An experimental drama, no matter how tantalizing, has to come up with a payoff that makes its bewildering journey worth it. Lucas Hnath’s doesn’t.
Theater
Theater Review: “Ada and the Engine” — A Free-Spirited Young Female Math Wiz in Victorian England
You don’t have to be a math wiz to enjoy Lauren Gunderson’s engaging historical drama, which has been effectively staged by director Debra Wise.
Theater Review: “Heroes of the Fourth Turning” — Dear Lord, Pray for Them
It shouldn’t be surprising that Heroes of the Fourth Turning is monotonously ironic. No happy warriors for Christ here.
Theater Review: “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” — “Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose”
Anna Deveare Smith’s examination of racism in America remains powerful, 30 years on.
Theater Review: “Paradise Blue” — Hit the High Notes
This dark and jazzy noir drama would be compelling if it just focused on dramatizing a jazz artist’s quest for artistic perfection.
Theater Review: “Pass Over” — A Disarming and Disturbing Play About Race in America
This is one of those 75-minute plays where you have to remind yourself to breathe.
Theater Review: “A Little Night Music” — Failing the Test of Time
Appreciating Stephen Sondheim’s achievement does not mean loving all of his shows. A Little Night Music may just be one of his musicals that should be politely nudged aside.
Theater Commentary: Maine’s Hackmatack Playhouse — After 50 Years, a Fond Adieu
When Hackmatack Playhouse closes, that will leave, by my count, just one non-equity, professional summer resident theater in Maine: Acadia Rep (founded in 1973) located in Somesville, near Bar Harbor.
Theater Commentary: January 6 — What About the Children?
Despite a seven-year record of artistic, social, educational, and organizational success, Junior Programs has, until now, been a forgotten chapter in the history of America’s children’s theater. And we desperately need to remember that chapter now.
Theater Review: “Grand Horizons” — Divorce Geriatric Style
Grand Horizons at the Gloucester Stage Company is a wild, funny, and sometimes wonderfully touching ride.