Joni Lorraine

MY FAIR LADY rolled into town this week, treating Austin to a classic musical of old. And by “of old” I mean lavish costuming, soaring vocals, a beautiful choral ensemble and lush orchestrations performed by a full orchestra. What a treat! In case you missed it over the last 67 years, the musical tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl who takes speech lessons from Professor Henry Higgins, a phonetics professor, so that she might transform into a refined lady. The musical is based on George Bernard Shaw's 1913 play 'Pygmalion,' with book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe. 

“Go see this wonderful production, and go see it now.” You’ll be disappointed in the future that you weren’t among those of us singing its praises today.

Lucas Hnath's play THE THIN PLACE premiered at the Humana Festival of New American plays in 2019. The play, involving parapsychology, revolves around the character Hilda, a psychic medium who claims to have a special connection to the spirit world.

What did our critic think of DEATHTRAP at Jarrott Productions?

Sophocles Antigone undergoes no less pleasant a fate in this excellent production. How lucky was I this Friday the 13th? Much more so than Sophocles’ ANTIGONE. Just as she has for centuries, ANTIGONE is working her way through another version of a doomed demise in David Rush's adaptation of Filigree Theatre's production of this classic Greek tragedy.

What did our critic think of SORDID LIVES at Austin Rainbow Theatre?

What did our critic think of THE BOOK OF LIFE at McCullough Theatre? The production is more than just a play, though; it is a poignant exploration of personal history and the power of connecting with one's ancestors.

Odile Gakire Katese, a Rwandan playwright, actor, director, and humanitarian, is known for her work in using theater and the arts to promote healing and reconciliation in her home country after the 1994 genocide. She is a remarkable Rwandan artist, playwright, and cultural entrepreneur known for her outstanding contributions to the fields of theater, literature, and cultural development. Her life and work have made a significant impact, both in Rwanda and internationally.

What did our critic think of MOMIX'S ALICE TAKES US DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE at Bass Concert Hall? Momix’s dance production of ALICE, inspired by Lewis Carroll's timeless classics 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' and 'Through the Looking-Glass,' is a mesmerizing and surreal journey into the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland.

What did our critic think of THE GIRL WHO BECAME LEGEND at ZACH? In the heart of Dustbin, where rules and dust reign supreme, I had the opportunity to experience Sarah Saltwick’s charming THE GIRL WHO BECAME LEGEND. This darling production, a commissioned work by The Kennedy Center, now playing at ZACH, is brought to life and staged by the ensemble work of a creative and sturdy cast and their director Liz Fisher.

If you are seeking an evening of spooky entertainment and a journey into the mind of a literary genius, RAVEN WINGED HOURS is a must-see. Something spooky this way comes, indeed, and it's a hauntingly wonderful experience you won't want to miss.

An upcoming tour of Momix’s ALICE is headed to Austin next week, and we’re in for a treat. Momix's productions, choreographed and directed by the brilliant Moses Pendleton, have been performed all over the world, captivating audiences with their dreamlike and fantastical storytelling through movement and imagery. 

Like Jonah and the Whale, JENNA AND THE WHALE shows us the value of second chances and how to discover our own resilience

A bawdy, bold and inclusive production of HEAD OVER HEELS — a delightful jukebox musical based on the Go-Go's music  — is now playing at ZACH Theatre. Its already high production value and flash is elevated further by the presence of Austinite Kathy Valentine, an original member of the rock and roll Hall of Fame band, The Go-Go's.

Despite the play's initial shortcomings, Penfold Theatre Company's commitment to delivering exceptional productions is evident. BOX remains a compelling story that sheds light on the imagined internal life of an important historical figure. King, not just playwright but Penfold Associate Artistic director, is to be acknowledged for a courageous initial premiere of this new work.

HAIRSPRAY is a chipper, wildly energetic show, and if you can leave your inner skeptic at the door, you might see a glimmer of hope. If not that, then you’ll certainly have basked in some joy for a couple of hours.

What did our critic think of SANCTUARY CITY at Ground Floor Theatre? SANCTUARY CITY, written by Martyna Majok and produced by the Ground Floor Theatre, presents a thought-provoking exploration of DREAMers, the concept of sanctuary, and the complexity of how to live as an undocumented immigrant in the United States.

Gifting yourself with the talent that makes up this cast is worth the visit, though one must consider the evening will be long based on pacing issues within the show. Nonetheless, it is easy to see the promise in Alchemy Theatre’s production of THE BAKER’S WIFE.

What did our critic think of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD at Bass Concert Hall?

What did our critic think of GETTING IN BED WITH THE PIZZA MAN at Crashbox Theatre? GETTING IN BED WITH THE PIZZA MAN is a delight of a one-woman show. Written by Katie Folger and directed by Matrex Kilgore, this 'racy and whimsical production explores the joys and challenges of being single and sexually adventurous during the COVID-19 era.'