You're Gonna Love .... May!

You thought February, March and April were crazy jam-packed with good theater? Wait till you see MAYYYYYY.  (And a little bit of June.)

Be sure to put these shows on your theater schedule!

OMG Spring Theater 2018 - Too Much Theater, Never Enough Time

Happy spring, theaterloving friends! Our beautiful Minnesota spring may be filled with car-murdering potholes and banks of dirty, semi-melted snow, but it is also filled with a ton of amazing theater!

Here's what we're looking forward in particular:

Spring 2016 Preview - SO. Much. Theater.

If you need me this spring, I'll be at the theater.

As much as I'd like to be out gardening (not really), enjoying the sun (in theory), or taking a long run (stop laughing), I shall be inside a dark theater enjoying the best from our local purveyors of quality theater.

So here's a look at the shows I'm most excited for this spring!

C. at Theater Latte Da (The Ritz Theater)
March 30 - April 24
What: A musical adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac with book and lyrics by Bradley Greenwald and music by Robert Elhai.
Why I'm Excited: Because it is an absolutely, utterly, gorgeous production of a wonderful new show. The music, in particularly the male chorus numbers, is astonishingly beautiful. Read more about from our friend Cherry and Spoon's rave review.

Buyer and Cellar at New Century Theatre
April 6 - April 24

What: One-man show about a Alex More, an unemployed actor who takes a job running the mall in Barbra Streisand's basement, originally performed off-Broadway in 2013.

Why I'm Stoked: Saw it in New York and the show is completely hilarious. We saw it with Michael Urie, and I can't think of a better local actor than Sasha Andreev to take on the sweet and funny role of Alex More.

The Fantasticks at Nautilus Music-Theatre
April 8 - April 19
What: Classic musical by Tom Jones about two young lovers and the fathers that try to separate them.

Why I'm There: a) That cast! Gary Briggle and Wendy Lehr as the young lovers, Christina Baldwin and Jennifer Baldwin Peden as their fathers, William Gilness as the mysterious narrator, and Brian Sostek as his sidekick. And b) There's no better place in town to hear amazing performers in charming, inventive productions AND unmiked in an intimate space.

Sunset Baby at Penumbra Theatre
April 12 - May 8
What: "A tough, independent woman in Brooklyn is visited by her father, a former revolutionary in the Black liberation movement who seeks to mend their broken relationship." (From Timeline Theatre)
Why It's a Must-See: Last year, Penumbra produced Detroit '67 by Dominique Morrisseau, and it was a beautiful, riveting night of theater. Also, Penumbra is hitting them out of the park this season.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid at Children's Theatre Company
April 12 - June 5
What: Musical adaptation of the wildly popular children's book series by Jeff Kinney.
Why: Four words: Produced by Kevin McCollum.

Lasso of Truth at Workhaus Collective in association with Walking Shadow Theatre Company(The Playwright's Center)
April 15 - May 1
What: A play that explores the origins of Wonder Woman, written by Carson Kreitzer.
Why I Am Excited (But a Little Sad): 1) Stephen Yoakam. 2) Projections by Davey Steinman (of Basement Creatures.) 3) It's Workhaus Collective's final show.  

Charm at Mixed Blood Theatre
April 22 – May 8, 2016
What: "A beguiling comic drama revolving around Mama Darleena, an African American trans woman in her 60s teaching an etiquette class to trans youth experiencing homelessness in a LGBTQI Chicago community center." (Mixed Blood website)
Why I'm Down: They had me at "beguiling." And I adore all things etiquette. Plus, important social issues and all that.

Leap of Faith at Minneapolis Musical Theatre
April 29 – May 22
What: Charismatic con man preacher has a change of heart (I assume).
Why I'm Up for It: I'm loving Minneapolis Musical Theatre's season this year and this one features the Twin Cities Gospel Choir. Yes, please.

Complicated Fun: the Minneapolis Music Scene at History Theatre

April 30–May 29, 2016
What: Exploration of the Minneapolis music scene of the 1980s.
Why I'm Interested but a Little Freaked Out: My youth is going to be on stage at the History Theatre. The History Theatre. That means I am OLD. Still ... I love that they're leaping into more recent history. Will the History Theatre be rocking? Will I need those kids to get off my lawn?

The Shining at Minnesota Opera
May 7 - 15
What: It's all there in the title. World Premiere, no less.
Why I'll Be In the Front Row: I love Stephen King AND opera! It's as though they made it just for me! Thanks, Minnesota Opera!

Trouble in Mind at Guthrie Theater
May 7 - June 5
What: "It is 1957 in New York and rehearsals have begun for a racially integrated production, one the company hopes will be the next hit. But when prejudices and stereotypes emerge, African American actress Wiletta Mayer faces a difficult decision: should she swallow her pride and compromise her values to achieve her lifelong dream of playing a leading role on Broadway?" (Guthrie website)

Why I Won't Miss This One: New play, by Alice Childress. (Can we talk about all the women playwrights on this list? And the women playwrights of color? HURRAH!) Fascinating story. Support representation at the Big G! And the lovely Mr. Haj.

