Sunday, December 29, 2019

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 30, 2019

Mostly cabaret this week, as local theatres take a pre-January breather.

CSZ St. Louis presents The ComedySportz Show on Saturday nights at 7:30 pm. The show is "action-packed, interactive and hilarious comedy played as a sport. Two teams battle it out for points and your laughs! You choose the winners the teams provide the funny!" Performances take place on the second floor of the Sugar Cubed, 917 S Main St. in St Charles, Mo. For more information: www.cszstlouis.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents A Dickens of a Killing through January 4. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Robert Breig
The Blue Strawberry presents Making Every Moment Count: The Music of Peter Allen with Robert Breig on Saturday, January 4, at 8 pm. "Robert Breig is thrilled to come back with his super-fun and spot-on Peter Allen cabaret show, after a successful run in St. Louis, Chicago, and New York. Robert captures the spirit, the moves, the energy and the life of epic singer and showman Peter Allen. To Oz and Beyond! " Rick Jensen is pianist and music director for the show. The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: www.bluestrawberrystl.com.

Beverly Brennan
The Blue Strawberry presents A Night With Day with Beverly Brennan on Friday, January 3, at 8 pm. "Join Beverly Brennan on a sentimental journey as Bev pays tribute to one of her idols, the incomparable Doris Day. The show will feature songs from Doris Day's big band days, her movies and musicals, and her amazing recording career. Bev will also share stories about Doris's life, which has been far from a bed of daisies! Hope to see you at our show. It's magic! And if you can't make it - Que Sera, Sera!" Rick Jensen is pianist and music director for the show, which is directed by Lina Koutrakos. The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: www.bluestrawberrystl.com.

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents Robert Dubac's Idiocracy through December 30. "One man's pain is another man's comedy. Especially when he's in a coma and his five inner voices won't stop yakking. How he wakes up from this nightmare is profoundly hysterical." The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza. For more information: playhouseatwestport.com.

Rick Jensen
The Blue Strawberry presents With a Little Help From My Friends with singer/songwriter Rick Jensen on Thursday, January 2, at 8 pm. "One of St Louis's most celebrated musical directors in an evening of Rick's original songs joined by St. Louis's own Beverly Brennan, Robert Breig, Dionna Raedeke and Angie Nicholson." The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: www.bluestrawberrystl.com.

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 Calendar.
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.

Thursday, December 26, 2019

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 27, 2019

Last call for Wicked at the Fox and Pride and Prejudice at the Rep, plus a new cabaret from a local singer who has gone on to the Big Time in the Big Apple.

New This Week:

Katie McGrath
The Blue Strawberry presents Home(sick) for the Holidays with singer Katie McGrath and Rick Jensen on piano on Saturday, December 28, at 8 pm. "Katie McGrath shares the conflict of loving life in Manhattan but missing her St. Louis family, friends, landmarks and holiday traditions, including her indoor caroling party of 20 years. She tells her story using songs from the Great American Songbook, pop, rock and Christmas hymnals. Merry Keller and Bob Becherer are her special guests. All proceeds will be donated to the St. Louis difference-making non-profit Pianos for People." The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: www.bluestrawberrystl.com.

My take: When I reviewed Ms. McGrath's Signficant Others show in 2017 at the Gaslight, I said that anyone wanting to write a textbook on how to do cabaret could start with Significant Others, so there's reason to expect great stuff from her latest show. I have known Ms. McGrath for over a decade, going back to when we both attended an early edition of the St. Louis Cabaret Conference. Even then, before experience and training had allowed her to polish her craft, it was obvious that her singing had the immediacy and emotional truth that is at the heart of cabaret performance. No wonder that Gerry Geddes, in a review of the NYC debut of Significant Others, wrote that Ms. McGrath has now "pursued, captured, and pretty much perfected cabaret performance." As an added bonus, the immensely talented Rick Jensen will be at the keyboard and Ms. McGrath will have some fine local guest artists as well.


Held Over:

Pride and Prejudice
Photo: Phillip Hamer
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Pride and Prejudice, adapted from the Jane Austen novel by Christopher Baker, through December 29. "In a world of opulent estates and lavish private balls, where women's entire futures hinge on marriage, Elizabeth Bennet stands apart. With a vibrant wit and a headstrong sense of pride, Elizabeth places her own needs first and refuses to marry for mere convenience. But she meets her match in the unlikely figure of Mr. Darcy. Beginning as a testy battle of words and ideas, their relationship blossoms into a remarkable romance between two passionate intellects who play by their own rules. " Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information: repstl.org.

My take: Notices for this show have been very positive. "Augustin Family Artistic Director Hana S. Sharif makes her directorial debut at The Rep with this exquisitely conceived and accomplished paean to the timeless charm and acute observations of novelist Jane Austen," writes Mark Bretz at Ladue News. "The Rep’s adaptation of Austen’s enduring novel, Pride and Prejudice, is impossibly romantic and richly rapturous in its depiction of Austen’s finely etched characters." At stltoday.com, Calvin Wilson calls this "a brilliantly entertaining show that immediately sweeps the audience up in its joyous storytelling. Deftly sidestepping stodginess, Sharif elicits smart, engaging performances that bring Austen’s characters to vibrant life." I saw it last week and found it utterly engaging; highly recommended.


Wicked
Photo courtesy of The Fabulous Fox
The Fox Theatre presents the musical Wicked opening on Wednesday, December 4, at 7:30 pm and running through December 29. "So much happened before Dorothy dropped in. WICKED, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin-smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”" The Fox Theatre is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

My take: I haven't seen this particular tour, but in my review of the 2005 tour I noted that composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz and book author Winnie Holtzman have done a remarkable job of simplifying and reducing the story of Gregory McGuire's original novel while still remaining true to the original characters and their relationships. The score is one of Schwartz's best, and that's saying something.

