tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77743348561070929052024-03-19T01:48:17.757-07:00Desde Otro 0/ From Another ZeroReviews, and stories. In English and Spanish /
Reseñas e historias. En Inglés y Español.Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.comBlogger540125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-14232422107055691332024-03-17T18:29:00.000-07:002024-03-17T18:29:31.664-07:00Family Secrets Tend to Come Out During Funerals<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">Oceanside Theatre Company's California Premiere of <i>Chicken & Biscuits </i>Proves to be Universal </span></u></b></p><p><b style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 17.6px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="color: blue; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></b></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtPYsBEIvDuP9G3zL7KhrfFheRf35MY9moesdlnkX5O4Rds8XQnfGCaw8hGPs_X7ccYhd_Q9FOE_Ohc_RLFvEjpfz4meKLd83JAISk_tTeVR7EfP7z3SgLMf5gJ_TA-jp1u03RyCW1gsc-7YM8tig1dKg6cejuEi3EeG1DJS6MRhxAKdSUecWktgM7EEg/s5705/Durwood%20Murray,%20Kiara%20Hudlin,%20Kimberly%20King.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3803" data-original-width="5705" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtPYsBEIvDuP9G3zL7KhrfFheRf35MY9moesdlnkX5O4Rds8XQnfGCaw8hGPs_X7ccYhd_Q9FOE_Ohc_RLFvEjpfz4meKLd83JAISk_tTeVR7EfP7z3SgLMf5gJ_TA-jp1u03RyCW1gsc-7YM8tig1dKg6cejuEi3EeG1DJS6MRhxAKdSUecWktgM7EEg/w640-h426/Durwood%20Murray,%20Kiara%20Hudlin,%20Kimberly%20King.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Durwood Murray, Kiara Hudlin, Kimberly King. Photo Esteban Marin</td></tr></tbody></table></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Oceanside Theatre Co's production and California premiere of Douglas Lyons's "<i>Chicken & Biscuits</i>," directed by Kevin “Blax” Burroughs in his debut as Artistic Director and his first foray into straight plays, is a refreshing and entertaining theatrical experience. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The story starts with a family gathering in the church due to the sudden passing of the patriarch. The service will be hosted by Baneatta's (Kimberly King) husband Reginald (Durwood Murray), and as she is getting ready she is also dreading having to see her younger sister Beverly (Taylor Renee Henderson) who has a flare for attention and drama. Also expected to attend are Baneatta and Reginald's kids, Simone (Kiara Hudlin) who just went through a heartbreak, and Kenny (Jacob James), a working actor in a relationship with Logan (Marley Bauer). This relationship is one that Baneatta is not a big fan of and vocal about. Beverly is joined by her 15 soon-to-be 16-year-old daughter and aspiring rapper La'Trice (Allyce Calloway). Once the service takes off and practically everybody has said their "peace", Brianna (Michael Amira Temple), an unexpected guest arrives claiming space. Revelations unfold with a mix of conflicts, and humor, delving into themes of love, forgiveness, and the intricate dynamics of family relationships.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3uRZIn_RSYygDKmnaP3MhGDNO2rp9c7UE20diH2xDmgJPmV9dR_qxSHpBGtr2EnjAnVa3qVz1kOiIgpDRy8kwk_fYzmY2loVw_iSw4wra6N45POB7Hm4tByqGIIYBFFcWl1uElTGQTae39nli-EgLQPeHoa33p63Qul1r9LLoWNgsqc3HJewIwkUN-U/s6095/Allyce%20Calloway,%20Taylor%20Renee%20Henderson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4063" data-original-width="6095" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3uRZIn_RSYygDKmnaP3MhGDNO2rp9c7UE20diH2xDmgJPmV9dR_qxSHpBGtr2EnjAnVa3qVz1kOiIgpDRy8kwk_fYzmY2loVw_iSw4wra6N45POB7Hm4tByqGIIYBFFcWl1uElTGQTae39nli-EgLQPeHoa33p63Qul1r9LLoWNgsqc3HJewIwkUN-U/w400-h266/Allyce%20Calloway,%20Taylor%20Renee%20Henderson.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Allyce Calloway, Taylor Renee Henderson. Photo Esteban Marin</span></td></tr></tbody></table>“Blax” Burroughs shared in the press release that “<i>Chicken & Biscuits is unapologetically black</i>,”. Agree with the context, the style, and the celebration of the service but it also proved to be universal as commonly, those family skeletons really come out during funerals. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">His favorite quote in the show: "<i>Family is a loaded word</i>"... is it ever! Absolutely. All these elements make the play even more celebratory, adding to the communal theatre experience.</div></div><p style="text-align: justify;">The cast delivers performances that breathe life into their characters and establish a nice on-stage chemistry. Durwood Murray's eclectic sermon is the star of the show flaunting mean moves and that deep velvet voice he is known for. Taylor Renee Henderson is a hoot as the younger sister which balanced out well with Kimberly King's steady rhythm. Allyce Calloway performs a fun rap number that pumps the audience while Kiara Hudlin, Jacob James, and Marley Bauer land the plot back to how family matters and the meaning of its support. Michael Amira Temple is the icing on this family cake rounding out the service and the dynamics! While the ensemble works well together, a touch of tightening could further enhance the cohesiveness of their interactions, elevating the overall impact of the production.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Creative Team, featuring Andre Buck, Jr. (sound), Emily Carter (costumes), Reiko Huffman (scenic design), Tori Jones (props, set dressing, stage management), and Mashun Tucker (lights), contributed to the atmosphere of the production, illustrating the storytelling that created a fun experience for the audience.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Oceanside Theatre Co's rendition of "<i>Chicken & Biscuits</i>" is heartfelt and engaging.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until March 24th. For more information on performance days and times, please <a href="https://oceansidetheatre.org/" target="_blank"><b>click here. </b></a></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-59280051771448765292024-03-17T15:43:00.000-07:002024-03-17T18:58:13.619-07:00The Roustabouts Theatre Co. Brings the Stirring and Thought-Provoking<p style="text-align: center;"> <b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;"><i>Hand to God</i> to the Diversionary Theatre Stage</span></u></b></p><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 17.6px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="color: blue; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIg2EwMhFN-qNneKox5Oj3GDg7_6AgyV0ebXDSAZXinobHeHU9BdkyRCvCcR9ScK4GqTFJ3_p7-joqWkNfz17_AWzY2gea0lfkvSSh8NbBKN4SamVsqnqVuqzqB2bJV0I0OHvFkRhtY0jHOfnvKvyGK9iRrB3RWbRrKRVdtliOlg_LKYAnzTPXMOFUoc/s5012/Cast%20of%20HTG_(L-R)%20Adam%20Daniel,%20Dave%20Rivas,%20Rebecca%20Crigler,%20Samantha%20Ginn%20&%20Devin%20Wade%20-%20photo%20by%20Daren%20Scott.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3341" data-original-width="5012" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIg2EwMhFN-qNneKox5Oj3GDg7_6AgyV0ebXDSAZXinobHeHU9BdkyRCvCcR9ScK4GqTFJ3_p7-joqWkNfz17_AWzY2gea0lfkvSSh8NbBKN4SamVsqnqVuqzqB2bJV0I0OHvFkRhtY0jHOfnvKvyGK9iRrB3RWbRrKRVdtliOlg_LKYAnzTPXMOFUoc/w640-h426/Cast%20of%20HTG_(L-R)%20Adam%20Daniel,%20Dave%20Rivas,%20Rebecca%20Crigler,%20Samantha%20Ginn%20&%20Devin%20Wade%20-%20photo%20by%20Daren%20Scott.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Adam Daniel, Dave Rivas, Rebecca Crigler, Samantha Ginn & Devin Wade - photo by Daren Scott</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />"<i>Hand to God</i>," written by Robert Askins and skillfully produced by The Roustabouts Theatre Co. under the direction of Artistic Director Phil Johnson, is a darkly comedic exploration of inner turmoil and the battle between good and evil within us. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">The plot set in a small Texan town, revolves around Margery (Rebecca Crigler) who is recently widowed, and her son Jason, portrayed by Adam Daniel. Margery's pastor (Dave Rivas) assigns Margery to run the puppet club at the church as a distraction and to put on a show for the following Sunday. Jessica (Samatha Ginn) one of the neighbors, joins the club along with the town troublemaker Tommy (Devin Wade). Jason starts to grapple with his inner demons manifested in the form of his irreverent, foul-mouthed, and provocative hand puppet, Tyrone who takes over and brings out everything in everybody.</div></div><p style="text-align: justify;">The cast delivered catching performances with great chemistry on stage, creating a cohesive ensemble that effectively captured the essence of the play. Adam Daniel displayed good puppetry skills that not only differentiated Jason from Tyrone but also added complexity to the characters, highlighting the internal conflict at the narrative's core. I had already seen "Hand to God" when SD Rep did it some years back but this time, I appreciated Margery's role more through Rebecca Crigler's portrayal which also delivered a truthful monologue regarding women. Devin Wade as the town baddie, is the typical class bully that needs obvious attention due to all the hurt happening inside. Samantha Ginn's portrayal of Jessica along with her puppet Jolene, is a standout, delivering a hilarious and also compelling performance that keeps the dynamics of the production in an upbeat rhythm. Dave Rivas is sweet as Pastor Greg, yet...appearances can be deceiving.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSG4z3fNfTKOGZNPp6A4Z1n1XzTBwLpbP5smmatWkuB4nvNRskifhS1iCEZe9La6VFU55UOf9WArDOtkkOdvCudI6CyByRUckK-0v_t5PcynzyfMsn9IAakuJSLu0_fDSzylr97aObfLkj_odYfrPP27a5a7vlXyKs4Z_Ac64yYtKNno9pdgGcu_qP7a4/s4778/HTG_%20Adam%20Daniel%20(Tyrone%20&%20Jason)%20photo%20by%20Daren%20Scott.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3185" data-original-width="4778" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSG4z3fNfTKOGZNPp6A4Z1n1XzTBwLpbP5smmatWkuB4nvNRskifhS1iCEZe9La6VFU55UOf9WArDOtkkOdvCudI6CyByRUckK-0v_t5PcynzyfMsn9IAakuJSLu0_fDSzylr97aObfLkj_odYfrPP27a5a7vlXyKs4Z_Ac64yYtKNno9pdgGcu_qP7a4/w400-h266/HTG_%20Adam%20Daniel%20(Tyrone%20&%20Jason)%20photo%20by%20Daren%20Scott.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adam Daniel. Photo by Daren Scott</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Yi-Chien Lee's meticulous set design included a half that folded to reveal another room along with Annelise Salazar's atmospheric lighting, Justin Magallanes's detailed prop work, and Paul Durso's immersive soundscapes, created a rich and engaging theatrical environment that complimented the narrative and immersed the audience.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Pam Stompoly-Ericson's fun costumes added to the mix, truly bringing out each character's personality. I cannot conceive in this day a type of show like this, with sensitive topics and sexual scenes without the work of an Intimacy Coordinator. Bravo to D. Candis Paule, who also plays a crucial role in this production.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">"<i>Hand to God</i>" is a stirring and thought-provoking exploration of faith, grief, and the complexities of the human psyche, greatly brought to life by a talented cast and dedicated creative team. With Phil Johnson's direction at the helm, this production offers a compelling blend of humor and drama, captivating audiences with its raw authenticity and emotional depth. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing at Diversionary Theatre until March 31. For performance times and days please <b><a href="https://www.theroustabouts.org/" target="_blank">click here. </a></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-7237074015756069432024-03-13T20:58:00.000-07:002024-03-13T21:07:00.755-07:00Theresa Chavez and Nina Diaz on Adobe Punk: The Concert<p><b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Interviews From Another Zero-YouTube Edition</span></u></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Artistic Director at About...Productions Theresa Chavez and Performer Nina Diaz, are hosted by the Zero to discuss Adobe Punk, THE CONCERT a six-day feast spread out between Los Angeles and Pasadena. In this lovely interview, we discuss the creative process for Adobe' as well as their Other Zeros.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Diaz and band members will weave in stories from the original Adobe Punk 2022 theaterwork which was co-created by Gabriel Garza and Theresa Chavez. The setting is early 1980s working-class Bell Gardens where punk music finds life in one of L.A.’s oldest adobe homes. Inspired by the bands X, the Minutemen, and the Bags, a young punk trio builds its songbook as they define their artistic identity and find their place in the musical, and historic early California landscape of Los Angeles.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Punkast interviews will enlighten new and seasoned audiences in the punk movement’s historic and current impact on the cultural zeitgeist. Also excited to share this work with Young Theaterworks public high school students from Los Angeles and Pasadena Unified School District. They’ll get to see the show and share their own writing on the topic in special weekday morning matinees at each of the venues.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aFpXrn_e3Mo" width="320" youtube-src-id="aFpXrn_e3Mo"></iframe></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Adobe Punk: the concert<br />Punkast Interviews With Host Jessica Schwartz</b></span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">March 15-16, 2024 Friday - Saturday at 8 pm<br />March 17, 2024 Sunday at 6:30 pm<br />at Frida Kahlo Theater (MacArthur Park/Westlake)<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">March 22-23, 2024 Friday - Saturday at 8 pm<br />March 24, 2024 Sunday at 6:30 pm<br />at Lineage Performing Arts Center (Pasadena)<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">TICKETS:<br />$20 general admission, $5 discount with coupon code for Seniors 60+, Students, and Vets.</div><div style="text-align: left;">or use code NINA5 for five dollars off.<br />Available at <a href="http://aboutpd.org.">aboutpd.org.</a></div>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-49973606587846259832024-03-13T13:59:00.000-07:002024-03-17T14:33:22.187-07:00North Coast Repertory Theatre Brings "Tartuffe" to the Stage<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">The French Classic Shines Bright with Rhymes that Will Enchant Audiences on Site</span></u></b></p><p><b style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 17.6px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="color: blue; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4nrr1wr4P6HVAcj5Cz-2DzlUqBIi3j1aIGSSuOpqoq5v6shmSGo3QHsRKCRlBft2Pvh-MCrI9lrr_6n23SVqiursLfnF-RrdieLuqTFHjNbGiFlLIUOU6uWvlbb8BOt1RJs8v5gKkvZh-xzlQqdZjOyx9T5NFC3Ap7qhCUcW91FuINbxEOuC4hknjTs/s4096/CAST%20OF%20TARTUFFE%202.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2732" data-original-width="4096" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4nrr1wr4P6HVAcj5Cz-2DzlUqBIi3j1aIGSSuOpqoq5v6shmSGo3QHsRKCRlBft2Pvh-MCrI9lrr_6n23SVqiursLfnF-RrdieLuqTFHjNbGiFlLIUOU6uWvlbb8BOt1RJs8v5gKkvZh-xzlQqdZjOyx9T5NFC3Ap7qhCUcW91FuINbxEOuC4hknjTs/w640-h426/CAST%20OF%20TARTUFFE%202.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cast of Tartuffe. Photo by Aaron Rumley</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">It is fascinating how works pass the test of time and live on through different generations that give a new breath to each iteration. North Coast Repertory Theatre rose to the challenge of producing this 1664 classic that keeps on giving 360 years later. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Tartuffe was one of the first plays I read in junior high, and I loved it. The translation in Spanish is playful and holds more to free verses. I had never read or seen Tartuffe in English and it was joyous as Richard Wilbur's translation to English verse holds hilarious rhymes. Contrasting the play in the two language versions added to my experience. Richard Baird -who won the 2023 Craig Noel Award for Outstanding Lead Performance in a Play- directing this piece, I would like to reference fellow reviewer and podcast co-host David Coddon who mentioned on our latest podcast episode "Whenever Richard is involved in these classical theatre pieces you can expect realism, style, and commitment". All three were met with a beautiful set design by Marty Burnett using beige and gold patterns that exuded "monarchic times" brightly lit by Matthew Novotny where the scene can be appreciated more clearly as the light in the audience is dimmed instead of fully dark giving the stage a brighter frame complimented by Ian Scot's vivid sound design.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqCwnKE9MTA0kvEdsrYRjpf9cgMQqD9mWvo7ns-iky6_cXcDkBXisj-PRD5RbBTSehw76OoK8NEECCLddhuwY6z3seuqm7BCLGhlqX1YwkM5xyx9OzGPkI76EifaCB8RMzzN5UszmmdNAo4U93MskUD_zgF6sm-LuRs4SZlchuAx_RlNlERPxQALSIuE/s4096/TARTUFFE%EF%80%A2%20Bruce%20Turk%20&%20Melanie%20Lora%20(on%20Table)%20&%20Bo%20Foxworth%20-%20photo%20by%20Aaron%20Rumley.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2732" data-original-width="4096" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqCwnKE9MTA0kvEdsrYRjpf9cgMQqD9mWvo7ns-iky6_cXcDkBXisj-PRD5RbBTSehw76OoK8NEECCLddhuwY6z3seuqm7BCLGhlqX1YwkM5xyx9OzGPkI76EifaCB8RMzzN5UszmmdNAo4U93MskUD_zgF6sm-LuRs4SZlchuAx_RlNlERPxQALSIuE/w400-h266/TARTUFFE%EF%80%A2%20Bruce%20Turk%20&%20Melanie%20Lora%20(on%20Table)%20&%20Bo%20Foxworth%20-%20photo%20by%20Aaron%20Rumley.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">TARTUFFE.Bruce Turk & Melanie Lora & Bo Foxworth - photo by Aaron Rumley</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Tartuffe is a charlatan with family authority Orgon and his mom Mme. Pernelle who are absolutely smitten by his stories and his supposed direct line with God. Orgon has given Tartuffe a creative license and he is taking advantage. The rest of the family see right through Tartuffe but how can they get the other two to see it as well? Baird did a solid job directing this multitalented cast through the French classic and having it be active as the play is over two hours including intermission. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Bruce Turk rocks a full set of long locks thanks to Peter Herman's realistic hair and wig design to incarnate the snide Tartuffe giving audiences a cackle and making a great team with Bo Foxworth in the role of the smitten Orgon. Kandis Chappell as Mme. Pernelle starts the theatrical adventure with a mean semi-monologue that finishes almost every family member with an impressive headpiece by Elisa Benzoni that truly added to the piece with touches of lace, organza, and taffeta. All the wardrobe design is beautiful and colorful; I noticed that Melanie Lora as Orgon's wife Elmire, has almost three beautiful wardrobe changes throughout the play whereas stepdaughter Mariane, played by Shanté DeLoach, has only one. I would have wanted to see Mariane in another dress and color for the end of the play. Katie Karel as the mouthy housemaid Dorine, is funny and interprets the wordy dialogue masterfully. Kate Rose Reynolds has a brief but meaningful participation that rounds out the piece. Jared Van Heel contrasts the roles of Valere and M. Loyal creatively and corky. Rogelio Douglas III is playful as Orgon's son. Christopher M. Williams as Orgon's brother-in-law Cleante, brings the voice of reason to the plot and lands the audience's reaction. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The opportunity to see a classic like this fully staged should not be passed up. It is a fun outing at the theatre with a beautiful design and solid cast.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing and recently extended until April 7th. For performance days and showtimes please <a href="https://northcoastrep.org/" target="_blank"><b>click here</b></a>. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-62652744098168778322024-03-09T17:07:00.000-08:002024-03-09T17:07:22.025-08:00Backyard Renaissance presents Paula Vogel's "How I learned to Drive" <p style="text-align: center;"> <u><b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">A Raw and Suspenseful Story Delivered w</span><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">ith Care and Pace</span></b></u></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 17.6px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="color: blue; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCZz9B-lMo3Ye3kzdXh3ywNmy0FNzY6gbyAvt8uA9oCEasL4zHXHeHx3rM7tMtZDM2T8TcWOyHxzFtBf1Qd8gG6aVQpqzcT4IE0nuRMrbnyQpESalrgQDNHeUsQscJ397LFN0En-O3AMU5KTdCZT1Vo-cP6Ofbv7Jg-jpDWAyL_muka2CKTNHflg_Osko/s8281/first%20lesson2%20-%20credit%20Daren%20Scott.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5521" data-original-width="8281" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCZz9B-lMo3Ye3kzdXh3ywNmy0FNzY6gbyAvt8uA9oCEasL4zHXHeHx3rM7tMtZDM2T8TcWOyHxzFtBf1Qd8gG6aVQpqzcT4IE0nuRMrbnyQpESalrgQDNHeUsQscJ397LFN0En-O3AMU5KTdCZT1Vo-cP6Ofbv7Jg-jpDWAyL_muka2CKTNHflg_Osko/w640-h426/first%20lesson2%20-%20credit%20Daren%20Scott.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Megan Carmitchel, Francis Gercke, and Emilee Zuniga. Photo by Daren Scott.</td></tr></tbody></table>Agh, the theatre world -as it should- has a little bit of everything out there, and within that variety are those works like this one, <i>How I Learned to Drive</i> that presented to me this big dichotomy: a smart, strong, well-written play that is hard to watch. But life is not all oats and honey and playwright Paula Vogel's work, is precisely about that.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Backyard Renaissance presented this raw and suspenseful story with care and pace. Set in rural Maryland in a family "full of crackers" as one of the main characters "Li'l Bit" (Megan Carmitchel) describes it. An only child raised by a single mom within a small family made up of the maternal side: grandparents, a submissive grandmother and "Big Papa" the grandfather, her mom's sister Aunty Lily, and her husband "Uncle Peck" (Francis Gercke). The family members are nicknamed after their genitalia and the dynamic of the story's flow is Li'l Bit narrating/explaining to the audience starting in 1969 and then going back through the years to the beginning of the decade. Uncle Peck taught Little Bit how to drive with a stick shift. The shifts are used as a metaphor interlacing the years with each speed change sprinkled with comedic bytes. