Brian Michaels - Page 2

There’s a unique kind of magic that happens each summer at Trollwood Performing Arts School, and this year’s mainstage production of Mamma Mia! might just be one of the most unforgettable yet—not only for the high-energy performances and dazzling visuals, but also for the poignant goodbyes woven into the production.

Originally adapted from the 2001 DreamWorks animated film (and the original book by William Steig), Shrek The Musical features a witty book by David Lindsay-Abaire and a catchy, pop-infused score by Jeanine Tesori. Since its 2008 Broadway debut, the show has enjoyed numerous national tours and international revivals, thanks to its sharp humor, rich characters, and heartfelt message.

Director Adam Pankow and the talented artistic team at Stage West have once again brought the heart and hustle of Newsies to life under the summer sky.

The stage adaptation of Holes, based on Louis Sachar’s beloved novel, is a captivating production that expertly blends mystery, humor, and emotional resonance. With its inventive structure—interweaving multiple timelines and rich backstories—the play manages to honor the spirit of the original book while using the stage to explore its themes in vivid, imaginative ways. This is storytelling that digs deep, both literally and figuratively.

What did our critic think of MARRIAGE GONE AWRY at Bonanzaville Event Center?

The students of the Davies High School Theatre Department brought Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein: The Musical to life with a production filled with humor, heart, and high-energy performances.

What did our critic think of SIX THE MUSICAL - TEEN EDITION at Oak Grove Theatre Arts?

What did our critic think of BETWEEN THE LINES at Horace High School Theatre?

What did our critic think of A VERY DIE HARD CHRISTMAS at Stage West?

What did our critic think of BIG FISH at Horizon Middle School Performing Arts Center?

What did our critic think of THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL at Barnesville High School?

What did our critic think of ALICE BY HEART at West Fargo High School Theatre?

Carrie: The Musical is an ambitious adaptation of Stephen King’s 1974 novel, blending horror, psychological tension, and music in a hauntingly memorable way. With a book by Lawrence D. Cohen, lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and music by Michael Gore, the musical captures the intensity of King’s story through emotionally charged performances and gripping songs.

'9 to 5: The Musical' is a vibrant and empowering stage adaptation of the 1980 film, featuring a score by Dolly Parton. This musical brings the story of three determined office workers who band together to overthrow their egotistical, sexist boss with humor, heart, and a catchy soundtrack.

What did our critic think of DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID at Horizon Middle School Performing Arts Center?

What did our critic think of THE ADDAMS FAMILY at Trollwood Performing Arts School?

Cats, composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is a groundbreaking work in musical theatre, premiering in London’s West End in 1981 and on Broadway in 1982. Based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, the musical revolves around the Jellicle cats, who gather annually at the Jellicle Ball where one cat is chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn.

What did our critic think of RENT at FMCT / The Hjemkomst Center?

What did our critic think of WAIT UNTIL DARK at Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre At The Hjemkomst Center?