Tuesday, December 24, 2019

Review: Celebrating John McDaniel home at the Blue Strawberry

John McDaniel is the prototypical example of the local boy who made good. From his days doing musical theatre at Kirkwood High School in suburban St. Louis, he has gone on to make a major name for himself as a songwriter, arranger, and bandleader on Broadway and television.

For the complete review, visit 88.1 KDHX, where Chuck Lavazzi is the senior performing arts critic.

John McDaniel
Photo courtesy of The Blue Strawberry
He still makes regular visits back to his home town, though, and this year he brought us all a little Christmas gift in the form of a brand new holiday-themed show at the Blue Strawberry showroom.

"A John McDaniel Christmas" was a warm, welcoming celebration of the season. Mr. McDaniel's engaging stage presence and lively life anecdotes knitted a cozy Christmas sweater out of an eclectic set list that ranged from Boy George's "Stranger in This World" (from the 2002 semi-autobiographical musical "Taboo") to the old German carol "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen" (usually translated as "There is a Rose E'er Blooming"), which first appeared in print in 1599. Mr. McDaniel played the latter as a piano solo, and a lovely thing it was, too--a subtle arrangement, but with a bit of swing.

Highlights of the evening included a Jule Styne medley that combined his popular "Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!" (lyrics by Sammy Cahn) with, of all things, the whimsical "The Lord's Bright Blessing" (lyrics by Bob Merrill), from the 1962 animated TV special "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol". Mr. McDaniel perfectly captured the childlike glee of Tiny Tim's wish for "razzleberry dressing" in the latter. I was also much taken with the opening combination of Billy Joel's "My Life" and Bob James and Kenny Loggins's "Celebrate Me Home." The "leaving home" defiance of the former was a nice contrast with the "welcome me back" nostalgia of the latter, and somewhat echoed the Biblical tale of the prodigal son.

One very powerful number was a medley of Ron Miller and Bryan Wells's "Someday at Christmas" (recorded by Stevie Wonder in 1967) and John Lennon's "Happy Christmas (The War is Over)," which made a heartfelt plea for peace--a courageous choice in today's political climate. Some patter about Christmas shopping led to one of the few non-holiday songs, Larry Grossman and Hal Hackaday's "Mama, a Rainbow," which asks the tough question of "what do you give to the lady who has given / All her life and love to you?" In its original context in the 1970 musical "Minnie's Boys," it's about a birthday present, but it works just as well at Christmastime.

That's not to say there wasn't humor in the show, the best example being Paul Rogers's "Santa Lost a Ho," from the 2002 album "Uncorked" by the Christmas Jug Band. Mr. McDaniel's sly performance made the most of the song's double entendre jokes. Also great fun was "Can You Believe It's Christmastime Again," a McDaniel original written specifically for this show.

Probably the most remarkable part of the evening, though, was the "Request Medley," in which Mr. McDaniel combined song titles shouted out by the audience into a musical mashup on the spot. I've seen him do this before and it never ceases to amaze me. The resulting medley of "We Need a Little Christmas," "White Christmas," "Do You Hear What I Hear," "The Little Drummer Boy," "What Are You Doing New Year's," and (somewhat improbably) "Sunrise, Sunset" were so masterfully assembled that you'd have thought it had all been written down well in advance.

"A John McDaniel Christmas" was, in short, a thoroughly delightful way to wind up the pre-Yuletide week.

Shows continue well into the New Year at The Blue Strawberry, St. Louis's only dedicated bar/restaurant/cabaret showroom. Check their web site for details.

Sunday, December 22, 2019

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 23, 2019

This week is your last chance for shows at the Rep and the Fox.

CSZ St. Louis presents The ComedySportz Show on Saturday nights at 7:30 pm. The show is "action-packed, interactive and hilarious comedy played as a sport. Two teams battle it out for points and your laughs! You choose the winners the teams provide the funny!" Performances take place on the second floor of the Sugar Cubed, 917 S Main St. in St Charles, Mo. For more information: www.cszstlouis.com.

The Grandel Theatre presents Da Vinci and Michelangelo: The Titans Experience Thursday through Saturday at 7 pm and Sunday at 2 pm, December 26-29. "First conceived as exhibitions of creations from the mind of Leonardo Da Vinci and the masterworks of Michelangelo, Da Vinci and Michelangelo: The Titans Experience is a one-of-a-kind, multimedia production that brings the works of these two Renaissance men into a brand-new, contemporary light. In the Da Vinci and Michelangelo: The Titans Experience, audiences take an awe-inspiring journey through the Italian Renaissance, led by creator Mark Rodgers, experiencing the world and its possibilities through the eyes of these two monumental geniuses." The Grandel Theater is at 3610 Grandel Square in Grand Center. For more information: metrotix.com

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents A Dickens of a Killing through January 4. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

The Elves and the Shoemaker
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis's Imaginary Theatre Company presents the children's musical The Elves and the Shoemaker at 11 am and 3 pm on Monday, December 23. The show is written by Sarah Brandt with music and lyrics by Neal Richardson. "When a kindly shoemaker gives his only remaining pair of shoes to a cold and hungry beggar woman, he finds his good deed rewarded in very unexpected ways. The shoemaker is shocked by the appearance of magic elves who turn his simple shoe shop into a great success, thrilling customers with their special creations. Based on the tale by the Brothers Grimm, this beloved, warm-hearted story is perfect for the holiday season, reminding us that where we find kindness, generosity and hope, anything is possible." Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre at Nerinx Hall High School, 530 East Lockwood Avenue, Webster Groves. For more information: repstl.org.