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span style="color: #38761d;">Trigger warning: </span></i></b>The scenes reveal that Uncle Peck is a pedophile and a groomer displaying states of seduction, control, shock, and realization.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Yi-Chien Lee made the Tenth Avenue Theatre stage look huge by having the design on the ground level using a wooden road with wooden signs to illustrate the DMV, the actual road, and the road of life going with Vogel's metaphors in the play.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAypelwEMnXaG0QSeibezTg3pi_edbid2v1WNDFs7AV1BwzjZwzO8wmYPrlzT3VKrsxzIKIMGXTAVDsIYtqn72xwlv9LARsrriJbvlBNoCH6w9NMQ1xi5fpq0p4pj1f-zHWveO_kfzEi3oiXmrMSLMZU3_Yuqv_XBkmuK0k1J4-48vZlLg38BPTwTYOV4/s6506/Family%20-%20credit%20Daren%20Scott.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4337" data-original-width="6506" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAypelwEMnXaG0QSeibezTg3pi_edbid2v1WNDFs7AV1BwzjZwzO8wmYPrlzT3VKrsxzIKIMGXTAVDsIYtqn72xwlv9LARsrriJbvlBNoCH6w9NMQ1xi5fpq0p4pj1f-zHWveO_kfzEi3oiXmrMSLMZU3_Yuqv_XBkmuK0k1J4-48vZlLg38BPTwTYOV4/w400-h266/Family%20-%20credit%20Daren%20Scott.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I am appreciative of Anthony Methvin's directorial style in handling a whopper of a plot with care. There are five actors, Carmitchel and Gercke who play one role while William Huffaker, Karson St. John, and Emilee Zuniga play various roles and do not leave the stage, standing or sitting on the sides watching what is unfolding a la<i> Greek chorus</i>. The shifting gears also with the different roles briefly alleviate the tension having each actor display their chops. Karson St. John does a stellar job parallelling both Li'l Bit's mom and aunt, contrasting personalities dashed with alcoholism, denial, and being a bystander all while looking fabulous in Jessica John Gercke's costume design that involves slight and functional changes onstage. William Huffaker and Emilee Zuniga also presented contrasting tones while portraying young kids, teenagers, and seniors, again alleviating the heaviness in the room.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Megan Carmitchel evokes a myriad of emotions in her portrayal of Li'l Bit, never letting go of this character's humanity and confusion from childhood to adulthood, giving truly moving work. Francis Gercke's role in this plays with the audience's psyche doing great work as well that there has to be a separation from the character to just dislike/hate only one of him. Confusing as it is, it is good theatre. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This piece is solid with no cracks and also displays the fantastic work of the associate director and intimacy coach, Hannah Meade, the accentuating of the scenes by Curtis Mueller's lighting design as well as George Ye's sound, even had me feeling the temperature changes in the play.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>How I Learned to Drive </i>deals with a plot that sadly, is common in this world. The theatre will go beyond entertaining and put a conversation on the table prompting inner dialogues that will spark conversations and maybe land some conclusions. The important thing here is, that through this art form, we are talking about it.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until March 16. For performance times and ticket prices <a href="https://backyardrenaissance.com/tickets/" target="_blank"><b>please click here.</b></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-38825272260598469282024-03-08T10:30:00.000-08:002024-03-17T18:30:03.887-07:00Interviews From Another Zero-YouTube Edition<div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Mariana Da Silva<br />Playwright, Director, and Actress</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In this interview, we dive into YBOR CITY a play that Mexican-Brazilian actress Mariana Da Silva wrote and the first bilingual play in the history of the Los Angeles-based company, The Actor's Gang.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Mariana shares her process and inspiration that led to YBOR and her other hats in the project as director and actress. Of course, we could not let her go without asking what her <b><i><span style="color: #741b47;">Other Zeros</span></i></b> are. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">YBOR CITY is currently playing until March 30th. More information can be found at: https://theactorsgang.com/</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gGkkq-dfW_0" width="320" youtube-src-id="gGkkq-dfW_0"></iframe></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-40903104609169875142024-03-06T10:28:00.000-08:002024-03-06T10:30:53.609-08:00Interviews From Another Zero-YouTube Edition<p><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Eric Keen-Louie</span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">La Jolla Playhouse announced at the beginning of February that Eric Keen-Louie was promoted to the new role of Artistic Producing Director. This is the third role for Keen-Louie in the five years he has been at the Playhouse, meeting the creative changes and adapting after the pandemic.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">We interviewed Eric and in a wonderful conversation and discussing the new position, he also explained the different show topics of the past season 23-24, and what is coming this new season 24-25, during key moments like the U.S. presidential election.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Eric was interviewed for the <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/from-another-zero" target="_blank">podcast in 2020</a> (wow) and we are thrilled to have him again.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I hope you enjoy and give it a like, and of course, subscribe :)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/phk7FBLJvBo" width="320" youtube-src-id="phk7FBLJvBo"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-8686796120473531322024-03-03T18:29:00.000-08:002024-03-04T09:48:21.292-08:00La Jolla Playhouse Presents the World Premiere Musical and Broadway Bound "Redwood" Starring Idina Menzel<p style="text-align: center;"> <b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">A Visually Stunning Production with a Story that Needs to Catch Up.</span></u></b></p><p><b style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 17.6px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="color: blue; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHdjX42hfpSdt8-cs4lA-VBqhxMEdQAtcv5hVmv06Z7E5mo26kwqdt_JfVQWpZ56qFEMu1aLYoMLyiupyy64BMTn3bmTbSke5vTMMIWbah418PnJWgIMAEyBFDRDCJApqWSak_hK5gLCFHpE40K2xOiKT4AuUAukIhxjtBWxDZZPUenkvTjLc7T63pAg/s799/53547657078_8599bb6953_c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="799" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHdjX42hfpSdt8-cs4lA-VBqhxMEdQAtcv5hVmv06Z7E5mo26kwqdt_JfVQWpZ56qFEMu1aLYoMLyiupyy64BMTn3bmTbSke5vTMMIWbah418PnJWgIMAEyBFDRDCJApqWSak_hK5gLCFHpE40K2xOiKT4AuUAukIhxjtBWxDZZPUenkvTjLc7T63pAg/w640-h426/53547657078_8599bb6953_c.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Zachary Noah Piser as “Spencer” and Idina Menzel as “Jesse” in La Jolla Playhouse’s world-premiere production of REDWOOD; photo by Rich Soublet.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Idina Menzel is not only making her La Jolla Playhouse debut with this world-premiere, but she is also part of the creative team along with Tina Landau who wrote the book and is directing the piece with music, orchestrations and arrangements by Kate Diaz and lyrics by Diaz and Landau. Music Supervision by Kimberly Grigsby and Musical Direction by Haley Bennett.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Menzel plays “Jesse,” who works in interior design and is married to Mel (De’Adre Aziza). When the year mark of their son Spencer's death (Zachary Noah Piser) is coming up, Jesse who has never been the same since, consumed by grief leaves all of a sudden and drives to New York, but keeps going nonstop until she reaches California. Still in a daze, she walks to a forest and falls asleep under a redwood tree. In the morning, redwood researchers Becca (Nkeki ObiMelekwe) and Finn (Michael Park) find Jesse and tell her she cannot be there. She asks if she can stay and even though Becca is firm, Finn is not and lets her stay. As the days pass, Jesse communicates minimally with her wife, gets to climb a redwood, and even camps up there where she wants to stay and names the tree "Stella". There is a fire and Jesse has a "come to Jesus" moment which prompts a decision. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiOj1L89Tk4248pRqQtJHlrlht4zzUEoKn2xaGHoQE6FonUDHpt3ppFqyyZq3q_EpAp0OlMtf5Wn9NjwTOzmwDUVsTDUQYZiM2gRRapDhYqgQSgWzmQFbVUJUbD3wmCmSAVwOF3_G97Rn1olyJkchvsIpnNFyNWUNFS67Pr8RfSZTz9T4umnkE0TD1RY/s800/53546596217_da95c34689_c.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiOj1L89Tk4248pRqQtJHlrlht4zzUEoKn2xaGHoQE6FonUDHpt3ppFqyyZq3q_EpAp0OlMtf5Wn9NjwTOzmwDUVsTDUQYZiM2gRRapDhYqgQSgWzmQFbVUJUbD3wmCmSAVwOF3_G97Rn1olyJkchvsIpnNFyNWUNFS67Pr8RfSZTz9T4umnkE0TD1RY/w400-h268/53546596217_da95c34689_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Nkeki Obi-Melekwe as “Becca” (left) and Idina Menzel as “Jesse” in La Jolla Playhouse’s <br />world-premiere production of REDWOOD; photo by Rich Soublet.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">The production is visually stunning. All the design elements are placed perfectly and I consider this piece to be part of the new era of theatre with impressive media design by Hana S. Kim that includes moving projections a la IMAX that immerse the audience in the scenery. Granted, it is not a round full 360 projection but the feeling is pretty close. The combination of the all-white panels with the large-scale screens to manage the projections along with Jason Ardizzone-West's clean and minimal, contemporary art-esque scenic design also including a white desk and bed that appear and disappear with elevators, was a perfect fit dressed with Scott Zielinski's lighting design consisting of bold blues and green's that accentuated the scenes giving a gorgeous aesthetic. Jonathan Deans's sound design complements this aesthetic with crisp, clear waves that pack a punch to the stimulating experience. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Another stunning element is the large tree trunk in the middle of the stage where the actors really climb and move around thanks to Melecio Estrella, BANDALOOP: Vertical Movement and Staging. The actors have the straps, the harness, the whole gear, and really do a rappel-type climb up and down towards the catwalk. Toni-Leslie James's costume design goes with everyday outfits like jeans and loafers for the Jesse character as well as her wife, and son, and with the sporty, climber gear for Becca and Finn.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJ43AR2EDosilzZEiEbNXWGURaFIidh0O484DfvxLAFP0owjVkhFTkEn4hO3vBRJdZfgSM2xxfZIkYutTASJWtuM3l5dpn89Kv3se5ydWNZ8iQrtU2EIH52W3cRsWeb6ncb24jhQhEWzwgbyWLACdRnB6rkUKm3E0SWnTkJBLJK3yO7gwCaI0XarQjSA/s800/53547906735_d2a865651c_c.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJ43AR2EDosilzZEiEbNXWGURaFIidh0O484DfvxLAFP0owjVkhFTkEn4hO3vBRJdZfgSM2xxfZIkYutTASJWtuM3l5dpn89Kv3se5ydWNZ8iQrtU2EIH52W3cRsWeb6ncb24jhQhEWzwgbyWLACdRnB6rkUKm3E0SWnTkJBLJK3yO7gwCaI0XarQjSA/w400-h268/53547906735_d2a865651c_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">De’Adre Aziza (right) as “Mel” and Idina Menzel as “Jesse” in La Jolla Playhouse’s <br />world-premiere production of REDWOOD; photo by Rich Soublet.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">I've had the opportunity to see Idina on stage before in <a href="https://broadwaymusicalhome.com/shows/if-then.htm#gsc.tab=0" target="_blank"><i>If/Then</i> </a>and <i><a href="https://www.geffenplayhouse.org/shows/skintight/" target="_blank">Skintight</a></i> (as I am a big Joshua Harmon fan). As always, her performance was good. The intention was there and her voice sounded good too. The songs I felt are not yet landed, they need more work meshing the lyrics with the music, and some of them, I caught similarities with other songs Idina has sung in previous roles like the high note at the end of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5V9KwppMfs" target="_blank">"<i>Defying Gravity"</i> from <i>Wicked</i></a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5V9KwppMfs" target="_blank"> </a>and the crescendo of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moSFlvxnbgk" target="_blank">"<i>Let it Go"</i> from </a><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moSFlvxnbgk" target="_blank">Frozen</a>. </i>Is that a bad thing? not necessarily. The songs within the production I feel the most rounded are: "<i>Great Escape</i>" carrying a good melody, sung by Idina, and "<i>Still</i>", a powerful and beautiful song that was performed superbly by Zachary Noah Piser who is very charming on stage. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>-Sidenote</i>: San Diego local actor and Craig Noel Award winner, Giovanny Diaz de Leon, is the understudy for Spencer, and I would love to see his rendition of this song...- </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC5aEjyQxRuK9eRbYWrkQTjX2Bx9iQNTKCtkiWfFmwM2S99SoWPHMMAHE0Vh9XNrMi2Pr7h4Xt9m5CZ2kY8AJ0fLVHgPDjTuR9kK3C77YE9NZe-xqlDcvhFEGagSqUmE5lhLcooB_wHnSto_oxVntMbao3kaxekw1LAJ2lvP5_WFGiTZgcTB7hBxiSsY/s800/53547906585_3d7961a949_c.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="534" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC5aEjyQxRuK9eRbYWrkQTjX2Bx9iQNTKCtkiWfFmwM2S99SoWPHMMAHE0Vh9XNrMi2Pr7h4Xt9m5CZ2kY8AJ0fLVHgPDjTuR9kK3C77YE9NZe-xqlDcvhFEGagSqUmE5lhLcooB_wHnSto_oxVntMbao3kaxekw1LAJ2lvP5_WFGiTZgcTB7hBxiSsY/w268-h400/53547906585_3d7961a949_c.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Michael Park as “Finn” and Idina Menzel as “Jesse” in La Jolla Playhouse’s <br />world-premiere production of REDWOOD; photo by Rich Soublet.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Moving on, the story, sadly, lacks balance and character development. We do not see who Mel really is, or how she carries her life. A grounding or resonating component is lacking. I wanted to see more of De’Adre Aziza's work but the story does not give the role much space for that. In the case of Becca and Finn, Finn left the corporate world and is now doing his thing with the trees, and Becca, an African American woman, highly qualified and prepared, fighting against the white patriarchy which she sings about, then gets shut down bluntly by her white boss, so it is contradicting. Nikeki Obi-Melekwe is great and her vocals are strong. There is a part with cool harmonies between Nikeki and Idina that works well. Michael Park delivers a passionate performance as Finn and his physicality climbing up and down is impressive as well as Nikeki's who even goes upside down mid-climb. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">This piece is about Jesse's grief yet, more development on the characters, especially Mel, would balance it out. All in all, this is an innovative piece with potential. The story needs to catch up with the design.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Redwood </i>is sold out for its run playing until March 30th. But you never know. I would recommend calling the box office (858.550.1010) day of show, or the beginning of each week to get more information on the possibilities if any :).</p><p style="text-align: right;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-48216313249526346862024-03-01T21:25:00.000-08:002024-03-01T21:26:36.728-08:00San Diego Musical Theatre's Production of the Timeless Tale "Fiddler on the Roof"<div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">Is proof of the enduring power this beloved musical has</span></u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 17.6px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="color: blue; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6caKMKgLFzOYQZgwKXC6UqgB84YUpZOZ_FSFpkEoFTZ8kBhjvcM-bI0jqk8SzYw-TON8ImD9FLEMkxdZpDlZBd-YWKu1zI11MutreO3VljaHb0xIHPfdmPJ0RAsQBqlYbA9zQc8BzBQeZ40BngSB0GyWDWC6fvj9gu86WXXbN7KOsyC5RfSdKH588lOI/s6240/Fiddler%207-%20Photo%20by%20Ken%20Jacques.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3054" data-original-width="6240" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6caKMKgLFzOYQZgwKXC6UqgB84YUpZOZ_FSFpkEoFTZ8kBhjvcM-bI0jqk8SzYw-TON8ImD9FLEMkxdZpDlZBd-YWKu1zI11MutreO3VljaHb0xIHPfdmPJ0RAsQBqlYbA9zQc8BzBQeZ40BngSB0GyWDWC6fvj9gu86WXXbN7KOsyC5RfSdKH588lOI/w640-h314/Fiddler%207-%20Photo%20by%20Ken%20Jacques.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cast of SDMT's <i>Fiddler on the Roof</i>. Photo Ken Jacques</td></tr></tbody></table><br />"<i>Fiddler on the Roof</i>" is a timeless tale that even though not the happiest, definitely makes you reflect through both joy and heartbreak. San Diego Musical Theatre did a wonderful job with this musical masterpiece that has resonated with audiences for decades. Composed by Jerry Bock with lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and a Book by Joseph Stein. </div><p style="text-align: justify;">The story follows Tevye (Matthew Henerson), a poor milkman, as he navigates the challenges of tradition, family, and change. Tevye grapples with his strong beliefs and customs as he sees three of his five daughters -Tzeitel (Tamara Rodriguez), Hodel (Rachel Dovsky), and Chava (Ina Lelevier)-, challenge these traditions by choosing their own paths in love and life. Amidst the backdrop of political and social upheaval, Tevye must confront the shifting dynamics within his family and community while trying to maintain his faith and identity in a rapidly changing world. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xn6tbYq7p4S6kRFGYp8Eu09v5bRrX9XPhWc57xNRzhXA6vIwkpFaNor6V9MQ8iCCOwYTRkr2xm2KeScj2tpN8BiTLnBFxRyOOMa0ZHyJ5HALLwjLRDpSNZZE8VkHFhtzULVopFvJJsAIyca2RYhtvFdJatv8iCBMmPS2ecKM4CYcT2flinKdKlBRxkg/s6240/Fiddler%203-%20Photo%20by%20Ken%20Jacques.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6240" data-original-width="4160" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xn6tbYq7p4S6kRFGYp8Eu09v5bRrX9XPhWc57xNRzhXA6vIwkpFaNor6V9MQ8iCCOwYTRkr2xm2KeScj2tpN8BiTLnBFxRyOOMa0ZHyJ5HALLwjLRDpSNZZE8VkHFhtzULVopFvJJsAIyca2RYhtvFdJatv8iCBMmPS2ecKM4CYcT2flinKdKlBRxkg/w266-h400/Fiddler%203-%20Photo%20by%20Ken%20Jacques.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Matthew Henerson. Photo </span>Ken Jacques</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">This rendition of <i>Fiddler</i>', directed by Omri Schein, was captivating with its heartfelt portrayal. SDMT is known for the amazing performance skills of its actors with an emphasis on choreography and this production, definitely attested to that with challenging numbers performed beautifully.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Matthew Henerson as Teyve is the guiding thread of this piece and is very moving in his role while balancing comedy, sadness, and feelings of pride. Debra Wanger as Teyve's wife Golde, pairs wonderfully as the voice of reason but also, hard truth and tough love. I appreciated seeing Tamara Rodriguez in the role of Tzeitel, as she has been performing throughout San Diego for a while but I had yet to see her in a singing role as one of the main characters and she definitely did not disappoint, with a graceful performance and wonderful voice. In the performance that I saw, which was on a Thursday night and with a full house, Rachel Dovsky, stepped in as the understudy for Hodel, with a delivery that was nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing a potent voice through a beautiful portrayal. Ina Lelevier as Chava also added another layer to the production, capturing the hearts of the audience with her performance. The three older sisters's love interests Zane Davis as the tailor Motel, Kenny Bordieri as the teacher Perchik, and Ian Black as the loving soldier Fyedka, meshed well with each of the actresses having the audience enchanted by the love stories as well. D. Candis Paule in the role of the matchmaker Yente is hilarious and also very tender as is Bryan Curtiss White in his portrayal of the almost left-at-the-altar, butcher groom, Lazar Wolf. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwotIpcwm0mJJKPgwvMFMF60QrjMKgL2bc5VafDQwtn52fLPfjIYk6iHdZFmeUyDVLqXWzV9SDIL77EOBohVC1O8Rjf9llxxCmtJO336Z_zScZnzA_8eIUMts8g9maIegcsFCYR-dvZIh_76SS6z7q4i-bV_Xc4-YDZe4KebG0m_t_J9mIy9-rgqDkL8M/s5115/Fiddler%2012-%20Photo%20by%20Ken%20Jacques.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="5115" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwotIpcwm0mJJKPgwvMFMF60QrjMKgL2bc5VafDQwtn52fLPfjIYk6iHdZFmeUyDVLqXWzV9SDIL77EOBohVC1O8Rjf9llxxCmtJO336Z_zScZnzA_8eIUMts8g9maIegcsFCYR-dvZIh_76SS6z7q4i-bV_Xc4-YDZe4KebG0m_t_J9mIy9-rgqDkL8M/w400-h241/Fiddler%2012-%20Photo%20by%20Ken%20Jacques.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The cast of SDMT's Fiddler on the Roof. Photo Ken Jacques</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">It is magical how SDMT manages to handle a large cast such as this one, in the small space and have it look good and not squished in. The ensemble is great and totally makes the piece fun and captivating along with other cast members that include: Elena Bertachi, Alex Bobroff, Danny Campbell, Rachel Dovsky, Manny Fernandes, Eliott Goretsky, Andres Lagang, Giancarlo Lugo, Emma Sherman, Jaxon Smith, Richard Stanford, Joe Stein, Sheira Stein, Sasha Weiss, and Eli Wood.</div><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Mike Buckley's simple yet practical scenic design effectively utilized the space fitting the hefty cast, while Michelle Miles's lighting stole the spotlight, seamlessly blending contrasting tones to enhance each scene. Jordan Gray's sound design, Chong Mi Land's costume design, and Jill Gorre Rovastos's choreography all came together to create a visually stunning and immersive experience. Under the musical direction of Richard Dueñez Morrison, the production's harmony and rhythm were flawlessly executed.