St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 7, 2015

[Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.]

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's events web site.

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All is Calm
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a capella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays through December 20. "Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this a capella musical based on the true story of soldiers during World War I who for one night, put down their arms and played soccer instead of exchanging bullets." Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com. Read my review!

Bad Jews
Photo: Eric Woolsey

New Jewish Theater presents Bad Jews through December 23. "Good Jews, Bad Jews - it's all relative in this razor sharp and savage comedy about family, faith, and legacy. Meet Daphna Feygenbaum, a "Real Jew" with an Israeli boyfriend who she met on Birthright. When Daphna's cousin Liam brings home his shiksa girlfriend Melody for their grandfather's shiva and declares ownership of "Poppy's" Chai necklace, a vicious and hilarious family brawl ensues.A gleefully funny, thought-provoking evening of theatre. Outrageously and laceratingly funny, it's about what you choose to believe when you're chosen." Rabbis Amy Feder abd Michael Alper from Temple Israel will host a talk back session after the 2 p.m. performance on Sunday, December 13. Performances take place in the Marvin and Harlene Wool Studio Theater at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283.

The Presenters Dolan presents Feyza Eren in A Bossa Nova Christmas on Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 p.m. "A native of St. Louis, Feyza Eren spent 15 years singing performing in the most popular concert halls and jazz clubs in Istanbul and jazz festivals throughout Turkey and Europe, She was a featured vocalist with the Ricky Ford Orchestra, and palyed at the Val de Jazz Festival in France and the Lionel Hampton Jazz Club in Paris." The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents A Christmas Sleigh-Ing through December 30th. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

Stray Dog Theatre presents the comedy Devil Boys from Beyond Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through December 19. "Men are from Mars; women are from Venus; all the rest are from Pluto. A high-camp parody of '50s B-movies and trashy romance novels, mixed with a dash of 'Adult Swim' cartoon. Fold in a heaping portion of screwball comedy and stir gently but keep it lumpy!" Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

The Gin Game

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents The Gin Game through December 20 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. "This winner of the 1978 Pulitzer Prize, which originally starred Jessica Tandy and Hume Cronyn and was later revived with Julie Harris and Charles Durning, uses a card game as a metaphor for life. Weller Martin is playing solitaire on the porch of a seedy nursing home. Enter Fonsia Dorsey, a prim, self righteous lady. They discover they both dislike the home and enjoy gin rummy, so they begin to play and to reveal intimate details of their lives. Fonsia wins every time and their secrets become weapons used against one another. Weller longs for a victory to counter a lifetime of defeats but it doesn't happen. He leaves the stage a broken man and Fonsia realizes her self-righteous rigidity has led to an embittered, lonely old age." For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents soprano Angela Moore and pianist Carol Schmidt in a Holiday Cabaret to benefit the Five Acres Animal Shelter on Monday, December 7, at 8 p.m. All donations collected and a portion of food and drink sales will go to the shelter. "Come for the music, food, and drink. Give for the animals." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Monocle Varieté presents Holi-Dazzle Done Fridays and Saturdays at 9 and 11 p.m., December 11 - 26. "Holi-Dazzle is the avant-retro variety show that will help you make it through the season that's not all fun and good cheer. Isn't it just sometimes weird, and a little crazy? And not dazzling in the right way? Get your holiday cure right here on our stage." This ninety-minute comedy show will have you rolling in the aisles with the bawdy humor of the late Joan Rivers." The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis

Alton Little Theater presents Miracle on South Division Street Thursdays through Sundays, December 10-20, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. "Meet the Nowaks of Buffalo, NY: Clara and her three grown kids have always known they were special, ever since the miraculous night in 1942 when the Blessed Mother appeared to Grandpa in his barbershop! Since then, the neighborhood has looked upon the Nowaks' 20-foot commemorative shrine as a beacon of hope and faith amidst the urban rubble. And now daughter Ruth unveils her plan to write and star in a one-woman show about the family miracle so the “whole world will know!” However, as her plans for theatrical immortality unfold, the entire family's faith is shaken to the very core when a deathbed confession causes the family legend to unravel. The results are heartfelt and hilarious." For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents The Naughty List through January 2. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com

The Monocle presents an open mic night every Monday from 8:00pm to 11:00pm" "Musical Theater actor? Cabaret singer? Balladeer? Beleter? Coloratura soprano? Crooner? Student? Teacher? Performer? Fan? Come on down and sing. All are welcome. Ron Bryant is your accompanist. Bring your sheet music"." The monocle is at 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

Peter and the Starcatcher
Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Peter and the Starcatcher through December 27. "An apprentice starcatcher and a young orphan boy find themselves on a life-changing adventure when they are charged with protecting magical starstuff from a fearsome pirate. Pursued by a giant crocodile, mysterious mermaids and angry islanders, their fantastical journey is filled with spectacle and whimsy. This swashbuckling prequel to Peter Pan is rich in stage magic, off-the-wall humor and touching sincerity as it takes us on a voyage to an island where dreams are born and time is never planned. Winner of five 2012 Tony Awards." Performances take place on the mainstage at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Clinton County Showcase presents A Seussified Christmas Carol through December 13. "A whimsical reinvention of Dickens' most beloved Christmas story in wacky rhymed couplets. With zoot fruited juices and binka bird geese, from Bed-Headed Fred to Timmy Loo Hoo, this tale of glorious holiday cheer is similar to something Dr. Seuss might have come up with - if he ever had his way with the story..." Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL. For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

Webster University's Conservatory of Theatre Arts presents Shotgun Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., through December 13. "It is four months after Hurricane Katrina demolished the levees in New Orleans. A Caucasian man named Beau and his son, Eugene, lost their house due to the flood. Now they are renting half of a shotgun duplex from an African American woman named Mattie. Mattie's father also lost his home in the flood, so he is now living with her in her half of the duplex. Both families find that they are having difficulties inhabiting the home together. Will they be able to work it out" Performances take placein the Stage III Auditorium at 470 E. Lockwood on the Webster University campus. For more information, events.webster.edu or call 314-968-7128.

Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville presents Since Africa through December 12. Performances take place in the Metcalf Student Experimental Theatre on the campus in Edwardsville, IL. For more information, call 618-650-2774 or visit siue.edu.

Sublime Intimacy
Photo: Patrick Huber

Max and Louie Productions presents Sublime Intimacy by St. Louis actor/playwright Ken Page through December 20. "Sublime Intimacy is the remembered tales of five friends: an ex-Hollywood actor,a psychology professor, a painter, an actress and a Broadway musical performer whose lives were elevated, touched and indeed changed by their love of a dancer and his dance. While each person's story is different, they overlap, intertwine and inform each other as the lives and tales of friends often do. We the audience, like the characters, are allowed to share in the intimate beauty of the art form through the performances of "The Dancer" as the play unfolds. Sublime Intimacy, isn't that what we all want?" Performances take place in the black box at the Kranzberg Center, 501 N. Grand in Grand Center. For more information, visit maxandlouie.com.

Chesterfield Community Theatre presents musical The Velveteen Rabbit Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m., December 11-13. "Margery Williams classic story The Velveteen Rabbit or How Toys Become Real has been reimagined into a short musical! Follow the journey of a stuffed rabbit on her quest to become real. With a little love from a child, and just a pinch of fairy magic we realize “everything that is real was imagined first.” Watch this story come alive on stage this holiday season." Performances take place at the West County YMCA, 16464 Burkhardt Place. For more information, call (636) 532-6515 Ext. 227.

The Fox Theatre presents the musical Wicked, based on the novel by Gregory McGuire, opening on Wednesday, December 9, and running through January 3. "Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One - born with emerald green skin - is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for 'the most complete - and completely satisfying - musical in a long time' (USA Today)." The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, fabulousfox.com or call 314-534-1678.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of September 18, 2015

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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New This Week:

All the Way
Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents the drama All the Way through October 4. " It's 1963. Following the assassination of JFK, Lyndon Johnson becomes America's "accidental president." Launched into the presidency over a country in turmoil, LBJ maneuvers and manipulates his way through a series of power plays to pass the Civil Rights Act and to guarantee a full term in the Oval Office. Deception, bullying and blackmail are all strategies in his arsenal. But in this 2014 Tony Award Winner for Best Play, featuring a large landscape of people and characters, LBJ makes clear that it's not personal, it's just politics. " Performances take place on the mainstage at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org.

My take: If this play tells us anything, it's that the fight for justice never ends because the forces of hate, fear, and repression never go away. Brian Dyskstra heads a large and impressive cast as LBJ, beset on all sides because he decided to place principle above party and the good of the nation about political expedience by pushing through the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It's hard to imagine a contemporary politician at the national level who would have this kind of courage, which does not bode well for the republic. This is great theatre and a great moral lesson. You will be sorry if you miss it. Performances continue through October 4th.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents Werner and the Pyroclastic Flow with Bob Chamberlin on piano in Love, Death, and Miscellaneous, an evening of "music, humor, and more music and humor." The performance takes place on Friday, September 18, at 8 p.m.. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt at Waterman in the Central West End. There's free parking in the lot right across the street. For more information: 314-369-8330.

My take: Honestly, I have no idea whether this will be worth seeing or not, but if I were available tonight I'd be there just because it sounds fascinating. And I dearly love the Tavern as a performing arts space, especially for music. They have a great wine list, a nice selection of food, and free parking right across the street as well. The location in the DeBaliviere Place neighborhood is quiet and classy, surrounded mostly by condos and a nice class of apartments.

Held Over:

Alton Little Theater presents the musical revue Forbidden Broadway through Sunday at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. "In this Off-Broadway hit musical revue, Broadway's greatest musical legends meet Broadway's greatest satirist in this hilarious, loving, and endlessly entertaining tribute to some of theater's greatest stars and songwriters. Hailed a “hilarious and brilliantly wicked” by The New York Times, you do not have to be a Broadway musical fan to enjoy this immensely entertaining show. This fall-down funny roast of Broadway features outrageous costumes and hilarious rewrites of the songs you know and love." For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

My take: I haven't see the ALT production, but I have seen earlier versions of the various Forbidden Broadway revues and they've been pretty consistently hilarious, so you know they're working with good material.

Mr. Burns
Photo: Michael Young

R-S Theatrics presents Mr. Burns: a Post-Electric Play through September 20. " Mr. Burns tells the story of a group of survivors recalling and retelling an episode of the TV show The Simpsons shortly after a global catastrophe, then examines the way the story has changed seven years after that, and finally, 75 years later." Performances take place at The Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Caroldelet neighborhood. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

My take: I'm on the play reading committee at West End Players Guild. We read and considered this one for our coming season but ultimately rejected it, in part, because we thought it might be too technically demanding. it is, however, a wildly innovative concept that raises interesting questions about how legends are born and mutate. R-S is always up to a challenge and it will be interesting to see what they do with this odd little play. Reviews have been good. Tina Farmer calls it "thoroughly enjoyable and refreshingly different production" at KDHX while over at Ladue News, Mark Bretz calls it "a most provocative piece of theatrical terror."