Katie McGrath
The Blue Strawberry presents Home(sick) for the Holidays with singer Katie McGrath and Rick Jensen on piano on Saturday, December 28, at 8 pm. "Katie McGrath shares the conflict of loving life in Manhattan but missing her St. Louis family, friends, landmarks and holiday traditions, including her indoor caroling party of 20 years. She tells her story using songs from the Great American Songbook, pop, rock and Christmas hymnals. Merry Keller and Bob Becherer are her special guests. All proceeds will be donated to the St. Louis difference-making non-profit Pianos for People." The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: www.bluestrawberrystl.com.

Pride and Prejudice
Photo: Phillip Hamer
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Pride and Prejudice, adapted from the Jane Austen novel by Christopher Baker, through December 29. "In a world of opulent estates and lavish private balls, where women's entire futures hinge on marriage, Elizabeth Bennet stands apart. With a vibrant wit and a headstrong sense of pride, Elizabeth places her own needs first and refuses to marry for mere convenience. But she meets her match in the unlikely figure of Mr. Darcy. Beginning as a testy battle of words and ideas, their relationship blossoms into a remarkable romance between two passionate intellects who play by their own rules. " Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information: repstl.org.

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents Robert Dubac's Idiocracy opening on Friday, December 27, at 8 pm and running through December 30. "One man's pain is another man's comedy. Especially when he's in a coma and his five inner voices won't stop yakking. How he wakes up from this nightmare is profoundly hysterical." The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza. For more information: playhouseatwestport.com.

Wicked
The Fox Theatre presents the musical Wicked through December 29. "So much happened before Dorothy dropped in. WICKED, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin-smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”" The Fox Theatre is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

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 Calendar.
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.

Review: David Giuntoli swings into the holidays at the Blue Strawberry

"A Swinging Holiday Soiree," David Giuntoli's show at the Blue Strawberry this Thursday (December 19th), was exactly that: a genial gambol through a mix of holiday classics and Great American Songbook standards in a style reminiscent (but not imitative) of Frank, Deano, and Sammy.

Nice to see some truth in advertising now and then.

This article originally appeared at 88.1 KDHX, where Chuck Lavazzi is the senior performing arts critic.

David Giuntoli
Photo courtesy of The Blue Strawberry
Speaking of which, here's a disclaimer: Mr. Giuntoli and I both serve on the board of The Cabaret Project STL, a non-profit dedicated to promoting, developing, and sustaining the art of cabaret locally. He has also been a regular at the monthly open mic I host for the Cabaret Project. So we're not what you would call strangers.

The evening was, in any case, a clear hit with the audience. Mr. Giuntoli's amiable stage presence and obvious love for his material were hard to resist, and he was backed up by a pair of well-known local musicians: Ben Wheeler on stand-up bass and Carol Schmidt on piano. Both had some nifty solo moments, most notably in Sammy Cahn and Stan Applebaum's rarely heard "The Goin's Great," from Sammy Davis Jr.'s 1969 LP of the same name.

Ms. Schmidt, who has served as music director for a number of local performers (including yours truly) also provided the well-crafted arrangements, which were an excellent fit for Mr. Giuntoli's rough-hewn bass-baritone. She also put together some ingenious medleys, the most impressive of which combined Ted Shapiro's "(I Love the) Winter Weather" (originally recorded, in separate releases, by Peggy Lee and "Fats" Waller in 1941) with a pair of 1930s Irving Berlin's hits: "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm" and "Top Hat, White Tie and Tails." There was even a quick quote from Berlin's "Blue Skies," which was a nice touch.

Carol Schmidt
Mr. Giuntoli delivered it all in a smooth, carefree style that conjured up images of intimate, smoky Las Vegas lounges, dry martinis, and maybe a lightly draped "showgirl" or two. For me, though, some of his best moments came in the small number of ballads that punctuated the program. His medley of Sammy Cahn and James Van Husen's "All My Tomorrows" and "All the Way" (both Sinatra standards) was especially touching and made good use of his mellow lower register.

So, yeah, although not every aspect of "A Swinging' Holiday Soiree" necessarily worked for me, it was nevertheless exactly what it promised to be, leaving the audience with a seasonal glow and a number of plastic leis that Mr. Giuntoli handed out during his performance of Robert Alex Anderson's "Mele Kalikimaka." A friend of mine looked at hers and quipped, "Now I know it's Christmas; I just got lei'd."

(Rim shot)

Shows continue well into the New Year at The Blue Strawberry, St. Louis's only dedicated bar/restaurant/cabaret showroom. Check their web site at bluestrawberrystl.com for details.

Friday, December 20, 2019

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 20, 2019

This is your last chance for some highly-praised shows this week, as well as a chance to catch a children's classic at ITC and some cabaret at the Blue Strawberry.

New This Week:
The Elves and the Shoemaker
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis's Imaginary Theatre Company presents the children's musical The Elves and the Shoemaker opening on Saturday, December 21, with performances at 11 am and 3 pm, and running through Monday, December 23. The show is written by Sarah Brandt with music and lyrics by Neal Richardson. "When a kindly shoemaker gives his only remaining pair of shoes to a cold and hungry beggar woman, he finds his good deed rewarded in very unexpected ways. The shoemaker is shocked by the appearance of magic elves who turn his simple shoe shop into a great success, thrilling customers with their special creations. Based on the tale by the Brothers Grimm, this beloved, warm-hearted story is perfect for the holiday season, reminding us that where we find kindness, generosity and hope, anything is possible." Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre at Nerinx Hall High School, 530 East Lockwood Avenue, Webster Groves. For more information: repstl.org.