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: justify;">This production of <i>Fiddler on the Roof</i> in San Diego is proof of the enduring power this beloved musical has, while beautifully weaving a narrative of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of family and tradition in the face of adversity.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until March 10th. For performance times and ticket prices, please <b><a href="https://sdmt.na.ticketsearch.com/sales/sales/sales?ev=13843,13844,15722,15730,15731,15732,15733,16508,16548&ismenuhid%20e=true&_ga=2.245022085.1095792745.1709351555-1153440424.1709351555&_gl=1*vbp4zb*_ga*MTE1MzQ0MDQyNC4xNzA5MzUxNTU1*_ga_N2D0RH58NJ*MTcwOTM1NjY0Mi4yLjAuMTcwOTM1NjY0Mi42MC4wLjA." target="_blank">click here</a></b>.</p></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-85297283244505722882024-02-28T00:23:00.000-08:002024-02-28T00:23:18.217-08:00CCAE Theatricals Tackles "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time"<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">Delivering once again, a well-rounded, solid piece, full of heart.</span></u></b></p><p><b style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 17.6px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="color: blue; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></b></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3UP2cNlSTs4IcT-CxDn2f1Lyt1GJdC8b3m2Bm5YFyNOWWWDYc_xu_pMB7RE4ZoLCEwQpHW1Qt1tI-P0ghljoIbB_ko0_w5meZsVyoVdX_uLq5waY0q0sQZzWuoElq2bF67fuWl3GDZaShYDKe-uKe3Owcrl8mm0k_MX-q_kHjQ89Okf6Jp3VQCpkWOmk/s542/429574968_818640486972170_4006594392849828638_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="542" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3UP2cNlSTs4IcT-CxDn2f1Lyt1GJdC8b3m2Bm5YFyNOWWWDYc_xu_pMB7RE4ZoLCEwQpHW1Qt1tI-P0ghljoIbB_ko0_w5meZsVyoVdX_uLq5waY0q0sQZzWuoElq2bF67fuWl3GDZaShYDKe-uKe3Owcrl8mm0k_MX-q_kHjQ89Okf6Jp3VQCpkWOmk/w640-h414/429574968_818640486972170_4006594392849828638_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Karli Cadel</td></tr></tbody></table></p><div style="text-align: justify;">There is a reason why CCAE Theatricals has both been nominated and won at the San Diego Critics Circle's Craig Noel Awards for two years in a row. There is a look, a feel, and a delivery to their productions that is just heartfelt and special.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">In their first production of the year, the Escondido-based company tackled Simon Stephens's adaptation of <i>The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time</i>, based on the novel by Mark Haddon, with a plot that takes place in a British suburb where Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old in the autism spectrum, is investigating Wellington's (the neighbor's dog) murder. Christopher lives with his dad Ed (Nathan Madden) and goes around the neighborhood asking questions to not only solve the murder but bring answers to Wellington's owner, his neighbor Mr. Shears portrayed by Melissa Fernandes. While Christopher compares his investigative notes with another neighbor, Mrs. Alexander, (Christine Hewitt) he learns a delicate truth that is discussed and worked through with his teacher Siobhan (Allison Spratt Pearce). As Christopher discovers more, the audience is taken through a journey that involves empathy and the lack of it at the same time, math, a pet rat, and the changing relationship with his dad and his mom Judy (Regina Fernandez).</p><p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHW0W3YA79wk5AFGS7mCQTWMleKYaSagrAnfm3gJjMd8fnwl1MA1PTGqINIu_tElM8sPp2DY3kzLY-sZRgSWhAEXikq-DpyiZKq2mP4nifybdX7l_IwAWzFzyeKXcbFyj8C63v3q8VBmgitv4HSKcJXJJBwliCdAhfKvDdvGtExqvUY4P7BTg5YF0zP2g/s605/429473418_818640493638836_4221577703958288313_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="397" data-original-width="605" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHW0W3YA79wk5AFGS7mCQTWMleKYaSagrAnfm3gJjMd8fnwl1MA1PTGqINIu_tElM8sPp2DY3kzLY-sZRgSWhAEXikq-DpyiZKq2mP4nifybdX7l_IwAWzFzyeKXcbFyj8C63v3q8VBmgitv4HSKcJXJJBwliCdAhfKvDdvGtExqvUY4P7BTg5YF0zP2g/w400-h263/429473418_818640493638836_4221577703958288313_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Karli Cadel</td></tr></tbody></table></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Aside from the play being an absolute gem, CCAE gave it its own shine and weight, delivering a well-rounded, very solid production. For both people familiar with the production, and those who have yet to see it, CCAE's version proves there is no limit to creativity. I believe that J. Scott Lapp's direction and Blake McCarty's projection design are true artistic synergies as Lapp guides a lovely cast through this multi-layered play within a play where each character has the opportunity to showcase their talent as well as a mean British accent thanks to Caitlin Muelder's coachings. Nathan Madden as Christopher's dad gives a set of emotions from one extreme to the next that truly communicates. Regina Fernandez brings deep emotion and with that, the family dynamic with the parents is raw and powerful. Both neighbors are a thrill to watch, as Melissa Fernandes delivers sass and comedic rush while Christine Hewitt is tender but also very funny. Berto Fernandez, -wow three Fernandez(s) in this cast!- is always a joy to see. Drew Bradford as Mr. Thompson and Dallas McLaughlin as Reverend Peters, bring hilarity and balance to the piece. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Daniel Patrick Russell as Christopher is outstanding. The intention, the physicality, and the delivery are perfection.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The set design by Matthew Herman uses a stripped stage with a metal stairway and two screens, one that serves as a backdrop that projects different angles of the play and the actors being filmed on-site and in sight! this added such an awesome layer to the piece, giving it a modern multimedia aspect that not only has to do with the screen but with the camera people walking through the stage filming. Obviously, this impact also came across beautifully with Mike Billings's lighting design and Maxwell Transue's beautiful music.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">This show is closing on Sunday and it is a must-see. Not only because of the theatricality, direction, and aesthetic but because the way it is treated gives just a slight glimpse at the life of someone with autism and how this is perceived and received by the rest of the community. Autism Consultant Marcy Fibrow shares truthful words about this in the program and having the space for that education and sensibilization makes it even more special.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">For more information on ticket prices and performance times, <b><a href="https://www.theatricals.org/curious-incident" target="_blank">please click here.</a></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-81489938113283356152024-02-16T12:39:00.000-08:002024-03-17T18:30:20.232-07:00MOXIE Theatre Presents Lynn Nottage's "Clyde's"<p><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;"><u><b>A Play that Prompts the Imagination and the Taste Buds </b></u></span></p><p><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjK-jVEvc_Ef11lpFUkZZykmuzpV3GSsbh_hTxq2eohtD13FwI52UTxERX7fwfPwyT5kKpgto4Xa1gY8EaA1102lK_MQlhFtaJyPZIfeF1p3A9GaeCo9LRguH1_H7d2yNmy-r2olTMsQqL1krnLtiRHtMJw27xft5e4K9LTATpJTUjwbMb3NDHlJnUCiM/s2928/Alexander-Simmons.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1952" data-original-width="2928" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjK-jVEvc_Ef11lpFUkZZykmuzpV3GSsbh_hTxq2eohtD13FwI52UTxERX7fwfPwyT5kKpgto4Xa1gY8EaA1102lK_MQlhFtaJyPZIfeF1p3A9GaeCo9LRguH1_H7d2yNmy-r2olTMsQqL1krnLtiRHtMJw27xft5e4K9LTATpJTUjwbMb3NDHlJnUCiM/w640-h426/Alexander-Simmons.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Tanya </span>Alexander and DeAndre Simmons. Photo Daren Scott</span></td></tr></tbody></table>MOXIE welcomed the year with the hilarious "<i>Clyde's</i>" by the esteemed Lynn Nottage, under the slick direction of MOXIE co-founder and former Artistic Director, Delicia Turner Sonnenberg.<p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Clyde's, a hidden gem sandwich shop and trucker favorite, is owned by Clyde (Tanya Alexander) who thoroughly takes advantage of her employees due to them being returning citizens/formerly incarcerated. She uses the fact of them having a record to retain them with bad pay, verbal abuse, and threats. Clyde is no stranger to the bars either...</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The cast shines brightly with each member delivering authentic performances that resonate and several laughs which made it a rollercoaster of a performance, balancing suspense and comedy. Tanya Alexander's portrayal of Clyde captures the character's feisty essence with a compelling intensity that keeps the audience captivated throughout. In the opening night performance, there was what I called a "Saturday Night" moment between Tanya Alexander and Justin Lang, where Alexander could not hold the laughs and had to take a pause to get back into character. Audiences celebrated and it made the performance even more special.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Marcel Ferrin as Rafael and Deja Fields as Letitia definitely prompt the comedic and cute moments as well as having great stage rapport. DeAndre Simmons as Montrellous is not only the "sandwich whisperer" but the grounding voice for his co-workers, and the imagination prompter for the audience as he belts combinations of different ingredients that sound like the perfect sandwich. Jason (Justin Lang) gives a false image to the rest of the employees because of all his face tattoos when really, all he wants to do is get his life back. Lang's histrionic work has undergone a nice evolution, showcasing a level of maturity. His portrayal proves dedication and talent, elevating the emotional depth of the play.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Side/added note</i></b>: I understand the context, I understand the stereotype, yet, it jumped at me how Nottage definitely included the racist undertones and tones regarding a Latin American employee (assuming Mexican) in the kitchen, portrayed by Marcel Ferrin who as always, was a joy to watch and because of his work, it definitely got some laughs and reactions *raises an eyebrow*. </p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWDmzojFz8qrRqiLVxW7utqMN_mq13zRMm-bLXIF9Bso3V96oJG9zw_TanBiRwcYrfP3z7YxuDQ0Ipt3xrvn54cQ8Ahvz4p9w3t9I6ObyYpvAawxSCWFENh3nIdhN06031NQj8YVdj-b9rT6TMoKZdjyhu1RFjTqNJ-9_E5gmfab3EHL10PrYFunC87Dk/s6041/Fields-Ferrin-Lang.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4027" data-original-width="6041" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWDmzojFz8qrRqiLVxW7utqMN_mq13zRMm-bLXIF9Bso3V96oJG9zw_TanBiRwcYrfP3z7YxuDQ0Ipt3xrvn54cQ8Ahvz4p9w3t9I6ObyYpvAawxSCWFENh3nIdhN06031NQj8YVdj-b9rT6TMoKZdjyhu1RFjTqNJ-9_E5gmfab3EHL10PrYFunC87Dk/w400-h266/Fields-Ferrin-Lang.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Deja Fields, </span>Marcel Ferrin, and Justin Lang. Photo Daren Scott</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Michael Wogulis's scenic design, in collaboration with Rai Feltmann's meticulous props, creates a visual feast for the senses. The attention to detail in recreating a kitchen setting is praiseworthy, evoking a sense of nostalgia for me as I remembered a play kitchen and exploring it as a kid. The use of props in this play, from serving paper to trays, putting the buns, the tomatoes, and the ever-triggering <i>garnish</i>, -as it is key in the show- adds a delightful touch that enhances the audience's immersion in the theatrical experience, blending the lines between reality and fiction seamlessly.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Zoë Trautmann's costume design brought out the personality of each character, especially Clyde with fitted corsets, high heels, and red tones. Annelise Salazar's lighting and Harper Justus's sound design further elevate the production, creating a multi-sensory experience that lingers long. Salazar's lighting design sets the mood and tone of each scene, while Justus's sound design enhances the emotional impact of key moments. And... what an awesome playlist! I heard it, I danced to it in my seat, and I mumbled a couple of words as I was being mindful of my fellow audience members.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">"Clyde's" is fresh and this cast made it hilarious and memorable. The production resonates with raw emotion and under the skillful direction of Delicia Turner Sonnenberg, this production is a testament to the power of live theatre to transport and transform.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently performing until March 10. Industry performance on Monday, February 26th.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">For more information please click <a href="https://www.moxietheatre.com/clydes/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-19034086968172103382024-02-12T12:14:00.000-08:002024-02-12T12:28:23.334-08:00New Village Arts Rises Once Again to the Challenge<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">Giving a New Breath to the Musical <i>Fun Home</i></span></u></b></p><p><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9BTkcB0JSbarkXuZhxQbQvTfdLcAdlDZ-pOagL-YMZKTELVJ-453Xypbe-OTAvG8F59ruZWguvgKkaImzak2Q7njsJD_N6Db-54Bih3qMi2j2WGy-oqAZufkm__3wlPnbW1H-zbBJtOKxoao1StlTQ7QTGaXLRo7Htv7xAFQW6ZK78ZvVZ4QIZGj1TY/s1536/RaeHenderson-GrayPCDarenScott.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9BTkcB0JSbarkXuZhxQbQvTfdLcAdlDZ-pOagL-YMZKTELVJ-453Xypbe-OTAvG8F59ruZWguvgKkaImzak2Q7njsJD_N6Db-54Bih3qMi2j2WGy-oqAZufkm__3wlPnbW1H-zbBJtOKxoao1StlTQ7QTGaXLRo7Htv7xAFQW6ZK78ZvVZ4QIZGj1TY/w266-h400/RaeHenderson-GrayPCDarenScott.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Rae Henderson-Gray. Photo Daren Scott</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">It always makes me very happy when regional theatres take on the challenge of producing a Tony award-winning musical like <i>Fun Home</i> that is not only powerful but has a strong background and foundation. Putting all these pieces together is not easy. New Village Arts continues to embrace these hurdles <i>avanti </i>like they did with their 2023 productions <i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/06/new-village-arts-stages-classic-singin.html" target="_blank">Singin' in the Rain</a> </i>and <i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/new-village-arts-tackles-ambitious-task.html" target="_blank">The Ferryman</a>.</i></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">With music by Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics by Lisa Kron, <i>Fun Home</i> premiered in 2013 at the Public Theatre and in 2015 on Broadway.<i> B</i>ased on <a href="https://dykestowatchoutfor.com/#" target="_blank">Alison Bechdel'</a>s 2006 <a href="https://dykestowatchoutfor.com/fun-home-2/" target="_blank">graphic memoir</a> in which she chronicles growing up in Pensilvannya, her strong bond and relationship with her dad Bruce (Brent Roberts), who is a teacher, renovator/restorer, and mortician. Her mother Helen (Sarah Alida LeClair) a former actress and a woman who as a defense mechanism, is detached from reality, and Alison's brothers Christian (Zayden McHardy) and John (Leo Jones). </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The one-act piece goes back and forth between adult Alison (Rae Henderson-Gray), college or <i>medium </i>Alison (Priya Richard), and Small Alison (Lena Palke) talking to the audience, asking questions, and reaching conclusions about her sexuality, her dad's sexuality, and his sudden death. Ethan Eldred's sound design held the essence of <i>Fun Home</i> with Alison's three stages that are surrounded by a wonderful soundtrack that has no bad songs and, at least for me, these particular songs, with Korrie Yamaoka's musical direction, gave space for the different cast members to excel like "Come to the Fun Home" where the three Bechdel kids -led through Patrick Mayuyu's choreography- shine bright and win over the audience, "Changing my Major" with a lovely rendition by Priya Richard, the moving "Ring of Keys" with Lena Palke and Rae Henderson-Gray where the house just came down as it is such a revealing and powerful song as well as the heartbreaking "Telephone Wire", raising the suspense with that awaited conversation between Alison and her father, very delicately delivered, full of heart by Henderson-Gray and Brent Roberts as well as Alison's conversation with her mother in "Days and Days", movingly portrayed by Sarah Alida LeClair. </p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZY8QhGXE2rSjKAEECqsQhWWZZPmSEzNokxZuklCNQMPu1xwUdx0OKa8Q86j9vOLVbKLtNynyVP72yWMJxgBbKYzm0SY0JxeCkeSgWdiqJOmO0CCS8w80P4qq1W1VhtS8LJ071srVlIkXmh1jEeeafSjd-qR4WYpZ_zSb9WplBL1W5rgsC1DoVOFGe2o/s1024/LisetteVelandiaPriyaRichardPCDarenScott.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZY8QhGXE2rSjKAEECqsQhWWZZPmSEzNokxZuklCNQMPu1xwUdx0OKa8Q86j9vOLVbKLtNynyVP72yWMJxgBbKYzm0SY0JxeCkeSgWdiqJOmO0CCS8w80P4qq1W1VhtS8LJ071srVlIkXmh1jEeeafSjd-qR4WYpZ_zSb9WplBL1W5rgsC1DoVOFGe2o/w400-h266/LisetteVelandiaPriyaRichardPCDarenScott.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Lisette Velandia and Priya Richard. Photo DarenScott</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Bechdel home is Bruce's treasured space where he unloads the feelings while restoring, adding, and decorating. Yi-Chien Lee's set design used the space well to communicate that message in parallel with McKenna Foote's props design from the books, to the vintage radio, and candlesticks. Curtis Mueller's lighting design highlighted each and every frame of this musical. Alison grew up in the sixties and went to college in practically the eighties. Carmen Amon gave the key decades through the costume design and even included the signature top with stripes that small and middle Alison have been known for. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCRzm3H9VP2czNPWMfQfunnJuZm6BRyLnKX37p3xYkK_QkHh9bTVbitnFoCu8bpi9nciq0DGRhfgM-I3F_WQ3eNoY1dEVrDkNwVp-7hdkUahcEwc4j_G0syz2TWVEPqoMFWFjR4y986IAG45hioojBgwbFpajUnHzZyDzO-xpyX9NgJTDJnXm0RvMUbVQ/s1536/LenaPalkeBrentRobertsPCDarenScott.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCRzm3H9VP2czNPWMfQfunnJuZm6BRyLnKX37p3xYkK_QkHh9bTVbitnFoCu8bpi9nciq0DGRhfgM-I3F_WQ3eNoY1dEVrDkNwVp-7hdkUahcEwc4j_G0syz2TWVEPqoMFWFjR4y986IAG45hioojBgwbFpajUnHzZyDzO-xpyX9NgJTDJnXm0RvMUbVQ/s320/LenaPalkeBrentRobertsPCDarenScott.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Lena Palke and Brent Roberts. Photo Daren Scott</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Kym Pappas's careful direction definitely was a guide for the cast members to embrace this powerful work and deliver. Along with Kandace Crystal's intimacy direction in delicate scenes where Alison is both discovering and owning her sexuality with college friend Joan (Lisette Velandia). Bruce also has a tense encounter with the handyman/babysitter Roy (Kris Bona). These scenes were paced and mindfully landed. For people who have yet to become familiar with this piece, all of these elements definitely make a difference. New Village Arts once again rose to the challenge by lending this musical another breath to reach new audiences and give another opportunity to those who know and love it.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until March 3. For performance dates and times <b><a href="https://newvillagearts.org/" target="_blank">please click here</a></b>. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-76493560564029253642024-02-09T12:07:00.000-08:002024-02-13T23:17:38.458-08:00Scripps Ranch Theatre's "Chapatti" Takes Audiences Through <p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">A Journey of Self-Discovery and Connection </span></u></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">A Blog View by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZASbLfaW1wswQ94O6OeITH_R5U9XIO02gAAgGE_39yPezDQeNfczyophExQajW0m9H9pfUp7MplJ9iwDkdbsbLo9fBaS5X5ahyphenhyphenKaMv2pouuvB7VeaMsheYxz1K5sPdZSEV8xmh7G13n8gmT2B8EUmToHJ9ij_UwEjLRHduZNY7R_48fQybjj5MzZc30g/s6240/DSCF7417.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZASbLfaW1wswQ94O6OeITH_R5U9XIO02gAAgGE_39yPezDQeNfczyophExQajW0m9H9pfUp7MplJ9iwDkdbsbLo9fBaS5X5ahyphenhyphenKaMv2pouuvB7VeaMsheYxz1K5sPdZSEV8xmh7G13n8gmT2B8EUmToHJ9ij_UwEjLRHduZNY7R_48fQybjj5MzZc30g/w640-h426/DSCF7417.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grace Delaney and Robert May. Photo Ken Jacques</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">As I mentioned in another blog view, San Diego Theatre is starting the year strong and with the one-acts! I enjoy all running times, but one acts are just charming. Scripps Ranch Theatre opens the year with Irish playwright Christian O'Reilly's <i>"Chapatti"</i>. A tender play about two older and lonely people who meet thanks to their love of pets. Betty (Grace Delaney) has 19 cats, and one gets hit. Dan (Robert May) goes around the neighborhood asking who the cat belongs to and comes across Betty. Since they are already on the subject of animals, Dan asks Betty if she would be interested in keeping his dog "Chappati" as he is moving away. Betty who is curious, asks where Dan is moving to and gets a vague answer which at the same time, discloses to the audience what Dan's true plans are. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Directed by Christopher Williams, Grace Delaney, and Robert May deliver warm and very charming performances as Betty and Dan while the play delves into the lives of these two lonely individuals who find solace and a unique connection. One of the standout features of the production is the innovative set design by Tony Cucuzzella. The stage is cleverly divided into two distinct spaces, representing Dan and Betty's separate homes. This visual separation effectively underscores the characters' isolation while also emphasizing the eventual merging of their worlds as their relationship unfolds. Marcene Drysdale's costume design further enriches the storytelling by subtly reflecting the characters' inner complexities. The contrast between their everyday attire and their more polished, 'dressed to impress' looks mirrors the layers of their personalities and the different facets they reveal to the world.