BACK TO SDWRITEWAY.ORG

THEATRE REVIEWS

Theatre Review Editor, Peggy Lipscomb-Kazwara is accepting applications from qualified persons for inclusion on our review staff. We are especially looking for someone to cover North County. Please contact her at pslips@cox.net.

Have a question or comment? Do you have a show/event you would like us to review? Please send an email to : theater@sdwriteway.org

WHAT'S PLAYING :

Lost in Yonkers
Grossmont College Theatre

May 3-12, 2012
Stagehouse Theatre
Reviewed by Kathy Carpenter
Directed by Jeannette Thomas

Blood is thicker than water. When it counts most families stick by you no matter what. Even if you aren't close, don't like each other, or have a family full of loonies, when it comes down to what really matters it's the family against the world.

Neil Simon's play Lost in Yonkers  won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama  in 1991.

Thinking of the play as a drama and not being heavily into dramatic plays, I went in a little skeptical about liking this play. Within minutes I changed my mind. Lost in Yonkers, at least this version, although dealing with serious subject matters as overall themes. Takes a humorous approach. I among most audience members laughed out loud throughout the play. With last couple scenes taking on a more serious note. A thouroughly entertaining heartwarmer.

The story takes place in the Kurnitz home above the Kurnitz Kandy store, Yonkers, NY in 1942. A wonderfully homey set built by the student's. The story is told through the eyes of brothers Jay fifteen and a half (Jacob Gardenswartz) and Arty, (Zachary Bunshaft) thirteen and a half.

The play opens with the boys in their grandmother's house for the first time in years. They do not have fond memories of the place. Their dad, Eddie, (Joel Gosset) who reminded both me and my sister heavily of a young John Goodman, is ina room talking to his mother.(Kate Hewitt) 

When he comes out he reveals to the boys that the reason their mom passed away was from cancer. He reminds them the relative comfort of their moms final monthes. This came at a price. Money he did not have, He'd gone to a loan shark and his time is almost up. He has one year to pay the piper or else.

Eddie has a new job in which he can earn the money, but he needs to travel the south. He has come to Yonkers to ask their grandma to take the boys in for a year.

After an interview with the boys his mom say no. It's their thirty something childlike crazy aunt Bella, (Layla Stuckey who convinces her to take the boys in. The brothers hate the idea. Grandma is a mean old woman with a cane.

The cast also includes uncle Louie,( Ryan Casselman) the mob bag man, who comes to stay for awhile and bring the boys a male role model such as it is. And as aunt Gert, (Katherine Bothwell), a relative with a speaking problem.

Grandma, Jay and Arty hate each other throughout the year, but over the course of time grow to respect each other.

Jeannette Thomas did a perfect job of casting. The actors were their roles. The thinker Jay, the resistant Arty, the hateful Grandma. the crazy Bella, and the henchman, Louie. A dysfuntional family living together and learning to appreciate each other for who they are.
Kate Hewitt was phenomenal as the mean old lady. Jacob and Zachary perfect as the brothers. Ryan a loveable bag man, and Layla a  true talent with a big future.

No children under ten allowed for this production.

Next Fall the college will present Mauritius, and continue their season with The Grimmers, My Three Angels, The Odyssey A Play, and An Ordinary Day.

As with most performing Arts these days Grossmont College theatre can use your support. Please join them for an upcoming play. Or consider becomming a donor. For as little as $25 dollars you can help. www.grossmontedu/theatrebrochure for more information.

The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 is not a musical. It is a madcap comedy with a few bars of music. This is the story of a backer's audition at a huge Westchester estate for a wealthy patron, for a new musical. Several members from a previous cast are brought together in hope of finding the backstage slasher. A murderer who killed three chorus girls the last time they worked together. It is rumored to be based on a combination of 1940 movies, including Bob Hope's first movie.

A feel good comedy romp, and pure clever fun. With only a ten member cast director Nick Reeves and the Coronado playhouse brings us another fantastic production.

Andrey L. Payne has not yet graduated high school but has a long career ahead in acting. His role as Eddie McCuen, the comedian, was spot on deadpan. Of course this might be a bit bias as he reminded me so much of one of my cousins, LOL. The other standout for me was Sean S. Doughty, (Roger Hopewell) part of the song writing team. His wit and humor really brought the scenes together. And then there was Lisa Ritz as Helsa. The play couldn't have been done without her magnificient performance. Of course, the entire cast was terrific. That's what wonderful entertainment is all about bringing the  right group of people together for the perfect play.

