Theater Review – November 29, 2017

SECOND RATE “THE BODYGUARD” WON’T MAKE IT ON BROADWAY

“THE BODYGUARD”
Broadway Across America – Arizona, ASU Gammage
Tempe, AZ

There are many reasons why a second-rate tour of a London show that hopes to be a Broadway musical doesn’t work.  “The Bodyguard,” based on the popular 1992 Whitney Houston/Kevin Costner movie, is a dud.  It debuted in London and is now touring America with hopes of landing in New York.  Chances of “The Bodyguard” passing Broadway critics and audiences high standards are impossible.  The tour is part of the local ASU Gammage Broadway series.

The sloppily produced show is … Continue Reading

Theater Review – November 19, 2017

ATC’S “THE RIVER BRIDE” GIVES INSIGHT INTO LOVE & HONOR IN THE AMAZON

“THE RIVER BRIDE”
Arizona Theatre Company, Center Stage, Herberger Theater Center
Phoenix, AZ

Arizona Theatre Company’s beautifully etched and stunningly staged production of Marisela Trevino Orta’s “The River Bride” gives audiences illuminating insight into love, honor, and the impact of family in a small Amazon community far removed from the complexities of modern life.

The poetically lyrical play paints a glowing picture of romantic discovery in a culture without many material things as two sisters yearn for the same man.  One sister ends up in an unexpected … Continue Reading

Theater Review – November 19, 2017

PHOENIX THEATRE’S WELL DANCED “NEWSIES” IS IMPECCABLE ENTERTAINMENT

“NEWSIES”
Phoenix Theatre
Phoenix, AZ

Tackling “Newsies,” the 2012 Broadway musical version of the popular 1992 Walt Disney film about mistreated New York City children who sold newspapers in 1899, is no easy task.  The show demands a huge cast of superb male ensemble, a pulsating staging pace, dynamic dances, and fully integrated scenery that moves with and becomes part of the show.  All of these elements are present in Phoenix Theatre’s impeccable production.

The energetic local staging is sanctified with a stunning group of accomplished male dancer/singers who are beautifully showcased … Continue Reading

Theater Review – November 1, 2017

DOES THE TOURING “SOMETHING ROTTEN!” DUPLICATE THE ARTFUL BROADWAY PRODUCTION?

“SOMETHING ROTTEN!”
Broadway Across America – Arizona
ASU Gammage
Tempe, AZ

On Broadway, “Something Rotten!” was a delicious and witty look at the “birth” of the American musical theater set in the Renaissance of 1595 when Shakespearean plays were the talk of England.  The hilarious musical affectionately slams the Bard’s masterpieces and America’s contribution to world theater.  On Broadway “Something Rotten!” was a rollickingly entertaining and wildly madcap delight.  The touring version arrived Tuesday, October 31 at ASU Gammage as part of this season’s Broadway Across America series.

Like the season … Continue Reading