Chris has been active in the local theatre scene for over 30 years and reviewing local theatre for over 11. In addition to his acting work, he's also contributed as a director, writer and composer. Though, initially a film buff, he grew tired of the sanitized, PG-13 rated blockbusters that were being continually shoved down his throat by the studios. An opportunity to review theatre in St. Louis has grown exponentially with the sudden explosion of venues and talent in the region. He now finds himself obsessed with witnessing those precious, electric moments that can only happen live, on stage.
What began in book writer Douglas McGrath's head as a jukebox musical centered around the relationship between competing songwriting teams Carole King and Gerry Goffin and Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil evolved into something slightly different.
The title of Lee Blessing's play, ELEEMOSYNARY, refers to the word one of the characters successfully spells, winning a spelling bee in the process, but also to the very definition of it; charitable.
Over the years I've learned a tremendous amount about the Jewish religion and its traditions through the plays and people I've come in contact with at The New Jewish Theatre.
Although I've seen the successful 1968 film version of THE LION IN WINTER, I'd never had the opportunity to watch the actual stage play which it's based upon, until now.
In his director's notes Ken Page mentions that he had a conversation with a dear friend where they were trying to define 'the place that exists beyond ordinary relationships or sexual discovery.
WICKED is pure spectacle, or to quote Glinda the Good Witch herself, it's a 'thrill-ifying' experience that both dazzles and delights, backed by terrific performances and eye-popping scenic design and special effects.
A special concert for Voice for Veterans, which seeks to give aid and housing to homeless veterans, took place at The Peabody Opera House on Sunday night (December 6, 2015), and it was a simply joyous experience.
Neil Goldberg who created and directed CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE, wanted to create a Cirque show that was not only family-friendly, but one that could tour the country.