My take: Looking for some holiday fun for the kids? This recurring favorite by ITC is a good bet. In his review of the original 2011 production for Broadwayworld, Chris Gibson wrote that "Brandt and Richardson have concocted another intelligent winner that brings a beloved classic to life. My six year old son enjoyed it, and that's a sure stamp of approval." ITC treats its young audience with respect and clearly assumes that children's theatre should also be good theatre.


Ken Haller
The Blue Strawberry presents Happy Hallerdays with Ken Haller on Saturday, December 21, at 8 pm. "In his take on the holidays, Ken promises to be surprising, funny, personal, moving, great company and just a little exasperating. Just like all our holidays!" The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

My take: In my review of the original 2017 production of this entertaiing show, I described it as "a romp through a full calendar year of three-day weekends, starting with Christmas and working around the calendar. Peppered with insights from Mr. Haller's life in medicine and theatre, the evening is fun and funny, but also touching and profound." 'Nuff said.


John McDaniel
The Blue Strawberry presents A John McDaniel Christmas on Friday, December 20, at 8 pm. "Grammy and Emmy Award winner John McDaniel comes home for the holidays in his first solo concert in 6 years. He has worked with many, many Broadway stars. John will share songs and stories from his career on Broadway and on television, as well as Christmas remembrances from his childhood in St. Louis." The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

My take: Mr. McDaniel is a talented arranger/pianist and a highly engaging performer. I have seen him here twice (in 2007 and again just last year with Barg Jungr in a dynamite Beatles tribute show) and have been tremendously impressed with work both times. I'm looking forward to his holiday show; so should you.

Held Over:

Fully Committed
Photo: John Gitchoff
New Jewish Theater presents the comedy Fully Committed Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Saturdays at 4 and 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm through December 22 "The New Jewish Theatre's Artistic Director, Eddie Coffield, Artistic Director, announces the cast and creative team of Fully Committed. Arriving just in time for the holidays, Becky Mode's hilarious hit lets the madness run wild. “I am overjoyed to bring Fully Committed to the New Jewish Theatre during the most festive time of year!” Coffield said. “There's no actor more equipped to tackle 40-plus characters than our beloved Will Bonfiglio. I can hardly wait for St. Louis to see Will bring this timeless, one-man tour-de-force to life!” This hilarious comedy features more than 40 characters that come to life through one actor.” 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.

My take: A one-actor show can be great fun if the script is worthwhile and the actor is up to the task. I've seen this show three times (here at the Rep and Stray Dog, and in Chicago with Bronson Pinchot) and found it vastly entertaining every time. The characters in Becky Mode's script are deftly and convincingly drawn, which raises this above the level of a simple virtuoso acting display. Mr. Bonfiglio has earned plenty of praise for his work on stage and is getting good notices for his performance here. "Bonfiglio doesn’t break a sweat at the frequently breakneck pace of character switches," writes Ann Lemmons Pollack, "flying back and forth between voices and faces. He’s just plain terrific. And he’s terrifically funny." That's pretty typical of the notices thus far. You should maybe get your tickets sooner rather than later.


A Life in the Theatre
Photo: Patrick Huber
St. Louis Actors' Studio presents A Life in the Theatre by David Mamet Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 pm through December 22. "The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Glengarry Glen Ross and Speed-The-Plow, takes us into the lives of two actors: John, young and rising into the first flush of his success; the other Robert, older, anxious, and beginning to wane. In a series of short, spare, and increasingly raw exchanges, we see the estrangement of youth from age and the wider, inevitable and endless cycle of life, in and out of the theatre." Performances take place at the Gaslight Theatre on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

My take: I have found Mamet less and less interesting as he sinks deeper and deeper into his Angry Old White Guy role, but A Life in the Theatre is a much earlier work (from 1977) and free of political axe grinding. Reviews for the STLAS production have been good, with Calvin Wilson's notice for stltoday.com being a good example, which describes the show as "spellbinding and frequently hilarious...a rare and illuminating glimpse into what goes on in the mind and heart of an actor."


Pride and Prejudice
Photo: Phillip Hamer
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Pride and Prejudice, adapted from the Jane Austen novel by Christopher Baker, through December 29. "In a world of opulent estates and lavish private balls, where women's entire futures hinge on marriage, Elizabeth Bennet stands apart. With a vibrant wit and a headstrong sense of pride, Elizabeth places her own needs first and refuses to marry for mere convenience. But she meets her match in the unlikely figure of Mr. Darcy. Beginning as a testy battle of words and ideas, their relationship blossoms into a remarkable romance between two passionate intellects who play by their own rules. " Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information: repstl.org.

My take: Notices for this show have been very positive. "Augustin Family Artistic Director Hana S. Sharif makes her directorial debut at The Rep with this exquisitely conceived and accomplished paean to the timeless charm and acute observations of novelist Jane Austen," writes Mark Bretz at Ladue News. "The Rep’s adaptation of Austen’s enduring novel, Pride and Prejudice, is impossibly romantic and richly rapturous in its depiction of Austen’s finely etched characters." At stltoday.com, Calvin Wilson calls this "a brilliantly entertaining show that immediately sweeps the audience up in its joyous storytelling. Deftly sidestepping stodginess, Sharif elicits smart, engaging performances that bring Austen’s characters to vibrant life." I saw it last week and found it utterly engaging; highly recommended.