A Night in Olympus at Illusion Theater
May 7 - June 4
What: I read the description and I really don't have any idea. Mythology? Zombies? Geeks? Wish fulfillment?
Why I'm Underlining This One: Really just a big list of names: Jeffrey Hatcher, Bill Corbett, Chan Poling, Dieter Bierbrauer, Aimee K. Bryant, Norah Long, Randy Schmeling and oh, so many more.

The Changelings at Ten Thousand Things
May 13 - June 5
What: Play by Kira Obolensky. They could put on a dramatic reading of the phone book, and I'd be there in the front row.
Why I Won't Miss It: See above. And because I don't miss a TTT production. Ever. Also, yay Joy Dolo! One of my new favorite local actors!

Happy Spring Theatergoing! And don't worry, Spring will be a little late this year.

Did I miss something amazing? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter!

Spend Your December at the Theater! (2015 Holiday Theater Preview)

What better way to spend the dark, cold nights of December than in a theater, seeing something amazing. And holy cats, are there some good shows coming up! Here are a few shows we are super psyched to see.

QUICK!  This Weekend Only:

A Very Asian Christmas - Mu Performing Arts at the Southern
When: November 28, 2015 - November 29, 2016
Why It's On My List: Because it's written, directed and starring Randy Reyes (as Jasmine), who is freaking hilarious. Also starring fabulous local actors like Alex Galick and Sara Ochs. And Mu Daiko!

The Night Alive - Jungle Theater

When: November 6 - December 20, 2015
Why It's On My List: Nothing says the holidays to me like a dark Irish drama. And the cast is can't miss (including Stephen Yoakam, Sara Richardson and Tyson Forbes).

Christmas in the Airwaves - Lyric Arts

When: November 20 - December 20, 2015
Why It's On My List: Old-time radio in a World War II setting at Christmastime? Yes, please. (Link goes to a Remember WENN episode of the same name. Why is this show not on dvd yet?)

Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story -  History Theatre
When: November 21 – December 20, 2015
Why It's On My List: It's a charming show, and it features the adorable Ricardo Vasquez and two new favorite actors: Brant Miller (from Four Humors' Mortem Capiendum) and Kory LaQuess Pullam (from Pillsbury House's Prep and Guthrie's Choir Boy).

Snow Queen - Park Square Theater
When: November 27 - December 27, 2015
Why It's On My List: It's a less oft-told holiday tale, and features musical direction by Denise Prosek, who does such beautiful work with Theater Latte Da.

Liberty Falls, 54321 - Moving Company at the Lab Theater
When: November 27 - December 20, 2015
Why It's On My List: Baldwins, Nathan Keepers and even the picture of Stephen Epps makes me laugh out loud.

Black Nativity - Penumbra Theatre
When: December 3 - December 20, 2015
Why It's On My List: Because I spent years working at the Fitzgerald Theater and T. Mychael Rambo and company's music was my holiday soundtrack. Also, I love this from their website:

"Penumbra’s treasured holiday tradition returns with a focus on compassion, connection, and community. Civil Rights leader and theologian Dr. Howard Thurman suggested that “the work of Christmas” begins after we return to our everyday lives. This work is “to find the lost, to heal the broken, to feed the hungry, to release the prisoner, to rebuild the nations, to bring peace among brothers, to make music in the heart.” What makes your heart sing? How will you dedicate your energies during the New Year? This Christmas, the most radical expression of love is justice. Be the light."

Purple Cloud - Mu Performing Arts at Mixed Blood Theatre
When: December 4 - December 20, 2015
Why It's On My List: Because Mu has become one of my go-to theater companies in town. Enough said.

Miss Richfield's Christmas Cone of Silence - Illusion Theater
When: December 4 - December 20, 2015
Why It's On My List: It's been ages since I've seen Miss Richfield, and she's a Minnesota classic. Also, sometimes (especially during the holidays), you just need to laugh.

Nutcracker (not so) Suite - James Sewell Ballet at The Cowles
When: December 4 - December 20, 2015
Why It's On My List: Myron Johnson's "highly inventive and irreverent production is set in the 60’s, beginning on the Upper-East-Side and careening into a beatnik downtown vibe with a life-size Barbie doll." Fabulous.

A Midwinter's Night Revel - Walking Shadow Theatre at Red Eye
When: December 4 - 30, 2015
Why It's On My List: Cause it's "an enchanting Yuletide revel ... in the spirit of A Midsummer Night's Dream."

The Sound of Music - Ordway Center
When: December 10, 2015 - January 2, 2016
Why It's On My List: Because some of the best shows I've seen this year (Damn Yankees and The Pirates of Penzance, not to mention last year's A Christmas Story) have been Ordway productions.