Tell Me Somethin' Good
Photo: Stewart Goldstein

The Black Rep presents the musical revue Tell Me Somethin' Good through September 20. "One of the most popular shows ever produced at The Black Rep. This critically acclaimed audience favorite is a stroll down memory lane, beginning with street corner acapella doowop and moving through the 60s, 70s,80s right to hip hop. Nonstop music will have you dancing in your seats and in the aisles. " Performances take place at the Edison Theatre on the Washington University campus. For more information: theblackrep.org.

My take: This upbeat revue has been a favorite at the Black Rep for some time now. It gets refreshed and rearranged a bit with each new production, so expect some new faces and new songs in this celebration of fifty years and some change of black American musical experience. Black Rep artistic director Ron Himes, quoted in the St. Louis American notes that the show "is the most popular musical in Black Rep history. We've had more people come into the lobby and say, ‘when are you gonna bring tell me something good again?'" When would be now, as the kickoff the the company's 39th season.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of September 11, 2015

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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New This Week:

Alton Little Theater presents the musical revue Forbidden Broadway Thursdays through Sundays, September 10-20, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. "In this Off-Broadway hit musical revue, Broadway's greatest musical legends meet Broadway's greatest satirist in this hilarious, loving, and endlessly entertaining tribute to some of theater's greatest stars and songwriters. Hailed a “hilarious and brilliantly wicked” by The New York Times, you do not have to be a Broadway musical fan to enjoy this immensely entertaining show. This fall-down funny roast of Broadway features outrageous costumes and hilarious rewrites of the songs you know and love." For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

My take: I haven't see the ALT production, but I have seen earlier versions of the various Forbidden Broadway revues and they've been pretty consistently hilarious, so you know they're working with good material.

Held Over:

The Amish Project

Mustard Seed Theatre presents Jessica Dickey's one-woman show The Amish Project through September 13. "Reactions to a school shooting in an Amish community lead us to the crossroads of grief and grace." Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

My take: A friend who knows more about the Amish than anyone else I know has critized Dickey's script for trading in misconceptions and stereotypes, but reviews of this production have been very positive. Typical is Mark Bretz at Ladue News, who writes that "Mustard Seed Theatre delivers a powerful, profoundly moving interpretation of Dickey's heart-rending story. With artistic director Deanna Jent's carefully crafted guidance and Amy Loui's luminous portrayal of seven different characters, The Amish Project sets the bar high for upcoming productions in the 2015-16 theater season." Ms. Loui has gotten similar raves elsewhere, so maybe the real reason to see this is her virtuoso performance.

Mr. Burns
Photo: Michael Young

R-S Theatrics presents Mr. Burns: a Post-Electric Play through September 20. " Mr. Burns tells the story of a group of survivors recalling and retelling an episode of the TV show The Simpsons shortly after a global catastrophe, then examines the way the story has changed seven years after that, and finally, 75 years later." Performances take place at The Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Caroldelet neighborhood. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

My take: I'm on the play reading committee at West End Players Guild. We read and considered this one for our coming season but ultimately rejected it, in part, because we thought it might be too technically demanding. it is, however, a wildly innovative concept that raises interesting questions about how legends are born and mutate. R-S is always up to a challenge and it will be interesting to see what they do with this odd little play. Reviews have been good. Tina Farmer calls it "thoroughly enjoyable and refreshingly different production" at KDHX while over at Ladue News, Mark Bretz calls it "a most provocative piece of theatrical terror."

Tell Me Somethin' Good
Photo: Stewart Goldstein

The Black Rep presents the musical revue Tell Me Somethin' Good through September 20. "One of the most popular shows ever produced at The Black Rep. This critically acclaimed audience favorite is a stroll down memory lane, beginning with street corner acapella doowop and moving through the 60s, 70s,80s right to hip hop. Nonstop music will have you dancing in your seats and in the aisles. " Performances take place at the Edison Theatre on the Washington University campus. For more information: theblackrep.org.

My take: This upbeat revue has been a favorite at the Black Rep for some time now. It gets refreshed and rearranged a bit with each new production, so expect some new faces and new songs in this celebration of fifty years and some change of black American musical experience. Black Rep artistic director Ron Himes, quoted in the St. Louis American notes that the show "is the most popular musical in Black Rep history. We've had more people come into the lobby and say, ‘when are you gonna bring tell me something good again?'" When would be now, as the kickoff the the company's 39th season.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of May 4, 2015

[Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.]

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's events web site.

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Stray Pups Youth Theatre presents the musical Disney's Beauty and the Beast Jr. through May 10 "The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

Alton Little Theater presents The Dixie Swim Club Thursdays through Sundays, May 7-17, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. "Five Southern women, whose friendships began many years ago on their college swim team, set aside a long weekend every August to recharge those relationships. Free from husbands, kids and jobs, they meet at the same beach cottage on North Carolina's Outer Banks to catch up, laugh and meddle in each other's lives. The Dixie Swim Club focuses on four of those weekends and spans a period of thirty-three years. As their lives unfold and the years pass, these women increasingly rely on one another, through advice and raucous repartee, to get through the challenges (men, sex, marriage, parenting, divorce, aging) that life flings at them. And when fate throws a wrench into one of their lives in the second act, these friends, proving the enduring power of “teamwork,” rally 'round their own with the strength and love that takes this comedy in a poignant and surprising direction. The Dixie Swim Club is the story of these five unforgettable women-a hilarious and touching comedy about friendships that last forever " For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents A Fistful Of Hollers May 1 through August 29. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Fools