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The lighting design by Deanna Trethewey and the sound design by Ted Leib, play key roles in setting the mood as well as enhancing the emotional resonance of the play. The lighting beautifully accentuates key moments, like when the characters are talking to themselves or, when they are breaking the fourth wall and talking to the audience to fill pieces from the story, while the sound design adds depth and texture, immersing the audience in Dan and Betty's journey of self-discovery and connection.</p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7p17BZ6FUevD8ZXNXKR6jm6fInm4myYhaIBT4_9VaXRSkxG-XTQG0KMB6TCVtSvu9Edv28EXroRfeTmgT5wq6qoS7vAMO_bY4csyHv-eVJ_4vCoEGn53B5tQB2lrmwXV0DkGCzM5vJfRR54td2ES_p_gK8aJyc632CEQ24iWPOROZdgAXFeuNZ9QlwMM/s6240/DSCF7379.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7p17BZ6FUevD8ZXNXKR6jm6fInm4myYhaIBT4_9VaXRSkxG-XTQG0KMB6TCVtSvu9Edv28EXroRfeTmgT5wq6qoS7vAMO_bY4csyHv-eVJ_4vCoEGn53B5tQB2lrmwXV0DkGCzM5vJfRR54td2ES_p_gK8aJyc632CEQ24iWPOROZdgAXFeuNZ9QlwMM/w400-h266/DSCF7379.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grace Delaney and Robert May. Photo Ken Jacques</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">A curious fact is that this play premiered in 2014 as well as "<i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2024/02/lambs-players-started-another-theatre.html" target="_blank">Outside Mullingar</a></i>" also set in Ireland and currently playing at LAMBS.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">"<i>Chapatti</i>" is a heartfelt production that takes a dive into themes of loneliness, companionship, and the transformative power of human connection. Showing how as we grow older, it becomes more isolating and, very importantly, also showing that as an older adult, or senior, there are still needs for relationships and intimacy. <b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">Trigger warning</span></u></b>: Chapatti also shows how suicidal tendencies are all across the age range. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">It made me think not only of my grandmother and my older relatives, it also made me think of ME! my near future, how I want it to look and feel, and what I need to do now for that to start shaping up. Maybe I am oversharing but that is the power and the beauty of theatre.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until February 25th. For dates and showtimes <b><a href="https://scrippsranchtheatre.org/" target="_blank">please click here</a></b>. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-61915257374974078542024-02-08T19:39:00.000-08:002024-02-08T19:39:30.911-08:00“Black Perspective” Exhibit Currently Showing at The Oceanside Theatre Company's Brooks Theater Gallery Through March 26<p style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-large;"><u>“The exhibition is a treasure for the eye and the heart,”</u></span></i></b></p><p><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;">Press Release</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOngEzE6jXf_LlqCHgkv_6Fbvwp-Ly3DVBRcbQYpcbOfQkejdVAx-RTwfjqDbKhGXrkvvNooALM9FQ0z-ePqD__74Or8CDlZogrEqt3-KyHfQ854_dfyO6D_nQ8sjZVgk2IRqiFTNE6MmMWrmxgId_kc_jobT-0vMELyfpfa3c9gpwooMZJMVPckTPOA/s576/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="576" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOngEzE6jXf_LlqCHgkv_6Fbvwp-Ly3DVBRcbQYpcbOfQkejdVAx-RTwfjqDbKhGXrkvvNooALM9FQ0z-ePqD__74Or8CDlZogrEqt3-KyHfQ854_dfyO6D_nQ8sjZVgk2IRqiFTNE6MmMWrmxgId_kc_jobT-0vMELyfpfa3c9gpwooMZJMVPckTPOA/w640-h426/unnamed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Oceanside Theatre Company (OTC) is pleased to announce the positive reception by the public of its newest exhibit “<i>Black Perspective: A Celebration of Community, Family & Heritage</i>.” The show, which has been on display since January 12 at the Brooks Theater Gallery in the lobby of the Sunshine Brooks Theater in Oceanside can be viewed cost-free.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Thematically aligned with two of the theater’s major events at the beginning of the year, “Black Perspective” complements the performing arts taking place on stage. The first event, “<b><i><span style="color: #a64d79;">Generational Black Pioneers: Oceanside Firsts</span></i></b>” on February 17 and 18, highlights black leaders who have fought for change in Oceanside. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In March, OTC is thrilled to produce the San Diego Premiere of “<b><i><span style="color: #a64d79;">Chicken & Biscuits</span></i></b>,” a feel-good comedy written by black playwright Douglas Lyons and centered around the complex dynamics of a modern black family. Lyons was one of a record-breaking eight black playwrights whose work was on Broadway in 2021 but was forced to shut down due to ongoing COVID-19 cases. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtm83kCzv7hGHilvWXGiHfRPPWuwZkaBuKuGB0F8sWOPG0IeJ_Ho7WlL8Cvdffl9u09gN8DS8C_qbkCpRymr72Jahxt_2iTaOqHaiZkYepWLgJlmsnyTu_DD9B9P4AvvpixUFnxqhda2kqV0A80txDuNADb0F6LyaW2WnmquUAoCJVeHiVXIEWj0cguK8/s554/Captura%20de%20pantalla%202024-02-08%20193549.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="372" data-original-width="554" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtm83kCzv7hGHilvWXGiHfRPPWuwZkaBuKuGB0F8sWOPG0IeJ_Ho7WlL8Cvdffl9u09gN8DS8C_qbkCpRymr72Jahxt_2iTaOqHaiZkYepWLgJlmsnyTu_DD9B9P4AvvpixUFnxqhda2kqV0A80txDuNADb0F6LyaW2WnmquUAoCJVeHiVXIEWj0cguK8/w400-h269/Captura%20de%20pantalla%202024-02-08%20193549.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">“Black Perspective" features the works of 12 artists who are showing at the Brooks Theater Gallery for the first time including 17-year-old Brooklyn Burroughs. <span style="color: #38761d;">“<i>Honestly, my grandma told me that the Brooks Theater was doing an exhibition, and told me that I should submit</i>,”</span> said Burroughs. <span style="color: #38761d;">“<i>I looked into the details and just decided to go for it. I wasn't as nervous as I thought I'd be, because at my art school; we have to do juries and present our portfolios every year. It felt a little intimidating to submit I can admit, because I didn't expect for my artwork to get in.</i>” </span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The exhibition includes a myriad of different styles including portraits, sculptures, nail art, and powerful social justice themes. Of note is Thomasina Ferguson-Howard’s “Gordon Parks,” a stunning assemblage piece featuring little girls in the 1950s looking at a public park from outside a chain link fence. The artist uses an actual chain link gate – closed when racial injustice is making the headlines; and slightly open when there’s hope for change.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Paintings that have already sold include Artist Rhya Cawley’s “The Importance of Books,” which was bought by a publisher who discovered she’s worked with the artist but has never actually met her. Cawley was inspired by a photo of the first bookmobile made available in 1956 to black neighborhoods in the South. Another piece that sold was Marian Howard’s “Reading, a Shared Experience,“ which included visual language enhanced by the rich words and imagery of her son, poet and songwriter Alfred O. Howard. It was purchased by a couple with triplet girls who have been read to since they were babies. A painting of Rosa Parks by Krista Timberlake is pending sale to a visiting musician from Ohio. Additional sales include “Reflections on Hurricane Katrina” by Don Pallia, and “Tomika’s Village” by John Linthurst. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;">“<i>The exhibition is a treasure for the eye and the heart</i>,”</span> said gallery curator and OTC Board Member Carol Naegele. <span style="color: #38761d;">“<i>All are welcome to come and see the ‘Black Perspective.</i>’” </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Brooks Theater Gallery is located in the lobby of the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater in the heart of Oceanside’s Cultural District. With year-round exhibits curated to relate to the themes of Oceanside Theatre Company’s main stage and youth productions, the gallery is seen by art lovers, theatergoers, music lovers, tourists, and the Oceanside community. Artist Open Houses for each exhibit offer an opportunity for the public to meet the artists and enjoy the exhibit cost-free. The Artist Open Houses, often coinciding with Oceanside’s First Friday Art Walk, include ambient music, an artist-at-work on a new piece, and light refreshments.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"></span></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBE62OWOOrsUEYJIEwSaIqOH46F12vJPWkssKWqxL0uDmvqWzjM2uxYCndb0GqFycP357l-IeqV7LFeN1AJUITbr2XDdm7XmzG9oxduoXAgUfWclPOHEo6RIeTCRoN4JaW9UgCK9Hjfnq8-6L_4WZxGAsj7RiTdVnxTe9ypqnluz3VO0hX9jC89yB-XII/s556/Captura%20de%20pantalla%202024-02-08%20193602.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="556" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBE62OWOOrsUEYJIEwSaIqOH46F12vJPWkssKWqxL0uDmvqWzjM2uxYCndb0GqFycP357l-IeqV7LFeN1AJUITbr2XDdm7XmzG9oxduoXAgUfWclPOHEo6RIeTCRoN4JaW9UgCK9Hjfnq8-6L_4WZxGAsj7RiTdVnxTe9ypqnluz3VO0hX9jC89yB-XII/s320/Captura%20de%20pantalla%202024-02-08%20193602.png" width="320" /></a></span></u></b></div><b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">CURRENT EXHIBIT DETAILS</span></u></b><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Black Perspective: A Celebration of Community, Family & Heritage</i></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Exhibit Dates: January 9 – March 26</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The free exhibit is open before and during most main-stage events. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Call 760-994-5975 to schedule an exhibition tour during the week.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Brooks Theater Gallery at the Sunshine Brooks Theater. 217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://OceansideTheatre.org/brooks-theater-gallery">OceansideTheatre.org/brooks-theater-gallery</a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">* <b><i><span style="color: #38761d;">Please note a temporary exhibit of renowned Rock ‘n Roll photography will be on display during the Oceanside International Film Festival February 20-24.</span></i></b></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-58231596296357066402024-02-07T17:30:00.000-08:002024-02-13T23:05:30.882-08:00The Old Globe Presents "English", in the Round, by Iranian-American Playwright Sanaz Toossi<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">A play with<span style="text-align: justify;"> Soul, Heart, and a Lot of Truth!</span></span></u></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">A Blog View by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqKHRqqfXZgnw3F-GUr6EsVmKIhPkV-H4P8M1b2_izOboOPtaa6ZSbt7vy23MdV-9DgadT1MacCBG6mM9k7c7LooJCDuOmUjUpPTCj-d1m0qfK05LL333f7yO-3dLRNd3iPuDdstSV1Hojcbw1ink7uPa_hdg2vHFw4AosEbrXCocs-HdC7R0jcal29Y/s864/english-04-web.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqKHRqqfXZgnw3F-GUr6EsVmKIhPkV-H4P8M1b2_izOboOPtaa6ZSbt7vy23MdV-9DgadT1MacCBG6mM9k7c7LooJCDuOmUjUpPTCj-d1m0qfK05LL333f7yO-3dLRNd3iPuDdstSV1Hojcbw1ink7uPa_hdg2vHFw4AosEbrXCocs-HdC7R0jcal29Y/w426-h640/english-04-web.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(from left) Ari Derambakhsh, Pooya Mohseni, Joe Joseph, and Tara. Photo by Rich Soublet II.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Definitely, the year has started strong in San Diego, and after seeing almost ten plays from the first week of January to now, I can happily say it is not stopping. And what a joy it is in these trying times when it seems all who should be allies, are trying their hardest to block the craft and its nature. Anyway, my ADD always takes me in many directions...</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Old Globe presented its first production of the year in the round. Winner of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize, the Obie Award, and the Lucille Lortel Award, the play <i>English, </i>written by Sanaz Toossi and directed by <a href="https://www.pigpentheatre.com/" target="_blank">PigPen Theatre Co.'s</a> Arya Shahi. <i>English </i>had not been presented in the round before. San Diego gave it this structural and let's say, visual challenge and they definitely rose to it. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This play gave me so many feelings and with that, so much to say that I do not even know how to begin lol... I can start by saying that work well crafted shines through and onto the stage. <i>English</i> is a good play with a lot of soul, a lot of heart, and a lot of truth!. As it can resonate with many and maybe create some empathy for the rest. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Set in a classroom outside Tehran in Iran, four students are enrolled in classes in English for a proficiency exam. There are different reasons like getting student visas or communicating with loved ones. Sadra Tehrani's scenic design paid attention to detail not just by including the student and teacher desks, but also by including the books under the desk and the props that give room to <i>play </i>as well as the lights in the room. I do not understand why schools, offices, and hospitals use those terrible LED strip or tape lights. Tehrani included them and it definitely made it look real along with Amanda Zieve's lighting design that shows this brightness I am referring to with the LED and dimming it to mark the different times in the day.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The classroom is led by Marjan (Pooya Mohseni) who lived many years in the UK and has been teaching the class since being back home. Roya (Mary Apick) is a new grandmother who has a residency in Canada, Goli (Ari Derambakhsh) wants to study in Australia, Elham (Tara Grammy) has a history with the <a href="https://www.ets.org/toefl.html" target="_blank">TOEFL </a>and needs to pass, and Omid (Joe Joseph) is applying for a green card. Like in all classrooms, there is the shy student, the overachiever, the competitive one, and so on. The casting (Caparelliotis Casting) for the piece is fitting and each actor imprints the different shifting personalities of the characters: I can assure you, that we all sympathized with Roya and her situation. Goli wants to learn and be a better speaker of English. Elham is mega competitive and gets frustrated easily (man how I identified with her), and Omid is fluent but just needs to belong. Afsaneh Aayani's costume design is simple yet functional for Omid and for the ladies, using colorful and stylish headscarves and tunics. The backpacks also shine a light on each of the personalities using prints and solid colors.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgav7vyLROI0I01QeslLrhb490hCvVJNMmPyfLOrrRVP5rXasiaAhUcqe-kyvu6KefFAukTgvOiWl6ycdXzxVAevANp12w6VKs3PG_XYwXi8JRohaYyu6V06TKxn5FRViFjHZnZW6EbCJsHWFJHJ2RG2sMqxis44BrfwtoUTntBcDONrV334WcfxSyroZY/s864/english-08-web.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="864" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgav7vyLROI0I01QeslLrhb490hCvVJNMmPyfLOrrRVP5rXasiaAhUcqe-kyvu6KefFAukTgvOiWl6ycdXzxVAevANp12w6VKs3PG_XYwXi8JRohaYyu6V06TKxn5FRViFjHZnZW6EbCJsHWFJHJ2RG2sMqxis44BrfwtoUTntBcDONrV334WcfxSyroZY/w400-h266/english-08-web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Mary Apick and Ari Derambakhsh. Photo by Rich Soublet II.</span></td></tr></tbody></table>As time goes by and the students get to know one another while trying to learn the language and all that it entails, situations and truths come afloat in a contrasting context that is funny, truly moving and sometimes heartbreaking. <p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Even though the play is a one-act of an hour and forty minutes, I could have enjoyed fewer transitions. Megumi Katayama's sound design made it go smoothly with sound and musical effects, as well as Iranian songs including "<i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OYn4da2iK0" target="_blank">Ashegham Man</a></i>" by Iranian female singer Delkash, which means "I am in Love" and it is part of one of the key moments in the piece. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Coming in to see the show, I thought it was going to be bilingual and there would be dialogues in Farsi and English but no. It was resolved more creatively as it is practically all in English but when they are speaking in Farsi, the accent just shifts to a Valley girl-like tone. When they are speaking in English, they do so with a thick accent which I thought was brilliant and hilarious. As someone who has been part of an Iranian family for over ten years, I can attest this was spot on. Bravo to Dialect Coach, Ana Bayat. (who has also worked in the series <i><a href="https://tv.apple.com/us/show/tehran/umc.cmc.337cdk1ou0bmn6frmzxwm7xqd" target="_blank">Tehran</a></i>, which is a favorite in this household). </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Another fact that was spot-on and with this I too acknowledge both Sanaz Toossi's writing as well as Arya Shahi's direction, is the illustration of the <i style="font-weight: bold;">struggle </i>when being different or having an accent when speaking in another language. This happens all around the world but, in a country where many are monolingual, having an accent has been historically perceived as a flaw. As not good enough when in fact, it is the opposite as there are double, or triple the amount of words, sentences, and the always tough, conjugations. The complexity of practically having different personas that come with the language using varied tones, and volumes. Thinking of one language while speaking the other and how it is put in the piece, how <i>isolating </i>that can be.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>English </i>balances out the personal story behind each character with the commonality of the challenge that learning English represents along with its Western perceptions, for example, changing a name, Americanizing it to fit better, and being "pronounceable". I cannot share enough stories with you when I introduce myself in a room: "Aaaaleeeejanddrrra", "Oh caliente!"...again, anyway... </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJCYQ5SuovUZcs4doVtRjPYKFp6uZgzdWvnHiCXxJXt6N6BsQ6o0ws6M0n9X-Gyggy3bGh9AHiWJWdvjFkR9vYFhBeazSCd0B4d3ygKwfgNJ8YP9uQ0uFFRVFfwg83rotNDTxT-wZFWO9kOwDrqwv1hJguOLZOPLCWMKiLAtnve8-h1HFoZOTq56aiz8/s864/english-05-web.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="864" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJCYQ5SuovUZcs4doVtRjPYKFp6uZgzdWvnHiCXxJXt6N6BsQ6o0ws6M0n9X-Gyggy3bGh9AHiWJWdvjFkR9vYFhBeazSCd0B4d3ygKwfgNJ8YP9uQ0uFFRVFfwg83rotNDTxT-wZFWO9kOwDrqwv1hJguOLZOPLCWMKiLAtnve8-h1HFoZOTq56aiz8/w400-h266/english-05-web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Tara Grammy and Pooya Mohseni. Photo by Rich Soublet II.</span></td></tr></tbody></table>There is a phrase within the play that says "<i>Our mothers get to choose our name, not foreigners</i>". It sucked the wind out of me. Toossi also sprinkled a hidden nod to the Iranian poets through a complaint one of the students has about Farsi. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The play is constantly contrasting creatively and logically as it has a heavy, historical, specific premise that unfolds and keeping its cultural essence, becomes relatable while definitely hitting different fibers. Because, regardless of language and place of origin, this is about the unknown, fear, identity, and judgment. Something we all have gone through. </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until February 25 with a Post Show Forum on Tuesday, February 13, and an Open-Caption Performance on Saturday, February 17 at 2:00 p.m</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For more information <b><u><a href="https://www.theoldglobe.org/pdp/24-season/english/#?startDate=2024-02-01&%3FendDate=2024-02-29" target="_blank">please click here</a></u></b>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-47176160761175221042024-02-04T10:48:00.000-08:002024-02-04T10:48:48.617-08:00 LAMB's Players started another theatre year strong with John Patrick Shanley's play "Outside Mullingar"<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">A One-Act Play with a Set of Fantastic Scenes</span></u></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">A Blog View by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGUpGsLVFc9pBg162Yr92geNc9X5uJy6C4f6TXSv5GWFripodnNyg-3L5rLYn2pP_qw5-wA8EgtrdptTgRlBt-IbzrqJ92X3slXorbcAV310Em7kx7abbxFlSuAFQSSjscSmWn1Nc7lYXLzD7i34XaxYFXHl93XuxL0Qz2XpXxoEmm_u_7LsrqrulLu_w/s1200/download.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1200" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGUpGsLVFc9pBg162Yr92geNc9X5uJy6C4f6TXSv5GWFripodnNyg-3L5rLYn2pP_qw5-wA8EgtrdptTgRlBt-IbzrqJ92X3slXorbcAV310Em7kx7abbxFlSuAFQSSjscSmWn1Nc7lYXLzD7i34XaxYFXHl93XuxL0Qz2XpXxoEmm_u_7LsrqrulLu_w/w640-h408/download.webp" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robert Smyth, Rachael VanWormer, and Deborah Gilmour Smyth. Photo Ken Jacques.</td></tr></tbody></table>Rarely do I like plays where the playwright explores a personal chapter through the work. But, with <i>Mullingar</i>' it was different. Shanley wrote this play when he turned 60 years old, inspired by a trip he took to Ireland to learn more about his family roots. The piece also had its tenth anniversary of premiering on Broadway in January 2014.