The Holiday Pageant - Open Eye Figure Theatre
When: December 11 - 21, 2015
Why It's On My List: 'Cause not enough holiday shows star Lucifer. Also, the cast includes Sarah Agnew and Luverne Seifert, I'm so sold.

Sunshine - Dark & Stormy Productions at Artspace Grain Belt Warehouse
When: December 16, 2015 - January 9, 2016
Why It's On My List: Too much cheer? Too much laughing? How about checking out a nice "funny, frightening, and poignant" play in a unique setting?

The Great Work - 7th House Theater at the Guthrie (Dowling Studio)

When: December 20, 2015 - January 3, 2016
Why It's On My List: Cause it's 7th House Theater, a fairly new theater made up of young, ingenious, and talented artists like David Darrow, Grant Sorenson and Cat Brindisi.

Happy holiday theatergoing!!

Note: Edited to add Liberty Falls, 54321 and The Sound of Music, thanks to reminders from Cherry and Spoon.

Is It Fall Already? I Hadn't Noticed. (September Theater Preview)

It's fall and you know what that means: Delightfully cooler weather AND more theater than you can shake a stick at.

Dig out those scarves and check out the shows I'm most looking forward in September.

Extremities - Dark & Stormy Productions
August 27 - September 19, 2015

Grain Belt Bottling House

In Short: A woman takes revenge on the man who invaded her home. Originally performed off-Broadway in 1982. And remember the movie with Farrah Fawcett from 1986?

Why I'm Down: I love a play performed in an unusual place, and Dark & Stormy's The Hothouse last year was riveting.

Akeelah and the Bee - Children's Theatre Company
September 1 - October 11, 2015

In Short: Based on the 2006 film of the same name, this is about Akeelah, who goes from the south side of Chicago to the National Spelling Bee.

Why I'm Down: James A. Williams, Greta Oglesby, Aimee K. Bryant, Nathan Barlow. Also, spelling bees are fun. Have you seen the amazing documentary Spellbound?

Annapurna - Jungle Theater

September 4 - October 18, 2015

In Short: "After twenty years apart, Emma tracks Ulysses to a trailer park in the middle of nowhere for a final reckoning. What unfolds is a visceral and profound meditation on love and loss with the simplest of theatrical elements: two people in one room. A breathtaking story about the longevity of love."*

Why I'm Down: Angela Timberman and Terry Hempleman. Also, I heard the set was amahzing.

Elliot: A Soldier's Fugue - Park Square Theatre

September 11 - October 4, 2015

In Short: "Elliot Ortiz is home from Iraq. Like his father and grandfather before him, the eager soldier is forced to unravel his experience as he nurses his injuries and considers returning to the frontlines. Elliot’s mother, a nurse in Vietnam, holds three generations of this family’s soldiers together; turning their city lot into a lush and healing tropical garden."*

Why I'm Down: Written by Quiara Alegría Hudes, who wrote the book for In the Heights. Stars Ricardo Vázquez, this is about three generations of a Puerto Rican family. Representation rocks.

The Little Pilot - Sandbox Theatre

September 11 - October 4, 2015

The Southern Theater

In Short: "An all new, ensemble-created play based on the life and work of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. The tale of The Little Pilot weaves between the fanciful and the factual, as Saint-Exupéry’s literary characters and real-life events blend together to create a visually stunning production featuring aerial silk acrobatics and original visual art projections."*

Why I'm Down:  I've wanted to know more about Saint-Exupery ever since I was a kid and thought it was pronounced Saint Ex-OOP-er-ay. Emphasis on the oop.  Also, it sounds cool.

Things of Dry Hours - Frank Theatre
September 11 - October 5, 2015

The Playwrights' Center

In Short: "Alabama, 1932. Tice, a laid-off steelworker, swears by his bible as much as he does the words of Karl Marx. His widowed daughter who does the laundry of the rich white folk and collects the treasures that are left in their sheets—a ribbon here, a shoe there–lives with him in a cabin. In the middle of the night, a stranger—a white man suspected of murdering a foreman at the steel mill—knocks on their door with the intent of changing their worlds for good."*

Why I'm Down: That description intrigues me wildly. Also, Frank Theatre does unusual, engaging work.

A Lie of the Mind - Theatre Pro Rata

September 12 - 27, 2015

Nimbus Theater

In Short: "Shepard’s famous portrait of the American nightmare begins when Beth wakes up with a brain injury. Her husband Jake has beaten her so badly that she retreats to her family home in Montana. Jake crawls back to his mother and siblings in California. Two families begin to reassess and unravel. When the mind can take no more, it survives by breaking down and rewiring its pathways. But when the family dynamic deteriorates, it may take gunshots and fire to forge more reliable bonds."*

Why I'm Down: Theater Pro Rata is one of those theaters that I just want to see more of their work. I've missed too many. Also, Sam Shepard.  He used to live here, doncha know? Oh cripes.