 Thank you Coronado Playhouse for your continued first class entertainment.

Easter Brunch April 8th 12:30.

Upcoming shows
The Man Who Came to Dinner
June 29-August 5, 2012
Twelth Night
August 31- September 23, 2012
The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas
October 26- December 2, 1012

Broadway San Diego - ROCK OF AGES
March 27 - April 1, 2012

Rock of Ages
Reviewed by Kathy Carpenter

Broadway San Diego March 29-April 1, 2012
Civic Center

Eighties rock concert with a story. Provcative, bold , and engaging. Set in 1987 on the Sunset strip in West Hollywood. Takes place in and around the legendary Bourbon club owned by Dennis Dupree.

A simple small -town girl meets big-city dreamer love story. Watch and listen as they fall in love to the rock songs of Journey, Stixx, Reo Speedwagon, Foreigner, Pat Benetar, Whitesnake, and many more iconic  tunes. The show featuress thirty-one songs. If there were such things as play lists back then chances are most of these hits would be on your list.

Directed by Kristin Hanggi. Choreographed by Kelly Devine. The book is by Chris D'Arienzo. The idea originated in Los Angeles and played intimate venues around town in 2005.

The incredibly talented Justin Colombo played Lonnie (the narrator).Matt Ban was the rocked-out Dennis. Dominique Scott played the busboy with the Rockstar dreams, with a voice to make those dream come true. Shannon Mullen starred as Sherry the small-town girl. From angel to stripper she made you believe. Alma Osex played Justice, whose powerful soulfull voice captured your heart.

What's a concert without the band. The five piece band was onstage the entire time flawlessly executing the music of the legends. Piano, Darren Ledbetter, guitar 1, Chris Cicchino, guitar 2, Maddon, drums, Alan Childs, and bass, Andy Gerold.

The theme i Don't stop believing. In yourself or your dreams. Represented in the play and reiterated by the actors in a Q & A after the performance.

Two hours and forty-five minutes with intermission. Leave the kids at home for this one.- and prepare to rock out.

Next up at Broadway San Diego is Chicago Starring Christie Brinkley May 8-13.

REVIEW:
LI'L ABNER

Based on the comic by Al Capp the musical came to life in November of 1956.

No town wants to be as absolutely worthless and unnessary. Including Dogpatch USA. At first the hill people of Dogpatch are happy and excited about being chosen to have no value to anyone by the US government. Ready to move on to a brighter future. But when they realize they must evacuate immediately and will have to cancel the Sadie Hawkins day race. Mammy convinces them of the evils of the outside world.

Dogpatch residents then search for a reason the town should not be bombed. Finally they come up with Mammy's special tonic that made Li'l Abner the big strappling boy he is.

And of course we have the love story will Daisy Mae end up with Li'l Abner or Earthquake Jones?

Mammy and Pappy Yokum played by Rilyn Gardner and Drew Valoria were super talented youngsters with amazing perfomances. Stella Mae Coleman brought Daisy Mae to life with her sweet angelic voice. And Parker Stevens role as Li'l Abner, well he is Li'l Abner.

The full cast consisted of probaly over seventy-five wonderful kids who brought the musical alive.

Thoroughly entertaining evening of theatre. Fun for the entire family. Come on out to Dogpatch and find out exactly why they are worthy to be a town.

REVIEW:
ZANNA, DON'T

http://theatre.sdsu.edu/html/shows_2011-2012.htm

Zanna, Don't! is a quirky spin on modern relationships. The tone is set in the opening scene. Zanna, a male fairy (literary in all senses of the word) wakes in his bed. The radio announces not to forget some town event on Saturday, and tell guys to grab their guys and gals to grab their gals.

The story takes place mostly at Heartsville High, in mid-America. Where gay and straight are reversed. Gay is the norm. Zanna, played by Tom Vendafreddo, who does a super fantastic job, plays a cupid-like fairy. He makes it his mission that every student at Heartville High finds love.

With Cinderella tie-ins. Zanna also chats with a bird, has a wand with which he does simple magic, and loses a shoe.