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Set in mid-Ireland, on farming grounds, the play starts with father-son Tony (Robert Smyth) and Anthony Reilly (Brian Mackey) coming from a funeral. As they are prepping to receive their neighbors, the recently widowed Aoife (Deborah Gilmour Smyth) and her daughter Rosemary (Rachael Vanwormer), they start talking about family and town gossip along with farming styles. Tony inherited the land from his father and is not that convinced that Anthony is happy with working the land as he does not see "the joy in farming" within his son. Both Anthony and Rosemary are single and by their parents' standards, they are basically over the hill. We see four years go by where worries are expressed, as well as heated disagreements, truths, and some semi-foreshadowed revelations. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The play is 95-ish minutes long with no intermission and wih a set of fantastic and just delicious theatre scenes, meticulously lit by Nathan Peirson's design, real-life married couple Deborah Gilmour Smyth and Robert Smyth along with Anthony Reilly, ping-pong the dialogues with great timing, mannerisms, and style. The rhythm of the play starts paced with the three actors framing the true plot and little by little, it organically picks up and just goes full throttle with Rachael Vanwormer entering the stage. And I have to add, with amazing hair. Her hair looks long, healthy, and beautiful.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2NesmtVWSPi0AhCUhRASHufxXdlpP91U8u8lc1-CIFr-P4URiL42DtNlG9CJ2ioiKheM95aR8fp6mthcBY-hOPqFHCCs-XRB8NHO_dmr-YmppmfJSarxWNfIzVTDVVGTsy5ybPXQRCLMn0I8tSWBlew-ker2Kf-0aFYihvJHxMJ1SoQjeBtfwSOGa94/s400/415097254_18026393686865132_5830792526237491545_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="400" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2NesmtVWSPi0AhCUhRASHufxXdlpP91U8u8lc1-CIFr-P4URiL42DtNlG9CJ2ioiKheM95aR8fp6mthcBY-hOPqFHCCs-XRB8NHO_dmr-YmppmfJSarxWNfIzVTDVVGTsy5ybPXQRCLMn0I8tSWBlew-ker2Kf-0aFYihvJHxMJ1SoQjeBtfwSOGa94/w400-h266/415097254_18026393686865132_5830792526237491545_n.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rachael VanWormer Brian Mackey. Photo Ken Jacques</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p style="text-align: justify;">It is always an absolute joy to see Robert and Deborah on the stage, it is now my third play seeing them together and there is always something new. It was my first time seeing also real-life married couple, Brian and Rachael act together. Both had big, energetic exchanges that kept audience members still in their seats.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Directed by Robert Smyth, Deborah Gilmour Smyth, and Kerry Meads, there are a couple of transitions during the piece that were beautifully executed. One is with Smyth in a recliner and the other is with Brian and Rachael in a fantastic embrace that will knock your socks off. I will not say more because it has to be seen and enjoyed. All four actors put their own flare and tone to the Irish accent/dialect which I appreciated greatly as this gives more to the audience from the character. I would assume it is not an easy task as the words and pronunciations are complex and different from what we are used to hearing, and Jilian Frost as the dialect coach truly embraced that. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Mike Buckley's set design is simple but functional with two rotating pieces that give life to both farmhouses in the story. Jessica Couto's property design is on point as you can see every nicknack in the Reilly's home also giving that feeling of "unkemptness" where these men have been living and, contrasting the Muldoon's sparkling, and everything in its place home. Jemima Dutra's costume design rounds out each character's personality and also gives the audience the feel of the weather. Deborah Gilmour Smyth as well as co-directing and acting is the sound designer for this piece, using effects like raindrops all the way to full storm-like white noise that added the perfect touch to the already well-rounded scenes.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Outside Mullingar </i>is a truly great theatre experience. It has been extended until March 3rd. For showtimes and ticket prices please <b><a href="https://www.lambsplayers.org/" target="_blank">click here</a></b>. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-75479286620729441052024-01-30T20:24:00.000-08:002024-02-07T15:22:31.364-08:00Cygnet Theatre Welcomes Year with "Lady Day At Emerson's Bar & Grill" <p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">A Powerful Production Serenated by Karole Foreman as Billie Holiday and Damon Carter's Amazing Piano</span></u></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">A Blog View by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcouU2XTY7DHSUe2WNnZ88Ad_JKE1M3g5YamMiEBB-m94Y9w8UzX3dDI5NksJY1P3ZSvpktm_4n6Yge74Xnvoh8R5c__eSXGvcRxlo9t3TUwjy688-ZRYJmW-5ktU3lWHP07aifUsX8zbshqrpfNxIakx8uoOdZ9gXFTsM1BO6_bQ72xZL-FWjUje6_k/s2100/1685656579350blob.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1441" data-original-width="2100" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcouU2XTY7DHSUe2WNnZ88Ad_JKE1M3g5YamMiEBB-m94Y9w8UzX3dDI5NksJY1P3ZSvpktm_4n6Yge74Xnvoh8R5c__eSXGvcRxlo9t3TUwjy688-ZRYJmW-5ktU3lWHP07aifUsX8zbshqrpfNxIakx8uoOdZ9gXFTsM1BO6_bQ72xZL-FWjUje6_k/w640-h440/1685656579350blob.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karole Foreman as Billie Holiday and Damon Carter as Jimmy. Photo by Craig Schwartz</td></tr></tbody></table><br />If solo shows are hard, musical solo shows, are harder. And yes, I am well aware that <i>Lady Day At Emerson's Bar & Grill </i>is a two-performer show with voice and piano. What I mean is, the vocal weight is real. Cygnet Theatre started the theatre year and their last at their old town venue, with this piece starting Karole Foreman as Billie Holiday, and Damon Carter as her accompanying pianist Jimmy. <p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I had not seen this piece before. A tender yet tough exploration of Billie Holiday's life and career a few months before her passing at the young age of 44. The daughter of teenage parents who suffered neglect and abuse, the pain can be felt through her songs with that powerful voice and mighty interpretation. Foreman is striking as Billie and has a smooth swagger rapport with Damon Carter who as well as being a mean piano player, is the musical director for the show. Even though Foreman is wonderful in the role, in the matinee that I saw, you could sense some tiredness in her voice. Hence my intro about solo/musical shows being harder... I could see how doing a Sunday matinee performance following a Saturday evening performance can be tough. Still, Holiday's wonderful storytelling shined through Karole's interpretation. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhs88ZbXlyFqmTq0d7uh-mt0hi5NsFMOF8UHOWTWoKmPtQtwNWLHirBkZj5VKiJFoZb1fjTjjH_Ox3ZeolDxVa3p-r5U5ukbO-R2ae8HgwDaegtWoxMM1m-EYJtxfLyyWEaJ8jPFWL-0E5IQSVTU2UVU3JUsysfxe9Qac3urxikw-IDIU-jZKf57N3Bb8/s2560/Karole-Foreman-Craig-Schwartz-Lady-Day-Publicity-Image2-scaled.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1765" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhs88ZbXlyFqmTq0d7uh-mt0hi5NsFMOF8UHOWTWoKmPtQtwNWLHirBkZj5VKiJFoZb1fjTjjH_Ox3ZeolDxVa3p-r5U5ukbO-R2ae8HgwDaegtWoxMM1m-EYJtxfLyyWEaJ8jPFWL-0E5IQSVTU2UVU3JUsysfxe9Qac3urxikw-IDIU-jZKf57N3Bb8/w276-h400/Karole-Foreman-Craig-Schwartz-Lady-Day-Publicity-Image2-scaled.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Karole Foreman as Billie Holiday. Photo by Craig Schwartz</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Referencing Wrent T. Brown the director of the piece, in his program letter, Sixty-five years after Holiday's death at a time -both in the States and the world- where race, gender, and the opioid crisis are being discussed loudly, this play speaks volumes on how there is still a loooong way to go. It is like crabs, three steps back, one forward. Holiday's songs also spoke volumes and still do today. This program includes a nice variety of which I appreciated "<i>What a Little Moonlight Can Do</i>" with a <i>flowie </i>jazz rhythm (auuu-uuu-uuu) and telling lyrics about finding solace, feelings, and love; one of her staples, "<i>Strange Fruit</i>" protesting racism and Black people being lynched. The song "<i>God Bless the Child</i>", written for her mother "The Dutchess", and doing a fun introduction to how good of a cook she was, and pig's feet being one of her special dishes with a little barbecue sauce after frying, "<i>Gimme a Pigfoot </i>(And a Bottle of Beer)". </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The plot's setting is in Philadelphia's <i>Emerson's Bar & Grill</i> where the audience can be immersed thanks to the original scenic design by Edward E. Haynes Jr., with Mathys Herbert as associate scenic designer, bringing an older and poorly kept space where even the humidity can be seen through the walls as well as the scratched, run-down stage floor. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">All the design components of this piece are in sync with great attention to detail. I appreciated the changes in Evan Eason's sound design with the microphones, as Karole is wearing a lav that she uses while mingling and talking with the audience and, a standing microphone when singing. The sound from the lav is crisp while the sound in the standing mic is hollow, like if Karole was inside a drawer, which is realistic because Emerson's might not have the best acoustics. The white dress with satin sleeves and flowers is a beautiful costume design by Kimberly DeShazo where Foreman looks stunning along with Peter Herman's wig and makeup design that entailed a nice updo with a lush bun, and a natural face with a popping red lip. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Donna Ruzika's lighting has two personalities: the Emerson's side where it is kind of greenish and sad, and the performing, musical side when Holiday sings, using shadows, white, and deep darks to frame Karole as she performs, but also gives the audience that momentum the songs are bringing to the show. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Billie Holiday's life was complex, with tough challenges and struggles from a young age. What this play, written by Lanie Robertson does, is bring awareness and empathy while admiring the amazing power and wonderful storytelling Billie Holiday possessed. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Keeping her art alive and reintroducing it to each generation that comes.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Lady Day At Emerson's Bar & Grill is currently performing at Old Town until February 18th. For performance dates and times please <b><a href="https://www.cygnettheatre.com/season/season-20/lady-day-at-emersons-bar-grill/" target="_blank">click here</a></b>. </p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-8105665555179866602024-01-29T22:18:00.000-08:002024-02-04T10:49:42.031-08:00Nothing like a "cocktail hour" to get the conversation juices going<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">Trinity Theatre Company Welcomes its 12th Season with a Western Play that Resonates </span></u></b></p><p style="text-align: right;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">A Blog View by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRLXuxPTT4H_y9IJWuPOspXKkXtkB-B_85ONVNZTcHU-laWtYzKNh7BY4of5H83x4HbDhGjH74n-JaDdVMLColoT_2DPGJdsQIE17QQBSAYGtg4d8Cggn2EwihxEqigq2XlWxirQkbnS3nxQ6AsII-5UrLYK4ZoJX7FwRZntZ6xFo_Z0fEAkUCW3R74k/s6000/_DSC3972.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3376" data-original-width="6000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpRLXuxPTT4H_y9IJWuPOspXKkXtkB-B_85ONVNZTcHU-laWtYzKNh7BY4of5H83x4HbDhGjH74n-JaDdVMLColoT_2DPGJdsQIE17QQBSAYGtg4d8Cggn2EwihxEqigq2XlWxirQkbnS3nxQ6AsII-5UrLYK4ZoJX7FwRZntZ6xFo_Z0fEAkUCW3R74k/w640-h360/_DSC3972.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Cocktail Hour</i>. Photo Courtesy of Trinity Theatre Company</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Trinity Theatre Company kicked off their 12th Grown Up Stage (GUS) season in their new space in Mission Valley Mall with the staging of A.R. Gurney's <i>The Cocktail Hour</i>, under the direction of Jaeonnie Davis-Crawford.</div><p></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5oqnPbKJj84-cdqKrSsgBZkP6m7LMIfIhzgT8YY8qUAAE294k6YWu_ApyS95KRzag5peMLvfoztiwXJhSeBNPegosahEf2OiBANs4eUVKkvWnOqbWHN8aRr4B2YSsDdwmTcdaYtbFN0MHZA049l8p-4QlhcAotN60ijuMMt-Kq4miappqmP2n1mzzBV8/s6000/_DSC3999.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3376" data-original-width="6000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5oqnPbKJj84-cdqKrSsgBZkP6m7LMIfIhzgT8YY8qUAAE294k6YWu_ApyS95KRzag5peMLvfoztiwXJhSeBNPegosahEf2OiBANs4eUVKkvWnOqbWHN8aRr4B2YSsDdwmTcdaYtbFN0MHZA049l8p-4QlhcAotN60ijuMMt-Kq4miappqmP2n1mzzBV8/s320/_DSC3999.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The Cocktail Hour. Photo Courtesy of Trinity Theatre Company</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">A fun fact is that '<i>Cocktail Hour</i> premiered at The Old Globe in 1988, to then be produced on Off-Broadway. A story that entails a very Western family in upstate New York during the seventies where the patriarch Bradley (David Janisch) has a sacred cocktail hour before dinner and with added rules. Bradley and Ann (Sharonfaith Horton) have three kids, John (Bobby Imperato), Jigger (who is just mentioned and makes a phone call that the audience does not get to listen to), and Nina (Hannah Luckinbill). All three are adults and have their own families. Jigger and Nina stayed local while John did not. A publisher in his day job whose real career love is being a playwright. With a few plays with some success under his belt, John goes back home to visit his parents and "ask permission" to produce his latest play titled "<i>The Cocktail Hour</i>", based on his family and a therapeutic exercise if you will where he cleanses the demons in his upbringing. Bradley will not have it and commands John not to produce it until both he and Ann have passed. The real cocktail hour goes on longer because the maid is unable to cook a roast. As the alcohol levels rise, words are exchanged, and truths come out.</div><p></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIkfl5J5uGXZx6OIazR2wZGX_3RhXhQf-3ixLNqoTtCsuF6bPvcjI-0ke5QcI8wTBF4GWiC7Qy5B9c6Gzl_fhm3OL72CdB1bKy-4iLpftayf-9eLjEIUE2HTD-DTWdnqfxwKP0Yl1sVgD2dRwnzD4NqnlTHkJnoTX3ouWmPxBPPFtP7wO6TKaqKnLKqQA/s6000/_DSC3995.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3376" data-original-width="6000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIkfl5J5uGXZx6OIazR2wZGX_3RhXhQf-3ixLNqoTtCsuF6bPvcjI-0ke5QcI8wTBF4GWiC7Qy5B9c6Gzl_fhm3OL72CdB1bKy-4iLpftayf-9eLjEIUE2HTD-DTWdnqfxwKP0Yl1sVgD2dRwnzD4NqnlTHkJnoTX3ouWmPxBPPFtP7wO6TKaqKnLKqQA/s320/_DSC3995.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Cocktail Hour. Photo Courtesy of Trinity Theatre Company</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">The experience was definitely unique and Trinity's new space is pretty cool and functional. Jaeonnie Davis-Crawford's direction was precise bringing raw feelings to the stage, which set a common ground for the audience to reflect and draw their own conclusions. Even though the family is a middle-upper-class, white, <i>white</i> one, the play allows space for one to recognize (remember) their own uncomfortable conversations with parents and family members. The histrionic weight stands on both Bobby Imperato as the no-filter/fed-up son, who now wants to live life to the fullest, and David Janisch who is hilarious, stubborn, and vulnerable as Bradley. The two-hour performance moves at a good pace having also entertaining interactions with Sharonfaith Horton as the mom, and Hannah Luckinbill as the younger sister Nina. </div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">It is praiseworthy to see Trinity Theatre embrace plays like this to give it their sense and feel.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Looking forward to the rest of their season.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">You can still catch a performance of <i>The Cocktail Hour </i>with their final performances happening this weekend Friday through Sunday. For more information on ticket prices and showtimes <a href="https://trinityttc.org/current-productions/" target="_blank"><b>please click here.</b></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://youtu.be/t625zzWWLx4?si=wKU0CMlHTQ1RCvLR" target="_blank">Check out my interview with the Director Jaeonnie Davis-Crawford</a></span></b></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-10537882458068601952023-12-28T22:12:00.000-08:002024-02-04T10:49:42.031-08:00From Another Zero's -Best of 2023- in San Diego Theatre<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #741b47; font-size: x-large;">This year was graced by immersive experiences, bold production risks, and creative takes. </span></u></b></p><p><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: center;">by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p>Here we are again!... another year, another bunch of theatre experiences :)</p><p>This year marked, let's say, the first "normal" year after the pandemic, in which theaters found new normalcy by providing production after production, where the risk factor stood out along with creativity, and some montages of classic productions that allowed us to either revive them or get to know what has been talked about so much.</p><p>As always in these pieces, numbers are key. According to the record of this blog, your blog, I had the opportunity to see around 75 productions, of which I reviewed 63... wow.</p><p>This has also been a great year for the San Diego Theatre Critics Circle with the start of several new initiatives, and the surprises won't stop there as we will have our great list at the Craig Noel Awards in February.</p><p>And well, just two days away from welcoming 2024, this is what I consider to be the best of what I saw in San Diego theater this year. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">PLAYS </span></u></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/06/david-reynoso-gifts-audiences-beautiful.html" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/06/david-reynoso-gifts-audiences-beautiful.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OQGsHwvsNtzzKHMVNji4SlahpM_YgVP3lvlfVbA_fzCXWsnllNBRMwXpXfA0gG35LO_bP6ISZjl_saFGTU4Dptalj5CneDtUrkNlq6GVQUJU4NrA4ILNvofgum6Chi8EcL_bw1Bl5dPOivQpqIg9Pd4vRcDlMDMcitu69kU8tNMiP5Ng3HQaVlhBiOs/s2048/La%20Lucha%20Image.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OQGsHwvsNtzzKHMVNji4SlahpM_YgVP3lvlfVbA_fzCXWsnllNBRMwXpXfA0gG35LO_bP6ISZjl_saFGTU4Dptalj5CneDtUrkNlq6GVQUJU4NrA4ILNvofgum6Chi8EcL_bw1Bl5dPOivQpqIg9Pd4vRcDlMDMcitu69kU8tNMiP5Ng3HQaVlhBiOs/w200-h113/La%20Lucha%20Image.png" width="200" /></a></div>La Lucha</span></i> - <span style="color: #38761d;">La Jolla Playhouse</span>-</span></b></span><span style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Optika Moderna</span> </span></b><br /></span><span style="text-align: left;">A beautiful homage to Mexican culture through the art form of <i>Lucha Libre</i>. An immersive experience that at parts is with a blindfold, got audiences to exercise their senses and in my case, face my fears...This was authentic, creative, and absolutely breathtaking. David Reynoso has that effect with his pieces. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCKNCkRp3qbbPevXbtNkWs38nEOPOwWLc3LZCqj2bsd8ebytawR60ZqVC0aZ7kP1nMEhZ9OKKfww8sjmxGwqKyAHcdNgu3krlGIv1DhQVFIhWX0j-j9771q33qHfLSRQl-tH3X3hoYLGXODP74t6DT0Ca_ZhmvQgmV7OhL2gZPgNg_2x7J2a5n6pu4NI/s4160/Kandace%20&%20Nicole%202.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="3298" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCKNCkRp3qbbPevXbtNkWs38nEOPOwWLc3LZCqj2bsd8ebytawR60ZqVC0aZ7kP1nMEhZ9OKKfww8sjmxGwqKyAHcdNgu3krlGIv1DhQVFIhWX0j-j9771q33qHfLSRQl-tH3X3hoYLGXODP74t6DT0Ca_ZhmvQgmV7OhL2gZPgNg_2x7J2a5n6pu4NI/w159-h200/Kandace%20&%20Nicole%202.jpg" width="159" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/03/kandace-crystal-proves-amazing-and.html" target="_blank"><b><i><span style="color: #a64d79;">NEAT</span></i></b> </a>- A Co-Production Between <b><span style="color: #38761d;">Loud Fridge Theatre Group and Scripps Ranch Theatre</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Kandace Crystal did her stage comeback in style with this moving piece that combined beautiful choreography and amazing portrayals. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><div style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCP0NeH1r8oMiX3YahqMlMg6PiHsJk8RrziV7fV5N3VWgGMs1TYH4G_eqklATSTUcBeN7sqbP48AzewaBWS2GUIwD7yjgHb3r_LJRTgm95OBJ6ek_KwlgEclyrKmQTB7Z8MhYSZh0AixaWdlG7sLhiqMZEps0E_5dILrXYZ5zB6C7xRk8sdjiDG8DbTq8/s864/exoticdeadly-03-web.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="864" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCP0NeH1r8oMiX3YahqMlMg6PiHsJk8RrziV7fV5N3VWgGMs1TYH4G_eqklATSTUcBeN7sqbP48AzewaBWS2GUIwD7yjgHb3r_LJRTgm95OBJ6ek_KwlgEclyrKmQTB7Z8MhYSZh0AixaWdlG7sLhiqMZEps0E_5dILrXYZ5zB6C7xRk8sdjiDG8DbTq8/w200-h133/exoticdeadly-03-web.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/04/can-we-please-have-more-api.html" target="_blank">Exotic Deadly or the MSG Play</a></span></i><span style="color: black; font-style: normal;">- </span><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #38761d;">The Old Globe</span></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400;">Like I wrote in the headline for this view "</span><span style="text-align: left;">raw, in-your-face piece full of truth". We definitely need more API stories on the stage and playwright Keiko Green NAILED it with this work that is weird, funny, satiric, and to the point.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKr0JBl24fwEjsdxadQEEEF-6788fIZwDCJIFWShGwdM-kq4XUCON81uGGl9Tpl6ER27vFROY1z6Cd7hivDwPGZqSP2RYwtibwIVy3oMHNOV8mp-LyFFallNfXJmmr1VXHHZ1nZrSEtcnMlGFvMEUOTj3lXCAFxtUFxAKV1-nQFV2PFUsWjdngpwB2fY/s1250/Review-DRAGON-MAMA-at-Diversionary-Theatre-1696463712.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1250" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKr0JBl24fwEjsdxadQEEEF-6788fIZwDCJIFWShGwdM-kq4XUCON81uGGl9Tpl6ER27vFROY1z6Cd7hivDwPGZqSP2RYwtibwIVy3oMHNOV8mp-LyFFallNfXJmmr1VXHHZ1nZrSEtcnMlGFvMEUOTj3lXCAFxtUFxAKV1-nQFV2PFUsWjdngpwB2fY/w200-h100/Review-DRAGON-MAMA-at-Diversionary-Theatre-1696463712.