Review

Theater Review: “Much Ado” About Something New

May 2, 2018
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Shining leads make up for a problem play that, in this production, has been further problematized.

Classical CD Reviews: Michael Brown’s Piano Works, Ferdinand Ries Piano Concertos, and Andris Nelsons’ Bruckner Symphony no. 4

May 1, 2018
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Variations and fugues are the overriding themes of pianist/composer Michael Brown’s captivating new album. If you’re an Andris Nelsons fan, this Deutsche Grammophon album won’t disappoint, and a disc that features three pieces by composer Ferdinand Ries, who was friendly with Beethoven, is worth hearing.

Concert Review: Emmanuel Music’s Late Night Show

May 1, 2018
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David Lang’s score is hypnotic, and Emmanuel Music’s quartet of singers gave wonderful renditions.

Theater Review: “Top Girls” — As Brilliant and Harsh As Ever

May 1, 2018
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Top Girls’ conflicts and political themes seem more relevant than ever in this excellent production.

Theater Review: “Villains’ Supper Club” — The Adventures of a Supermom

May 1, 2018
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The Villains’ Supper Club supplies an engaging and funny twist on the superhero mythos, plus a smart, refreshing look at the tribulations of working mothers.

Theater Review: “Berlin …” — Polymorphous Perversity

April 30, 2018
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The script is symptomatic of the Trump era: a passionate rejection of the “politically correct” pushes warriors for “freedom,” as well as voices of radicalism, into morally despicable positions.

Classical CD Reviews: Birringer Duo’s “Lifelines,” Steve Reich’s “Drumming,” and Liza Stepanova’s “Tones and Colors”

April 30, 2018
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The Birringer Duo’s disc is a terrific, engaging release, The Colin Currie Group’s performance is nothing short of a powerhouse, and pianist Liza Stepanova plays with lots of character and color.

WATCH CLOSELY: “Roseanne” — In Trumplandia, Women are the Losers

April 29, 2018
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For me, the experience of watching Roseanne is annoying and unpleasant.

Concert Review: Boston Symphony Chamber Players

April 29, 2018
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The Boston Symphony Chamber Players gave a very satisfying performance of eclectic musical material.

Classical CD Reviews: Peter Oundjian conducts John Adams and Leonard Bernstein conducts Mahler

April 28, 2018
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Peter Oundjian and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra deliver a great album, smartly programmed and played to the hilt. Leonard Bernstein’s live Mahler was often electrifying; this performance, even with some cracked notes and hairy transitions, certainly is.

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