The tricks are minimal but effective. I couldn't see how they did them was impressed, and enjoyed the fantasy element they brought to the show,

During the course of the play the students decide to put on a straight play which will shock the community. But to game acclaim they go for it. The enivitable happens, a guy and girl kiss and fall in loves causing problems in their current relationships. However as with all musical comedies everyone lives happily-ever-after.

Zanna Don't! originated in New York, in 2003, written by Tim Acito with additional material from Alexander Dinelaris. The play was called a sweet little show with a lot of heart and the important message of equality.Tolerance, acceptance, and love. Everyone wants to belong.

The music lively, and the dance numbers, energetic and fun. An magical entertaining evening. Playing through March 19th.

The theatre will present Vinegar Tom April 20th -28th.

REVIEW:
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Reviewed By Kathy Carpenter

Grossmont College Stagehouse Theatre
Directed by Susan Jordan-DeLeon

Spelling may not be everyone's forte but watching others succeed, fail, grow, and triumph appeals to most of us.

Follow six students and four people chosen from the audience as they spell there way through the show. Try to spell the impossible words in your head before the contestant can and learn the definitions of more than a few new words.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is based on C-R-E-P-U-S-C-U-L-E an original improvisiational play created by Rebecca Fieldman and performed by The Farm a New York based improvisational troupe.

Stand out performances by Rafi Cedeno as the Comfort Counselor, who did a little of everything. Played the tough yet comforting parolee. Acted in a second role as a gay dad, Sang beautifully, and did a ballet step to replace the microphone. Jordan Bunshaft also did an excellent job as William Barfee. Props to the rest of the cast for letting their talent shine.

Eight delightful musical numbers featuring the Platyers(the band.) The show runs approximately one hour and forty-five minutes without sn intermission. Mature language.

Buy your tickets early this was a sell-out and seats are limited. Box Office Phone: (619)644-7234

SHOW INFO:

	Music & Lyrics by William Finn Book by Rachel Sheinkin Conceived by Rebecca Feldman Orchestrations by Michael Starobin Vocal Arrangements by Carmel Dean Directed By: Susan Jordan DeLeon Musical Director: Ron Councell March 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17 at 7:30PM March 10 & 17 at 2:00PM 2012

"Please spell 'Honorificabilitudinitatibus!'"  This delightful musical comedy, full of characters sure to remind you of your own elementary school days, is a chance to root for the next Spelling Bee Champion.  Musical numbers, both comic and poignant, weave together a tale of triumph and loss on a stage of immense proportions: the auditorium stage of Putnam County Middle School!  This show includes some on-stage audience participation, so be sure to bring your thinking cap…

Mature language.

Special Engagement! March 2 - 18, 2012
North Coast Repertory Theatre & Miracosta College Theatre present:

Shakespeare's Greatest History Play 
Henry IV, Part 1
By William Shakespeare
Directed by David Ellenstein

Featuring Andrew Barnicle as King Henry
Kevin Koppman-Gue as Prince Hal
Bernard X. Kopsho as Falstaff
Michael Phillip Thomas as Hotspur
Amber Bonasso as Lady Percy 
John Herzog as Worchester 
Jonathan McMurtry as Bardolph
John Tessmer as Northumberland 

Also featuring Christopher Badillo, Zackary Bonin, Chris Braden, Carly Delinger, Dylan Deuling, Kelsey Huebscher, Richard Johnson,  Daniel Liuag, Kelsey McNeilly, Aidan Moon, Dangerfield Moore, Ashlei O'Hair, Spencer Rodman, James Thomas and Jesse Trout. 

The cast also includes MiraCosta College theatre instructors 
Tracy Williams and Kelly Kissinger.

King Henry faces rebellion from the noblemen who helped him seize the crown. Meanwhile, his son, Prince Hal, the heir to the throne, is a fifteenth century wild child who carouses with the rascal Sir John Falstaff, criminals and commoners, helps his rogue chums rob his father's treasury, and spends all his time in seedy bars. The rebels boast the impetuous young warrior, Hotspur, to lead their fight. When the battle is finally joined, Prince Hal and Hotspur square off in a life-or-death duel and Falstaff feigns valour, anticipates reward, and dreams gladly of merry England when Prince Hal will someday be King. Henry IV Part 1 introduces one of the greatest and most talked about comedic figures of all time: Falstaff, who has inspired everything from Verdi's opera to the name of a U.S. brewing company.

