Theresa Bertram - Page 17

Once upon a time, Fort Smith was considered the gateway to the Wild West (Indian Territory—present-day Oklahoma), and in turn, it had a very wild history to go with it. So, it is fitting that the first show I saw with The Community School of the Arts and Institute for the Creative Arts is Chicago: Teen Edition, performed March 13-16 in the beautiful King Opera House in Van Buren, which is just next door.

I love going to educational productions, so when Director Christina Munoz Madsen invited me to see Conway Christian High School’s presentation of DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST March 17, I was thrilled! It is so great to see what the students have learned, and Madsen said they did everything “from designing the set, to creating costumes, to making props, to figuring out the lighting system and spotlight, to program/graphic creation, to practicing all the lines, music and choreo… wow!!”  

Powerful! Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas in Pine Bluff brought a very moving experience when their Readers' Theater presented Prometheus Bound March 13-15. Aeschylus’ classic Greek tragedy was brought to life through a modern translation by Bryan Doerries, offering a fresh and thought-provoking perspective using the power of storytelling to spark meaningful conversations about justice, resistance, and humanity. 

Arkansas’ newest professional theatre. The Link Theatre Company, is blossoming in Northeast Arkansas, and it’s well worth the drive. Founded by Broadway couple Matt Cavenaugh and Jenny Powers, I had the pleasure of seeing a very entertaining production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee on Sunday, March 16, at The Fowler Center on the Arkansas State University Fowler Center.

What did our critic think of THEORY OF RELATIVITY at UALR Haislip Theatre?

You know you’ve seen a great show when you are walking out of the theatre singing songs from the performance. That was definitely the case when I went to see SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK LIVE at The Silvermoon Children’s Theatre in Texarkana March 2. Don’t let the fact that these are young thespians on stage.

On Wednesday, April 2, at 7 PM on KARK, 11-year-old Jaydon Clark of North Little Rock makes his debut on Chicago Med in the episode titled 'The Book of Archer.' We cannot wait to see it! 

What did our critic think of THE SOUND OF MUSIC at Arts One Presents?

What did our critic think of BACK TO THE FUTURE THE MUSICAL at Robinson Center?

What did our critic think of FUNNY GIRL at Walton Arts Center? The power that came from the vocals of the cast of FUNNY GIRL at Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville, which is running through Sunday, March 23, will blow you away!

What did our critic think of GOD OF CARNAGE at The Weekend Theater?

What did our critic think of GREASE at Rialto Community Theatre?

Western swing may be my new favorite genre of music thanks to Reynolds Performance Hall on the University of Central Arkansas campus in Conway, who brings a lot of variety to their patrons.  On March 1, we were treated to the swinging sounds of HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN, along with the handsome TYLER HILTON, who took the stage for an unforgettable night of music that blended vintage charm with modern flair. We couldn’t stop tapping our feet the whole night.   

If you are looking for a place in Central Arkansas where your young thespian needs to find their people, Red Curtain Theatre in Conway is an excellent place that fosters a sense of community and artistic growth.

What did our critic think of TOIL + TROUBLE at University Of Central Arkansas Theatre? I am so impressed with the talent and creativity that are coming from our universities. The dedication, passion, and hard work these students and faculty pour into their productions are truly remarkable, resulting in performances that are both inspiring and unforgettable.

I have loved Into the Woods ever since I saw the 1987 production on PBS. The way it mashed up all those fairy tales into one story completely blew my mind — and then when most of the characters died, I couldn’t believe it. It was wild. Honestly, I still think it’s wild, and I’m still obsessed. So, when I heard that my favorite, Bob Bidewell, was directing this Stephen Sondheim classic (Book by James LaPine) at The Royal Theatre in Benton — playing through Sunday, March 16 — I knew I was ready to go back Into the Woods.

The Little Rock Winds captured cinematic magic with their program TINSELTOWN TUNES at the Second Presbyterian Church in Little Rock Thursday, Feb. 27. Conducted by the very entertaining Israel Getzov and accompanied by voice extraordinaire Brent Walker, their music transcended the audience through a whirlwind of iconic film scores, sweeping them from the golden age of Hollywood epics to heart-pounding action blockbusters and beloved family classics.

I am so happy I didn’t miss the mind-blowing, face melting production that was the SCHOOL OF ROCK THE MUSICAL at the Argenta Contemporary Theatre, which had a few shows pushed off to the last week of February due to the crazy Arkansas weather. On Tuesday, Feb. 25, I took my seat, not entirely sure what to expect, but from the very first power chord, I knew I was in for something special. The energy was electric, the cast was on fire, and the live music—played by the incredibly talented young performers—was nothing short of jaw-dropping. I was impressed! 

I’ve gotta crow about the enchanting production of Peter Pan at Wildwood Park for the Arts in Little Rock! Running through Sunday, March 9, this beloved classic, based on 1904 J.M. Barrie's tale brings Neverland to life in a way that captures the hearts of audiences, young and old alike.