The Theatre Guild of Webster Groves presents Neil Simon's comedy Fools Fridays through Sundays, through May 9. "Leon Tolchinsky is ecstatic. He's landed a terrific teaching job in an idyllic Russian hamlet. When he arrives he finds people sweeping dust from the stoops back into their houses and people milking upside down to get more cream. The town has been cursed with Chronic Stupidity for 200 years and Leon's job is to break the curse. No one tells him that if he stays over 24 hours and fails to break the curse, he too becomes Stupid. But, he has fallen in love with a girl so Stupid that she has only recently learned how to sit down." Performances take place in the Guild theatre at Newport and Summit in Webster Groves, MO. For more information: theatreguildwg.org or call 314-962-0876.

The Looking Glass Playhouse presents the musical Mary Poppins Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., May 7-17. Performances take place at 301 West St. Louis Street in Lebanon, Ill. For more information, visit www.lookingglassplayhouse.com.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Mayhem In Mayberry May 1 through July 26. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

Windsor Theatre Group presents The Musical 1950's with a Nod to Broadway Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m., May 7-17. "Most of the selections are from shows which appeared on Broadway in the 1950's; a few songs are from the pop genre during the same decade. Some of these tunes have been rarely performed since those Broadway productions closed. This enjoyable potpourri will be performed by singers and dancers, with piano accompaniment." Performances take place at The Historic Ozark Theatre, 103 E. Lockwood in Webster Groves. For more information: 314-832-2114.

New Jewish Theater presents the musical My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding May 7-31. “The surprise hit of both the Toronto Fringe Festival and New York Musical Theater Festival, My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding is the sweet, tuneful and true story of the journey of the playwright's mother as she discovered her true self. Despite its specific title, MMLJWW is a universal story about parents and children, falling in love, and finding out who you are. It has heart and soul and in today's political climate, it couldn't be more timely - plus, it's a TRUE STORY!” Performances take place in the Marvin and Harlene Wool Studio Theater at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283.

The Odd Couple
Photo: John Lamb

Dramatic License Productions presents the female version of Neil Simon's comedy The Odd Couple through May 10. "Oscar and Felix become Olive and Florence in this, the equally-hilarious female version of Neil Simon's classic comedy about two unlikely roomies who will either become the best of friends or kill each other trying!" Performances take place at Dramatic License Theatre located at upper-level Sears wing of Chesterfield Mall. For more information, call 636-821-1746 or visit www.dramaticlicenseproductions.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Equally Represented Arts presents R + J: A Telephone Play, or, Don't Drink the Milk Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m. through May 8. "R + J: A Telephone Play is the performance of six new plays created through the context of a game of telephone. Telephone (also known as “don’t drink the milk”) is a game in which one person whispers a message to another person. The message is passed through a line of people until the last player announces the message to the entire group. The original message for this particular game of telephone is the last scene of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. We created an audio recording of this scene and sent it to the first playwright in the line. The playwright listened to the recording and wrote what he/she heard in the form of a play. Then, we sent an audio recording of this new play to the next playwright in the line, and so on. All performances of R + J: A Telephone Play are followed by a Bodysnatchers' The Historical Tragedy or Comedy of, an improvised version of your favorite Shakespeare play." Performances take place at the Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: eratheatre.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Kirkwood Theatre Guild presents the musical Thoroughly Modern Millie through May 10. "Small-town girl, Millie Dillmount, sets out for New York in 1922, to put some excitement in her life...and hopefully find a rich husband. Millie begins her new flapper lifestyle with enthusiasm but encounters some unexpected turns when she moves into a hotel run by the evil Mrs. Meers and takes a job at Sincere Trust in an attempt to catch the rich and eligible boss...but instead finds herself falling in love with (gasp) an ordinary man. This zany musical, based on the popular movie, took Broadway by storm, winning the TONY Award for Best Musical! It's an absolutely fun-filled, toe-tapping tribute to the flapper era and the exciting beginning of the thoroughly modern woman!" Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre of the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road. For more information, call 314-821-9956 or visit ktg-onstage.org.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of January 19, 2015

[Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.]

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's events web site.

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Alton Little Theater presents the comedy Alone Together Thursday through Sunday, January 22-25, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. "In the hilarious Broadway comedy, Alone Together, Mom and Dad have spent the last thirty years raising three active sons. How they looked forward to the peace, the quiet and the privacy of an empty nest. After considerable comic turmoil and revelation of deep feelings, the nest is finally emptied. Peace now? Quiet? Not for long. All three sons come charging back home after experiencing some hard knocks in the real world, and Mom and Dad have quite a time pushing them out again." For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

Winter Opera St. Louis presents Mascagni's L'Amico Fritz Friday at 8 PM and Sunday at 3 PM, January 23 and 25. "A woman, a man, and a bet between friends. What will it take for Suzel and Fritz to admit they love each other?" Performances take place at The Skip Viragh Center for the Arts at Chaminade College Preparatory School, 425 S. Lindbergh. The opera is sung in Italian with project English supertitles. For more information, visit winteroperastl.org.