WickedPhoto courtesy of The Fabulous Fox
The Fox Theatre presents the musical Wicked opening on Wednesday, December 4, at 7:30 pm and running through December 29. "So much happened before Dorothy dropped in. WICKED, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin-smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”" The Fox Theatre is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

My take: I haven't seen this particular tour, but in my review of the 2005 tour I noted that composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz and book author Winnie Holtzman have done a remarkable job of simplifying and reducing the story of Gregory McGuire's original novel while still remaining true to the original characters and their relationships. The score is one of Schwartz's best, and that's saying something.

Monday, December 16, 2019

Review: So this is Christmas

No matter how much resentment, spite, and general bad behavior pollutes the Internet in general and social media in particular I always find it easier, at what Dickens calls this "kind, forgiving, charitable, pleasant time" of year, to believe that there still might be hope for some "tidings of comfort and joy."

This article originally appeared at 88.1 KDHX, where Chuck Lavazzi is the senior performing arts critic.

Stuart Malina
Photo courtesy of the SLSO
That's especially true in the afterglow of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra's annual "Mercy Holiday Celebration" (which we saw Friday night) with guest conductor Stuart Malina. With its thoughtful mix of sacred and secular holiday tunes (including a nod to Chanukah), a dusting of classical selections, and the concluding "Holly and Jolly Sing-Along," it was a program likely to warm the Scroogiest (is that a word?) of hearts.

While the music mix varies from year to year, some things (like the sing-along) are as reliable as the Christmas fruitcake. To begin with, there's always a featured singer who joins the orchestra and the Holiday Festival Chorus for a few numbers and some repartee with Whit Richert's jovial Santa--another reliable element of the celebration.

This year it's Rachel Potter whose career started on Broadway but has since moved to Nashville and whose warm and flexible voice does, indeed, sound a bit "country" every now and then. Past editions have featured performers with classical and musical theatre backgrounds, but I think this is the first time we've had someone with a Music City connection. It was a pleasant change of tone. I was especially taken with her "White Christmas," in which she sang the verse a cappella, and her soaring "O Holy Night" with the Festival Chorus.

I was, by the way, happy to see that David T. Clydesdale's arrangement included this often omitted verse from John Sullivan Dwight's 1885 translation:

Truly He taught us to love one another; His law is love and His gospel is peace. Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother; And in His name all oppression shall cease.
It felt like a particularly important reminder these days.

Rachel Potter
Photo courtesy of the SLSO
The Holiday Festival Chorus, made up of singers from area high schools and colleges, sounded especially solid this year--a tribute to the work of long-time chorus director Kevin McBeth. They got a bit of electronic amplification as always, but it was done with a subtlety that made it almost unnoticeable. Their "Silent Night," was an elegant arrangement by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir's Mack Wilberg, was a thing of beauty. The use of harp and celesta--expertly played by Allegra Lilly and Henry Palkes, respectively--gave it a wonderfully transparent texture.

I also loved the work of this year's guest conductor. The man or woman with the baton is expected to act as MC as well as orchestra leader, and Mr. Malina excelled in both roles. His chatty and informative comments on each number were very engaging, and the choice of music was a nice blend of the familiar and the unusual. The latter included Irving Berlin's "Snow" (which appears to have been prescient, given the current weather forecast), a rarely heard number from the popular film "White Christmas," and two of contemporary composer Terry Mizesko's dances from "A Chanukah Celebration."

The latter cleverly combined traditional classical and Klezmer elements, including a wonderfully idiomatic duet by Principal Clarinet Scott Andrews and Associate Concertmaster Heidi Harris. Neither of the traditional tunes that formed the basis for the piece was familiar to me, although a brief violin passage in the second dance sounded an awful lot like the Klezmer-esque section of the third movement of Mahler's Symphony No. 1.

There's a final performance of the "Mercy Holiday Celebration" at Powell Hall tonight (Sunday, December 15) at 7 pm. Weather permitting, it's a great way to celebrate the solstice holiday of your choice. Get a glass of Poinsettia Punch at the bar and enjoy. Holiday events continue this coming week at Powell Hall with "A Gospel Christmas" on Wednesday and Thursday, December 18 and 19, a showing of the film Home Alone with the SLSO playing the score on Friday and Saturday, December 20 and 21, and the Compton Heights Concert Band's annual holiday show on Sunday, December 22.

Sunday, December 15, 2019

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 16, 2019

This week is your last chance for critically praised shows at Stray Dog, New Jewish, and the Actors' Studio.

Under the Arch Incubator and the cast of the National Touring Company of Wicked present Collaborative Cabarets: An Evening of New Musical Theatre on Monday, December 16. The performance will begin at 7:30pm with a Meet and Greet Cocktail hour beginning at 6pm. Net proceeds will benefit Broadway Cares/ Equity Fights AIDS (BC/EFA) and Under the Arch Incubator. The event takes place at The Blue Strawberry, 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: www.artful.ly/store/events/19383.

