It's Wonderful: Toby's Presents THE WIZARD OF OZ, A Treat For the Whole Family
by Cybele Pomeroy - Apr 21, 2026
The WIZARD OF OZ is familiar to so many after all this time (and so many versions, including the Disney alternate universe ‘Wicked’ franchise) that one might be forgiven for thinking that no version is capable of any surprises anymore. AND YET. I am delighted to report that in this production lovingly done by Toby’s, there are delightful, unexpected moments, including puppetry and a surprising dance number, plus The Jitterbug.
Review: Toby’s Throws Down A Throwback with Hit-Filled ROCK OF AGES
by Cybele Pomeroy - Feb 9, 2026
ROCK OF AGES is mostly cheese. It’s a jukebox musical packed with big-hair 80s hits that refuses to take itself seriously. Rachel Cahoon portrays “Sister” Sherrie Christian, a small-town kid with Hollywood dreams, with expressiveness and powerhouse vocals. Noah Mutterperl as Drew Boley, a city kid with guitar dreams, is a strong singer with heart and charisma. Ross Scott Rawlings, Conductor and Keyboardist as well as Musical Director, delivers authentic ‘80s sound from the band and the cast.
Enjoy Your ELF at Toby's in Columbia through January 4, 2026
by Cybele Pomeroy - Nov 29, 2025
Enthusiastic performances, a snappy live band, bright costumes and lively dancing adorn Toby's production of ELF The Musical. This sweet and charming lighthearted family-pleaser will put a smile on your face and a song in your heart. Director/ Choreographer Mark Minnick delivers engaging group numbers and Musical Director Ross Scott Rawlings creates glorious harmonies in this infectious show. Through January 4, 2026.
Review: Your Family, My Family, THE ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL At Toby's In Columbia
by Cybele Pomeroy - Sep 19, 2024
Toby’s supports sharing the love of theater with young people. Despite, or perhaps because of, its macabre nature, the embedded message of THE ADDAMS FAMILY is about radical acceptance and inclusion, and always has been, from long before “inclusion” was a buzzword. Every member of your family, weird or not, can enjoy this positively creepy show.
Oh What A Night! My Eyes Adore JERSEY BOYS at Toby's in Columbia
by Cybele Pomeroy - Jul 14, 2024
Toby's in Columbia presents the ‘origin story’ of New Jersey natives who became The Four Seasons. The script of JERSEY BOYS is tight, the pace rapid: this script and these songs - the Four Seasons’ catalog, plus others- form a stellar example of a really GOOD jukebox musical. I recommend you go immediately to see this terrific show.
Howard County Arts Council Announces 25th Annual Celebration Of The Arts
by Stephi Wild - Oct 11, 2022
There's still time to reserve your tickets for Howard County's signature arts event, the Celebration of the Arts in Howard County on Saturday, November 5, 2022 from 6:00-10:00pm at the Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center, Howard Community College, Columbia, MD.
Review: Suspend Your Disbelief: See GHOST THE MUSICAL At Toby's In Columbia
by Cybele Pomeroy - Sep 26, 2022
GHOST THE MUSICAL at Toby’s Dinner Theater in Columbia, based 1990's movie Ghost, starring Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze, offers romance, drama and retro vibes. The 1955 tune “Unchained Melody” strings the whole thing together. Cast and orchestra are harmonic and wonderfully watchable. Production values are excellent and dinner is delicious.
All-Star Edition Of Rising Star Performing Arts Competition To Highlight 25th Annual Celebration Of The Arts In Howard County
by A.A. Cristi - Jul 19, 2022
The Howard County Arts Council commemorates 20 years of its Rising Star Performing Arts Competition at the 25th annual Celebration of the Arts in Howard County, to be held on Saturday, November 5, 2022 from 6 to 10 pm at the Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center at Howard Community College (HCC) in Columbia. Dr. Daria J. Willis, president of Howard Community College, will act as Honorary Chair for the evening. Joseph W. Ritsch, Producing Artist Director, Rep Stage, will serve as Event Emcee.
Howard County Arts Council Celebrates 40 Years At Celebration Of The Arts In Howard County
by A.A. Cristi - Oct 26, 2021
On Saturday, October 2nd, the Howard County Arts Council hosted the 24th Annual Celebration of the Arts in Howard County. This year's benefit gala welcomed nearly 200 guests to the in-person performance at the Jim Rouse Theatre for the Performing Arts in Columbia and another 100 to a virtual live-stream, raising more than $40,000 (net) to support the arts in Howard County. Since 1998, more than $1.6 million has been raised through Celebration of the Arts!
BWW Review: GODSPELL Speaks to Contemporary Audiences At Toby's In Columbia
by Cybele Pomeroy - Sep 5, 2021
Are you in the mood for an ensemble romp, some familiar stories, an ethics-heavy main character, beautiful harmonies and a good meal? In GODSPELL at Toby’s, a cast of stalwart Toby’s regulars create beautiful moments individually and in groups. Directors Mark Minnik and David James update the storytelling to include contemporary iconography.