Carol Schmidt

The Cabaret Project and 88.1 KDHX present the monthly Cabaret Open Mic Night on Wednesday, February 18, from 7 to 10 PM at the Tavern of Fine Arts. The special guest Master of Ceremonies this month is Cabaret Project Executive Director Tim Schall and the music director is Carol Schmidt. If you're planning to sing, be prepared to do one or two songs and bring music, preferably in your key. It's also recommend that you have your song memorized. At least one of the two songs should be medium or up-tempo. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt at Waterman in the Central West End. There's free parking in the lot right across the street. For more information, visit tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com or call 314-367-7549.

Hard Road Theatre Productions presents Drinking Habits Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, January 23-31. "Set in the present day outside the small town of Shady Glenn, USA, Drinking Habits revolves around a couple of nuns who, unknown to their Mother Superior, have been secretly making wine and selling it to the village locals in order to keep their convent open. Problems begin when the threat of a possible early frost could ruin their harvest. Meanwhile, Mother Superior is in a tizzy when she believes a spy from Rome is coming to shut her convent down. Throw in a couple of nosy reporters, a new member to the convent, a local “magical” priest, and a simple groundskeeper and you end up with several mistaken identities, some tender romances, and tons of laughs." Performances will be held at Highland High School Kennel, 12760 Troxler Avenue in Highland, IL. For more information: www.hardroad.org.

Kirkwood Theatre Guild presents the comedy Fox on the Fairway through January 25. "Filled with mistaken identities, slamming doors, and over-the-top romantic shenanigans, The Fox On the Fairway is a fast-paced and charmingly madcap adventure about love, life, and man's eternal love affair with golf." Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre of the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road. For more information, call 314-821-9956 or visit ktg-onstage.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Circus Harmony presents Giubilante Saturdays at 2 and 7 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, January 24 - February 1. Performances take place at City Museum, 701 N. 15th Street. Show admission is free with museum admission. For more information: circusharmony.org.

(L-R): Anderson Matthews and Richard Prioleau
©Photo by Jerry Naunheim Jr

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?, based on the classic film, through February 1. "A progressive couple's proud liberal sensibilities are put to the test when their daughter arrives home bursting with excitement and an unexpected fiancé. Expectations and reality collide when questions of race, fear and cultural beliefs are staring them directly in the face. A new adaptation of the award-winning film explores family and acceptance and asks which has the greater hold on our hearts." Performances take place on the mainstage at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

New Jewish Theater presents Imaginaing Madoff January 22 - February 8. "A fantasia conjured by the playwright featuring an imagined conversation between unrepentant Ponzi schemer Bernie Madoff and Holocaust survivor, poet and investment client Solomon Galkin. In an all-night study session, these two Jewish men find themselves in a moral showdown as they banter about a myriad of subjects from baseball, to the Talmud, to human decency and the story of Abraham and Isaac. The play concerns itself with the terrible beauty and magnificent danger of absolute faith, either in God or men. As an audience, we share a sense, even to the end, that we can change what's already past. It is a moral investigation." Performances take place in the Marvin and Harlene Wool Studio Theater at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283.

Clayton Community Theatre presents James Goldman's The Lion in Winter Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, January 22 - February 8. "Sibling rivalry, adultery, and dungeons - Lion in Winter, by James Goldman, is a modern day classic. Comedic in tone, dramatic in action - the play tells the story of the Plantagenet family who are locked in a free for all of competing ambitions to inherit a kingdom. The queen, and wealthiest woman in the world, Eleanor of Aquitaine, has been kept in prison since raising an army against her husband, King Henry II. Let out only for holidays, the play centers around the inner conflicts of the royal family as they fight over both a kingdom, as well as King Henry's paramour during the Christmas of 1183. As Eleanor says, "every family has its ups and downs," and this royal family is no exception." Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre. For more information, call 314-721-9228 or visit placeseveryone.org.

COCA Theatre Company presents the musical Mirette Friday through Sunday, January 23-25. "COCA Theatre Company (CTC) presents Mirette, with book by Elizabeth Diggs, music by Harvey Schmidt, lyrics by Tom Jones and based on the book Mirette on the High Wire by Emily Arnold McCully. Mirette is an imaginative, musical adaptation of the award-winning children's book, set in late 19th century Paris. A willful young girl is delighted when she discovers her mother's new boarder is none other than the Great Bellini, whose glorious tightrope-walking days were cut short when he lost his nerve. Demonstrating an innate talent for balancing, she convinces the reluctant Bellini to teach her his craft. Mirette is directed by Chris Limber, with musical direction by Phil Woodmore and circus staging by Josh Routh." COCA is at 524 Trinity in University City. For more information, call (314) 725-6555 or visit www.cocastl.org.

 The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Murder in Mayberry. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Emily C. Johnson

The Chapel Venue presents Emily C. Johnson in New Girl in Town: A Cabaret at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 24. The pianist and music director is Maggie McCarthy and the show features guest appearances by singers Sarah Dowling, Kevin Urday, Kendra Moore, Lillian Johnson, Eileen Engel, Sara Rae Womack, and Rachel Kuenzi. The Chapel is at 6238 Alexander in Clayton. For more information: thenewgirlstl.weebly.com.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Phantom of the Grand Ole Opery through April 26. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Fox Theatre presents Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella January 20 - February 1. "With its fresh new take on the beloved tale of a young woman who is transformed from a chambermaid into a princess, this hilarious and romantic Rodgers + Hammerstein's CINDERELLA combines the story's classic elements - glass slippers, pumpkin, and a beautiful ball along with some surprising twists. More than just a pretty face with the right shoe size, this Cinderella is a contemporary figure living in a fairytale setting. She is a spirited young woman with savvy and soul who doesn't let her rags or her gowns trip her up in her quest for kindness, compassion and forgiveness. She longs to escape the drudgery of her work at home and instead work to make the world a better place. She not only fights for her own dreams, but forces the prince to open his eyes to the world around him and realize his dreams too." The Fox is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, fabulousfox.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The cast of Safe House
©Photo by Eric Woolsey

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Safe House January 21 - February 8. "In 1843 Kentucky, the Pedigrews hold a unique place in their community as free people of color. While one brother has dreams of opening his own business as a cobbler and creating a life for his family, the other risks everything in an effort to help slaves escape. Inspired by the lives of his ancestors, playwright Keith Josef Adkins tells a gripping and heart-wrenching story of love, freedom and survival." Performances take place in the studio theatre at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org.

