Theater Review – July 18, 2026

SUPERB LOCAL “LES MISERABLES” IS REMARKABLE

“Les Misérables”
The Phoenix Theatre Company, Stephenson Theatre
Phoenix, AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

“Les Misérables” is a masterful musical that explains 19th century French societal changes as all citizens wanted equality and a right to succeed.  The musical uses Victor Hugo’s all-encompassing 1862 novel to tell the story with the added beauty of Claude-Michel Schonberg’s melodic and richly expressive score.

It is a challenging show to stage because of the complex characters who must sing, dance, and act with flawless expertise.  The musical has played in the Valley before in the touring production that … Continue Reading

Theater Review – July 1, 2026

“BEAUTY AND THE BEAST” BRINGS THE FAMILIAR TALE TO VIBRANT LIFE

“Beauty and the Beast”
Broadway Across America – Arizona, ASU Gammage
Tempe, AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

As one who saw the original Broadway version of “Beauty and the Beast,” I approached the latest touring production at ASU Gammage with a tad of skepticism.  Could a new staging all these years after the 1994 New York presentation still bring Disney’s romantic fairytale alive?

The production turned out to be a fine representation of the well-known tale and while not quite as elaborate scenically as the original, the staging introduced a … Continue Reading