The Genealogy of Happenstance  - Guthrie Theater

September 17 - September 20, 2015

Dowling Studio

In Short: "Allegra J Lingo's show wrestles with what it means to be ensconced in the journey to conceive a child when she herself will only be connected by the genealogy of happenstance. Sometimes, making a baby takes more than just the birds and the bees."*

Why I'm Down: Smallish show in the Dowling Studio, short run, female playwright, directed by Christopher Kehoe? I'm in.

Murder for Two - Park Square Theatre

September 18 - November 1, 2015
Andy Boss Thrust Stage

In Short: "Everyone is a suspect in this hilarious miniature musical murder mystery filled with patter songs and comic ballads. One actor in this daring Vaudevillian duo investigates the crime. The other plays all the suspects. And they both play the piano."

Why I'm Down: Don't know either of the actors, which is kind of fun. I heart new musicals, yay!  And directed by Randy Reyes!

Prep - Pillsbury House Theatre

September 18 - October 18, 2015

In Short: "From the playwright of Buzzer comes Prep, a powerful story that exposes the trauma faced by African-American high school students navigating today’s educational system."*

Why I'm Down: Racism and class in today's schools? Yes. I can always count on Pillsbury House to provide thought-provoking theater. Also, Ryan Colbert is quickly becoming one of my favorite young local actors to watch (after Will You Still Love Me, Tomorrow at Red Eye and Choir Boy at the Big G.)

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street - Theater Latte Da

September 23 – October 25, 2015

The Ritz Theater

In Short: It's all there in the title, really. Also, Sondheim.

Why I'm Down: Look over to the right there. So interested to see what Mark Benninghofen does with the title role, as he is thoroughly awesome.



U/G/L/Y - Guthrie Theater
September 24 - September 27, 2015
Dowling Studio

In Short: "A new performance work by celebrated theater artist and activist Shá Cage, U/G/L/Y examines cultural, generational and personal definitions of beauty."*

Why I'm Down: Love Sha Cage, love the subject, and sounds unique and fascinating!  That is all.

The Events - Guthrie Theater

September 30 - November 1, 2015

McGuire Proscenium Stage

In Short: From their website: "A response to the 2011 Norway attacks, in which the lives of 77 people were claimed by a car bomb and a mass shooting at a summer camp, this internationally acclaimed production delves into faith, politics and reason. Featuring original music sung by a different choir at each performance."*

Why I'm Down: That last sentence. Also, intriguing premise. And it's a Guthrie Worldstage Touring Production, which tend to be the most interesting shows I see at the Guthrie.

Go support our fabulous local theater!  And ENJOY!  

* From the theater's website 

Carousel at Lyric Opera: A Master Class in Preshow Buzz

When Lyric Opera of Chicago announced months ago that they would be presenting Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel starring Steven Pasquale (April 10 through May 3), that was it.

I've loved Pasquale since seeing him in 2002 in A Man of No Importance at Lincoln Center on my very first trip to NYC. BTW, if you've not listened to him sing "The Streets of Dublin" for a while, I highly recommend it.

So we were in. Bought the tickets, figured out travel and lodging. No way were they doing this show with this cast in the Midwest and we were missing it.

In the interim, more cast has been announced and every one a gem. I mean, look at this cast: Laura Osnes, Jenn Gambatese, Matthew Hydzik, Denyce Graves (loved her in Doubt at Minnesota Opera), Jarrod Emick (loved him in The Full Monty in London and The Boy from Oz),Charlotte D'Amboise (just saw her in Pippin), and Tony Roberts (saw him in Xanadu, but love him from Annie Hall).

Anyway, as the big day approaches, Lyric Opera is offering amazing teaser videos and content that is ramping up excitement to previously unforeseen levels. Here's a taste:

Promotional video.  Warning: Just a touch spoilery ... (insert wink at spoilers for a musical written in 1945):

Then, of course, here's the cast urging you to come and see the show, which appears to be a bit heavy on the beards:

Not excited yet?  Try Lyric Opera's Insider's Guide to Carousel, which includes behind the scenes videos with director Rob Ashford, behind the music with conductor David Chase, Q and As with the cast, and of course, Eight Reasons to Love our Carousel stars.

You can even access the program online and read the cast bios and various articles to your heart's content.

Also, check out their great social media postings. I mean how cute is this:

And then there's this.  You know, whatever!  Maybe that might make you want to see the show. Not me, I'm in cause I love great musical theater, of course.

Photo by Todd Rosenberg

A theatery digression: I think about how much I loved Hairspray, my very first Broadway show, and how I looked and looked for information about the show. I think I may have bought magazines off Ebay that had articles about it!  I researched it using online databases at my library!

