Katherine Boston News

SECONDARY ED by Michael Towers will make its New York City debut at the NuBox Theatre.

In many ways MSMT’s concert, WELCOME HOME, is a valentine to the world of musical theatre and to those who create it and who love and support it. This original, complexly conceived, all-singing, all-dancing musical revue starring MSMT’s Fellowship Performers is packed with so much talent, energy and emotion that it will – quite simply - blow you away! Directed by Curt Dale Clark, this collection of musical theatre standards and contemporary works is skillfully woven together to capture a kaleidoscope of shifting moods, styles, and ensemble as well as solo moments. Not only has Clark constructed a powerful and poignant narrative, but he has cast each number with a fresh eye that gives vitality to the whole. His ability to nurture, challenge, and stretch the talent with which he works transforms the performance from a routine revue to a dazzling master class.

To stage the beloved cultural icon that is THE WIZARD OF OZ offers any theatre company a herculean challenge: one which requires stretching the imagination to the limits to create a universe where reality is redefined and fantasy is fulfilled. In short, it demands stunning stagecraft and brilliant artistic vision. And it is just that kind of theatrical magic which Maine State Music Theatre's new production co- directed by Marc Robin and Curt Dale Clark boldly and beautifully realizes.

As its mainstage season draws to a close, Maine State Music Theatre presented the second of its offerings for young audiences, Shrek Jr.,The Musical in an ambitiously staged interpretation of the 2008 David Lindsay-Abaire-Jeanine Tesori musical version of the Disneyworks film that packed Brunswick's Pickard Theatre for four performances on August 17th. Though MSMT has always offered children's theatre as part of its summer season, this Shrek distinguishes itself in its exuberant and deliciously talented young cast, its impressive production values, and its decision to address the show to a broader family audience. To see toddlers and grandparents, the literally-young and young-at-heart all relishing the energetic performance was an absolute delight!