UPSTREAM THEATER

by Steve Callahan - March 02, 2026

Opera is widely considered to be a seasonal flower.  Around the world opera festivals show their shoots in early spring, they blossom in the summer, and they stretch their glory into the fall.  In St. Louis, though, we find one of the few fine opera companies willing to brave the icy blasts of win...

by James Lindhorst - February 21, 2026

You will be entertained by Kathryn Bentley and Colin McLaughlin’s new play, but that is only one small part of why their work needs to be seen. This historical drama is an important part of St. Louis’ Black History. A Brick and a Bible is an empowerment story about women raising their voices for...

by Rob Levy - February 16, 2026

Filled with gamesmanship, deception, death, and creative differences, Stray Dog Theatre’s Deathtrap is sleuthing at its finest. Well-acted and draped in the unexpected, the production’s apprehensive atmosphere and inventive plot contortions cause audiences to gasp as the drama reaches a bloody c...

by James Lindhorst - February 16, 2026

Lucy Kirkwood’s play The Children is fascinating and compelling. Her script prompts discussion about corporate responsibility, what accountability an organization’s employees should own, and how tragic circumstances force people to face personal transgressions and the fallout from their poor dec...

by James Lindhorst - February 13, 2026

When Lucas Hnath’s play premiered on Broadway the New York Times and Time Out New York called it “the best play of the season.” It’s an engaging and modern script tackling themes of feminist autonomy and self-determination. Weber’s staging is well-conceived and highly entertaining. Layton,...

by Rob Levy - February 12, 2026

An example of how grief shapes identity played out onstage, The Rep’s latest is a compelling, powerful example of how theater can confront uncomfortable topics with tenderness, compassion, and humor....

by James Lindhorst - February 08, 2026

The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body, while staged as a play, is more of an artistic poetic reading. Lisa B. Thompson’s brief 80-minute work, currently on stage at The Black Rep, examines the life experiences of one woman told by three voices...

by Steve Callahan - February 02, 2026

How do you tell that your play is a success?   Not so easy if it’s a drama; you might detect a little silent sobbing.  But with a comedy?  That roar of laughter is a sure sign you’ve got a hit!  Well, the folks at the Clayton Community Theatre have a hit on their hands with their production...

by James Lindhorst - January 24, 2026

Myth of the Ostrich is brazen comedy. It’s among the most accessibly entertaining productions staged at Upstream Theater in recent years. It is full of artfully crafted irreverent portrayals, expert direction, and a bevy of belly laughs....

by James Lindhorst - January 22, 2026

The Dance on Widow’s Row at The Black Rep features a charismatic ensemble with infectious energy stemming from playful performances. It’s a fun evening in the theater that provides a lot of laughter....