CSZ St. Louis presents The ComedySportz Show on Saturday nights at 7:30 pm. The show is "action-packed, interactive and hilarious comedy played as a sport. Two teams battle it out for points and your laughs! You choose the winners the teams provide the funny!" Performances take place on the second floor of the Sugar Cubed, 917 S Main St. in St Charles, Mo. For more information: www.cszstlouis.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents A Dickens of a Killing through January 4. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Disenchanted
Photo: John Lamb
Stray Dog Theatre presents the rock musical Disenchanted through December 21. "Snow White and her posse of disgruntled princesses take the stage in the hilarious hit musical that's anything but Grimm. Forget the princesses you think you know - the original storybook heroines have come to life to set the record straight and give fairytales the bird." The show is recommended for mature audiences. Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

The Stifel Theatre presents The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Musical on Thursday, December 19 at 7 pm. "The beloved tradition that continues to capture the hearts of children and their families everywhere comes to the live stage for the first time ever in this all-new musical and premiere stage production. When the top Scout Elf of his graduating class is sent to a disconnected, multi-generational family struggle to rediscover Christmas spirit, he's got to find a way off the shelf and into their hearts. This toe-tapping, heartwarming story of one small elf's big impact on his adoptive family includes an exclusive invitation to Santa's North Pole and engages audiences with a glimpse into the magical lives of Scout Elves. Featuring an original story and score, dazzling sets and costumes, and wondrous moments that make even the most cynical believe, this momentous celebration of the season leaves spirits high and captivates all with the splendor of Christmas." The Stifel Theatre is at 14th and Market downtown. For more information: stifeltheatre.com.

The Elves and the Shoemaker
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis's Imaginary Theatre Company presents the children's musical The Elves and the Shoemaker opening on Saturday, December 21, with performances at 11 am and 3 pm, and running through Monday, December 23. The show is written by Sarah Brandt with music and lyrics by Neal Richardson. "When a kindly shoemaker gives his only remaining pair of shoes to a cold and hungry beggar woman, he finds his good deed rewarded in very unexpected ways. The shoemaker is shocked by the appearance of magic elves who turn his simple shoe shop into a great success, thrilling customers with their special creations. Based on the tale by the Brothers Grimm, this beloved, warm-hearted story is perfect for the holiday season, reminding us that where we find kindness, generosity and hope, anything is possible." Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre at Nerinx Hall High School, 530 East Lockwood Avenue, Webster Groves. For more information: repstl.org.

Fully CommittedPhoto: John Gitchoff
New Jewish Theater presents the comedy Fully Committed Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Saturdays at 4 and 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm through December 22 "The New Jewish Theatre's Artistic Director, Eddie Coffield, Artistic Director, announces the cast and creative team of Fully Committed. Arriving just in time for the holidays, Becky Mode's hilarious hit lets the madness run wild. “I am overjoyed to bring Fully Committed to the New Jewish Theatre during the most festive time of year!” Coffield said. “There's no actor more equipped to tackle 40-plus characters than our beloved Will Bonfiglio. I can hardly wait for St. Louis to see Will bring this timeless, one-man tour-de-force to life!” This hilarious comedy features more than 40 characters that come to life through one actor.” 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.

Ken Haller
The Blue Strawberry presents Happy Hallerdays with Ken Haller on Saturday, December 21, at 8 pm. "In his take on the holidays, Ken promises to be surprising, funny, personal, moving, great company and just a little exasperating. Just like all our holidays!" The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

John McDaniel
The Blue Strawberry presents A John McDaniel Christmas on Friday, December 20, at 8 pm. "Grammy and Emmy Award winner John McDaniel comes home for the holidays in his first solo concert in 6 years. He has worked with many, many Broadway stars. John will share songs and stories from his career on Broadway and on television, as well as Christmas remembrances from his childhood in St. Louis." The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

A Life in the Theatre
Photo: Patrick Huber
St. Louis Actors' Studio presents A Life in the Theatre by David Mamet Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 pm through December 22. "The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Glengarry Glen Ross and Speed-The-Plow, takes us into the lives of two actors: John, young and rising into the first flush of his success; the other Robert, older, anxious, and beginning to wane. In a series of short, spare, and increasingly raw exchanges, we see the estrangement of youth from age and the wider, inevitable and endless cycle of life, in and out of the theatre." Performances take place at the Gaslight Theatre on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

One Too Many
The Blue Strawberry presents A Not-So-Secret Santa Party with One Too Many on Saturday, December 21, at 1 pm. "One Too Many comes to Blue Strawberry for a Holiday Brunch Show. Listen these masters of a cappella in very clever arrangements and tight, six part harmonies of some of your favorite holiday songs and carols, and some that will be new to you." The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Pride and Prejudice
Photo: Phillip Hamer
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Pride and Prejudice, adapted from the Jane Austen novel by Christopher Baker, through December 29. "In a world of opulent estates and lavish private balls, where women's entire futures hinge on marriage, Elizabeth Bennet stands apart. With a vibrant wit and a headstrong sense of pride, Elizabeth places her own needs first and refuses to marry for mere convenience. But she meets her match in the unlikely figure of Mr. Darcy. Beginning as a testy battle of words and ideas, their relationship blossoms into a remarkable romance between two passionate intellects who play by their own rules. " Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information: repstl.org.

The Blue Strawberry presents Sensational Soul with Lamont Hadley on Sunday, December 22, at 7 pm. "The smooth, delicate sounds of Lamont Hadley will mesmerize, refresh and captivate your soul with electrifying, sensational old and new school vocals." The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Chuck Lavazzi
The Cabaret Project presents its weekly Singers Open Mic Night on Tuesday, December 17, from 7 to 10 pm. Drop by and enjoy a night of great music from St. Louis cabaret artists, backed up by pianist and music director Carol Schmidt. Your MC is KDHX Senior Performing Arts Critic Chuck Lavazzi. 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. Seasonal songs are strongly encouraged but not required, and there will be a Christmas carol sing-along. The event takes place at Sophie's Artist Lounge on the second floor of the .ZACK performing arts space at 3226 Locust in Grand Center. For more information: thecabaretproject.org.

