Marc Savitt - Page 4

An intimate portrayal of Lincoln's evolution, capturing his complex character and presenting a multifaceted figure, a humble man grappling with self-doubt and haunted by premonitions of the Civil War, his own tragic fate, and his journey to the presidency are vividly brought to life, showcasing the complexities of his character and relationships.

The production is well paced, charming, often funny, and yet another example of the fine, high quality theatre Berkshire audiences are fortunate to have available on a consistent basis.

Many of the pieces provide laughs, some perspective. There is a bit of song, a bit of dance, absolutely no seltzer down any pants. Overall, the 10X10 NEW PLAY FESTIVAL offers a welcomed appetizer for the upcoming season in which BSC celebrates its 30th anniversary of bringing award winning theatre to downtown Pittsfield.

Michael Fray’s script is brilliant. He uses a delicate but superbly balanced mix of complex scientific dialogue related to Physics with general human behavior, and interpersonal dynamics. While there are ample opportunities for the non-scientific to give up based on theoretical and technical content, we are brought back into the piece.

Berkshire Audiences are fortunate that we often have opportunities to experience world premiere presentations like ON CEDAR STREET. While it is difficult to say what the future may hold for the new musical, it is safe to say that the production which continues on the Larry Vaber stage at Berkshire Theatre Group’s Unicorn Theatre in Stockbridge through September 2, is a delightful way to spend one of the remaining summer evenings.

Annette Miller is outstanding. She takes the audience on a fascinating and detailed journey in which she seamlessly shifts between aspects of Meir’s character ranging from nurturing caregiver to the “Iron Lady” of Israeli Politics.

Friel harnesses the power of story telling common to both that culture and contemporary theater to weave a tightly woven tapestry with such depth, richness, and color it could easily be compared to the work of the great impressionist painters. Under Boyd’s direction, Innvar, Dold, and Egolf show themselves to be consummate professionals.

Audience members quickly engage with the characters before them virtually free of any doubt or distraction. We become deeply engaged and by the time real conflict sets in during act two, we feel both for them, and with them. August Wilson’s FENCES is considered a landmark work of American theatre and he a masterful storyteller.

While I won’t go so far as to say this is a must-see, it is most certainly one that should be seen. BLUES FOR AN ALABAMA SKY represents yet another first-rate production for the award-winning theatre in downtown Pittsfield and those involved in bringing it forward for Berkshire arts enthusiasts to enjoy.

Berkshire audiences fortunate, and wise enough to wind their way over the river and through the woods to the Daniel Arts Center McConnel Theater (on the campus of Bard College in Great Barrington) to experience Great Barrington Public Theater’s production of OFF PEAK before it closes July 23 are sure to be glad, they did. Do not miss it!

Although one may learn some new tidbits about the artists, it really isn’t the thinnish volume of connective tissue incorporated between the 22 musical numbers, but those very Rock-a-Billy songs themselves, that offer the primary reason to see MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET.

Overall, the presentation is synergistic as well as effective and we become absorbed in what starts out with an examination of the humorous side of reality and ends with the sense and sensibilities many face in this thing we call life.

The subject matter, like Rosalind, does not allow for jokes. As the dialogue confirms, the world of science can be a rather lonely place. The ensemble cast is professional, polished, and well balanced.

The season opening CABARET on the Boyd-Quinson Stage, should leave little doubt that Alan Paul doesn’t play around; intends to carry on in the style and tradition that Berkshire audiences have come to both anticipate, and appreciate; and Julie’s words were justified.

St. Germain, Lagomarsino, and Tigar have woven a tight presentation that despite the often-unthinkable subject matter, intersperses a pleasantry, and even a chuckle or two. The audience is undeniably moved as evidenced by the audible responses of shock and disgust. Often taking us to the edge without going too far.

The company and seemingly all involved with BSC’s 10X10 NEW PLAY FESTIVAL have done an admirable job creating and presenting an event that is enjoyable, relatable, entertaining, and thought provoking. The 12th ANNUAL 10 X 10 NEW PLAY FESTIVAL continues on the St. Germaine Stage with performances through March 5.

After 28 Seasons Julianne Boyd, co-founder and Artistic Director at Barrington Stage Company, passed a brightly burning torch and retired at the end of the 2022 season. Marc Savitt, sat down with Boyd to gather some information and insight into Boyd, her experiences, and her undeniable impact on the state of the arts in the region.

Typically, I don’t care much for works that fall into the realm of existentialism, theatre of the absurd, and the like. SEASCAPE, however, is different. Perhaps because it is primarily focused on interpersonal communication. Also, the characters, for the most part are dynamic, interesting, and rather unusual.

GOLDEN LEAF RAGTIME BLUES does provide a pleasant hour and 20 minutes of pleasant entertainment free of politics, angst and the chance to sit back and relax, and focus on something completely different for a bit which most of us can use and appreciate these days.

ALL OF ME is all kinds of good. Not good for a show about a particular group or type of people, it’s just good. There is some aspect that should fit or tickle the funny bone for just about everyone. So, as the song with the same title asks: why not take ALL OF ME?