March 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 @ 7:30 pm
March 4, 11, 17, 18 @ 2:00 pm
Preview performance, March 1 @ 7:30 pm
General Admission, $25; Seniors/Staff, $20; Students, $15
Preview night: All seats, $15 Tickets for this special engagement only available at the Miracosta Box Office. TO PURCHASE TICKETS CALL (760) 795-6815 OR CLICK HERE NOW. To be performed at the Miracosta College Theatre.
One Barnard Drive
Oceanside CA 92056

Broadway San Diego - ROCK OF AGES
March 27 - April 1, 2012
San Diego Civic Theatre

** REVIEW **

Coronado Playhouse January 27 - March 4, 2012 1835 Strand Way, Coronado www.CoronadoPlayhouse.com Reviewed by Kathy Carpenter

Do you feel the beat? Is so, move those feet to Coronado Playhouse.

Director Chrissy Burns wanted to 42nd Steet because she feels the time period of the early 30's is reflective of the same issues many of us are coping with these days. Recession, working two, three, and even four jobs just to get by. Yet doing what we need to do in some cases to pursue what we love.

Based on the novel by Bradfor Ropes. Music by Harry Warren. Lyrics by Al Dubin. Book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble.
42nd Street is an American Broadway classic singing and tapping. My all time favorite type play.

42nd street is the story of the small town girl, in the 30's getting off the train in New York City, and with no experience in the theatre scene. She shows up at the audition after it's ended but through talent and being in the right spot at the right time manages to secure a spot in the chorus. After the star sprains her ankle opening night Peggy gets her big chance.

Melisa De Seguirant plays Peggy Sawyer Miss innocent from Allentown Pennslyvaina. This is Melisa's San Diego debut. She brings a freshness, sweetness to the role, and feet that sizzle with her fantastic tapping to the role. Bryan Banville plays the charmer Billy Lawlor and could probably charm most young ladies. Francena Bragg plays spoiled socialite Dorothy Brock, whose sultry voice makes you forget her meaness for a couple minutes.

A brightness in the cast is Hailey Bragg playing Mac, the production assistant. Only eleven she did a brilliant job, she has a great future in this business.

The other stand out for me was Meredith Russo who rocked the role of get-the-job-done Maggie Jones.

The entire cast did a fabulous job! With a shout out to Jennifer Soloman-Rubio, choreographer, on bringing a big production show to a dinner theatre type atmosphere.

Outstandingly sparkalicious costumes and hats, bringing the era to life.

To thatre offers a full bar and to add a bit of fun to the night offer drink related specials. Pretty Lady - Champagne, Chambord Gran Marnier - Manhatten Tea - Vanilla Long Island Iced Tea - Shuffle off to Buffalo - Captian Morgan and Pineapple juice

So if you going out on the town for the night shuffle off to Coronado.

Coming March 30th The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.

NOW PLAYING

Love to Laugh?

Patio Playhouse is hosting this hilarious show, produced by our friends at Pacco Arts!  Can 3 men present ALL of Shakespeare’s plays in just 97 minutes?  Starring Bruce Blackwell, David Pinson, and Jaysen Waller.  Playing Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings now through February 12th.  If you need a laugh (and who doesn’t?), come and bring a friend… Be sure to check out Pacco Arts on FB and buy your tickets today at www.paccoarts.com or call (760) 593-7074

And if you enjoy comedies, Patio also has “The Nerd” directed by Rob Wolter, opening on Friday, March 2nd.  Find more information on our website, www.patioplayhouse.org

See you at Patio Playhouse!

COMING UP FEBRUARY 16 - MARCH 11

LITTLE WOMEN the MUSICAL @ THE AVO PLAYHOUSE, VISTA

Lovers of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel Little Women will be given a new opportunity to enjoy the epic story of the March sisters when Moonlight Stage Productions opens LITTLE WOMEN – THE MUSICAL February 16. Re-imagined and refreshed for today’s audiences, LITTLE WOMEN – THE MUSICAL is a new Broadway musical that premiered in 2005. The score is sweeping and the show combines joyous moments mixed with moving drama and fresh choreography. Tickets, priced from $22-$30, are on sale now through the VisTix box office by calling (760) 724-2110 or visiting www.moonlightstage.com.