I would have loved to have had this kind of information at my fingertips, not to mention accessibility to insider knowledge from the creative and cast via social media, not to mention a communication with other theater lovers across the country.  It's such a different world, but I love it. What a remarkable age this is!  It's a real fine clambake, that's for sure.

Holiday Theater - No Tinsel, No Holly

Way to go, local theaters! I love that you're bucking the holiday trend and giving us something to watch that's a bit of a break from the usual holiday shows.

Feeling over-holidayed?  Check out these shows for a little non-holiday-themed enjoyment:

Disenchanted - Illusion Theater
October 30-November 23, 2014
"The original fairytale princesses are none too happy with the exploitation they’ve suffered in today’s films, books and merchandise. Snow White and her angry band of storybook friends are “storming the castle” in order to take their lives back!" (illusiontheater.org)

Grounded - Frank Theatre at the Playwright's Center
October 31-November 23, 2014
"A passionate fighter pilot sees her career in the sky interrupted by an unplanned pregnancy. Reassigned to a “desk job,” operating military drones, she grows numb as she tracks terrorists by day and, at night, returns home to play with her daughter and her pink ponies. As the pressure to find a high-profile target mounts, the lines begin to blur between the desert in which she lives and the one she is patrolling on the other side of the world." (franktheatre.org)

Ghost Sonata - Nimbus Theatre

November 1-November 23, 2014
"A student with second sight longs for beauty, wealth, and the nobility of the upper class. His journey of discovery will show him crimes, lies, regrets, hyacinths. And a talking mummy." (nimbustheatre.com)

The Juniper Tree - Open Eye Figure Theatre

November 7-30, 2014

"This classic Brothers Grimm story brims with singing birds, dancing bones, and barking trunks. Add a live band to blast the brutish stepmother and soothe the sobbing sister, and you get a not-to-be missed whirl of fairytale fun where everyone (who’s supposed to) lives happily ever after." (openeyetheatre.org)

On Golden Pond - Jungle Theater

November 7-December 21, 2014

"American classic explores the turbulent relationship between father and daughter, the generation gap between young and old, and the difficulties facing a couple in the twilight years of a long and happy marriage." (jungletheater.com)

The Whale - Walking Shadow at Mixed Blood
November 26-December 20, 2014
"On the outskirts of Mormon Country, Idaho, a six hundred pound recluse hides away in his apartment, eating himself to death. Hoping to find an honest human connection, he reaches out to his long-estranged daughter, only to discover a viciously sharp-tongued teen. Big-hearted and fiercely funny, The Whale tells a story of finding beauty in the most unexpected places." (walkingshadowcompany.org)



Relics - Guthrie Theatre in the Dowling Studio
November 13-November 23, 2014
"The year is 2314. Archaeologists have discovered a 300-year-old colony in what used to be called North America. You are invited to the opening night gala exhibition of the artifacts they uncovered. Move freely through exhibits, life-size dioramas, and reenactments of the daily life, rituals and battles of the 'Ancients.'” (guthrietheater.org)

Love's Labour's Lost - The Moving Company at The Theater Lab
November 21-December 21, 2014
"Gives a makeover to the seemingly familiar, yet totally new - a mad festival of lovers, lunatics, and poets, let loose upon the verdant meadow of Shakespeare's mind." (themovingco.org)

Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story - History Theatre
November 22-December 21, 2014
"Part biography, part rock ’n’ roll concert, this musical is a toe-tapping, hand-clapping celebration of the life and music of Buddy Holly." (historytheatre.com)

The Cocktail Hour - Guthrie Theater
November 22, 2014-January 4, 2015

"It’s the 1970s, and John arrives for dinner at his parents’ home carrying the script of his soon-to-be produced play depicting his uptight, upper-crust WASP family. Just as the martinis begin to flow, so do the revelations and recriminations – both funny and poignant." (guthrietheater.org)

4000 Miles - Park Square Theatre

December 5-21, 2014
"At the end of a grueling cross-country bike trip, restless 21-year-old Leo seeks refuge and a hot shower in his elderly grandmother’s New York apartment. Though his liberal ways should mesh with Vera’s history in lefty politics, the two unlikely roommates mostly baffle each other." (parksquaretheatre.org)

Jonah And The Whale: A New Musical - 7th House Theater at the Dowling Studio
December 19-28, 2014
"Will re-imagine one of the strangest, most familiar stories in the Old Testament in this original bluegrass/folk musical. Featuring thirteen local actors and a completely original score, Jonah And The Whale is an unforgettable story of faith, loss, and survival against unbeatable odds." (7thhousetheater.org)

Holiday Theater - New Shows & Holiday Stalwarts

What started out as a teensy post to say, "Hey, let's go see some theater this holiday season," turned into a massive list of shows.  You'll find new shows and old favorites here.  (Feeling Grinchy? Check out our next post for non-holiday-themed shows.)