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Dragon Mama</span></i> - <span style="color: #38761d;">Diversionary Theatre </span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Sara Porkalob is a performance superstar who takes over the stage with amazing comedic ability, fantastic vocals and truly moving interpretations. Written by Porkalob, Dragon Mama is part of a trilogy that goes into generational trauma and the intent of coping. We hope to see more of Sara and her wonderful work in San Diego.</div><div style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"><i style="color: #a64d79;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZUsHHuM-loqMsWrKj1DGuHyb9IGUsWo63d_AyJS3tBIVbHzFnJYVjee3KUDm2WeoNCuguYNzAWhE-UVDf74bVSiC7VzEBzuLS19XWTr1xEiiXw168HzQ_ErM58zsHG2jrLt5sDlgI7Gfa9-BCVLFG3gkrbBb2MAj-qRZsl_fn2dCaBKJHjeW-5bS3TQ/s2048/53045789467_502d4ef98d_k.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZUsHHuM-loqMsWrKj1DGuHyb9IGUsWo63d_AyJS3tBIVbHzFnJYVjee3KUDm2WeoNCuguYNzAWhE-UVDf74bVSiC7VzEBzuLS19XWTr1xEiiXw168HzQ_ErM58zsHG2jrLt5sDlgI7Gfa9-BCVLFG3gkrbBb2MAj-qRZsl_fn2dCaBKJHjeW-5bS3TQ/w200-h133/53045789467_502d4ef98d_k.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/07/is-it-thursday-yet.html" target="_blank">Is it Thursday Yet?</a> - </i><span style="color: #38761d;">La Jolla Playhouse</span></div><div>Created and choreographed by Jenn Freeman and Sonya Tayeh. 'Thursday is a multidisciplinary piece, contemporary dance-heavy with a moving interpretation from Jenn who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 33. The ways audiences are brought in and educated throughout the piece which also includes music and singing, makes it a unique, moving experience that lingers long after leaving the theatre. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKwZuc1S4qKdvaToupawMy-9WRgWwEClGHHxTidj5VYk4DvLjPzlStFGh2eEa0KDkxaTXFIVV6ZQ358JmxnUgo0jCqOapvrZFU2UmT6X9NDAZ_REb9kt3WdytNSE6wdYKRNPFCdj3xQwhQFZjGBtaKsEClFWAkAYvxB3E41S7dHYUbrZ-A4dBShpTGNU/s5472/IMG_7170.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKwZuc1S4qKdvaToupawMy-9WRgWwEClGHHxTidj5VYk4DvLjPzlStFGh2eEa0KDkxaTXFIVV6ZQ358JmxnUgo0jCqOapvrZFU2UmT6X9NDAZ_REb9kt3WdytNSE6wdYKRNPFCdj3xQwhQFZjGBtaKsEClFWAkAYvxB3E41S7dHYUbrZ-A4dBShpTGNU/w200-h133/IMG_7170.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/09/august-osage-county-at-backyard.html" target="_blank"><b><i><span style="color: #741b47;">August: Osage County</span></i></b> </a>- <b><span style="color: #38761d;">Backyard Renaissance</span></b></span></div><div>A true histrionic masterclass that brought a heavy, complex plot to the stage in a strong, suspenseful, and cathartic way. The casting brought some of San Diego's best and that made it even more powerful. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/10/blindspot-collective-has-dance-acting.html" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/10/blindspot-collective-has-dance-acting.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DbWQaN6tHkA9MkKW6qM4-rH1aXIYhIFoPiU7K3tWV7sXJ9-09gQJY16bPIGIQeheonPyv7VSA5lFywlTqirFSluHouhSfYLOTcJadYhzNb8qtDNsRw7wq1zmZg6aa76-qM98fqF2y3xmpzxtecYe8LhiUoPUGYY7Qx5o0yZRSwueipWvISFUMFYawR8/s634/393255374_18393784960063194_8066727002172793025_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="634" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DbWQaN6tHkA9MkKW6qM4-rH1aXIYhIFoPiU7K3tWV7sXJ9-09gQJY16bPIGIQeheonPyv7VSA5lFywlTqirFSluHouhSfYLOTcJadYhzNb8qtDNsRw7wq1zmZg6aa76-qM98fqF2y3xmpzxtecYe8LhiUoPUGYY7Qx5o0yZRSwueipWvISFUMFYawR8/w200-h200/393255374_18393784960063194_8066727002172793025_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br /></span></i></span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/10/blindspot-collective-has-dance-acting.html" target="_blank">Kagitingan </a></span></i>- <span style="color: #38761d;">Blindspot Collective</span></span></b></div><div>A truly moving, historic piece, carefully crafted and staged, respecting the dramaturgy and the language. </div></div><div style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/05/oceanside-theatre-companys-good-people.html" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/05/oceanside-theatre-companys-good-people.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifyQc0pxzXCyrl90oRXKvnp2-DKiatYihW2BeeqrfvkPViLzv_ifIfOxIX4fFEc04erm5hP3yzhGhlObbTqFnN37WbkBCxqYaytym3kHIV7YCHlHbA0rLie4v8hjF4nHFfnONf982wndgp2v0dJoZZmGeP68cNKgMzEYZH1bpUEBO07kBm30T1NHPm31g/s6240/Susan%20Clausen,%20Sherri%20Allen,%20Heidi%20Bridges,%20Dennis%20PetersGood%20People%20-%20Credit%20Ken%20Jacques39.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifyQc0pxzXCyrl90oRXKvnp2-DKiatYihW2BeeqrfvkPViLzv_ifIfOxIX4fFEc04erm5hP3yzhGhlObbTqFnN37WbkBCxqYaytym3kHIV7YCHlHbA0rLie4v8hjF4nHFfnONf982wndgp2v0dJoZZmGeP68cNKgMzEYZH1bpUEBO07kBm30T1NHPm31g/w200-h133/Susan%20Clausen,%20Sherri%20Allen,%20Heidi%20Bridges,%20Dennis%20PetersGood%20People%20-%20Credit%20Ken%20Jacques39.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Good People - </i></b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><b>Oceanside Theatre Company</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Aside from the story that has seen several productions, this one, was my first. This piece was "The Little Engine That Could". All the performances are on point and definitely hit the head on the nail, context-wise. Susan Clausen's portrayal of <i>Margie </i>was one of the best performances of the year without a doubt. </div><div style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-style: italic;"><b><i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/moxie-starts-theatre-year-with-san.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixkhXYGnBw86vJgth4v7uf5tay5Tzduzgu65Y5wDp5aX4Aez4BK2gwdgL9uyZj71lZvB7hkzhAqNhFxti6l8WHbg7fnmLGIYfZ2hqVDamKidzJe6i-ChqGn3rycVPDIYSOJ9bR1kbo8ULprhgCPDai3H9uFCbmE9AEMk7kwkM5WqJfXPifkXupVWQzIK8/s4608/birds_of_north_america-21.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixkhXYGnBw86vJgth4v7uf5tay5Tzduzgu65Y5wDp5aX4Aez4BK2gwdgL9uyZj71lZvB7hkzhAqNhFxti6l8WHbg7fnmLGIYfZ2hqVDamKidzJe6i-ChqGn3rycVPDIYSOJ9bR1kbo8ULprhgCPDai3H9uFCbmE9AEMk7kwkM5WqJfXPifkXupVWQzIK8/w200-h150/birds_of_north_america-21.jpg" width="200" /></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><b><i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/moxie-starts-theatre-year-with-san.html" target="_blank"><br /></a></i></b></span></div>Birds of North America</i></b> </span><i>- </i><b><span style="color: #38761d;">MOXIE Theatre</span></b></div></span></span><div>The San Diego premiere of this play with only two actors. Many emotions running high and a magnificent sound design by Matt Lescault-Wood, as well as the beautiful set design by Robin Sanford Roberts.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_K0cAXPhKc_KESReCDYcKjgvJj7g-wa3sljGoRwo0Vs0zf1Rehycin1UrtGbuJ7edYxl46VfDffCYIlKf5b53YJboGiwHbNZSdzDhXp1SDfqx3rS9Fq5up6Tul1H1zBPkbw83Se-f2AjG-bkfTuGxgP7A2Fxi6cjPNLegta5vHy9StxQ2CnbpyiffvU/s9987/_DSC9580.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6658" data-original-width="9987" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_K0cAXPhKc_KESReCDYcKjgvJj7g-wa3sljGoRwo0Vs0zf1Rehycin1UrtGbuJ7edYxl46VfDffCYIlKf5b53YJboGiwHbNZSdzDhXp1SDfqx3rS9Fq5up6Tul1H1zBPkbw83Se-f2AjG-bkfTuGxgP7A2Fxi6cjPNLegta5vHy9StxQ2CnbpyiffvU/w200-h133/_DSC9580.jpg" width="200" /></a><b><span style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div><b><span style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></i></span></b></div>God of Carnage</span></span></i><span style="font-size: medium;">- </span></span><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">Backyard Renaissance</span></span></b></div><div><span style="text-align: left;">An amazing 90 minutes of pure hilarious adrenalin. The cool part of this production too, was the <i>histrionic spouse swap</i> as the actors are married in real life. </span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/new-village-arts-tackles-ambitious-task.html" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/new-village-arts-tackles-ambitious-task.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju_3S8AeBIW47Nfuo5LQsPkHB76V9hSykCvvpVSTAePFbVgsd_3lcUKm8ryQfgpqYeL5lUkiDnrdfjThkJk9gFrdCy-3VRY78ytl_7D4g_0PhuoiNfu4n3GFenqmGY1mJgvsbKm9XqFj08CZXKNqszlHZu6W1OsKeatwTO0LXsmZJgyCT8ea0owDKr5iQ/s3600/PhotoByDarenScott13.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2880" data-original-width="3600" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju_3S8AeBIW47Nfuo5LQsPkHB76V9hSykCvvpVSTAePFbVgsd_3lcUKm8ryQfgpqYeL5lUkiDnrdfjThkJk9gFrdCy-3VRY78ytl_7D4g_0PhuoiNfu4n3GFenqmGY1mJgvsbKm9XqFj08CZXKNqszlHZu6W1OsKeatwTO0LXsmZJgyCT8ea0owDKr5iQ/w200-h160/PhotoByDarenScott13.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />The Ferryman</span></i> - <span style="color: #38761d;">New Village Arts</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div>Here, the great merit is recognized for carrying out this titanic production with a cast of many actors and a detailed set design by Doug Cumming, creating an ecosystem for the actors and allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the daily life of the Carney family.</div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/10/north-coast-rep-welcomes-fall-season-by.html" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/10/north-coast-rep-welcomes-fall-season-by.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9tvYcxj1QL5WUVwz9Yppe_dMDXz2Z0mLsnLzJ5FIciWo8aNwxeoog6NMq-3RIK_l7jZtZyB1eqYZg6VoxB4q5YVG1VpIqwv868COL7H-HzkqpU4uM49FERaczQshicEYi2BRAugncKQC3QpzlulN6ZNmLcW_IrzGZsdVk8z5acWBEHP8K1UmuRwt4aM/s8192/J&H%20CAST%EF%80%A2%20(L-R)%20Bruce%20Turk,%20Katie%20MacNichol,%20Conner%20Marx,%20Jacob%20Bruce,%20Ciarra%20Stroud%20&%20Christopher%20M.%20Williams%20photo%20by%20Aaron%20Rumley%20(1).jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5464" data-original-width="8192" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9tvYcxj1QL5WUVwz9Yppe_dMDXz2Z0mLsnLzJ5FIciWo8aNwxeoog6NMq-3RIK_l7jZtZyB1eqYZg6VoxB4q5YVG1VpIqwv868COL7H-HzkqpU4uM49FERaczQshicEYi2BRAugncKQC3QpzlulN6ZNmLcW_IrzGZsdVk8z5acWBEHP8K1UmuRwt4aM/w200-h133/J&H%20CAST%EF%80%A2%20(L-R)%20Bruce%20Turk,%20Katie%20MacNichol,%20Conner%20Marx,%20Jacob%20Bruce,%20Ciarra%20Stroud%20&%20Christopher%20M.%20Williams%20photo%20by%20Aaron%20Rumley%20(1).jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde</span></i> - </span><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #38761d;">North Coast REP </span></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">An amazing histrionic take on the classic having more than one Jekyll and more than one Hyde. Each actor gave a stellar performance under the direction of Shana Wride. Playing with the wardrobe, Elisa Benzoni had the same patterns but different styling. It was mind-blowing. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/04/laughter-fun-and-good-ol-time-are.html" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/04/laughter-fun-and-good-ol-time-are.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIXOaO8AvmTUA18Ep066B9T2HI2LvZyCRvMLXCFtnP-vnChw-cvzEFnLjAgOBPKP9yXBLFOQqkj-kD67CCjPAcyBk6l0NA0o6hmEFf_WX2nVQPECFLanwcaUFWj1evxEndlKHirGM3y_V4L6hBTwP8nfPUWTk3WnljpCdafx6Nz2cvMXbXHV7vWUZ1j04/s2560/KarliCadel-Cygnet-PresentLaughter-9053-scaled.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1707" data-original-width="2560" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIXOaO8AvmTUA18Ep066B9T2HI2LvZyCRvMLXCFtnP-vnChw-cvzEFnLjAgOBPKP9yXBLFOQqkj-kD67CCjPAcyBk6l0NA0o6hmEFf_WX2nVQPECFLanwcaUFWj1evxEndlKHirGM3y_V4L6hBTwP8nfPUWTk3WnljpCdafx6Nz2cvMXbXHV7vWUZ1j04/w200-h133/KarliCadel-Cygnet-PresentLaughter-9053-scaled.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Present Laughter</span></i></b>- <b><span style="color: #38761d;">Cygnet Theatre</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">A wonderful comedic and vaudeville-ish piece where </span><span style="text-align: left;">Sean Murray as </span><span style="text-align: left;">Garry, </span><span style="text-align: left;">Melissa Fernandes as</span><span style="text-align: left;"> his assistant Monica Reed, </span><span style="text-align: left;">Drew Bradford as </span><span style="text-align: left;">Fred the butler, and </span><span style="text-align: left;">Shana Wride as Liz, made up for a wonderful evening at the theatre.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/12/i-give-you-truth-in-pleasant-disguise.html" target="_blank"><i></i></a><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/12/i-give-you-truth-in-pleasant-disguise.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihdLpeB1BU78gpdSllj48su3JkYkxA4u9LOXnHIjHJlxAZrLUms9cNLLNCfryLuYPRjVtr8tXhTOdWjZKneJOq6uSW2Qty-hVz6kb7t-gYFET4HSGzdvQ_fmqd40eWSGISJwcJwSVgUjMboibnrvYvLWtrztqDKFjbo17giLN1pz18yBwcbuQXU7O3xKc/s3991/The%20Glass%20Menagerie%20Luke%20H%20Jacobs,%20Shana%20Wride,%20Julia%20Belanova,%20Kirk%20Brown%20Photo%20by%20Andr%C3%A9a%20Agosto%2006.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3991" data-original-width="2661" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihdLpeB1BU78gpdSllj48su3JkYkxA4u9LOXnHIjHJlxAZrLUms9cNLLNCfryLuYPRjVtr8tXhTOdWjZKneJOq6uSW2Qty-hVz6kb7t-gYFET4HSGzdvQ_fmqd40eWSGISJwcJwSVgUjMboibnrvYvLWtrztqDKFjbo17giLN1pz18yBwcbuQXU7O3xKc/w133-h200/The%20Glass%20Menagerie%20Luke%20H%20Jacobs,%20Shana%20Wride,%20Julia%20Belanova,%20Kirk%20Brown%20Photo%20by%20Andr%C3%A9a%20Agosto%2006.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><br /><br /></i></span></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/12/i-give-you-truth-in-pleasant-disguise.html" target="_blank"><i>The Glass Menagerie</i> </a></span>- <span style="color: #38761d;">Diversionary Theatre</span></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">A creative take on the classic where just four characters make for an intense portrayal with an array of feelings. It was my last play of the year and what a wonderful way to end. </span></div></div><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">MUSICALS</span></u></b></p><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/what-you-want-r-e-s-p-e-c-t-has-got-it.html" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/what-you-want-r-e-s-p-e-c-t-has-got-it.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQe8pfnjwqNBi3sZkREgmjJMOMCIt1Q2jyaqZh3SCaZw3q9SJnUtrD2StHuCg-t3KDgD9C0mcUpV_Qm466b4-tJ-w7WvymtFCvZ7BhiR0Nu2moosEYzYxOmQ2uAgl9efd5krCs9tkze8vtKkeBXlrTRMcf6VdzntskRlpazJLfTD65tiU7a_43cSa7RI/s1440/328230343_2004065439958566_7804559690260248309_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="1440" height="102" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQe8pfnjwqNBi3sZkREgmjJMOMCIt1Q2jyaqZh3SCaZw3q9SJnUtrD2StHuCg-t3KDgD9C0mcUpV_Qm466b4-tJ-w7WvymtFCvZ7BhiR0Nu2moosEYzYxOmQ2uAgl9efd5krCs9tkze8vtKkeBXlrTRMcf6VdzntskRlpazJLfTD65tiU7a_43cSa7RI/w200-h102/328230343_2004065439958566_7804559690260248309_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/what-you-want-r-e-s-p-e-c-t-has-got-it.html" target="_blank">R-E-S-P-E-C-T</a> </span></i><span style="color: #38761d;">- LAMB'S Players</span></span></b></div></span></i></span></b><div style="text-align: justify;">Definitely, the musical in its world premiere was a great achievement for this company, giving voice to all those artists from the '60s and 70s, as well as addressing the acts of segregation and racism in the United States during those times. Great projections and memorable moments.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQKhnrtjfh-9o-aP0XAO7NPgSuD6WA9h6SIaPrEz-2yGeN64jz4B40xD6r5u6ATvGDratT_8Xcagdl9pRTWY0xzEfPmeDVRHf6RdQNtN7qhl2VZkmKmgxkR60GVPlh_RxId6Qgx2sPYcNCdEXXGct8x0h2jd-7_tCay_vQRdnl50yFmJM6ZLnyvy1DEI/s948/Presentation1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="691" data-original-width="948" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQKhnrtjfh-9o-aP0XAO7NPgSuD6WA9h6SIaPrEz-2yGeN64jz4B40xD6r5u6ATvGDratT_8Xcagdl9pRTWY0xzEfPmeDVRHf6RdQNtN7qhl2VZkmKmgxkR60GVPlh_RxId6Qgx2sPYcNCdEXXGct8x0h2jd-7_tCay_vQRdnl50yFmJM6ZLnyvy1DEI/w200-h146/Presentation1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><b><span style="color: #a64d79;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/03/ccaes-sunday-in-park-with-george-is.html" target="_blank">Sunday in the Park with George</a></span></b></i> -<span style="color: #38761d;"> <b>CCAE Theatricals</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another recognition for merit with this production that brought to life Georges Seurat's famous painting through its passages of creation. The stars of this production, in addition to the performances, were the costume design by Janet Pitcher, the lighting by Michelle Miles, and the projections by Patrick Gates.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/03/la-jolla-playhouse-debuts-world.html" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/03/la-jolla-playhouse-debuts-world.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ONGXwbczdEIOQAr7BgZa0u9GFMJ7uLyiaDnjAsF3sWvJISHEmgwp2x7khRh6HeB44Z_GZZc6VR2yF2M03M61pHgfH1BzfpOQ4gbRI_oZI_mJ86GRL5PkDm2iMToEF-ZuiESGPyG5UdlsRo9hCGpSyIvtakF12vIPLrjLN2v1YY_0AtzHJ01FmQk_2tg/s799/52723117532_d705bc739c_c.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="799" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ONGXwbczdEIOQAr7BgZa0u9GFMJ7uLyiaDnjAsF3sWvJISHEmgwp2x7khRh6HeB44Z_GZZc6VR2yF2M03M61pHgfH1BzfpOQ4gbRI_oZI_mJ86GRL5PkDm2iMToEF-ZuiESGPyG5UdlsRo9hCGpSyIvtakF12vIPLrjLN2v1YY_0AtzHJ01FmQk_2tg/w200-h133/52723117532_d705bc739c_c.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The Outsiders</i></span> - <span style="color: #38761d;">La Jolla Playhouse</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This world premiere, which is now heading to Broadway, is based on S.E. Hinton's novel. It is a well-rounded production with impressive choreography, special effects, and performances. To the extent that Angelina Jolie's children came to San Diego and urged the actress to participate in fundraising for the production of this musical on the great white way.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gC2E9wX6WiR10ohnukkdaNvrs_36zLZ__ezzq7TfdqMZjTYcf-Up0pz4zX7Va2sjXV_VbTkNt8teU9j0AruxBaMXQf78Dh4ZnIWNi-5EdFOnynjFs13DmI20k4chNTd-uF5MpjaRSci6zBAVeiDRMg4X4rDapD9zuUs5REshZFXQ2lSdJ_OEzkP2KE8/s813/Captura%20de%20pantalla%202023-07-27%20124134.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="813" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gC2E9wX6WiR10ohnukkdaNvrs_36zLZ__ezzq7TfdqMZjTYcf-Up0pz4zX7Va2sjXV_VbTkNt8teU9j0AruxBaMXQf78Dh4ZnIWNi-5EdFOnynjFs13DmI20k4chNTd-uF5MpjaRSci6zBAVeiDRMg4X4rDapD9zuUs5REshZFXQ2lSdJ_OEzkP2KE8/w200-h134/Captura%20de%20pantalla%202023-07-27%20124134.png" width="200" /></a></div>Tarzan, The Stage Musical</span></i></b> - <b><span style="color: #38761d;">Moonlight Theatre</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Moonlight definitely brought it to 2023. It takes a titanic effort to produce a musical of this magnitude. There are some hybrid production elements like costume rentals but you have to do what you can to make it work. You cannot go wrong with Phil Collins's music. The interpretations, singing, and acrobatics were amazing.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBvXQJPhyLowe_Zuh1RKomqx3jDg8UM4cmSKKT2vVQ9IZKwdii_oIgi0P16iv8jaxmWGy89j3bQNDUftmW2zBW07ooCwI4fI-6niTGH0xt7VVme0HmNyxgKmDjjY81juvoPuDf94nf3Efeop3tQQRf-Ma1dsaCi1qtZPIZpQTYrgkYL6ucVupBDwWrhj0/s800/53167637240_7fa9687a54_c.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="800" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBvXQJPhyLowe_Zuh1RKomqx3jDg8UM4cmSKKT2vVQ9IZKwdii_oIgi0P16iv8jaxmWGy89j3bQNDUftmW2zBW07ooCwI4fI-6niTGH0xt7VVme0HmNyxgKmDjjY81juvoPuDf94nf3Efeop3tQQRf-Ma1dsaCi1qtZPIZpQTYrgkYL6ucVupBDwWrhj0/w200-h164/53167637240_7fa9687a54_c.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/09/la-jolla-playhouse-continues-taking.html" target="_blank">The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical</a></span></i></b>- <b><span style="color: #38761d;">La Jolla Playhouse</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the weird, original, and unique categories, this musical was visually stunning with Wilson Chin's set design as well as great portrayals and dynamic rhythm throughout the piece. </div></div><p style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">TOURING PRODUCTIONS</span></b></u></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/01/aint-too-proud-life-and-times-of.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a64d79;"></span></a><span style="color: #a64d79;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/01/aint-too-proud-life-and-times-of.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyVRqqFmU36oXeAMpfIDIQVuNpUzlvVSNJgaM5vDO61iUDkh0NWwfXlWUV0TpnlmkitjBbUsB73r54wAVLQzEZqC6WlC9CiWaBCBEuD012opC3uV5DwLGjfiRuD_j9oiTXfNAWpjh0xPbKYiIDYPZv-ZvMD4pDOxBq2QYam-NwYeWETV5l9VSdDdelTw/s7450/(L%20%E2%80%93%20R)%20-%20Harrell%20Holmes%20Jr.,%20Elijah%20Ahmad%20Lewis,%20Jalen%20Harris,%20Marcus%20Paul%20James,%20James%20T.%20Lane%20from%20the%20National%20Touring%20Company%20of%20Ain%E2%80%99t%20Too%20Proud.%20Credit%20%C2%A9%202021%20Emilio%20Madrid..jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4872" data-original-width="7450" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyVRqqFmU36oXeAMpfIDIQVuNpUzlvVSNJgaM5vDO61iUDkh0NWwfXlWUV0TpnlmkitjBbUsB73r54wAVLQzEZqC6WlC9CiWaBCBEuD012opC3uV5DwLGjfiRuD_j9oiTXfNAWpjh0xPbKYiIDYPZv-ZvMD4pDOxBq2QYam-NwYeWETV5l9VSdDdelTw/w200-h131/(L%20%E2%80%93%20R)%20-%20Harrell%20Holmes%20Jr.,%20Elijah%20Ahmad%20Lewis,%20Jalen%20Harris,%20Marcus%20Paul%20James,%20James%20T.%20Lane%20from%20the%20National%20Touring%20Company%20of%20Ain%E2%80%99t%20Too%20Proud.%20Credit%20%C2%A9%202021%20Emilio%20Madrid..jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span style="color: #a64d79;">Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations </span></i></b>- <b><span style="color: #38761d;">Broadway San Diego</span></b></div></span></i></b></span><div style="text-align: justify;">Just at the beginning of 2023, we were already singing and dancing with this musical that features several classics from the great group, The Temptations. It is a musical that tells the origin of the group, their path to success, and very often how egos and disagreements get in the way. A great show with incredible choreography and voices. The interesting thing about this show was that several of the understudies stepped in due to COVID, and it was truly amazing.