BWW Reviews: World Premiere of STONE SOUP is a Delicious, Family Friendly Treat
by Jeff Davis - August 01, 2014
SummerStock Austin has a long tradition of producing one musical specifically written for the under 13 set every year. I was introduced to this tradition back in 2012 when I went to a performance of SummerStock Austin's production of A Year With Frog and Toad. As a childless twenty-something guy, I was the only adult in the audience who was unaccompanied by a kid. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the show and praised its ability to please all audience members, regardless of age. The next year, I attended The Bremen Town Musicians, and was pleased to see that, once again, the show spoke to adults and children. It's no surprise then, that history's repeating itself with SummerStock Austin's production of Stone Soup. In its world premiere production, Stone Soup pleases kids and adults alike and easily entertains from beginning to end.
by Jeff Davis - August 01, 2014
SummerStock Austin has a long tradition of producing one musical specifically written for the under 13 set every year. I was introduced to this tradition back in 2012 when I went to a performance of SummerStock Austin's production of A Year With Frog and Toad. As a childless twenty-something guy, I was the only adult in the audience who was unaccompanied by a kid. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the show and praised its ability to please all audience members, regardless of age. The next year, I attended The Bremen Town Musicians, and was pleased to see that, once again, the show spoke to adults and children. It's no surprise then, that history's repeating itself with SummerStock Austin's production of Stone Soup. In its world premiere production, Stone Soup pleases kids and adults alike and easily entertains from beginning to end.
BWW Reviews: 7 Towers Production of ALL'S WELL Brings Out Both Comedy and Drama
by Jeff Davis - July 31, 2014
Depending on who you speak with, there are between three and six "problem plays" attributed to William Shakespeare, but almost all Shakespearian scholars consider All's Well That Ends Well as one of them. On the surface, the play about unrequited love is a comedy. No one dies, and as the title suggests, it ends well for all of the characters. Still, there are themes and motifs of war, and many characters come perilously close to death. The duality of the play is the primary reason why it's considered a tragicomedy and a problem play, but it's that duality that has drawn 7 Towers Theatre Company to it. Their production of All's Well That Ends Well masterfully brings out both the drama and comedy in the piece and is one of the most thoughtful Shakespeare productions to grace Austin in a long while.
by Jeff Davis - July 31, 2014
Depending on who you speak with, there are between three and six "problem plays" attributed to William Shakespeare, but almost all Shakespearian scholars consider All's Well That Ends Well as one of them. On the surface, the play about unrequited love is a comedy. No one dies, and as the title suggests, it ends well for all of the characters. Still, there are themes and motifs of war, and many characters come perilously close to death. The duality of the play is the primary reason why it's considered a tragicomedy and a problem play, but it's that duality that has drawn 7 Towers Theatre Company to it. Their production of All's Well That Ends Well masterfully brings out both the drama and comedy in the piece and is one of the most thoughtful Shakespeare productions to grace Austin in a long while.
BWW Reviews: A.C.T. Stages an Exuberant, Crowd-Pleasing HOW TO SUCCEED
by Jeff Davis - July 31, 2014
Want to know how to succeed at producing an entertaining musical comedy? Check out Archangel Community Theatre's current production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. The production, which is packed with top tier talent, is an unbridled success from beginning to end.
by Jeff Davis - July 31, 2014
Want to know how to succeed at producing an entertaining musical comedy? Check out Archangel Community Theatre's current production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. The production, which is packed with top tier talent, is an unbridled success from beginning to end.