New Shows for Your Holiday Enjoyment:

A Christmas Story, The Musical - Ordway Center
November 29-December 28, 2014 
Why It's On MY Xmas List:  Because it's an Ordway-produced production directed by James A. Rocco that features a cast of utterly fabulous local talent including (but not limited to): Gary Briggle, Dieter Bierbrauer, Erin Schwab, Jennifer Eckes, Michael Gruber, Suzie Juul, Aja Parham, Kersten Rodau, Randy Schmeling, Austene Van and Tony Vierling.  Need I say more?

The Chanukah Guest - Minnesota Jewish Theatre

December 4-21, 2014

"MJTC's new commission and world premiere,The Chanukah Guest, is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with your family. This interactive, heartwarming play tells the story of Bubba Brayna, who is renowned throughout the village for making the best potato latkes every Chanukah." (mnjewishtheatre.org) 

Christmas in Niatirb - Open Window Theatre

December 5-28, 2014

"An astute and humorous look at the traditions of “Exmas” and “Chrissmas” through the lives of the fictional inhabitants of the island of Niatirb (Britain spelled backwards). This full-length theatrical adaptation of a little-known Christmas essay by C.S. Lewis brings out the full wit, charm, and inspiring self-examination that so characterizes his writing and creative genius." (openwindowtheatre.org)


The Hothouse - Dark & Stormy Productions (presented in the atrium of the 1906 Grain Belt Bottling House)
December 10, 2014-January 4, 2015
Why It's On MY Xmas List: That cast and a very intriguing location. Starring Robert Dorfman, Mark Benninghofen, John Catron, Sara Marsh, Bill McCallum, and Bruce Bohne, this "clever and cutting Pinter piece exposes the underbelly of the hierarchical power structure at an ambiguous institution – which is at once functional and falling apart – on one fateful Christmas Day." (darkstormy.org) 

Old Favorites and Annual Traditions:

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas - Children's Theatre Company

November 11-January 4, 2015
"Whoville is experiencing a seemingly unstoppable crime wave—and who oh who will save Christmas? CTC’s Technicolor, maxed-out musical brings alive the songs, the story, and the Seuss in megadoses of spirited storytelling and fanciful rhymes." (childrenstheatre.org)

A Christmas Carol - Guthrie Theater
November 13-December 28, 2014
"This year marks the 40th annual production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the perennial favorite that received a new adaptation by Crispin Whittell in 2010 and continues the Guthrie’s holiday tradition for families across the region." (guthrietheater.org)

Irving Berlin's White Christmas - Orpheum Theatre
November 25-30, 2014"
"Tells the story of two buddies putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and finding their perfect mates in the process. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written." (hennepintheatretrust.org) (Equity tour)

God Rest Ye Scary Gentlemen III - Hardcover Theater at Bryant-Lake Bowl
November 28-December 22, 2014

Why It's On MY Xmas List: I love Hardcover Theater and ghosts.  There you are.
"What’s Christmas without a few ghosts? Dead folks get up to all kinds of mischief in this third installment of Hardcover Theater’s successful series, featuring three new stories of holiday hauntings." (bryantlakebowl.com)

A Very Asian Christmas Concert - Mu Performing Arts at the Southern Theater
November 29-30, 2014
Why It's On MY Xmas List:  Hosted by Randy Reyes and featuring a ton of great performers, I can't believe I've missed this in the past.
"Santa’s hitting the bottle again, and Jasmine is down in the dumps. The only thing that will cheer her up is singing, dancing, and laughing the night away with her talented friends and family members." (muperformingarts.org)

Black Nativity - Penumbra Theatre
December 4-21, 2014
Why It's On MY Xmas List:  Having worked at the Fitzgerald Theater for many years, Black Nativity was always a part of my holidays.  I'll never forget the amazing performances and joyful songs--especially T. Mychael Rambo as the preacher.  I love that they keep shaking up this classic, but always have amazing music. Revisits "the nativity story in this concert staging, featuring narration by Lou Bellamy, soloists Yolande Bruce, Greta Oglesby, Dennis W. Spears and with the Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church Choir under the musical direction of Sanford Moore." (penumbratheatre.org)

The Longest Night - Open Eye Theatre
December 11-21, 2014
Why It's On MY Xmas List: I'd happily watch Bradley Greenwald read the phone book, or sing the stock reports.
 "Bradley Greenwald celebrates winter, the holidays and "hell-idays," seasonal affective disorder, friends, family, Christians and Pagans with pianist Sonja Thompson." (openeyetheatre.org)

La Natividad - In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre
December 11-21, 2014
Why It's On MY Xmas List:  I love the idea of the procession through the city--a truly unique tradition (for Minnesotans!).
"This unique event honors the Mexican tradition of La Posada, leading everyone on a journey to four sites in our community. Enacted with beauty, humor, soulful live music, and an ending feast. (Performed in English and Spanish)" (hobt.org)

All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 - Theater Latte Da at the Pantages

December 17-21, 2014
"The Western Front, Christmas, 1914. Out of the violence comes a silence, then a song. A German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing Stille Nacht. Thus begins an extraordinary night of camaraderie, music, peace. A remarkable true story, told in the words and songs of the men who lived it." (theaterlatteda.org)

October Theater Preview on KFAI - Part Two!