Peabody Opera House presents the Seasame Street Live: Let's Dance! Thursday through Sunday, January 22-25. For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of January 12, 2015

[Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.]

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's events web site.

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Alton Little Theater presents the comedy Alone Together Thursdays through Sundays, Jnuary 15-25, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. "In the hilarious Broadway comedy, Alone Together, Mom and Dad have spent the last thirty years raising three active sons. How they looked forward to the peace, the quiet and the privacy of an empty nest. After considerable comic turmoil and revelation of deep feelings, the nest is finally emptied. Peace now? Quiet? Not for long. All three sons come charging back home after experiencing some hard knocks in the real world, and Mom and Dad have quite a time pushing them out again." For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

Peabody Opera House presents the musical The Book of Mormon Tuesday through Sunday, January 13-18. For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

Nnenna Freelon (center) and the cast of
The Clothesline Muse

Edison Theatre Ovations! presents The Clothesline Muse Friday at 8 p.m., January 16. "The Clothesline Muse explores the clothesline as a metaphor of the African-American community lifeline. The clothesline was a place to meet, to work, to socialize, and to share traditions and common struggles. Inspired by the seemingly small act of hand washing, drying, folding and ironing, the project uses music, dance, text and visual art to celebrate the role played by African-American washerwomen in history and society. Six time Grammy-nominated vocalist Nnenna Freelon is a driving force and featured artist in this newly-created, multi-disciplinary theatrical production." The performance takes place in the Edison Theatre on the Washington University campus. For more information, call (314) 935-6543, e-mail edison at wustl.edu or visit edison.wustl.edu.

Alfresco Productions presents The Day They Shot John Lennon Friday through Sunday, January 16-18. "In the Manhattan Street in front of the Apartment Building where John Lennon was shot to death, many moved and shocked New Yorkers assembled there to pay tribute to their slain idol. It is from the interwoven stories of a cross section of these people that the author built this play. You will be transported right back to that December 1980 day of mourning when the songs of an era took on sad new ironies, and when no one could think of the right words to express and inexplicable loss." Performances take place at the Alfresco Art Center, 2401 Delmar in Granite City, IL. For more information: (618) 560-1947 or www.alfrescoproductions.org.

Kirkwood Theatre Guild presents the comedy Fox on the Fairway January 16-25. "Filled with mistaken identities, slamming doors, and over-the-top romantic shenanigans, The Fox On the Fairway is a fast-paced and charmingly madcap adventure about love, life, and man's eternal love affair with golf." Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre of the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road. For more information, call 314-821-9956 or visit ktg-onstage.org.

Shannon Marie Sullivan and Richard Prioleau
in Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?
Photo: Lon Brauer

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?, based on the classic film, through February 1. “A progressive couple's proud liberal sensibilities are put to the test when their daughter arrives home bursting with excitement and an unexpected fiancé. Expectations and reality collide when questions of race, fear and cultural beliefs are staring them directly in the face. A new adaptation of the award-winning film explores family and acceptance and asks which has the greater hold on our hearts.” Performances take place on the mainstage at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org.

The St. Louis Family Theatre Series presents Lily's Purple Plastic Purse January 16-18. "Lilly loves everything about school, especially her cool teacher, Mr. Slinger. When he confiscates her prized possession, a purple plastic purse that plays music, joy turns to misery. Lilly, who is used to being the brightest and loudest mouse around, will also have to get used to sharing the spotlight with her new baby brother in this charming adaptation of Kevin Henkes' award-winning children's book. Gripped with anger after losing her purse, Lilly draws a mean portrait of Mr. Slinger and hides it in his book bag. When she gets her purse back and opens it outside of school, she finds a surprising note: "Today was a difficult day. Tomorrow will be better." Suddenly wracked with guilt, Lilly sets out to make up with her teacher, but villainous bicycle-riding bullies, a spotlight-stealing baby brother and the dreaded "uncooperative chair" will test our heroine's resolve."Performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 314-921-5678 or visit www.florissantmo.com.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Phantom of the Grand Ole Opery through April 26. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

Archie Coleman and Curtis Lewis
in Stereo Heart

First Run Theatre presents the drama Stereo Heart by Mario Farwell Friday and Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, January 16-18. "This world premiere play is set in a rundown TV and Stereo repair shop in St. Louis. Theo and Sunny Freeman, a father and son team, run the shop and share an explosive secret. Theo has never been a pillar of society, and Sunny has served three stints in prison and is still on parole. While working on a Sony widescreen, Theo and Sunny discover a half-million dollar's worth of cocaine, and devise a scheme to sell the drugs. They soon learn that the drugs are the property of a drug kingpin named Three Thumb Hank. Georgette, the matriarch of the family, unaware of the intrigue unfolding in her household, sells a metal drum in which Theo stored the coke. When Theo and Sunny discover the drum has been sold, Sunny makes a desperate attempt to retrieve it. Three Thumb Hank returns and demands his merchandise. The family is thrown into chaos, secrets are revealed, and dreams are shattered resulting in tragic consequences." Performances take place at De Smet Jesuit High School Theatre, 233 N. New Ballas Rd. For more information, call (314) 352-5114 or visit www.firstruntheatre.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of July 21, 2014

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.]