BWW Reviews: 'Roxie Rocks CHICAGO'- As Does the Rest of Summer Stock Austin
by Wendi Reichstein - July 31, 2014
As a self-proclaimed theatre nerd, I have a bit of an embarrassing confession: I have never seen Chicago on stage. I've belted the soundtrack, seen the movie countless times, and even walked past the Ambassador Theater on Broadway (that counts-right?). But I had not yet seen this musical favorite live, until Wednesday night at the opening of Summer Stock Austin's Chicago. And yes, was it all that and a side of jazz.
by Wendi Reichstein - July 31, 2014
As a self-proclaimed theatre nerd, I have a bit of an embarrassing confession: I have never seen Chicago on stage. I've belted the soundtrack, seen the movie countless times, and even walked past the Ambassador Theater on Broadway (that counts-right?). But I had not yet seen this musical favorite live, until Wednesday night at the opening of Summer Stock Austin's Chicago. And yes, was it all that and a side of jazz.
BWW Review: Cyrano May Be Ready for the Stage, But CYRANO Is Not
by Jeff Davis - July 30, 2014
I wish I had Cyrano de Bergerac's way with words. If I did, maybe it would be easier to write what I'm about to say here. City Theatre's current production of the Edmond Rostand classic, Cyrano de Bergerac has several of the elements that a show needs to succeed. It has an incomparable lead actor, two amiable supporting leads, and a text beloved by many a theatergoer. Still, due to a lackluster ensemble and odd directing choices, the production fails to gel or leave a positive impression.
by Jeff Davis - July 30, 2014
I wish I had Cyrano de Bergerac's way with words. If I did, maybe it would be easier to write what I'm about to say here. City Theatre's current production of the Edmond Rostand classic, Cyrano de Bergerac has several of the elements that a show needs to succeed. It has an incomparable lead actor, two amiable supporting leads, and a text beloved by many a theatergoer. Still, due to a lackluster ensemble and odd directing choices, the production fails to gel or leave a positive impression.
MMNT's 2014-15 Season to Include HAMLET, 'BRIDEGROOM,' MISALLIANCE & More
by BWW News Desk - July 30, 2014
Mary Moody Northen Theatre, the award-winning producing arm of the St. Edward's University theater training program, announces its 2014-2015 season, featuring four (4) outstanding plays ranging from classic to contemporary. Join us for our 42nd anniversary season and share in the fun and excitement at the theatre on the hill!
by BWW News Desk - July 30, 2014
Mary Moody Northen Theatre, the award-winning producing arm of the St. Edward's University theater training program, announces its 2014-2015 season, featuring four (4) outstanding plays ranging from classic to contemporary. Join us for our 42nd anniversary season and share in the fun and excitement at the theatre on the hill!
BWW Review: TOMMY Puts the Pinball Wizard in a Spectacular Wonderland
by Jeff Davis - July 29, 2014
Genius is not a term to throw around lightly. Genius suggests distinctiveness and even superiority. Geniuses are people that are seldom matched in their field. It's a level that most of us strive to reach but never achieve. Yet for director Dave Steakley, it's a well-deserved moniker. With his current production of Tommy, now playing at the Zach Theatre, Steakley pairs The Who's beloved rock-opera with the imaginative world of Alice in Wonderland. The result is a theatrical event that is impossible to forget.
by Jeff Davis - July 29, 2014
Genius is not a term to throw around lightly. Genius suggests distinctiveness and even superiority. Geniuses are people that are seldom matched in their field. It's a level that most of us strive to reach but never achieve. Yet for director Dave Steakley, it's a well-deserved moniker. With his current production of Tommy, now playing at the Zach Theatre, Steakley pairs The Who's beloved rock-opera with the imaginative world of Alice in Wonderland. The result is a theatrical event that is impossible to forget.
