Rachael F. Goldberg

The biggest issues with the musical adaptation of 'Water for Elephants' is that it doesn’t seem to know what it’s trying to be, and the choreographic and performance talent in this tour would be better served by stronger material.

'Lie Low' leans into the dark absurdity of life and the things that go wrong. Smyth’s script and the Solas Nua team show a thoughtful understanding of humanity in their work, and connect with audiences with that authenticity – and a few cheeky jokes.

Much like the dating experience it’s trying to reflect, 'Strategic Love Play' manages to build up great potential, then falls flat at the last moment.

'Dead Inside' is a beautifully crafted and deeply thoughtful production, but it’s also immensely funny – a balance Riki Lindhome seems to have mastered, and one that really lends itself to this difficult topic.

While the musical adaptation of 'A Wrinkle in Time' has its flaws, there’s a lot of promise in this initial staging, and the show has the potential to live a long life, bringing this beloved story to new and devoted audiences alike.

Emily Burns' adaptation of 'Frankenstein,' brings a new perspective, and perfectly captures the Gothic atmosphere, the struggle between creation and responsibility, and what family means – all the elements that keep bringing us back to this story.

NextStop’s production of 'Footloose' felt haphazard and emotionless, and what should have been a fun evening of theater and nostalgia was instead entirely lackluster.

'Muffed' is an incredibly clever and fun piece of art, with thoughtful, nuanced performances and carefully detailed production elements. It's a dose of much-needed humor, giving us all a reminder that sometimes the ordinary can be beautiful.

With a stellar cast and a fantastic creative team, 'The Margriad' is a thoughtful exploration of power and those who are willing to give – and lose – everything in the pursuit of it.

'Kunene and the King' is a captivating and moving examination of character and society. It also feels particularly timely for American audiences to explore, while helping us all connect a bit better by urging us to truly see each other.

With a clever script, beloved music, and strong teams both on and off the stage, '& Juliet' is an incredibly witty, thoughtful, and joyful show, and the National Tour’s run at the Kennedy Center is the perfect way to cap off the year.

Improvised Shakespeare Company’s productions may not be faithful recreations of the Bard’s works, but their play off the familiar while indulging in the joy of bringing something new and unique makes for a wonderful theater experience.

'Gods & Mortals: A Celebration of Wagner' is a beautiful, if limited, array of performances and works highlighting both the composer and Kennedy Center’s own wonderful talent.

'Who Did It?' is a fun, silly, and engaging experience, and its improvised nature ensures it continues to entertain, even for those who make it an annual tradition.

Oppenheimer gives a great performance and a wonderful perspective on some of the core issues that many of us struggle with today, but flails a little when she tries to project onto others. Which, in a way, makes sense – after all, it’s harder to see the other sides of the story beyond your own.

Famed Irish drag queen Panti Bliss leads the audience on an emotionally satisfying journey in her one-woman show, 'If These Wigs Could Talk,' reflecting on her own internal journey as she considers the role she’s played over the years and where she fits in today’s modern landscape.

Theater J closes new Artistic Director Hayley Finn’s first season on an enchanting high note. 'The Hatmaker’s Wife' is an emotional, charming, and thoughtful story about love in all its complexities.