Theater Review – October 22, 2023

ATC MANEUVERS DATED NEIL SIMON’S “BAREFOOT IN THE PARK” WELL

“BAREFOOT IN THE PARK”
Arizona Theatre Company, Tempe Center for the Arts
Tempe, AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

Arizona Theatre Company made a smooth transition from the uncomfortable Herberger Theater Center in downtown Phoenix to the sleek Tempe Center for the Arts.  For its opening production in its new home, ATC selected Neil Simon’s second play and his first big hit, “Barefoot in the Park.”

It is winningly staged by Michael Berresse and performed by a comically adept acting ensemble who deliver the one-liners with hilariously droll timing as they create … Continue Reading

Theater Review – October 14, 2023

TPTC’S WORLD PREMIERE MUSICAL “TIANANMEN” RELATES A TIMELY STORY

“Tiananmen A New Musical”
The Phoenix Theatre Company, Mainstage Theatre
Phoenix AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

World premiere musicals are rarely part of the Valley’s theater scene.  Exceptions come from The Phoenix Theatre Company.  They debuted “Americano!” about the Hispanic cultural lifestyle during the 2019/20 season.  That show was so successful here that it went on to a popular Off-Broadway run in New York City.

Now, TPTC brings audiences “Tiananmen,” a rich new musical about the awful violence inflicted on innocent students protesting for non-existent democracy in Communist China. The show is … Continue Reading

Theater Review – October 11, 2023

“TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL” DOESN’T DO JUSTICE TO THE GREAT SINGER

“Tina – The Tina Turner Musical”
Broadway Across America – Arizona, ASU Gammage
Tempe, AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

Singer, dancer, and actor Tina Turner had quite a career.  Made a star by vicious, mean, and abusive first husband Ike Turner, she abruptly abandoned him to establish herself as an even bigger entertainer prior to her well-deserved European retirement and untimely recent death.

So naturally, Broadway decided to capitalize on her fame by creating a tribute extravaganza, “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical,” which started as a London … Continue Reading