This review aired on KBAQ November 28, 2011

“THE NAKED EYE” WANES AFTER INITIAL HILARITY & SPUTTERS TO FINISH

“THE NAKED EYE”
Nearly Naked Theatre, The Little Theatre at Phoenix Theatre
Phoenix, AZ

Paul Rudnick’s “The Naked Eye” starts out with several interesting ideas about politicians, corruption, censorship, and contemporary artists, all presented around funny situations and biting one-liners.  But after the intermission, “The Naked Eye” gets predictable and solving the various issues gets too convoluted.  So, by the end, it sputters to a finish that is well telescoped in the first act.  Surprises, unusual resolutions, or clever solutions would make the play stronger and … Continue Reading

This review aired on KBAQ November 21, 2011

ATC’S “CARNAGE” LACKS COMIC ZING OF BROADWAY PRODUCTION

“GOD OF CARNAGE”
Arizona Theatre Company, Herberger Theater Center
Phoenix, AZ

In its local premiere, the hysterical contemporary lifestyle comedy, “God of Carnage,” lacks the consistent comic zing and slapstick physical shenanigans it had in its wonderfully zany original Broadway production.  Arizona Theatre Company’s staging has its funny moments and there are times that the Rick Lombardo directed staging takes off with the mandated hilarity, but too often it seems contrived and misses several comedic punches.  The four-person acting ensemble has two strong performances but two portrayals disappoint.  You’ll … Continue Reading

This review aired on KBAQ November 14, 2011

CHILDSPLAY’S “LYLE THE CROCODILE” IS A NEW HOLIDAY HIT

“LYLE THE CROCODILE”
Childsplay, Tempe Center for the Arts
Tempe, AZ

Childsplay creates wonderful theater adventures for young audiences and their new holiday production, “Lyle the Crocodile,” based on last weekend’s first preview, is a hit.  The staging’s only problem is that it runs too long but I’m sure that problem will be resolved before the official opening.

The adorable show instills the importance of acceptance and shows how do-gooders always rise to the occasion even when they aren’t fairly treated.  So, as they are entertained, young theatergoers benefit … Continue Reading

This review aired on KBAQ November 7, 2011

POWERFUL “RACE” IS INTENSELY ALIVE IN iTHEATRE STAGING

“RACE”
iTheatre Collaborative, Kax Stage, Herberger Theater Center
Phoenix, AZ

David Mamet’s “Race” is a powerful statement on racial intolerance, bigotry, ridiculous stereotypes, and biases.  According to Mamet, “Race is the most incendiary topic in this country.”  An intensely alive iTheatre Collaborative production, staged in conjunction with ASU West, marks the play’s impressive local premiere.

I saw “Race” on Broadway in the author’s perfect original staging with an impressive cast.  I wondered if iTheatre Collaborative could muster the fine acting mandated and secure the strong directorial touch necessary to stage … Continue Reading

This review aired on KBAQ November 3, 2011

“BLUE MAN GROUP” IS AN ACQUIRED TASTE AND NOT A GOOD ONE

“BLUE MAN GROUP”
ASU Gammage
Tempe, AZ

“Blue Man Group,” now at ASU Gammage, is an acquired taste, and it’s a taste I will never understand or enjoy.

But before “Blue Man Group” criticism, there is a more serious issue.  The show is part of this season’s seven-show Broadway Across America – Arizona series.

While the Las Vegas style entertainment may appeal to many, there’s no way this vaudeville extravaganza qualifies as a Broadway show.  It has no plot and the background music is secondary to the … Continue Reading