City Theatre Company to Close 2014 Summer Season with URINETOWN, 8/15-9/7
by BWW News Desk - July 29, 2014
The City Theatre Company will end its 2014 summer theatre season with the award-winning musical comedy Urinetown: The Musical. Don't let the title fool you! Urinetown is the hit Broadway show by Mark Hollmann and Greg Kotis that takes a somewhat unpleasant premise, and turns it completely upside down, resulting in a smart, wonderfully witty, and highly entertaining evening of contemporary musical theatre. Winner of three Tony Awards, three Outer Critic's Circle Awards, two Lucille Lortel Awards and two Obie Awards, Urinetown is an earnest tale of love, greed and revolution, where hope always springs eternal!
by BWW News Desk - July 29, 2014
The City Theatre Company will end its 2014 summer theatre season with the award-winning musical comedy Urinetown: The Musical. Don't let the title fool you! Urinetown is the hit Broadway show by Mark Hollmann and Greg Kotis that takes a somewhat unpleasant premise, and turns it completely upside down, resulting in a smart, wonderfully witty, and highly entertaining evening of contemporary musical theatre. Winner of three Tony Awards, three Outer Critic's Circle Awards, two Lucille Lortel Awards and two Obie Awards, Urinetown is an earnest tale of love, greed and revolution, where hope always springs eternal!
UT Theatre & Dance's 2014-15 Season to Include FAME, 'STREETCAR' & More
by BWW News Desk - July 28, 2014
The University of Texas at Austin Department of Theatre and Dance announces the 2014-2015 Season! The five-performance Subscription Series offers an ambitious breadth of work including a landmark drama of the American Theatre canon, an inspiring musical, and a bold, new play created in collaboration with a nationally renowned theatre company.
by BWW News Desk - July 28, 2014
The University of Texas at Austin Department of Theatre and Dance announces the 2014-2015 Season! The five-performance Subscription Series offers an ambitious breadth of work including a landmark drama of the American Theatre canon, an inspiring musical, and a bold, new play created in collaboration with a nationally renowned theatre company.
Photo Flash: The City Theatre Presents CYRANO DE BERGERAC, Now Through 8/10
by BWW News Desk - July 26, 2014
Cyrano's a soldier, philosopher, and nobleman with a head for poetry and a nose for miles. All of Paris adores him except for his true love Roxanne, who can't see past his all-too-prominent facial feature. Instead, she falls for a handsome young cadet named Christian. But when Christian admits he's tongue-tied with Roxanne, Cyrano gives him the romantic words guaranteed to win her heart. With Christian's looks and Cyrano's language, it's a foolproof plan! Or is it? A beautiful and touching story of 1640 Paris, set against the backdrop of corrupt magistrates, bawdy ladies, and dueling musketeers.
by BWW News Desk - July 26, 2014
Cyrano's a soldier, philosopher, and nobleman with a head for poetry and a nose for miles. All of Paris adores him except for his true love Roxanne, who can't see past his all-too-prominent facial feature. Instead, she falls for a handsome young cadet named Christian. But when Christian admits he's tongue-tied with Roxanne, Cyrano gives him the romantic words guaranteed to win her heart. With Christian's looks and Cyrano's language, it's a foolproof plan! Or is it? A beautiful and touching story of 1640 Paris, set against the backdrop of corrupt magistrates, bawdy ladies, and dueling musketeers.
BWW Reviews: Oh, What a Beautiful Evening! OKLAHOMA Wows Austin Audiences
by Jeff Davis - July 24, 2014
by Jeff Davis - July 24, 2014
BWW Reviews: LENDER IS THE NIGHT is an Adaptation in Name Only, but That's Just Fine
by Jeff Davis - July 24, 2014
by Jeff Davis - July 24, 2014
BWW Reviews: BREAKING BECKETT Will Forever Change How You Think About Improv
by Frank Benge - July 19, 2014
One of the main functions of theatre is to make an audience think. In this regard, BREAKING BECKETT, now playing at The Institution Theater, succeeds. I will probably be thinking about this piece for some time to come. Be aware that there is NO intention to be funny here. Leave your preconceived notions about improvisation at the door.
by Frank Benge - July 19, 2014
One of the main functions of theatre is to make an audience think. In this regard, BREAKING BECKETT, now playing at The Institution Theater, succeeds. I will probably be thinking about this piece for some time to come. Be aware that there is NO intention to be funny here. Leave your preconceived notions about improvisation at the door.
