Theater Review – June 15, 2022

“COME FROM AWAY” OPENS AT ASU GAMMAGE IN A SMASHING PRODUCTION

“COME FROM AWAY”
Broadway Across America – Arizona, ASU Gammage
Tempe, AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

After several less than stellar entries, the ASU Gammage Broadway series has brought the outstanding musical “Come From Away” here in a smashing touring production that does justice to the glittering show.

The musical traces the days after 9-11-01 when air traffic was grounded world-wide because of the World Trade Center bombing.  Planes were required to stay put until it was deemed safe to fly again.  Thirty-eight planes landed in Gander, Newfoundland where the … Continue Reading

Theater Review – June 11, 2022

TPTC’S “ALWAYS…PATSY CLINE” RECREATES COUNTRY SINGER’S LEGACY IN WONDERFULLY TUNEFUL PRODUCTION

“ALWAYS…PATSY CLINE”
The Phoenix Theatre Company, Hormel Theatre
Phoenix AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

Not everybody likes country music.  It’s an acquired taste but The Phoenix Theatre Company’s wonderfully tuneful “Always…Patsy Cline” production provides a great introduction to this popular musical style as personified by Cline.  It will turn a non-country music person into a devoted fan.  There are many reasons for the show’s positive impact.

Ted Swindley’s script starts in 1957 just as Cline’s career was beginning to soar.  It mixes renditions of Cline’s songs plus the singer’s friendship … Continue Reading