Review: GROOVE at The Harlequin Theater

For several years the Harlequin Theater has entertained audiences in the San Antonio area. Located on the Fort Sam Houston Military Base, the Harlequin Theater is an intimate venue that is as charming as it is historic. Currently playing at this gem of a theater is GROOVE, a musical revue taking you back to the days of bright colors and big hair. From the moment you enter the theater, the dim lights and misty fog immerses you completely in the experience and makes you wish you didn't leave your bell-bottoms at home. GROOVE features hit songs from the late-1960's featuring legendary artists such as The Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and The Beatles. It is hard not to sing along as the cast belts out song after song with seasoned precision. Under Laura Anglin's expert choreography, each song was enhanced with electrifying dance moves, making each number even more fun to watch. From the very first note, the cast exuded a contagious energy that remained until the final bow. It is no secret that the cast and crew put their heart and soul into this show, resulting in an evening of non-stop entertainment sure to bring a smile to your face.

A true ensemble piece, GROOVE stars the incredible talent of Stephen Martinez, Crystal Vera, Katie Molina, Shawn Kjos, Johnny Halpenny, Ashton Folsom, Deserae Oliva, and Melissa Dean. Besides being pitch-perfect, each member of the cast brought something uniquely wonderful to the production. While individually each cast member was outstanding, together they were unstoppable. Group numbers including "Revolution," "California Dreamin'" and "Born to be Wild," were true favorites. As each hit song rolled to a close the audience clapped and cheered leading up to a well-deserved standing ovation after the stunning finale. The cast's genuine love for their craft and each other made their performance shine even brighter.

Shawn Kjos, writer and director of this fun production, has a voice of pure gold. His enthusiasm for musical entertainment poured through in his brilliant direction and arrangement of this beautiful piece of art. Enhancing the performers was the stunning lighting cleverly designed and operated under Robert Olivas' skillful hand. The vibrant colors and patterns of the lights supplied a new element of life and power to the performance.

So what are you waiting for? It's time to "shake your groove thing," and see GROOVE now playing at the Harlequin Theater until October 13th. The bar opens at 7 pm and the show begins at 8 pm, Thursdays-Saturdays. Call 210-222-9694 for reservations or check out the Harlequin's Facebook Page for more information. Don't miss it!

Photo Credit: Nikki Folsom

2026 Theater Fans' Choice Awards - Live Stats

Best Direction of a Musical - Top 3

1. Michael Arden - The Lost Boys

24.6% of votes

2. Michael Mayer - Chess

14.6% of votes

3. Lear deBessonet - Ragtime

11.9% of votes

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