City Theatre Company Stages CYRANO DE BERGERAC, Now thru 8/10
by BWW News Desk - July 18, 2014
The City Theatre Company will continue its 2014 summer theatre season with Edmond Rostand's enduring masterwork Cyrano de Bergerac. A poignant and passionate portrait of panache in 1640 Paris set against the backdrop of corrupt magistrates, bawdy ladies, and dueling musketeers. The stage adaption is by Anthony Burgess and led by guest director Jeff Hinkle. Show dates are today, July 18 - August 10 at City Theatre.
by BWW News Desk - July 18, 2014
The City Theatre Company will continue its 2014 summer theatre season with Edmond Rostand's enduring masterwork Cyrano de Bergerac. A poignant and passionate portrait of panache in 1640 Paris set against the backdrop of corrupt magistrates, bawdy ladies, and dueling musketeers. The stage adaption is by Anthony Burgess and led by guest director Jeff Hinkle. Show dates are today, July 18 - August 10 at City Theatre.
Breaking String Theater Presents WE PLAY CHEKHOV: THE BLACK MONK AND THE BEYONCE, 8/14-24
by BWW News Desk - July 16, 2014
Breaking String's We Play Chekhov includes two of Chekhov's masterful short stories adapted for the stage, presented as a double-bill in what will be the perfect summer night out for any theater-goer. The Black Monk (adapted by Kama Ginkas and translated by John Freedman) depicts Andrei Kovrin - a writer who is visited by an apparition in the form of a monk, dressed in black. The monk bears a tantalizing message: Kovrin's art flows directly from God. But when loved ones suspect a mental illness, this joyful chapter in Kovrin's life becomes a terrifying encounter with madness, megalomania and the mystery of artistic creation.
by BWW News Desk - July 16, 2014
Breaking String's We Play Chekhov includes two of Chekhov's masterful short stories adapted for the stage, presented as a double-bill in what will be the perfect summer night out for any theater-goer. The Black Monk (adapted by Kama Ginkas and translated by John Freedman) depicts Andrei Kovrin - a writer who is visited by an apparition in the form of a monk, dressed in black. The monk bears a tantalizing message: Kovrin's art flows directly from God. But when loved ones suspect a mental illness, this joyful chapter in Kovrin's life becomes a terrifying encounter with madness, megalomania and the mystery of artistic creation.
JUNGALBOOK to Open 7/25 at Sam Bass Theatre
by BWW News Desk - July 16, 2014
'Jungalbook' by Edward Mast opens July 25th at Sam Bass Community Theatre. Directed by Nelly Light.
by BWW News Desk - July 16, 2014
'Jungalbook' by Edward Mast opens July 25th at Sam Bass Community Theatre. Directed by Nelly Light.
Penfold Theatre Company to Present MURDER ON RAILS, 8/10
by BWW News Desk - July 10, 2014
Penfold Theatre Company presents Murder on the Rails, a murder mystery aboard the Austin Steam Train Sunday, August 10th.
by BWW News Desk - July 10, 2014
Penfold Theatre Company presents Murder on the Rails, a murder mystery aboard the Austin Steam Train Sunday, August 10th.
Pollyanna Theatre to Present PETER AND THE PIPER, 8/12-20
by BWW News Desk - July 10, 2014
Central Texas' most well-known children's theatre company, Pollyanna Theatre in Strategic Alliance with the Long Center, presents PETER AND THE PIPER by Holly Hepp Galvan July 12-20 at the Rollins Studio Theatre at the Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 West Riverside, Austin, TX 78704.
by BWW News Desk - July 10, 2014
Central Texas' most well-known children's theatre company, Pollyanna Theatre in Strategic Alliance with the Long Center, presents PETER AND THE PIPER by Holly Hepp Galvan July 12-20 at the Rollins Studio Theatre at the Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 West Riverside, Austin, TX 78704.