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's events web site.

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Alton Little Theater presents 9 to 5: The Musical Thursdays through Sundays, July 24 - August 3, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. The show is based on the film of the same name and features songs by Dolly Parton. For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

Hard Road Theatre Productions presents 9 to 5: the Musical Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, July 25 - August 3. Performances will be held at Highland High School in Highland, IL. For more information: www.hardroad.org.

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Always..Patsy Cline through August 31. "Jacqueline Petroccia and Zoe Vonder Haar star in the return engagement of the show critics called 'exceptional, must see entertainment.' The touching and true story of Country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger returns to STAGES this spring. Combining down home country humor, heartache and 27 of Patsy Cline's unforgettable hits such as 'Crazy,' 'Walkin' After Midnight,' and 'Sweet Dreams,' Always... Patsy Cline endures as a piece of genuine Americana." Performances take place at The Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Whitecliffe Summer Playhouse presents the Cole Porter musical Anything Goes July 24 - 27 on the outdoor stage in Whitecliff Park. For more information: www.playhouseproductions.org

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents The Dapper Flappers through July 27. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

St. Charles Community College presents the musical Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Tuesday through Sunday, July 22-27. Performances take place in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building on the campus at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville, MO. For more information, call 636-922-8050 or visit stchas.edu.

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Flappers to Smashers: Women, Prohibition, and the 1920s Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 PM through August 5. "A look at how the 18th Amendment changed women's lives." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

Photo: Tom Gannam

Stray Dog Theatre presents the musical Funny Girl Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM July 24 - August 9. "In turn-of-the-century New York, a young Jew from the Lower East Side dreams of becoming a Broadway star despite her unglamorous appearance. This fabulous musical follows the life and career of Fanny Brice and her stormy relationship with Nicky Arnstein. A true New York love story of a Ziegfeld Follies star." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Glory the Gargoyle Finds a Home Saturdays at 11:30 AM through August 2. "A play for our youngest visitors. Glory is a gargoyle with big dreams, but she has trouble fitting in. Join her in her search to find a home." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

Stages St. Louis presents the musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying through August 17. "Big business means big laughs in this delightfully clever lampoon of life on the corporate ladder. A tune-filled comic gem that took Broadway by storm winning both the Tony Award for Best Musical and a Pulitzer Prize, How to Succeed...boasts an exhilarating score by Frank Loesser including “I Believe in You,” “Brotherhood of Man,” and “The Company Way.” Bustling with humor, romance and song, this swingin' 60s send-up of Madison Avenue charts the spectacular rise (in record time!) of an ambitious young window washer to VP of Advertising!" Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Maryland Heights Community Theatre presents Leader of the Pack: The Ellie Greenwich Musical Thursday and Sunday, July 24 - 27, at the Maryland Heights Centre, 2344 McKelvey Road. For more information, call 314-738-2599.

Clayton Community Theatre presents Little Women Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM through July 27. Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre. For more information, call 314-721-9228 or visit placeseveryone.org.

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents the Neil LaBute New Theater Festival, Part 2 July 25 - August 3 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. The festival features professional, new and previously unproduced one-act plays 45 minutes or less in length, chosen from submissions to the festival over the previous year. The plays in Part 2 are JJ Strong's Comeback Special, John Doble's Coffee House, Greenwich Village, and Susan Steadman's The Thing With Feathers. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

COCA Theatre Company presents the musical Ragtime Friday at 7 PM and Saturday at 2 and 7 PM, July 25 and 26. “COCA Theatre Company (CTC) presents Ragtime, with book by Terrence McNally, music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and based on the novel by E.L. Doctorow. The COCA Summer Musical celebrates its 10th anniversary with this powerful portrait of life in turn-of-the-century America. Ragtime draws upon the era's rich and varied music to tell the story of three extraordinary families struggling to make sense of life in America. In honor of the anniversary, the cast includes students chosen by area-wide audition as well as CTC alumni from the last 10 years of COCA Summer Musicals. This CTC production is directed by Grace Austin, with musical direction by Adaron Jackson and choreography by Lee Nolting and Chris Page. Recommended for teens and adults.” COCA is at 524 Trinity in University City. For more information, call (314) 725-6555 or visit www.cocastl.org.

The Muny presents the musical Seussical the Musical nightly at 8:15 PM, July 22-29, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Making its Muny premiere, Seussical^TM brings fantasy to magical life on the Muny stage. Based on the classic children's books of Dr. Seuss and narrated by the mischievous Cat in the Hat, this delightful musical follows Horton the elephant in his quest to protect the people of Who-ville. Seussical^TM is the timeless story of being true to your word...not living in fear...and the power of believing in yourself. Don't miss it." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.  Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Actors and Artists of the Riverbend present the Lieber and Stoller musical Smokey Joe's Café Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, July 25 - 27. Performances take place at the Nazarene Community Center in Roxana, IL. All proceeds from the show will benefit the Alton Youth Symphony. For more information: www.riverbender.com.

