BWW Review: SHATTERED is a Fascinating Unscripted ExperienceJanuary 24, 2019Still, SHATTERED is a fascinating unscripted experience for theatre-goers. Given the nature of themes like mental health and grief, it was unclear how this new company would approach this concept. Fortunately, both cast and crew create a show that is original and entertaining to watch. Although its first appearance is not an entirely even one, this debut work from Fox Den Theatre Company is an intriguing introduction to Austin Theatre.
BWW Review: A CHRISTMAS CAROL is Perfect Holiday Entertainment!December 13, 2018In short, A CHRISTMAS CAROL is perfect holiday entertainment. This deeply affecting tale is filled with the redeeming power of love and the importance of charitable giving. Beautifully presented in a fun and festive package this production can be enjoyed by kids from one to ninety-two. Grab a cookie, a cup of hot cocoa and settle in to rediscover the story that made Christmas merry to begin with.
BWW Review: MEN ON BOATS at Mary Moody Northen is Must-See TheatreNovember 15, 2018MEN ON BOATS is hands down, must-see theatre! This production accomplishes what all plays aspire to, but few achieve - all-around excellence. The crew's journey, described by Sides as 'an apt metaphor for the peril faced by many in our society on a daily basis, ' is fraught with important meaning while still maintaining levity and fun. This 'rollicking' sometimes vulnerable show reminds its audience to find adventure in their own lives. After all, we only get one.
BWW Review: MACBETH Highlights The Might of Women and Folly of ManNovember 1, 2018All in all, MACBETH presented by Something For Nothing Theatre is an enjoyable evening of accessible theatre. Although the play falters in act two, the show itself is mostly well done. The talent of the women in this production is the undeniable force driving the show. While by no means are their characters innocent, one wonders if Macbeth would have fared better if he had listened to them a little closer.
BWW Review: ATLANTIS: A PUPPET OPERA is a Mesmerizing Experience.September 13, 2018ATLANTIS: A PUPPET OPERA, is a mesmerizing experience for the senses. Running just at an hour long, the production transports audiences into a world of myth, madness, and magic. In a culture of reboots and revivals, this original work is truly a rare gem and is an event that Austin theatre lovers should not miss.
BWW Review: ALL SHOOK UP Has Appeal Despite Stumbling Blocks.July 12, 2018All things considered, ALL SHOOK UP does possess a certain amount of appeal largely in part to the talent of the cast and musicians and the timeless music of Elvis Presley. The visually impressive spectacle created by the brilliant scenic artists and designers is also something the whole family will appreciate. While the show isn't without its stumbling blocks, Zilker Theatre Productions should be commended for providing free, accessible theatre for sixty years. This incredible accomplishment is a gift to the Austin community and is sure to continue delighting families for many years to come.
BWW Review: MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR is Good Shakespearean FunMay 10, 2018Attending performances at Zilker's Hillside Theatre is always a delight because of the wonderful experience offered. That combined with an entertaining production with laugh out loud antics, makes this perfect outdoor entertainment.
BWW Review: GOODNIGHT MOON is Delightful EntertainmentMarch 8, 2018GOODNIGHT MOON is delightful children's entertainment and sure to please any young fans of the original story. Brown's beloved tale is beautifully reimagined by Zach Theatre and provides non-stop fun the whole family will enjoy. Be sure to check out the petting zoo on your way into the theatre for some up close interaction with your child's favorite furry or feathery friends.
BWW Review: SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE is Energetic, Must-See Fun at TexArtsFebruary 22, 2018SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE is a fun, energetic, must-see production with a powerhouse cast and performances. Whether you are already a fan of Leiber and Stoller's classic hits or are just looking a great show, this rollicking revue makes the drive to Lakeway well worth the trip.
BWW Review: WHEN WE ARE MARRIED is a comedic look at the absurdity of past societal standards.January 18, 2018When We When Are Married is the first production of 2018 from Different Stages. Penned by J.B. Priestly, the original production opened in London in 1938 and the 1985 West End revival went on to win the Oliver Award for Best Play. It also holds the distinction of being the first play to be televised unedited when it was broadcast by the BBC in 1938. In addition to receiving film and TV adaptations over the years, the play has also been broadcast several times by radio across the U.K.
BWW Review: MISS BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERELY at Austin Playhouse is a Charming Holiday ComedyDecember 7, 2017Austin Playhouse's production of MISS BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY, continues the season of holiday-themed entertainment in Austin. Written by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon, but taking the characters from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, this play endeavours to be a potential sequel to the beloved classic. This time, however, the focus is shifted from previous heroine, Elizabeth to her sister, Mary.
BWW Review: SANTALAND DIARIES is Quick-Witted Holiday FunNovember 30, 2017Ringing in the holiday season is Georgetown Palace Theatre and their production of SANTALAND DIARIES. Originally written as an essay by humorist, David Sedaris, it was first read on National Public Radio's Morning Edition in 1992. An instant crowd-pleaser, the essay gave Sedaris his first major break and lead to a much longer version that debuted on-air in 1996. In that same year, Joe Mantello began adapting Sedaris' work into a one-man stage show. The one-act play premiered in on November 7th, 1996 at New York's Atlantic City Theatre Company starring Timothy Olyphant. Since its first initial run, the show has gone on to become a seasonal standard for regional and college theatre.
BWW Review: ANNIE Delights at Georgetown Palace TheatreOctober 26, 2017Presented by Georgetown Palace Theatre, ANNIE features a large and talented cast that knows how to entertain an audience. The performances of the characters played by children, however, are where the production shines brightest.
BWW Review: FIVE WOMEN WEARING THE SAME DRESS is a humorous, yet timely feminist pieceSeptember 28, 2017FIVE WOMEN WEARING THE SAME DRESS is presented by Southwestern University's Sarofim School of Fine Arts. Written by Alan Ball, this comedy premiered in 1993 at New York's Manhattan Class Company. Although the play was written over twenty years ago and is set in the late 80's, it tackles many topics still relevant today. From personal issues such as love, relationships, and marriage; to societal matters like gender inequality, homophobia, and religion.
BWW Review: ENFRASCADA is an Engaging Story about the Magic of WomenSeptember 21, 2017The latest offering from Austin's Teatro Vivo is ENFRASCADA, a comedic tale of love, heartbreak, and the magical relationships of women. Written by Tanya Saracho, this dark comedy premiered as a part of the 2011 Clubbed Thumb Summerworks in New York City under the direction of Jerry Ruiz.
BWW Review: A PERFECT LIFE is a touching new musical with potential.September 8, 2017A PERFECT LIFE is presented by Austin Theatre Project as part of its 2017 season. This world premiere is based on the musical, One Man Band by Tony and Emmy Award winner Larry Hochman, Marc Elliot, and James Lecesne. The original One Man Band enjoyed a well-received New York run in 1985. Original composers Larry Hochman and Marc Elliot, who is also the show's lyricist, have teamed up with playwright Laurie Hochman, to tell this bittersweet, but ultimately hopeful story of life, love, and loss.