On Monday morning,  KFAI: Radio Without Boundaries broadcast the second installment of our October theater preview! We talked about a few more shows we're excited to see this month:

Theatre Pro Rata's production of 1984, showing at Intermedia Arts from October 17-26. 


We also talked about study guides like the one Pro Rata put together for this show. Many theaters have great information about their shows and it's good to remember to check their websites!

Romeo and Juliet at Ten Thousand Things, running October 10–October 26 at Open Book and October 30–November 2 at MN Opera Center. Great cast directed by Peter Rothstein from a company that always does a great job with Shakespeare. 


We also talked about the Twin Cities Horror Festival III, at the Southern Theater from October 23-November 3. Nine companies, nine shows, all with a horror theme. As the name indicates, this is the third year of the festival, and we're hoping to catch some of the offerings. 

We're hoping to have audio files of our appearances to post on the blog soon. Enjoy the wealth of theater on offer this month. There's a lot to see this time of year!

October Theater Preview - Hear it on KFAI Radio!

(from the fabulous Minnesota Digital Library collection)

Curious about upcoming theater here in beautiful Minneapolis-St. Paul?

Gather your friends and family 'round the radio this Monday morning for Minnesota Theater Love's inaugural radio spot. We are terribly excited to be making our broadcast debut!

You can hear us discuss the shows you absolutely HAVE to catch this October on Monday, October 6th at 7:30 a.m. on KFAI: Radio Without Boundaries (heard in Minneapolis on 90.3 and in St. Paul on 106.7).

Here's a sneak peek at what you'll hear on the broadcast--besides super enthusiastic theater chat--from your Minnesota Theater Love friends:

We talk about a few shows that we mentioned in our September 2014 Theater Preview, including Colossal at Mixed Blood Theater, The Heidi Chronicles at the Guthrie (but mostly because of the hilarious Kate Wetherhead of our favorite web series Submissions Only), and Master Class at Theater Latte Da.

Plus, we gave a bit of a shoutout to the local theater web series Theater People, which you should definitely check out!

Stay tuned for news about more radio appearances!  We'll also be posting a link to the broadcast here on our blog.  So much theater fun!

September 2014 Theater - What I'm Looking Forward To

From http://simpsons.wikia.com/

After a bit of a theater-dry summer, the fall theater season is upon us.  My personal goal this year: more plays by smaller theaters that are new to me. I also want to see productions that feature actors and creators of color (#weneeddiversetheater) to back up my endless complaints about plays with white people shouting at each other.

So here's what I'm looking forward to in coming weeks and why. Listed in order by start date, not excitement. (For my most eagerly anticipated show, you'll want to go straight down to Mixed Blood's Colossal).  Did I miss something amazing opening in September or October?  Tell me in the comments!

The Mystery of Irma Vep - Jungle Theater

August 29 through October 19

Why: Because even though I get frustrated with the Jungle's love for doing the same shows over and over again, I do love this play, love Bradley Greenwald, and am intrigued by Stephen Cartmell after seeing him in Ten Thousand Things' Dirt Sticks.  

"Set on a "dark and stormy night," Lady Enid and her husband arrive at a haunted estate complete with werewolves and mayhem, as well as an impromptu side-trip to the tombs of Egypt! Don't miss this farcical thriller and gender-bending tour-de-force!" (Jungle Theater)

Sexy Laundry - Park Square Theatre

September 5 through September 28

Why:  I always find John Middleton really interesting to watch.

"Alice and Henry have to make a change. After twenty-five years of marriage, three children and stalled careers, the couple has fallen into the same old dull routine. They desperately hope a staycation at a fancy hotel – and a copy of Sex for Dummies – will cure all that ails them. Can the once-happy couple reignite a passion that’s more than skin deep?" (Park Square Theatre)

Strumply Peter - Open Eye Figure Theatre
September 11 through September 25
Why: Because the first time I went to Open Eye, Michael Sommers drove by and gave us parking advice.  Also, I love their intimate space and German cautionary tales.
"Strumply Peter, a Toy Opera, is the latest original creation from Open Eye Figure Theatre, inspired by the cautionary poems 19th century German physician Heinrich Hoffman composed to entertain his children. Where but on the Open Eye stage can Strumply Peter whisk away children to make them sweeter? This cautionary Toy Opera is a flourish of amusements with puppetry, larger than life characters, and a miniature music hall band." (Open Eye Figure Theatre)

The New Electric Ballroom  - Frank Theatre

September 12 through September 28 - New Century Theater
Why:  Because Enda Walsh's Misterman was super weird and original.