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery Of The Magi's Gold running through December 22. "Think "CSI: Bethlehem" in this holiday mystery extravaganza, from the author of the wildly popular Late Nite Catchism, as Sister takes on the mystery that has intrigued historians throughout the ages - whatever happened to the Magi's gold? As Sister states, 'We know that Mary used the frankincense and myrrh as a sort of potpourri - they were in a barn after all.' Retelling the story of the nativity, as only Sister can, Sister's Christmas Catechism is bound to become an annual classic. Employing her own scientific tools, assisted by a local choir, and a gaggle of audience members, Sister creates a living nativity unlike anything anyone has ever seen. Highly interactive with gifts galore and a bundle of laughs, this show is a must-see for the holiday season. " The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza. For more information: playhouseatwestport.com.

David Giuntoli
The Blue Strawberry presents A Swinging Holiday Soiree with David Giuntoli on Thursday, December 19, at 8 pm. "The ever affable, unflappable and eternally charming David Giuntoli comes with songs made famous by mid-century luminaries Mel Torme, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and others." Carol Schmidt, is pianist and music director with Ben Wheeler, on bass. The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Wicked
The Fox Theatre presents the musical Wicked through December 29. "So much happened before Dorothy dropped in. WICKED, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin-smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”" The Fox Theatre is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

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 Calendar.
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.

The St. Louis classical calendar for the week of December 16, 2019

More holiday sounds are in the air this week, as well as with a non-traditional Christmas movie at Powell Hall.

Tenor Hugh Smith
The Compton Heights Concert Band presents their annual Holiday Pops Concert on Sunday, December 22, at 3 pm. "The Compton Heights Concert Band's 21st Annual Holiday Pops Spectacular! features its 60-piece Band, with an all-star lineup of guest artists, Hugh Smith, tenor, Gina Galati, soprano, Bob Ellison, baritone, Beverly Stewart-Anderson, soprano, and the Abbey Road Warriors." The performance takes place at Powell Symphony Hall in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The St. Louis Chamber Chorus presents Christmas Down Under on Sunday, December 22, at 3 pm. "Celebrating the season at the hottest time of the year changes one's perspective, as shown by the “bush carols” of William James. Even familiar carols find new harmonies by Australian and New Zealand composers from Malcolm Williamson & Peter Sculthorpe, to Owen Elsley & Clare Maclean. Fresh arrangements of holiday favorites will resound in one of St. Louis' most original buildings." The concert takes place at the St. Louis Abbey Church, 500 S. Mason Road in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.chamberchorus.org.

The St. Louis Low Brass Collective presents a Holiday Low Brass Play Along on Saturday, December 21, at 10 am. "Every year the STLLBC welcomes all low brass musicians to the Missouri Botanical Garden to ring in the holiday season the best way we know how, on low brass instruments. This event is free and open to everyone. There is a rehearsal for all performers starting at 10 and we will perform at noon." The event takes place at Missouri Botanical Garden in the Shaw Neighborhood For more information: www.stllbc.org.

The IN UNISON Chorus
Kevin McBeth conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and IN UNISON Chorus, along with vocal soloist Kennedy Holmes, in A Gospel Christmas on Wednesday and Thursday, December 18 and 19, at 7:30 pm. "Celebrate the holiday season with the SLSO and IN UNISON Chorus as they perform Gospel renditions of your holiday favorites. This season's celebrations feature fourteen-year-old St. Louis native Kennedy Holmes, who recently placed 4th on Season 15 of NBC's hit show The Voice. This powerful performance is a perfect way to celebrate the joyous season." Performances take place at Powell Symphony Hall in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The St. Louis Sympony Orchestra, conducted by Joshua Green, presents a showing of the film Home Alone, with the score performed live, on Friday at 7 pm and Saturday at 2 pm, December 20 and 21. "Back by popular demand, the SLSO performs the 1990's holiday classic, Home Alone, complete with John Williams' whimsical score. When the McCallisters left on family vacation, they forgot one thing-Kevin! From plain cheese pizza to elaborate pranks, this cherished film will put you in the holiday spirit." The performances take place at Powell Symphony Hall in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The 442s
The Washington University Department of Music presents The 442s Holiday Spectacular on Tuesday, December 17, at 7:30 pm. The 442s are Shawn Weil, violin; Michael Casimir, viola; Bjorn Ranheim, cello; Bob Deboo, bass; and Adam Maness, multi-instrumentalist. "Back by popular demand, The 442s are joined by some of the brightest stars of the local and national music scene in presenting their not-to-be-missed annual Holiday Spectacular! Performing traditional and original favorites that break down boundaries between jazz, soul, pop and classical music, this concert will get you in the perfect holiday spirit! Special guests include Peter Martin, Brian Owens, Montez Coleman, Anita Jackson and many other surprise performers." The concert takes place in the Lee Concert Hall at the 560 Music Center at 560 Trinity in University City. For more information, music.wustl.edu or call 314-935-5566.

Friday, December 13, 2019

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 13, 2019

The big pre-Christmas theatre rush continues this week, with a lot of shows to recommend.

New This Week:

Ben Nordstrom
The Blue Strawberry presents Ben Nordstrom: My Favorite Stuff on Sunday, December 17, at 7 pm. "With an affable charm, a quick joke, and a soaring tenor, Ben will share musical stories of parenting, love, theatre, and of course, the holidays. My Favorite Stuff marks Ben Nordstrom's solo debut at Blue Strawberry. He’ll be joined by the iconic Steve Neale on piano. Together, they will span a wide array of musical styles from 70s pop/rock to contemporary musical comedy to the Great American Songbook. By the end of the night, Ben’s favorite stuff will be yours too." The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: www.bluestrawberrystl.com.