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/01/the-old-globe-stages-mary-zimmermans.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><i></i></span></a><span style="color: #a64d79;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/01/the-old-globe-stages-mary-zimmermans.html" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi868JucOCZAxFLbHRvhewG21L7joLPtYlbVc1LLwk2Mjd7qeUhepAnSEGKCWKDlRRGxB6H-EgYgxSJBzfWMOM2hOSTmbC_yH20c8rpat4iaQAG3sfb47lSj8VJgFlVzo9dy6zucmEkZ1p-ACdx0Jk3MB4KdmisfGw7c8NDluTTB5WzFTJ-V0h5JDjjqfo/s864/notebooks-03-web.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="864" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi868JucOCZAxFLbHRvhewG21L7joLPtYlbVc1LLwk2Mjd7qeUhepAnSEGKCWKDlRRGxB6H-EgYgxSJBzfWMOM2hOSTmbC_yH20c8rpat4iaQAG3sfb47lSj8VJgFlVzo9dy6zucmEkZ1p-ACdx0Jk3MB4KdmisfGw7c8NDluTTB5WzFTJ-V0h5JDjjqfo/w200-h139/notebooks-03-web.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><i>Mary Zimmerman's The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci</i></span> <span style="color: #38761d;">- The Old Globe</span></span></b></div></i></span></span></b><div style="text-align: justify;">I think this play wasn't anyone's favorite, hahaha. Personally, I found the concept fascinating, and the abstract nature of the quasi-nonexistent plot seemed creative and innovative to me. From the beautiful set design by Scott Bradley to the acrobatics of the actors, this piece definitely left its mark on my theatrical year.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES</span></u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><b><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwEWUTlA8figp6up-6agmXRNwSmxiQrl1ol-WmQ-CFR6LxRD_-pGlW8gpMY7UUOAJSIi7eCwDDnoerGjbrWNtplE9j3Sdpz_mxB70CKrvQbX1Cjjj_R3jlmFRsW-9pPSZMFn2IMjHnRqB3zyuehaLjjxyQ4kIRdKR6WBVc3ljlqtAvanEkOP7JnfHNRk/s2560/KarliCadel_Cygnet_Sharon_FinalDress_5719-scaled.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1707" data-original-width="2560" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwEWUTlA8figp6up-6agmXRNwSmxiQrl1ol-WmQ-CFR6LxRD_-pGlW8gpMY7UUOAJSIi7eCwDDnoerGjbrWNtplE9j3Sdpz_mxB70CKrvQbX1Cjjj_R3jlmFRsW-9pPSZMFn2IMjHnRqB3zyuehaLjjxyQ4kIRdKR6WBVc3ljlqtAvanEkOP7JnfHNRk/w200-h133/KarliCadel_Cygnet_Sharon_FinalDress_5719-scaled.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />Rafael Goldstein</i></b></span> as <i>Jake </i>in <span style="color: #0000ee; font-size: medium;"><b><i><u><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/06/keiko-green-brings-another-good-one-to.html" target="_blank">Sharon</a>. </u></i></b></span>This man took over the stage and the story with high-caliber histrionic chops and blew audiences away. The role of Jake is not an easy one and the way Keiko Green develops her characters is not easy either. It was amazing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnGtaQFNsbw7860_JF1Y1JCCJerpLHnKyFUBfEe43IaVXYiVKHUePEa0kPwJuF30PP4O3BwzWlfoM7xs8wwCYlQM4Vrz3rgTWFp5ZyxDO24fpq43w6CHGmda45mtE94cdBbsDQOewckqyfAupJHNPGrVizgqKa8jrF-STzbx8slUq3agG4HSuZUFha2g/s2560/KarliCadel_Cygnet_ElHuracan_3372-scaled.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1707" data-original-width="2560" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnGtaQFNsbw7860_JF1Y1JCCJerpLHnKyFUBfEe43IaVXYiVKHUePEa0kPwJuF30PP4O3BwzWlfoM7xs8wwCYlQM4Vrz3rgTWFp5ZyxDO24fpq43w6CHGmda45mtE94cdBbsDQOewckqyfAupJHNPGrVizgqKa8jrF-STzbx8slUq3agG4HSuZUFha2g/w200-h133/KarliCadel_Cygnet_ElHuracan_3372-scaled.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />Amalia Alarcón Morris</span></b></i> as <i>Valeria </i>in <i><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/cygnet-theatre-presents-west-coast.html">El Huracán</a></span></b></i>. A play that addresses dementia and its impact on life and loved ones. Alarcón complements Valeria with different layers in a great performance with a wonderful Cuban accent. It was authentic and raw at the same time.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSvsdEevsCWnbJw7OE0jcsxurymzF_EyjlaFx6pju9EotD7dXHVpMVCPf9g8UPFDt0apPHflgDMI6OaCRafYKbeOt7FdM75tCogIHy3MHPhppdUld67EhO6SdYflCH6YVFm2ZVJ2ccq1hivAGdCXnSIWyyaYXgfWJITu6NV8D306POZuRUs6tzisXWrE/s2000/High%20Table%20Dress%2013%20Monique%20Gaffney_Durwood%20Murray_Grandison%20Phelps_Taylor%20Henderson_photo%20by%20Peggy%20Ryan.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="2000" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSvsdEevsCWnbJw7OE0jcsxurymzF_EyjlaFx6pju9EotD7dXHVpMVCPf9g8UPFDt0apPHflgDMI6OaCRafYKbeOt7FdM75tCogIHy3MHPhppdUld67EhO6SdYflCH6YVFm2ZVJ2ccq1hivAGdCXnSIWyyaYXgfWJITu6NV8D306POZuRUs6tzisXWrE/w200-h133/High%20Table%20Dress%2013%20Monique%20Gaffney_Durwood%20Murray_Grandison%20Phelps_Taylor%20Henderson_photo%20by%20Peggy%20Ryan.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />Monique Gaffney</span></i></b> as <i>Yetunde </i>in <i><b><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/02/diversionary-theatre-presents-us.html" target="_blank">THE HIGH TABLE</a></b>. </i>In the world of African elders, the destiny of a "non-conventional" family is debated. Gaffney brings the feeling and passion that made this piece a memorable experience.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7wXJJh4-Z8ouoSdtewB2VovgacgD1PhnriQjz7Tj2UJIcO4rsmbmggSBFyG5M02sGUftCl0OOp_b9bfQ4mo3gOWwFSYfIolODK0O0ukt4LtawvvMHtLLbwn0-mB49SnGNE9RuYyg_epfX7laWpBWqEAR56FfcXF8IYGk-O1Q83N_cOEP7ewBQN2PuQ4Q/s6240/Cherry%20-%20James%20Sutorius%20-%20photo%20by%20Ken%20Jacques.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7wXJJh4-Z8ouoSdtewB2VovgacgD1PhnriQjz7Tj2UJIcO4rsmbmggSBFyG5M02sGUftCl0OOp_b9bfQ4mo3gOWwFSYfIolODK0O0ukt4LtawvvMHtLLbwn0-mB49SnGNE9RuYyg_epfX7laWpBWqEAR56FfcXF8IYGk-O1Q83N_cOEP7ewBQN2PuQ4Q/w200-h133/Cherry%20-%20James%20Sutorius%20-%20photo%20by%20Ken%20Jacques.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />James Sutorius</span></i></b> as Firs in <i><b><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/03/north-coast-rep-brings-one-of-chekhovs.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Cherry Orchard</span></a></b></i>. In the movie <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8c4KinQdgg" target="_blank">The Secret Life of Walter Mitty</a></i>, Sean Penn's character shares a powerful phrase that goes "<i>Beautiful things don't ask for attention</i>"... Sutorious's performance in 'Orchard was just that...beautiful.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqtA33AXNfKvq0uoRydsQqLC7XULceGN9lr-fD7a_FoQwHut416KCRl-ZRff7Q_j70oHVPJ7EVPqolJtYgj5RAO5uDjRIc3zt4Ztv3rrHhZAd80bjMKoQMqPk-5ihyphenhyphenoEQ4duRDCEY99aPdWGd5xYfK2onj5nad1dvbB9mcgL39kSIJ2qtlwxS05g5KDk/s2560/KarliCadel-Cygnet-LittleFellow-9878-scaled.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1707" data-original-width="2560" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqtA33AXNfKvq0uoRydsQqLC7XULceGN9lr-fD7a_FoQwHut416KCRl-ZRff7Q_j70oHVPJ7EVPqolJtYgj5RAO5uDjRIc3zt4Ztv3rrHhZAd80bjMKoQMqPk-5ihyphenhyphenoEQ4duRDCEY99aPdWGd5xYfK2onj5nad1dvbB9mcgL39kSIJ2qtlwxS05g5KDk/w200-h133/KarliCadel-Cygnet-LittleFellow-9878-scaled.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>MJ Seiber</i></span></b>'s portrayal of the Duke of Wellington, Arthur Wellesley in <span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/11/cygnet-theatre-brings-intense-moments.html" target="_blank"><b><i>The Little Fellow</i></b> </a></span>is a standout performance, -I believe one of his best-demonstrating superb acting abilities. Particularly noteworthy are the scenes he shares with his real-life wife, Keiko Green, which showcase a true master class in acting—alive, strong, and emotionally impactful.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxp2BIxls4tuwbDvHmc6uBuzxV3kisiCmoQLjhxZeP03skkl8y1Zb-e_V98J13GEhtqJWztP-fw9clhZY-sw2Vw4mtAYACemmAhGfpaja9xJwxIpUcmWY5C-38IpSIAkZvWFqF011MF9F3YDPNlZ0rWCWWgbAiQWZC0gUC2gPHyxq3mimUoTSwZ8-x75g/s1024/LIY_Katee-Drysdale_Jill-Drexler-1024x779.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="1024" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxp2BIxls4tuwbDvHmc6uBuzxV3kisiCmoQLjhxZeP03skkl8y1Zb-e_V98J13GEhtqJWztP-fw9clhZY-sw2Vw4mtAYACemmAhGfpaja9xJwxIpUcmWY5C-38IpSIAkZvWFqF011MF9F3YDPNlZ0rWCWWgbAiQWZC0gUC2gPHyxq3mimUoTSwZ8-x75g/w200-h152/LIY_Katee-Drysdale_Jill-Drexler-1024x779.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><b><i><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">Katee Drysdale</span></i></b> as Bella in <i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>Lost in Yonkers</b></span></i> totally makes the play with her raw interpretation that filled the room with emotion and empathy. </div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 17.6px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;"><u>Honorable mentions</u></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><i><b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: medium;">The Turn of the Screw</span></b></i>. In their company debut as Chalk Circle Collective, Megan Carmitchel and Michael Cusimano deliver an intense, creepy evening full of mixed sound effects live while trying to solve a mystery not of this world.</div><div>The use of the small space, the lighting, and the passion made for an original experience with cathartic interpretations.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/06/new-village-arts-stages-classic-singin.html" target="_blank">Singin' in the Rain</a></span></i></b>. New Village Arts. What is lovely and very refreshing to see with these productions, is the promising talent. All very young, truly professional, and prepared. Emma Nossal is a force not to be reckoned with from the fierce tap dancing to the grace, and the beautiful singing, everything is just amazing making a great pair with Anthony Michael Vacio who is charming and enchanting. Hats down to co-choreographers Katie Banville and Jenna Ingrassia-Knox who guided joy to watch tap sequences between Don and sidekick Cosmo aka Xavier J. Bush. </div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/07/blindspot-collective-in-collaboration.html" target="_blank">Underground. An immersive Musical Mashup</a></i>.</b> Blindspot Collective in Collaboration with Coronado Playhouse brought the bar and the use of all the space to the experience that even though it needs tweaking, the creativity, effort, and just going for it, deserves to be on this list. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Edit: Catch the shows we discussed in the <b><u><a href="https://downstage.podbean.com/e/some-of-the-best-shows-in-2023-and-what-is-coming-with-the-circle/" target="_blank">SDTCC podcast: <i>Downstage</i></a></u></b> co-hosted by David Coddon and yours truly.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-75345990627191339642023-12-17T19:41:00.000-08:002023-12-17T19:41:29.415-08:00"I give you truth in the pleasant disguise of illusion"<p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;"><u>Diversionary Theatre Presents Its Captivating Version of <span style="text-align: justify;">Tennessee Williams's "</span><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Glass Menagerie</i></span><span style="text-align: justify;">"</span></u></span></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHWXj8Pv6FNNhvD0DyHgNv8Q9BVIdnGr6KlVsY9YL7btZEHDENyfOoG6HqWqe68qKvEy6VQrHpgnIb5hcvLB8AlkQ3b3psDH5lSLz80N52-Q7M-06DmzF997OUPMHc6OIlJGZuU8N6OcGkUHtxMK929ZSVfzMsiGIYkD8g_YsDlmQkhnWBwYyvT4pE5c/s3991/The%20Glass%20Menagerie%20Luke%20H%20Jacobs,%20Shana%20Wride,%20Julia%20Belanova,%20Kirk%20Brown%20Photo%20by%20Andr%C3%A9a%20Agosto%2006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3991" data-original-width="2661" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHWXj8Pv6FNNhvD0DyHgNv8Q9BVIdnGr6KlVsY9YL7btZEHDENyfOoG6HqWqe68qKvEy6VQrHpgnIb5hcvLB8AlkQ3b3psDH5lSLz80N52-Q7M-06DmzF997OUPMHc6OIlJGZuU8N6OcGkUHtxMK929ZSVfzMsiGIYkD8g_YsDlmQkhnWBwYyvT4pE5c/w426-h640/The%20Glass%20Menagerie%20Luke%20H%20Jacobs,%20Shana%20Wride,%20Julia%20Belanova,%20Kirk%20Brown%20Photo%20by%20Andr%C3%A9a%20Agosto%2006.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Luke H Jacobs, Shana Wride, Julia Belanova, Kirk Brown Photo by Andréa Agosto</span> </td></tr></tbody></table>I always love it when companies bring back the classics. Diversionary is closing the year with Tennessee Williams's "<i>The Glass Menagerie</i>". A play that gave its author notoriety and was inspired on his life. This piece is interesting to produce as it has symbolism and interpretations that can be left to a direction note and have the audience catch the rest. Directed by Lisa Berger, this version of <i>Menagerie' </i>delivered poignant storytelling along with splendid performances. The plot revolves around the Wingfield family, specifically Amanda Wingfield, a castrating mother with two adult children Tom, who works at a shoe factory just for the paycheck and to support his family, and Laura, who is very shy, is in her mom's overbarring shadow and has a disability. They lead a peculiar lifestyle and Amanda reminisces on her old glories and would like the same for her kids. The disability aspect of Laura has been more evident in other renders of this piece. I would like to think that this was a conscious decision for this production to have it be more subtle physically, and stronger emotionally, which I appreciated.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The set design by Michael Wogulis was both creative and practical, featuring a one-floor house complete with a porch, dining area, and living room. There is the clever use of a gauze curtain to change scenes, showcases a seamless transition between the different settings. The lighting design by Vida Huang played a crucial role in accentuating key moments and enhancing the overall atmosphere, allowing the deep feeling of the emotions conveyed on stage.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Sound design by Remus Harrington and Elisa Vedar, along with Leah Osterman's prop design, added depth and provided subtle clues to the story. These elements worked in harmony, enriching the audience's experience.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Amanda is portrayed fantastically by Shana Wride. Her work was both powerful and nuanced, highlighting her versatility as an actress and artist, as not long ago she directed a pretty cool version of <i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2023/10/north-coast-rep-welcomes-fall-season-by.html" target="_blank">Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde.</a></i> Luke Harvey Jacobs delivered a remarkable performance as both the narrator and the mysterious Tom Wingfield. His portrayal was captivating, drawing the audience into the story and keeping them engaged throughout. Julia Belanova's as Laura Wingfield was tender and mighty, as her character developed and grew throughout the narrative. Kirk Brown, as Jim O'Connor, brought a wonderful voice and charm to the stage, shaking things up with his presence.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Diversionary Theatre's interpretation of "<i>The Glass Menagerie</i>" showcased the company's unique voice and style, breathing new life into this classic play. It was nice to experience this timeless story from their perspective, leaving the audience moved by the production.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until December 23, for ticket prices and showtimes, please click <a href="https://www.diversionary.org/" target="_blank"><b>HERE</b></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-14528488936520839032023-12-05T18:34:00.000-08:002023-12-05T18:34:48.034-08:00Backyard Renaissance Closes Season with PROOF <p><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">A Play About Math, Brilliance, and Family Dynamics </span></u></b></p><p><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJ6vGpX4ntGy7Buh3ZTrfz-cIAH19xHEcA4-_8ebcpW1ra3STFkgHFxRcy95AAV6fNrUtrTWitn0sCc07LBB6Ok7lU9Si04BfIyJdk2gsNXF0MiS5f8zqA_bCv_MMkuYS2oWZoULF3_Yqj9YXU7LG3AWBHla1oWyPArcFHSMGzzUrNiF83GSM8zZx5yA/s3995/Photo%20-%20Catherine%20Robert%20and%20Hal%20favorite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2663" data-original-width="3995" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJ6vGpX4ntGy7Buh3ZTrfz-cIAH19xHEcA4-_8ebcpW1ra3STFkgHFxRcy95AAV6fNrUtrTWitn0sCc07LBB6Ok7lU9Si04BfIyJdk2gsNXF0MiS5f8zqA_bCv_MMkuYS2oWZoULF3_Yqj9YXU7LG3AWBHla1oWyPArcFHSMGzzUrNiF83GSM8zZx5yA/w640-h426/Photo%20-%20Catherine%20Robert%20and%20Hal%20favorite.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Liliana Talwatte, Francis Gercke, and </span>William Huffaker. Photo by Daren Scott</span></td></tr></tbody></table></p><div style="text-align: justify;">"<i>Proof</i>" by David Auburn, directed by Anthony Methvin, goes into the complexities of family relationships, mental health, and the pursuit of intellectual brilliance. The plot revolves around Catherine (Liliana Talwatte), a young woman grappling with her father's legacy as a brilliant mathematician. Robert (Francis Gercke), was a mathematical genius whose brilliance was overshadowed by mental illness. As Catherine navigates the aftermath of her father's death, she is confronted by her estranged older sister, Claire (Wendy Maples), and Hal (William Huffaker), a former student of Robert's who seeks to unlock the secrets hidden within Robert's notebooks.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The play explores themes of intellectual inheritance, the burden of proof, and the fine line between genius and madness. Auburn's script ventures into the realms of mathematics and the fragility of the human mind, weaving together a story that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. It also touches upon family dynamics when there is an illness involved and when there is a death, how behaviors can become aggressive and even unexpected. The impact that mental illness can have on a person's life and the toll it takes on their loved ones. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBI8WQlS8KzZ14OuXpsE0DeRTxTQw4KHiBoBaa7keuRbWLml2nb26vnGo4tT7KbaIwnArxNDsnoX8nLP64_GT0SkOGnDdY_-xyPsXWUBHWXPTNN8Vg0zVkGtEd3l9mLATA-CRX2_1Psr7vwNRHH4D8nfo8NrgbeejMU_c_fHJyd2IwVXVRTC-2Nr4WOk/s4063/Photo%20-%20Catherine%20&%20Claire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2709" data-original-width="4063" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBI8WQlS8KzZ14OuXpsE0DeRTxTQw4KHiBoBaa7keuRbWLml2nb26vnGo4tT7KbaIwnArxNDsnoX8nLP64_GT0SkOGnDdY_-xyPsXWUBHWXPTNN8Vg0zVkGtEd3l9mLATA-CRX2_1Psr7vwNRHH4D8nfo8NrgbeejMU_c_fHJyd2IwVXVRTC-2Nr4WOk/w400-h266/Photo%20-%20Catherine%20&%20Claire.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">Liliana Talwatte and </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Wendy Maples. Photo by Daren Scott </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Francis Gercke delivers a captivating portrayal of Robert, with a delicate balance between radiance and vulnerability. Liliana Talwatte as Catherine shows the character's internal struggles allowing the audience to empathize with her emotional turmoil. Wendy Maples, in the role of Claire, delivers a commendable performance that adds a touch of levity -and comedy- to the play. Her portrayal brings forth the complexities of sibling dynamics and the never-ending, <i><b>adulting </b></i>tension between pragmatism and idealism. William Huffaker as Hal brings a sense of youthful curiosity capturing the character's passion for mathematics and his desire to uncover the truth within Robert's notebooks. This role can be taken as sort of a nerdish <i>bro</i>, once he reacts to the proof Catherine claims to have written and here is where I had a record-scratch moment...Anthony Methvin's direction allows the story to unfold, highlighting the nuances of the character's relationships and the underlying tension within the narrative. His keen eye for detail is evident in the seamless integration of the set design by Yi-Chien Lee and the lighting by Curtis Mueller, creating an evocative atmosphere where audiences see a porch with the back door to the house that shifts and comes to life. However, I did feel the production as a whole was a tad short of fully realizing its potential and could leave the audience craving a deeper exploration of the piece's central ideas.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The marvel of the arts is that everyone is different, so go check it out for yourself and support local theatre.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Playing until December 9th, for performance times and more information click <b><i><a href="https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=146238" target="_blank">HERE</a></i></b>. </p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-78131758771520881692023-12-01T11:05:00.000-08:002023-12-01T11:07:56.048-08:00"Babbitt" at the La Jolla Playhouse Led by Matthew Broderick as the title character, <p><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">Showcases a Stellar Cast</span></u></b></p><p><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5ZfKF8tpkw37LpoFIe6Mrh5yFUQ7z5XhJzUWAwZ-8OW1Bon5Mq9syKeR8mNtIKUvNaGICIiFdg4_CpYxlCjHnGxoYlMgokehWGXdJId9h-PfbptXE2FVY13hVwosEXccIRzMK7CdL3AjljI7f5ceTXdtPRz9fMsaVKJ-h6rv52n973NcoDCKh7JXC6A/s799/53323264175_9f26246207_c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="799" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5ZfKF8tpkw37LpoFIe6Mrh5yFUQ7z5XhJzUWAwZ-8OW1Bon5Mq9syKeR8mNtIKUvNaGICIiFdg4_CpYxlCjHnGxoYlMgokehWGXdJId9h-PfbptXE2FVY13hVwosEXccIRzMK7CdL3AjljI7f5ceTXdtPRz9fMsaVKJ-h6rv52n973NcoDCKh7JXC6A/w640-h426/53323264175_9f26246207_c.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(L-R) Francis Jue, Chris Myers, Julie Halston, Matthew Broderick and Anna Chlumsky in BABBITT; photo by Jenna Selby.