Family Musical Theater presents Sondheim's Sweeney Todd Thursday through Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, July 25-27, at the Ivory Theatre, 7622 Michigan. For more information, visit familymusical.org or call 314-571-9579.

Take Two Productions presents the musical Tarzan, based on the Disney animated film, July 25 - August 2. Performances take place at the Bayless High School auditorium, 4532 Weber Road. For more information, visit taketwoproductions.org.

Over Due Theatre presents Willy Wonka Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, July 25 - August 3. Performances take place at the Olivette Community Center, 9723 Grandview Drive, in Olivette, MO. For more information, call 314-210-2959 or visit overduetheatrecompany.com.

Insight Theatre Company presents the musical The Wizard of Oz July 25-27. "Insight Theatre's student interns present this timeless tale of Dorothy and her unplanned trip to the land of Oz. Based on the book by L. Frank Baum, this family-friendly production brings favorite characters such as the Scarecrow, Tin Man, Cowardly Lion, Glinda to Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West to life. As they travel the yellow brick road, Dorothy and her friends will encounter Munchkins, fend off flying monkeys and learn that there is “no place like home.” Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre, 530 East Lockwood on the campus of Nerinx Hall High School in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-556-1293 or visit insighttheatrecompany.com.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of January 25, 2013

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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New this week:

Circus Harmony presents Capriccio, A Vaudevillian Adventure, Saturday at 2 and 7 PM and Sunday at 2 PM,. “Capriccio features children from all corners of St. Louis. For this first time ever, this Circus Harmony production will include singing along with unicycling, juggling, wire walking and other feats of skill and daring.” "Performances are professional, precision, and some of the performers leave audience members gasping in disbelief," writes Connie Bollinger in her review for 88.1 KDHX. .Performances take place at City Museum, 701 N. 15th Street. For more information: circusharmony.brownpapertickets.com or call 314-436-7676.

St. Louis Actors Studio presents Albee's The Goat, or Who is Sylvia? January 18 through February 3 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. “The tale of a married, middle-aged architect whose life crumbles when he falls in love with a goat, the play focuses on the limits of an ostensibly liberal society. Through showing this family in crisis, Albee challenges audience members to question their own morality in the face of other social taboos including infidelity, homosexuality, pedophilia, incest and, of course, bestiality.The play also features many language games and grammatical arguments in the middle of catastrophes and existential disputes between the characters.” In his review for 88.1 KDHX, Steve Callahan describes this as "a stunningly beautiful piece of theatre." For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org



Dance St. Louis presents the Royal Winnipeg Ballet production of Moulin Rouge-The Ballet Friday at 8 PM and Saturday at 2 and 8 PM, January 25 and 26. “Fin de siècle Paris throbs with love, ambition, and desire when an original new story told entirely through dance brings the oldest continuously running ballet company in North America to St. Louis for the first time. Set to classical music by Debussy, Offenbach and more, Moulin Rouge® - The Ballet was created in 2009 for the Royal Winnipeg Ballet's 70th anniversary by their own Jorden Morris and has been a sold-out sensation on tour in Canada and the U.S. In a city where pomp runs hand in hand with poverty, where the heady elixir of freedom breeds reckless passion, struggling artist Matthew and cancan dancer Nathalie tempt fate as they seek love and destiny at the infamous cabaret - The Moulin Rouge®.” The performances take place at the Touhill Performing Arts center on the campus of The University of Missouri at St. Louis. For more information, you may visit dancestlouis.org or call 314-534-6622.

Held over:

The Alton Little Theater presents the comedy Almost, Maine through Sunday at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. This is a charming set of romantically comic one acts with a strong dose of a kind of magical realism. We did the local premier of this a few years back at West End Players Guild and the show has been cropping up here and there ever since. I haven't seen the ALT production, but I can attest to the fact that the play itself is first-class stuff. For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

Upstream Theater presents Café Chanson, a “ballet in song” created and directed by Broadway star and native St. Louisan Ken Page, Thursday through Sunday,. The official description says the show “includes World War II period songs from some of France's most renowned singers and songwriters” although the actual song list includes material from the late 1920s to the early 1970s. Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. I'm a great fan of the classic French pop songs so, as I note in my review for 88.1 KDHX, I mostly enjoyed this production despite some significant flaws. For more information, including show times: upstreamtheater.org.

Metro Theatre Company and the The Edison Theatre at Washington University present the St. Louis premiere of Jackie and Me by Steven Dietz, adapted from the book by Dan Gutman, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM and Sunday at 2 PM. “An exciting play that illuminates Jackie Robinson's courage and dignity in the face of cruel racial prejudice, Jackie and Me will have you on the edge of your seat as we all root for the man who changed the face of the game.” Each performance will be immediately followed by a discussion exploring questions raised by the story. The play is recommended for adults and young people 10 and over. I'm not going to get to see this one, but I'm recommending it because Metro has such a good track record and becuase Robinson's story a reminder of both how far we have come in race relations and how far we still have to go. In her review for 88.1 KDHX, Andrea Braun describes this as "a fine show for kids, and that’s exactly what it aims to be." For more information, call the Edison Theatre Box Office at (314) 935-6543.

Photo: Stewart Goldstein

The Black Rep presents August Wilson's The Piano Lesson through February 3. “Depression-era Pittsburgh. A family strives to hold on to its history. The masterful Pulitzer Prize winner from one of American's greatest playwrights.” In his review for 88.1 KDHX, Robert Ashton describes this production as "lively, funny and challenging." Performances take place at the Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square. For more information, visit theblackrep.org or call 314-534-3810.