VIDEO: A Conversation with the Creative Team of 'SGERSHWIN
by Jeff Davis - July 10, 2014
From 'Rhapsody in Blue' to 'Porgy and Bess' to 'An American in Paris' to a treasure trove of great American songs, George Gershwin is widely thought of as one of our nation's greatest composers. Conceived and written by ATP's David Blackburn, 'S Gershwin will take you on a journey through the life and music of this great American icon as seen through the eyes of the people he shared his life with.
by Jeff Davis - July 10, 2014
From 'Rhapsody in Blue' to 'Porgy and Bess' to 'An American in Paris' to a treasure trove of great American songs, George Gershwin is widely thought of as one of our nation's greatest composers. Conceived and written by ATP's David Blackburn, 'S Gershwin will take you on a journey through the life and music of this great American icon as seen through the eyes of the people he shared his life with.
Last Act Theatre Company Presents LENDER IS THE NIGHT, Now thru 7/26
by BWW News Desk - July 10, 2014
Last Act Theatre Company presents 'Lender is the Night: An Utterly Unrecognizable Adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo: A Western Melodrama.' Written by Greg Klein. Directed by Eric Daugherty
by BWW News Desk - July 10, 2014
Last Act Theatre Company presents 'Lender is the Night: An Utterly Unrecognizable Adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo: A Western Melodrama.' Written by Greg Klein. Directed by Eric Daugherty
City Theatre Company to Stage CYRANO DE BERGERAC, 7/18-8/10
by BWW News Desk - July 09, 2014
The City Theatre Company will continue its 2014 summer theatre season with Edmond Rostand's enduring masterwork Cyrano de Bergerac. A poignant and passionate portrait of panache in 1640 Paris set against the backdrop of corrupt magistrates, bawdy ladies, and dueling musketeers. The stage adaption is by Anthony Burgess and led by guest director Jeff Hinkle. Show dates are July 18 - August 10 at City Theatre.
by BWW News Desk - July 09, 2014
The City Theatre Company will continue its 2014 summer theatre season with Edmond Rostand's enduring masterwork Cyrano de Bergerac. A poignant and passionate portrait of panache in 1640 Paris set against the backdrop of corrupt magistrates, bawdy ladies, and dueling musketeers. The stage adaption is by Anthony Burgess and led by guest director Jeff Hinkle. Show dates are July 18 - August 10 at City Theatre.
Photo Flash: City Theatre Presents PSYCHO BEACH PARTY, 7/3-13
by BWW News Desk - July 02, 2014
Surf's up as Psycho Beach Party hangs ten this summer! Playwright, actor, director, drag queen legend, Charles Busch mashes up Gidget beach party surfer films, Hitchcock suspense thrillers, and a little Mommie Dearest into an outrageously campy, gender-bending comedy. The sweet, nerdy Chicklet Forrest desperately wants to be in the cool crowd on Malibu Beach, circa 1962.
by BWW News Desk - July 02, 2014
Surf's up as Psycho Beach Party hangs ten this summer! Playwright, actor, director, drag queen legend, Charles Busch mashes up Gidget beach party surfer films, Hitchcock suspense thrillers, and a little Mommie Dearest into an outrageously campy, gender-bending comedy. The sweet, nerdy Chicklet Forrest desperately wants to be in the cool crowd on Malibu Beach, circa 1962.
Salvage Vanguard Theater Presents BRIGHT NOW BEYOND, 7/31-8/23
by BWW News Desk - July 02, 2014
We are at a crossroads in the Land of Oz. Twilight. A boy named Tip receives a mysterious prophecy from a dying Queen. Tip's resulting adventure into the unknown is the heart of Bright Now Beyond, a new music theatre piece by Daniel Alexander Jones and Bobby Halvorson, presented by Salvage Vanguard Theater.
by BWW News Desk - July 02, 2014
We are at a crossroads in the Land of Oz. Twilight. A boy named Tip receives a mysterious prophecy from a dying Queen. Tip's resulting adventure into the unknown is the heart of Bright Now Beyond, a new music theatre piece by Daniel Alexander Jones and Bobby Halvorson, presented by Salvage Vanguard Theater.