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span>Theatre is such a powerful art form, and often we subconsciously just take it as a </span><i>mere </i><span>variety of entertainment, when it gives us so much more. La Jolla Playhouse's world premiere of "</span><i>Babbitt</i><span>", an adaptation, written by Joe DiPietro and based on the novel by Sinclair Lewis, thoroughly illustrates American culture, the middle class, and what success should look like. As someone who did not grow up in that culture, I feel the angles stand out even more, it was like watching one of the molds for "</span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leave_It_to_Beaver" target="_blank">Leave it to Beaver</a><span>". With that said, there is a commonality with every culture about how success should look like, and how women are perceived in society along their </span><i>roles</i><span>. George Babbitt seemingly has the ideal life with a wife, two kids, and a ride-or-die best friend. A creature of habit, everything is good as long as it continues its flow while not grasping that he is going through a mid-life crisis, and that his family, has needs, aspirations, and frustrations too. Like chess, George becomes a pawn of the system.</span></div></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Directed by Christopher Ashley, "<i>Babbitt</i>" showcases a stellar cast, led by Matthew Broderick as the title character, George Babbitt. Broderick's performance is charming, as he embodies Babbitt's inner turmoil and disillusionment with the American Dream. The supporting cast is fantastic, histrionically circling Broderick and enhancing each scene with Genevieve Angelson, Anna Chlumsky, Julie Halston, Ann Harada, Francis Jue, Matt McGrath, and Chris Myers who delivered nuanced portrayals of multiple characters, transitioning between the various roles. Their versatility and acting potency added depth and dimension to the production. This ensemble is definitely a tour de force. Something that gave me an odd feeling during the performance I saw, was the audience's reaction when Matthew Broderick came to the stage by clapping and cheering uncontrollably. A reaction that did not occur with the actors that started the play which, I am sure they can see coming and even get used to. Aside from seeing the power of TV and cinema warped into a live performer that people are very excited about, -and I am almost sure that secretly wishing to hear "<i><a href="https://youtu.be/0ZDbKhkLxTs" target="_blank">Bueller</a></i>"-... I cannot say enough how amazing, strong, and cohesive this cast is. Joe DiPietro's adaptation, coupled with Christopher Ashley's direction, showcases the timeless relevance of Sinclair Lewis' novel. And even though the novel is from the 1920s, having phrases that go something like "we just allowed you ladies to vote" and other misogynist nonsense that could be perceived as outdated...I found it to be very timely... </p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIoEdaCsmVgp5ekZeSEDM4XH7Ur2IPdZS9-KwKc1htJSFjGHchSjpHYb8nwQe5_0nMa-ID297wbzrBPu-SKZL8YNXCiyeZE-B2wOsAazNwOx9CqEAN8dvptZRKlXOiL5QPVpAOOgFp3SvLxAyznSXCVKPFriaiBNRxLnMz5Zab3nBMkP7bdNR9bpboOBA/s800/53323264185_de2c9f1f69_c.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIoEdaCsmVgp5ekZeSEDM4XH7Ur2IPdZS9-KwKc1htJSFjGHchSjpHYb8nwQe5_0nMa-ID297wbzrBPu-SKZL8YNXCiyeZE-B2wOsAazNwOx9CqEAN8dvptZRKlXOiL5QPVpAOOgFp3SvLxAyznSXCVKPFriaiBNRxLnMz5Zab3nBMkP7bdNR9bpboOBA/w400-h320/53323264185_de2c9f1f69_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Matthew Broderick and Ann Harada in BABBITT; photo by Jenna Selby.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The set design, created by Walt Spangler, is stunning. A visual feast for the eyes with a two-story library, adorned in white and purple, serving as a striking backdrop for the unfolding drama. Adding linoleum floors and rotating platforms enriches the theatrical experience, allowing the actors to seamlessly move across the stage and adding a dynamic element to the storytelling.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Cha See's lighting design masterfully amplifies the set's visual impact. Precisely lit, the scenes are bathed in tones that perfectly complement the mood, creating a rich and immersive atmosphere. Meanwhile, the sound design, crafted by Leon Rothenberg, cleverly manipulates volume levels to enhance the dialogue-driven moments and highlight Babbitt's impactful speeches, effectively shaping the overall mood of the production.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">"Babbitt" is a thoughtfully choreographed piece, with Stephen Buescher's choreography adding a layer of physicality and movement that further amplifies the emotional depth of the story. The performances are skillfully synchronized, creating a smooth fusion of movement and narrative.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until December 10th, this production succeeds in capturing the essence of a middle-aged, middle-class white man's journey in his pursuit of the American Dream, creating room for introspection and for this country with different cultures and backgrounds coexisting, it also shines a light on what the American dream really is and what does that mean?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">For ticket prices and performance dates and times, please click <a href="https://securesite.lajollaplayhouse.org/events?startDate=2023-11-01&_gl=1*14qmdl7*_ga*MTI0NjM0MjA1Mi4xNzAxMzg2MzQz*_ga_P0VG620Z3F*MTcwMTM4NjM0My4xLjEuMTcwMTM4NjcwNy4wLjAuMA.." target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-20222641732065086952023-11-12T13:32:00.000-08:002023-11-12T13:38:37.896-08:00MOXIE Theatre's latest production "Man and Moon" Stages a Tender Story About a Life-Changing Disease<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">Along with the Reactions of the Body and the Heart</span></u></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNovVFXVm6XlLj0Mt-6ccmbLMnrM9K9lnZtsu6n1d0TzQLvspkjJaF185t5HlJvOiObqRULT3BHpwdsWXmNOAE-oUOHB0LcPKg1X7yyO1OaID1s8yTleyRdRbHG-JMH2EdKFU4pYXiQh-O_sHuwV2-6OzC4Wh4FvKIparSnkXqNxaiiit8SsTIpC6Sno/s6923/6_Tirzah_MGGreen.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4615" data-original-width="6923" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNovVFXVm6XlLj0Mt-6ccmbLMnrM9K9lnZtsu6n1d0TzQLvspkjJaF185t5HlJvOiObqRULT3BHpwdsWXmNOAE-oUOHB0LcPKg1X7yyO1OaID1s8yTleyRdRbHG-JMH2EdKFU4pYXiQh-O_sHuwV2-6OzC4Wh4FvKIparSnkXqNxaiiit8SsTIpC6Sno/w640-h426/6_Tirzah_MGGreen.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Tirzah and </span>MG Green. Photo Daren Scott </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Aaron (MG Green), a transitioning man battling breast cancer, encounters Luna (Tirzah), a spirited 12-year-old fascinated by astronomy. Luna's mom has breast cancer and she is used to the waiting and the special unit rooms. As their parallel treatments progress, the characters develop a deep connection, leading to unexpected revelations. "<i>Man and Moon</i>," written by San Diego Playwright Siena Marilyn Ledger, and directed by MOXIE's executive artistic director, Desireé Clarke Miller, is a poignant play set in an oncology unit. MG Green and Tirzah deliver a compelling and emotionally charged performance, captivating the audience throughout the 90-minute piece without intermission. Their on-stage chemistry, coupled with alternating doses of humor and heart-wrenching moments, creates a dynamic and moving duo. Desireé Clarke Miller's direction demonstrates careful and skillful guidance, resulting in a wonderful sense of communion. Farah Dinga who we've seen onstage in a couple of MOXIE plays this year, was assistant director for <i>Moon</i>' and I believe their contribution rounded out the complexity of what is happening along with the fates.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVqEEpU6GL4cYFWc5xFddFfsi5QytSj_hzCCIM5s6E_Lm47FzhyTwgM6X24FzckJvrArKVgszfb_RAD7zLOuqkm7-oihKRFP7kFlU3tYrBJbNn2iMLmUJ-UO77-5hGiCnrbNss3QTgrn0XQY1RdVXTjwRqIGyjxskUbMkNRZoJH_aofszL3q3RgFwvrA/s4500/4_Tirzah_MGGreen.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4500" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVqEEpU6GL4cYFWc5xFddFfsi5QytSj_hzCCIM5s6E_Lm47FzhyTwgM6X24FzckJvrArKVgszfb_RAD7zLOuqkm7-oihKRFP7kFlU3tYrBJbNn2iMLmUJ-UO77-5hGiCnrbNss3QTgrn0XQY1RdVXTjwRqIGyjxskUbMkNRZoJH_aofszL3q3RgFwvrA/w400-h266/4_Tirzah_MGGreen.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MG Green and Tirzah. Photo Daren Scott </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">The set design by Yi-Chien Lee effectively portrays a realistic medical waiting area with a bathroom door, hallway, and play section, complemented by Rai Feltmann's well-crafted props. Annelise Salazar's lighting design captures the familiar grayish-yellow ambiance of such places, enhancing the overall authenticity. Claire Peterson's costume design successfully brings out the distinct personalities of the characters, although I understand the reasoning behind it, still I would have liked more variety in Aaron's wardrobe.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The technical direction by Robert (Robbie) Malave and scenic artistry by Julie Lorenz beautifully depict Luna's love for the stars and planets, incorporating vibrant colors that counterbalance the feelings of uncertainty and heaviness that the unfolding of the story is bringing. Eliza Vedar's sound design further enhances the immersive experience.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is a very tender story about a life-changing, life-threatening disease that intersects with the physical body and how it can react and even lie. Siena Marilyn Ledger puts powerful premises in front of each other that as well as being thought-provoking, also put out on the table how life can be unfair. <i>Man and Moon</i> is a touching play in which the performances, direction, and design elements create an atmospheric production that evokes both laughter and tears. Be prepared to have tissues on hand.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until December 3. Industry Night is on November 20 and an ASL Interpreted Performance is on November 26.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">$20 RUSH tickets are available at the Box Office 1 hour before each performance. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Hardship tickets are also available upon request by calling the Box Office at (858) 598-7620 for more information.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">To learn about additional dates, cast, and creatives <b><a href="https://www.moxietheatre.com/man-and-moon/" target="_blank">click HERE</a></b>. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">To listen to Desireé Clarke Miller's interview on the Downstage Podcast <b><a href="https://downstage.podbean.com/e/the-value-of-theatre-and-how-it-is-or-should-be-a-safe-space/" target="_blank">click HERE</a></b>.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-3338756442675074142023-11-05T18:13:00.006-08:002023-11-05T18:13:58.261-08:00Cygnet Theatre Brings Intense Moments in "The Little Fellow" World Premiere <p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">Combining strong Performances and Engaging Storytelling </span></u></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><p><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: x-small;">A Blog View by </span><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="color: blue; font-size: x-small; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></span></span></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPOpfnGvdNLZv6IJLCkwxMKwytD0Qhkv77OwI8XoDxGRtjOCl3aICQPsx_xTAGeeI3hi5XgYiGglamXsFLv258rPJSIuPkIS8tUoq5szCBXL4z4_l8HmDFnP8R9UBQE-Sr1NJc2iO-l0QNcZ5GRsvlYMHZzVXWGM5TFDv9n1fU-WNX3u5rwnX74MWkSA/s2560/KarliCadel-Cygnet-LittleFellow-9878-scaled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1707" data-original-width="2560" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPOpfnGvdNLZv6IJLCkwxMKwytD0Qhkv77OwI8XoDxGRtjOCl3aICQPsx_xTAGeeI3hi5XgYiGglamXsFLv258rPJSIuPkIS8tUoq5szCBXL4z4_l8HmDFnP8R9UBQE-Sr1NJc2iO-l0QNcZ5GRsvlYMHZzVXWGM5TFDv9n1fU-WNX3u5rwnX74MWkSA/w640-h426/KarliCadel-Cygnet-LittleFellow-9878-scaled.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rachael VanWormer, Sofia Jean Gomez, MJ Sieber, Keiko Green (center). Photo by Karli Cadel Photography</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;">"<i>The Little Fellow (or The Queen of Tarts Tells All)"</i> Cygnet Theatres world premiere production written by Kate Hamil and directed by Rob Lufty is a risqué comedic drama, loosely based on the life and tell-all memoirs of 19th-century courtesan Harriette Wilson. The piece is strong with its doses of suspense. </div><p></p><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Keiko Green, portraying Harriette Wilson, shines in her role, capturing the essence of the character with skill. The entire cast is terrific, giving their all to bring the story to life. MJ Seiber's portrayal of the Duke of Wellington, Arthur Wellesley, is a standout performance, -I believe one of his best-demonstrating superb acting abilities. Particularly noteworthy are the scenes he shares with real-life wife, Keiko Green, which showcase a true master class in acting—alive, strong, and emotionally impactful. The intensity of the deliveries, especially Green and Seiber is such, that it made me think of the show run as a whole and the loads of energy it takes to perform from Wednesday to Sunday. It definitely is a testament to their histrionic mettle and fortitude. Rachael VanWormer's return to the San Diego stage is met with a marvelous performance, offering thought-provoking moments as the chambermaid Mary. Sofia Jean Gomez, portraying courtesan Julia Johnstone and Harriette's childhood "co-worker," brings a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and cynicism to her character with creativity and spunk. Rob Lufty's direction is spot on when delivering these complex multi-layered stories that transport the audience to different worlds, creating a true theatre experience.</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XJKC06bl0qaKrLMB48ToaIbUSDN6D6e0N_3XnyNxWPCrL11D38D2LByvFwuh0jJ47RCqFDrf0yBoKEPPBBPVEB2CjMQzKsK6g4I7_WgoVHOr2noLq3G8jp3uiiREitpAFaqx2h-VMxXrtXvXDSuZRTYq9l0uSkEHcW9YDo2A1S5mmIcxsf8ma5hGsd8/s2560/KarliCadel-Cygnet-LittleFellow-9711-scaled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1707" data-original-width="2560" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XJKC06bl0qaKrLMB48ToaIbUSDN6D6e0N_3XnyNxWPCrL11D38D2LByvFwuh0jJ47RCqFDrf0yBoKEPPBBPVEB2CjMQzKsK6g4I7_WgoVHOr2noLq3G8jp3uiiREitpAFaqx2h-VMxXrtXvXDSuZRTYq9l0uSkEHcW9YDo2A1S5mmIcxsf8ma5hGsd8/w400-h266/KarliCadel-Cygnet-LittleFellow-9711-scaled.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Keiko Green, Sofia Jean Gomez. Photo by Karli Cadel Photography</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Yi-Chien Lee's scenic design, primarily focusing on the Little Fellow's quarters, is flexible, realistic, and practical, effortlessly transitioning between scenes while providing the necessary elements. In addition, an unexpected reveal will leave audiences in awe. Shirley Pierson's period costume design, featuring girdles, slips, and crinolines, along with Peter Herman's wig design, successfully transports the audience to the 19th century. Anne E. McMills' lighting design and Steven Leffue's sound design further enhance the overall production, adding depth and creating a captivating atmosphere.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I love when theatres bring to the stage these types of stories that bring up questions, and make you go and research to compare and contrast the versions and theories out there. Although the piece needs some tuning so the scenes flow more smoothly as with all new works, "<i>The Little Fellow (or The Queen of Tarts Tells All)</i>" definitely delivers a memorable theatrical experience, combining strong performances, engaging storytelling, and cool production elements. Currently playing until November 19. For performance days and times, please <b><a href="https://tickets.cygnettheatre.com/TheatreManager/1/online&event=567" target="_blank">click HERE</a></b>. </p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7774334856107092905.post-79228850569165594702023-10-30T21:32:00.005-07:002023-10-31T18:03:44.468-07:00A British Spy Thriller Turned Comedy<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-large;">Scripps Ranch Theatre Brings the Silliness and Wit with <i>The 39 Steps </i></span></u></b></p><p style="text-align: right;"><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: small; text-align: left;">A Blog View by </span><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/p/enciso-consulting.html" style="background-color: #fff2cc; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: small; text-align: left; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti</a></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOhDW7dZUA7cC0A8pTBEHOSZzrx36nojjtZt4uRzIabcNbdEw4e8k7npgq496GSdotrTl99N6_b2qZBCGw2rKdOz0APMhse9LJp_BsKsoJb_GUdDzvFJzzQpQJ1hfpNxjOGh_sDrXbGg9wPIvjFvGK9i5pVw4KmGqIwns4UjzoxVP-g_DK0WUxuOUwIWc/s6240/37-DSCF3078.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOhDW7dZUA7cC0A8pTBEHOSZzrx36nojjtZt4uRzIabcNbdEw4e8k7npgq496GSdotrTl99N6_b2qZBCGw2rKdOz0APMhse9LJp_BsKsoJb_GUdDzvFJzzQpQJ1hfpNxjOGh_sDrXbGg9wPIvjFvGK9i5pVw4KmGqIwns4UjzoxVP-g_DK0WUxuOUwIWc/w640-h426/37-DSCF3078.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cast of The 39 Steps. Photo Ken Jacques</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">As the year is coming to an end and the marquees start displaying Christmas and spooky classics, it is always fun to squeeze a comedy into the repertoire. Scripps Ranch Theatre did just that, closing 2023 with an adaptation of <i>The 39 Steps, </i>an Alfred Hitchcock movie turned comedy by Patrick Barlow, from the novel by John Buchan, directed by Phil Johnson. From the pre-curtain speech voiced by Johnson which immediately set the tone, this play proved to be a delightful slapstick comedy, filled with silly moments that kept the audience engaged throughout. The central mystery of the "39 steps" was skillfully woven into the plot, with a gradual unveiling of the truth, leading to an enjoyable and entertaining experience that runs exactly 2 hours including a 15-minute intermission. It goes by fast being that all the moving pieces do as well and the audience tries to catch up and not miss anything of what is happening. </div></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Yi-Chien Lee has been hard at work this year gracing theatergoers with her amazing set designs. Despite its simplicity, the design was practical and effectively framed the scenes, enhancing the overall storytelling along with Michelle Miles's lighting design and Patrick Duffy's sound design that gave added "umphs" to the punch lines as well as revealing moments that plumped the ongoing mystery. My personal favorite without spoilers, was a party disco scene that went on and off as the door opened and closed. That was pure calculated joy. Special shout out to stage manager Jessamyn Foster because it is they, the SMs that can make this magic happen performance after performance. However, the true stars of this production were the prop designs by Justin Magallanes, as they were essential tools for the actors to seamlessly switch between roles, changing mannerisms and attitudes with impressive speed. This added an element of excitement and made the performances highly enjoyable to watch. </p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOf1jW2Y6LQ_dQq9ZfJpQLRZmoyluI1t6ZNjHLGQPMekE_Pc8TcqP1JruEi9Fkp0xeU9KwQ5hpgNYHYz3iyPtCWayi8VCvPcUGt-iMf-cKd0qRWV3YMUjcr4MAKkdidXf9mAMNguNczLLliF-6nc0ImiRcmK2uj3IEfHb7DvP_AEPhKs-iGoPNByATGc/s4160/17-DSCF2886.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="4082" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOf1jW2Y6LQ_dQq9ZfJpQLRZmoyluI1t6ZNjHLGQPMekE_Pc8TcqP1JruEi9Fkp0xeU9KwQ5hpgNYHYz3iyPtCWayi8VCvPcUGt-iMf-cKd0qRWV3YMUjcr4MAKkdidXf9mAMNguNczLLliF-6nc0ImiRcmK2uj3IEfHb7DvP_AEPhKs-iGoPNByATGc/w393-h400/17-DSCF2886.jpg" width="393" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Melanie Mino and Chris Braden. Photo Photo Ken Jacques</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">As with every mystery, there are the good guys, the bad guys, the police guys, the seducers and seduced, etc, and the cast of 4 actors played all of them. Kaitlyn Slater's portrayals were exceptional, showcasing her fantastic comedic timing and bringing a witty, snappy, and charming presence to the stage. Alongside her, Melanie Mino also delivered, infusing the production with a touch of serious comedy. Marley Bauer as the framed Richard Hanay is the axis in which the events unfold, setting the rhythm and tone. Chris Braden is the man of the many voices, faces, and frequencies, prompting serious cackles from the audience. It was evident that Phil Johnson's direction played a significant role in bringing together these talented actors and their craft, resulting in a cohesive and well-executed production. Between 1939 and 1950, in Mexico "el teatro de carpa" which translates to "circus theatre", showcasing comedic icons such as <a href="https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germ%C3%A1n_Vald%C3%A9s" target="_blank">Tin Tán </a>or <a href="https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jes%C3%BAs_Mart%C3%ADnez_%C2%ABPalillo%C2%BB" target="_blank">Palillo </a>was the boom. <i>39 Steps</i> reminded me of that. I also have to add that Scripps might be on to something with the pre-curtain speeches. Remember <i><a href="http://www.fromanother0.com/2022/09/the-outsider-might-be-one-of-scripps.html" target="_blank">The Outsider</a></i>? (if you know...you know).</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is a fun time out at the theatre with family and friends thanks to its blend of comedy, mystery, and talented performances. Proof of the creativity and skill of the entire production team, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently playing until November 19. For performance days and times please <b><a href="https://scrippsranchtheatre.org/" target="_blank">click HERE</a></b>.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Listen to Phil Johnson being interviewed in Downstage, the SD Theatre Critics Circle <a href="https://downstage.podbean.com/e/did-we-see-the-same-show/" target="_blank">podcast HERE</a>.</p>Alejandra Encisohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14705077683210226474noreply@blogger.com0