Rachael F. Goldberg

'Unknown Soldier' is a beautifully performed show with a fascinating exploration of memory, love, and loss, but its main flaw is that it is a show seeking out answers to a mystery it not only fails to resolve, but further convolutes at every turn. While there’s truth in that, it’s also a little dissatisfying, as life itself often is.

Signature’s production of 'Penelope' insists that Odysseus’ wife “has some things she wants to say.” If only she would.

'Where We Belong' is a beautiful production, with a gorgeous script and an entrancing quality that can be attributed to the best of theatrical experiences. It shares some hard truths, some heart-wrenching moments and realizations, and challenges perspectives, but the love and care that shines through the whole production is incredibly compelling.

Shakespeare Theatre Company’s production of 'As You Like It' is fun and playful, and it often feels that the cast, creative team, and audience are having an absolute blast together. With a strong team both on and off the stage, there’s an ease and joy that permeates every aspect of the production that’s undeniable.

'Malavika Sarukkai: Anubandh – Connectedness' explores a narrative with a universalized touch – one that helped build the connections central to the piece itself. The added elements of poetry, music, and chanting create an ethereal and somehow familiar feeling to the overall performance.

NextStop Theatre Company’s kickoff to its tin anniversary is delightful, hilarious, and engaging. The joy the cast and crew infuse into the performance is palpable and compelling, creating a shared experience that truly elevates live theater.

In a stunning US premiere, Stephen Laughton’s beautifully moving 'One Jewish Boy' tells the heartbreaking story of a couple’s relationship, and examines the impact of trauma and the different ways we process it.

'Hurricane Diane' is a fun and thought-provoking production, though you’ll certainly have more fun if you don’t think too hard about the technicalities of the show itself. There’s a lot to enjoy, and a good takeaway message, and, sometimes, that’s enough for an enjoyable theatrical experience.

'Unseen' is a heartfelt and heartrending production that covers difficult topics, but somehow manages to leave the audience feeling hopeful. Mona Mansour's script is beautiful and poignant, and the team at Mosaic brings it to life with care, heart, and impressive artistry.

Avant Bard’s production of Julius Caesar is thoughtful, charming, and thoroughly entertaining. It’s well worth the trip over the river for Shakespeare fans and critics alike, and will hopefully change the way you view the classical figure and play that loom so large in our world.

Covering a topic as fraught as the US involvement in Afghanistan can be difficult and deeply painful, but Signature’s production of 'Selling Kabul' manages to be honest, unflinching, and compassionate without losing sight of who matters in its tale.

'Incognito' is a beautiful, thoughtful play, and Constellation Theatre Company’s production is brimming with passion and talent. We may not ever fully understand what makes us who we are, but the cast and creative team at Constellation have certainly figured out what makes a good show.

The phrase “Mandy Patinkin in Concert” should always draw audiences, but this particular 'Being Alive' tour is just a lovely and loving performance, and it’s one well worth seeing. Patinkin is pure joy on the stage, and the feeling is catching.

'Two Jews Walk into a War. . .' manages to only retread oft-explored grounds, and fails to even do so in a unique or particularly insightful way.

'Which Way to the Stage' is a love letter – to New York, to the theater world, and to friendship. It’s entertaining and engaging, thoughtful and packed with talent. It’s an incredible experience, made for all of us theater fanatics – and for anyone who just wants to have a wonderful time.

It’s clear that a tremendous amount of talent, effort, and care has gone into this telling of The Tempest, and those affiliated certainly deserve high praise. Do yourself a favor and go see this production.

'Intimate Apparel' is a fascinating look at an intriguing woman, time period, and world, but the production just didn’t meet the standards Theater J has set for itself over the years.

Cloud Gate Theatre of Taiwan’s '13 Tongues' is the perfect season starter for the Kennedy Center's wonderful international dance program.

Theater J's season opener, 'Old Stock: A Refugee Love Story' is both a story about refugees who fall in love and a love story to refugees.

'tempered' isn’t going to cure or remove your rage – it will still be there. But there’s something freeing about leaning into it, about sharing it through music and poetry, that makes carrying it much more bearable.