Jason Davis

What did our critic think of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW at Susquehanna Stage?

What did our critic think of THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION at The Belmont Theatre? The Belmont Theatre’s production of The Shawshank Redemption is a commendable community theater effort, offering a thoughtful and heartfelt adaptation of Stephen King’s classic.

What did our critic think of JEKYLL & HYDE: THE MUSICAL at Fulton Theatre? The Fulton Theatre’s production of Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical is a masterclass in theatrical artistry, showcasing remarkable talent both on and off the stage. From the haunting streets of Victorian London brought to life by scenic designer William James Mohney, to Paul Black’s evocative lighting, and Ryan J. Moller’s period-perfect costumes, the production is a visual and auditory feast.

A vocal and emotional challenge was conquered most triumphantly at The Belmont Theatre in York with their stunning production of Little Women: The Musical.

Is it a comedy, a tragedy, a drama, or a love story? Bright Star at Susquehanna Stage is hard to classify—but what’s certain is that it’s a heartfelt story about the ties that bind us, both seen and unseen.

You can’t go wrong with dinner and a show, and Lancaster’s Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre—now celebrating its 39th season—delivers a lively, family-friendly take on The Wizard of Oz, the beloved classic that continues to enchant audiences of all ages.

Susquehanna Stage has long been known for delivering outstanding local theater, and with The Shark Is Broken, the company may have set a new bar. This darkly comic, introspective play comes alive on the Susquehanna stage with astonishing depth, sharp humor, and unforgettable performances.

Every once in a while, theater offers a moment of pure serendipity—an unexpected delight that leaves you beaming. Such was my experience when, on an unrelated outing, I stumbled upon a production of Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. by the St. James Players. I walked in by chance and walked out thoroughly uplifted, humming childhood favorites with a smile that lingered long after the final bow.

Susquehanna Stage has built a commendable reputation for delivering exceptional productions, ranging from beloved classics to lesser-known gems. Their recent endeavor, the Tony Award-winning Falsettos, aligns with this tradition, bringing to life a complex narrative about love, family, and personal identity. While the production does not entirely reach the remarkable heights that fans have come to expect from this community theater, it still offers a compelling emotional journey and several standout performances.

Don’t be deceived by the title—this is no mere teen edition! The extraordinary queens of Six: Teen Edition at Ephrata Performing Arts Center are a tour de force, providing professional-level talent. With powerful voices and captivating storytelling, this incredible cast is an experience you simply cannot afford to miss!

Other Desert Cities may not be a play you’ve heard of, but it is certainly one you won’t want to miss. The Susquehanna Stage production of this contemporary drama is a powerful representation of Jon Robin Baitz’s sharp, emotionally charged script. While it’s only a 'Christmas play' in the same way Die Hard is a “Christmas movie”, the holiday reunion at the heart of the story serves as the perfect backdrop for this exploration of family dynamics, political divides, and the emotional weight of long-buried secrets.

As the holiday season swings into full gear, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre has opened its doors to one of the most beloved Christmas musicals of all time: Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. This spectacular production, directed by Amy Marie McCleary, serves up a delightful mix of holiday cheer, dazzling performances, and the timeless songs of Irving Berlin. It’s a festive treat that is sure to put everyone in the Christmas spirit.

What did our critic think of ASSASSINS at Susquehanna Stage?

Get ready to laugh out loud! Clue, the latest offering from The Belmonte Theatre in York, PA, is always a hilarious hit, and this production is no exception. With a witty and ridiculous script that keeps audiences guessing, the talented cast elevates the already comedic material into a riotous evening of theater.

The Belmont Theatre’s latest production, Big the Musical, delivers an entertaining blend of nostalgia and whimsy that captures the essence of the beloved 1988 film. Under the direction of Dylan Staub and Rene Staub, this community theater show becomes a vibrant celebration of youthful exuberance and ultra cute moments.

Producing a high-energy musical like Anything Goes is no small feat, requiring meticulous attention to both music and choreography. Yet, Susquehanna Stage has once again demonstrated its reputation for exceptional community theater with a production that, despite a few minor hiccups, ultimately delivers an unforgettable theatrical experience.

While Cats”might not be everyone's favorite Broadway show, due to its limited plot and unusual format, there is no denying that the energy and talent of this cast, the creativity of the choreography, the always incredible staging/directing by Rene Staub, and live orchestra, gave  this production of Cats something for everyone. 

Reggie Barton’s debut production of Bridge at The Belmont Theatre cleverly employs the backdrop of a charming card game in order to seamlessly blend thought-provoking contemporary themes with witty repartee. The show has garnered an enthusiastic response from audiences, who have lauded its impeccable casting and sharp dialogue.

What did our critic think of THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG at The Belmont Theatre?