Austin Arts & Entertainment Presents INDUSTRY NIGHT All July
by BWW News Desk - July 01, 2014
Industry Night is coming! It's an old-school variety show featuring the Austin Arts & Entertainment Industry. Every Monday in July (7th, 14th, 21st, & 28th) at the North Door in East Austin, local artists and entertainers will salute the community that supports them! Doors open at 6pm show starts at 7pm! Inspired by the great variety shows like The Dean Martin Show, Ed Sullivan, and the Muppets, Industry Night will showcase some of the best of the Austin Arts & Entertainment Industry and feature its own, locally created, original content. There will be Industry folks. There will be drinks (and drink SPECIALS). There will be sketches, music, film, dance, comedy and so much more!
by BWW News Desk - July 01, 2014
Industry Night is coming! It's an old-school variety show featuring the Austin Arts & Entertainment Industry. Every Monday in July (7th, 14th, 21st, & 28th) at the North Door in East Austin, local artists and entertainers will salute the community that supports them! Doors open at 6pm show starts at 7pm! Inspired by the great variety shows like The Dean Martin Show, Ed Sullivan, and the Muppets, Industry Night will showcase some of the best of the Austin Arts & Entertainment Industry and feature its own, locally created, original content. There will be Industry folks. There will be drinks (and drink SPECIALS). There will be sketches, music, film, dance, comedy and so much more!
BWW Reviews: The Raunchiest SILENCE! You'll Ever Hear
by Wendi Reichstein - July 01, 2014
While riding along the freeway, drivers are often faced with the oxymoron of a car wreck on the side of the road. Though it is often gruesome and inappropriate to stare, it is equally as challenging to look away. No matter how shocking or repugnant, your eyes are glued to the scene, both attempting to understand what has just happened, and seeing what will happen next. Such was my experience at the Salvage Vanguard Theatre, watching the regional premiere of Silence! The Musical. Did I love it? No. But despite its raunchy lyrics and eye roll-worthy dialogue, its redeeming music and talented ensemble kept me in my seat for nearly an hour and a half.
by Wendi Reichstein - July 01, 2014
While riding along the freeway, drivers are often faced with the oxymoron of a car wreck on the side of the road. Though it is often gruesome and inappropriate to stare, it is equally as challenging to look away. No matter how shocking or repugnant, your eyes are glued to the scene, both attempting to understand what has just happened, and seeing what will happen next. Such was my experience at the Salvage Vanguard Theatre, watching the regional premiere of Silence! The Musical. Did I love it? No. But despite its raunchy lyrics and eye roll-worthy dialogue, its redeeming music and talented ensemble kept me in my seat for nearly an hour and a half.
Videos
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Beehive: The 60's Musical
TexARTS: Theatre & Academy (2/13 - 3/1) | |
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Murder on the Orient Express
Zach Theater (1/21 - 3/1) | |
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Clay Walker: New Year's Eve
Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live and 3TEN ACL Live) (12/31 - 1/1) | |
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Music of Love Charity Concert benefiting Children's Health, Jan.10.2026, Robinson Fine Arts Center
Plano ISD, Robinson Fine Arts Center (1/10 - 1/10) | |
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SIX (Boleyn Tour)
Bass Concert Hall (1/20 - 1/25) | |
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Disney’s Newsies
Bastrop Opera House (9/4 - 9/27) | |
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The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Bastrop Opera House (2/6 - 2/22) | |
|
Lost in Yonkers
Lost in Yonkers (3/13 - 3/22) | |
| VIEW SHOWS ADD A SHOW | ||
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