The family friendly musical chronicles the lives of the March sisters captured in Louisa May Alcott’s semi-autobiography about her and her family during the American Civil War. The dazzling musical tells the tale about the power of family, friendship and love and the show is capturing the hearts of a new generation and engaging audiences of all ages.

Alcott’s coming-of-age story gives audiences a glimpse into the lives of the four young March sisters and the men they embrace with passion. At its heart is the tomboyish Jo; fueled by a vibrant imagination and unabashed enthusiasm, she challenges social conventions with her aspirations of becoming a professional writer.

LITTLE WOMEN – THE MUSICAL is being directed by Kathy Brombacher who chose this piece to be her last directed show in the AVO as Artistic Director before retiring from her position at the City of Vista later this year. Collaborating with Brombacher are Choreographer Carlos Mendoza, Musical Director & Conductor Dr. Terry O’ Donnell and with Assistant Director Ted Leib. Rounding out the creative team are Scenic Designer N. Dixon Fish, Lighting Designer Curtis Mueller, Sound Designer Chris Luessman, Costume Designer Carlotta Malone, Properties by Sue Givens, and Stage Management by Tim Jones.
LITTLE WOMEN – THE MUSICAL features a book by Allan Knee, Music by Jason Howland, and Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein.

tickets

May 29-June 3, 2012

The weird and wonderful family comes to devilishly delightful life in THE ADDAMS FAMILY. This magnificently macabre new musical comedy is created by Jersey Boys authors Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, Drama Desk-winning composer/lyricist Andrew Lippa (The Wild Party), choreographer Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys) and Olivier Award-winning director/designers Phelim McDermott & Julian Crouch (Shockheaded Peter) with creative consultation by four-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Zaks.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY is a smash-hit musical comedy that brings the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley and, of course, Lurch to spooky and spectacular life.

This is definitely not the same old song and dance.

It’s every parent’s nightmare. Your little girl has suddenly become a young woman, and what’s worse, has fallen deliriously in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. Yes, Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has a “normal” boyfriend, and for parents Gomez and Morticia, this shocking development will turn the Addams house downside up.

It’s a family portrait that’s completely off the wall.

COMING UP FEBRUARY 12TH

"A HARD DAY'S NIGHT" FILM ALTERED POP HISTORY
Beatles tribute band, Abbey Road, performs album in its entirely at Belly Up on Feb. 12

Abbey Road - A Tribute to the Beatles performs "A Hard Day's Night" album in its entirety as well as other Beatles hits on Sunday, February 12 at the Belly Up Tavern at 8 pm. The film will be shown throughout the show. The Belly Up is located at 143 S. Cedros in Solana Beach.

Tickets are $12/$14 and may be purchased online at www.bellyup.com or calling the box office at (858)481-8140.

The show's website is www.inmylifetheplay.com.

REVIEW: HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS
... WITHOUT REALLY TRYING

January 19 - February 26, 2012

Reviwed By Kathy Carpenter

Welk Resort Theatre

Ever dream of rising to the top in business? Well maybe not the exact recipe to follow. How to Succeed makes for an extremely entertaining story.

A simple fun plot done well. As with writing, great acting sells itself. Who needs complication?. We do need conflict but it can be simple. Set in the sixties, maybe a simpler time in itself, J. Pierrepont Finch, window washer, decides to rise to the top of a large business using the aid of a book titled "How To Succeed In Business."  Throw in an office romance, the boss's nephew, and the boss's lover and you have conflict.

Directed by Ray Limon, who has directed over 25 productions with Welk theatre, and over 200 productions nationally.

Matthew Broderick plays the role of Finch on Broadway but Allen Everman portrayed Finch as a young Broderick. Many times during the night I found myself saying how much he reminded me of Matthew. He was perfect as the determined go-getter Finch.

Bud Frump, nephew of the boss, and villian of the piece, was equally as wonderful as Finch, if not better. Scott Dreir who has performed many roles around San Diego county, did a masterful job in the role. Spoiled - mama's - boy.

The rest of the cast including stand outs Bethany Slomka as Smitty, and Marie Kelly as Miss Jones, did an outstanding job. I can't really imagine a better version of the show than this one.

The score of fourteen lively whimsical songs written by Frank Loesser brought the dance numbers to life. Including my favorite scene  The "he thought she thought" number. Also loved the beautiful dress used for the Paris original number.

The play is over two hours a bit on the longer side but well worth your time.