hold empty picture frames in front of various audience members while they haggle for the price.

‘School for Scandal’ is such fun to watch and it is a must see for anyone who enjoys a smart play with plenty of laughter. It runs until Sunday November 27 at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling the box office at (210) 589-8450 with rates starting at $10.

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