"Set in a small fishing town on the west coast of Ireland, two aging sisters re-enact a night in the early 60s with a seductive rock singer as a cautionary tale for their younger sister. Party dresses, sponge cake, rock n’ roll and regret swirl into a fantasy-fueled night of storytelling in this beautiful and devastating play of broken hearts."  (Frank Theatre)

Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet - The Guthrie Theater presents a Pillsbury House Theatre and The Mount Curve Company co-production

September 12 through October 5 - Dowling Studio

Why:  Because I'm ashamed that I haven't seen the other two of Tarell Alvin McCraney’s “Brother/Sister Plays.” Theater slacker.

"Sixteen-year-old Marcus is haunted by his dreams and dogged by doubts from his friends and family. Days before an ominous storm on the Louisiana bayou, Marcus journeys to discover who he is and where he comes from by unraveling the secrets of his deceased father Elegba. As Marcus pieces together his own ancestral legacy with help from his tightly-knit, intergenerational community, he realizes the special power that being “sweet” brings." (Guthrie Theater)

Middle Brother - Mu Performing Arts
September 12 through September 28 - Southern Theater
Why:  Because Mu's work with Park Square Theater has introduced me to so many talented actors--I'm excited to see one of their own shows.
"The plan was so simple.  1.) Eat Korean food.  2.) Drink Korean beer.  3.) Live and work in the homeland for the first time in 22 years.  But only days away from moving back to the Midwest, Billy is unexpectedly reunited with his Korean birth brother and must somehow reconcile his modern American life with his newfound Korean past." (Mu Performing Arts)

The Heidi Chronicles - Guthrie Theater

September 13 through October 26, 2014 - Wurtele Thrust Stage

Why:  Because although I've never really taken to Wendy Wasserstein, I LOVE Kate Wetherhead in Submissions Only.  

"Witty, insightful and poignant, The Heidi Chronicles traces the coming of age of Heidi Holland from high school in the radical ʼ60s to her career as an art historian in the heartless ʼ80s."  (Guthrie Theater)

Gabriel - Walking Shadow Theatre

September 26 through October 11 - Minneapolis Theatre Garage

Why: Because sometimes a premise just sounds intriguing.

"A tiny, rocky island in the middle of the English Channel. A bitter winter night, two years into the German occupation. A young girl calls on ancient fairy magic, and a beautiful, naked young man washes up on the mine-filled Guernsey beach. Is he an English pilot? Or a Nazi officer? For the women who found him, Gabriel could either be their savior, or the biggest danger they've ever met."  (Walking Shadow Theatre)

Eating Raoul - Minneapolis Musical Theatre

October 3 through October 26 – New Century Theatre

Why:  Because ... what?  Eating Raoul the Musical?  I mean, what?  

"Meet Mary and Paul Bland, a couple who just want to open a restaurant in 1960s Los Angeles. But they’re broke…until an accidental death by frying pan fills their pockets with cash. The bodies begin to pile up, but they need to team up with Raoul, their sexy building superintendent, to get rid of the evidence. Raoul turns their lives upside down, both financially and sexually. But this murderous partnership cannot last…and one of them will pay the ultimate price." (Minneapolis Musical Theatre)

Master Class - Theater Latte Da
October 8 through November 2 - MacPhail Center for Music

Why: Because I love Theater Latte Da and I've read much about Master Class, but have never seen it.

"Master Class is a fictionalized account of the series of classes the glamorous and commanding Maria Callas, the most influential vocal artist of the 20th century, instructed on the art of performing opera." (Theater Latte Da)

Colossal - Mixed Blood Theatre
October 10 through November 9 

Why:  Because holy cats, read the description!  Also, Stephen Yoakam.  And, I haven't been to Mixed Blood in ages.

"Performed in four 15-minute quarters with a half-time show, featuring a dance company, a drum corps, and a fully-padded cast, Colossal is an epic event that simultaneously celebrates and attacks our nation's most popular form of theater: football. A star football player–a pro prospect, one of the most graceful runners in the world, and a man in love with a teammate–struggles to move forward in the wake of a catastrophic spinal cord injury. With a cast of two dozen men, and full contact choreography, this play about love, ability, and extraordinary feats of strength tackles definitions of masculinity and the male body as a vehicle for language, violence, and silent expression through dance, football, and disability." (Mixed Blood Theatre)

From http://www.austinchronicle.com/daily/arts/2013-03-27/tackling-footballs-dark-side/

Romeo & Juliet - Ten Thousand Things 

October 10 through November 2 
Why: Because it's Ten Thousand Things and hardly anything but actual physical illness keeps me from their shows.
"A diverse cast takes on Shakespeare's tale of finding love when surrounded by family and societal cultures of violence." (Ten Thousand Things)

So MUCH theater, so little time!  Happy theatergoing!