Theater Review – November 25, 2023

“ELF THE MUSICAL” IS A JOYOUS HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT

“Elf The Musical”
The Phoenix Theatre Company, Mainstage Theatre
Phoenix AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

Expectations for “Elf The Musical,” based on the silly Will Ferrell 2003 film, were low.  How could a Christmas show based on that movie be turned into a joyous holiday extravaganza?  Well, a Christmas miracle occurs because The Phoenix Theatre Company’s (TPTC) production is just what Santa ordered.

The show’s London premiere, multiple Broadway runs, and annual national tours haven’t been huge hits.  Perhaps the previous productions including one five years ago at TPTC haven’t possessed the charismatic … Continue Reading

Theater Review – November 15, 2023

“AIN’T TOO PROUD” DYNAMICALLY RECREATES THE DAZZLING TEMPTATIONS

“Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations”
Broadway Across America – Arizona, ASU Gammage
Tempe, AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

Jukebox musicals have become a Broadway rage with new shows arriving regularly.  Since the fad has been indoctrinated into Great White Way programming, it is no surprise that tours of these recent hits end up on nationwide Broadway seasons with ASU Gammage no exception.

The latest to arrive locally is “Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations” which premiered on Broadway in 2019 after a … Continue Reading