Theater Review – April 8, 2023

TPTC’S “A CHORUS LINE” DISAPPOINTS ON EVERY MANDATED REQUIREMENT

The Phoenix Theatre Company, Mainstage Theatre
Phoenix AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

As one of the few theatergoers left who saw “A Chorus Line” when it debuted in 1975, it is interesting to look at a contemporary production of the show like the one at The Phoenix Theatre Company.

Before assessing the disappointing local staging, some observations on this once trend-setting show.  It reveals the fears and anguish confronting several actors trying out for an ensemble place in a Broadway-bound musical.

Copyright rules do not allow adjustments or changes to the show.  … Continue Reading

Theater Review – April 2, 2023

BRILLIANT PREMIERE PLAY “PRU PAYNE” MUST BE SEEN IN MAGNIFICENT ATC PRODUCTION

“PRU PAYNE”
Arizona Theatre Company, Center Stage, Herberger Theater Center
Phoenix, AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

Arizona rarely sees world premiere plays and often when plays begin here they aren’t stellar.  So, it is wonderful that the Arizona Theatre Company’s “Pru Payne” is such a remarkable piece.  Steven Drukman’s play is a sensitive and touching telling of dementia’s impacts on two very different individuals, one a well-known intellectual and critic, the other a school bus driver/custodian.

The play flashes back and forth between Prudence (Pru) Payne’s prime life as … Continue Reading