My take: Here's a duet show by a pair of well known and highly regarded local theatre and cabaret artists. Mr. Nordstrom has a long resume that includes dramatic and comic roles, along with extensive musical theatre work, while Mr. Neale is a composer, conductor, pianist, and vocalist who is much in demand here in town. It looks like an unbeatable combination to me. I will definitely be there on Sunday.


The Cricket on the Hearth
Photo: John Lamb
The West End Players Guild continues its 109th season with the world premiere of Vladimir Zelevinski's adaptation of Charles Dickens's The Cricket on the Hearth Thursday through Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 2 pm, December 12-15. "In mid-19th century London John and Dot have fallen in love and married. Theirs is a May-December match (she is young and spritely, he is older and wiser), as unlikely as it is loving. The joy of their life is their bouncing baby boy, and their home is guarded by a friendly cricket who chirps from the hearth, an omen of good fortune. Then, a mysterious stranger enters their lives. Has he brought with him suffering and sorrow that will tear apart the lives of John, Dot and their friends, or does he bring gentler gifts? We won't spoil the ending, except to say that you just might leave the theatre with your heart a little warmer than when you entered." Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 North Union at Enright in the Central West End. For more information, call 314-367-0025 or visit www.westendplayers.org.

My take: I saw this last night and was impressed by every aspect of it, from the solid acting, to the smart direction, to the fanciful sets, to the remarkably faithful adaptation of Dickens's somewhat odd original story, including it's strange, surreal final moments. I have had occasion to admire Mr. Zelevinski's work as a playwright in the past. He has once again fulfilled my expectations. Disclaimer: I serve on the board of WEPG as well as the play selection committee, but have had no hand in this production.


Fully Committed
Photo: John Gitchoff
New Jewish Theater presents the comedy Fully Committed Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Saturdays at 4 and 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm through December 22 "The New Jewish Theatre's Artistic Director, Eddie Coffield, Artistic Director, announces the cast and creative team of Fully Committed. Arriving just in time for the holidays, Becky Mode's hilarious hit lets the madness run wild. “I am overjoyed to bring Fully Committed to the New Jewish Theatre during the most festive time of year!” Coffield said. “There's no actor more equipped to tackle 40-plus characters than our beloved Will Bonfiglio. I can hardly wait for St. Louis to see Will bring this timeless, one-man tour-de-force to life!” This hilarious comedy features more than 40 characters that come to life through one actor.” 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.

My take: A one-actor show can be great fun if the script is worthwhile and the actor is up to the task. I've seen this show three times (here at the Rep and Stray Dog, and in Chicago with Bronson Pinchot) and found it vastly entertaining every time. The characters in Becky Mode's script are deftly and convincingly drawn, which raises this above the level of a simple virtuoso acting display. Mr. Bonfiglio has earned plenty of praise for his work on stage and is getting good notices for his performance here. "Bonfiglio doesn’t break a sweat at the frequently breakneck pace of character switches," writes Ann Lemmons Pollack, "flying back and forth between voices and faces. He’s just plain terrific. And he’s terrifically funny." That's pretty typical of the notices thus far. You should maybe get your tickets sooner rather than later.


A Life in the Theatre
Photo: Patrick Huber
St. Louis Actors' Studio presents A Life in the Theatre by David Mamet Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 pm through December 22. "The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Glengarry Glen Ross and Speed-The-Plow, takes us into the lives of two actors: John, young and rising into the first flush of his success; the other Robert, older, anxious, and beginning to wane. In a series of short, spare, and increasingly raw exchanges, we see the estrangement of youth from age and the wider, inevitable and endless cycle of life, in and out of the theatre." Performances take place at the Gaslight Theatre on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

My take: I have found Mamet less and less interesting as he sinks deeper and deeper into his Angry Old White Guy role, but A Life in the Theatre is a much earlier work (from 1977) and free of political axe grinding. Reviews for the STLAS production have been good, with Calvin Wilson's notice for stltoday.com being a good example, which describes the show as "spellbinding and frequently hilarious...a rare and illuminating glimpse into what goes on in the mind and heart of an actor."


That Uppity Theatre Company and the St. Louis University Department of Fine and Performing Arts present Playhouse Emissions: Climate Change Theatre Action St. Louis 2019 on Friday, December 13, at 7:30 pm. "Produced by Joan Lipkin, and directed by Thomas Martin, Anna Blair and Alex Knapp, "Playhouse Emissions: Climate Change Theatre Action St. Louis 2019" will feature a sampling of the CCTA international collection of short plays inspired by climate change and prevailing attitudes towards science. In 2017, close to 140 collaborators in 23 countries hosted events, reaching an audience of 12,000. In the US, 90 events took place in 60 cities." The performance takes place at the Mark Wilson Theatre on the campus of St. Louis University. Admission is free. For more information: www.climatechangetheatreaction.com

My take: I haven't seen this and won't have the opportunity to do so, but I think the topic is important enough and the production company professional enough to make this worth your attention.


Pride and Prejudice
Photo: Phillip Hamer
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Pride and Prejudice, adapted from the Jane Austen novel by Christopher Baker, through December 29. "In a world of opulent estates and lavish private balls, where women's entire futures hinge on marriage, Elizabeth Bennet stands apart. With a vibrant wit and a headstrong sense of pride, Elizabeth places her own needs first and refuses to marry for mere convenience. But she meets her match in the unlikely figure of Mr. Darcy. Beginning as a testy battle of words and ideas, their relationship blossoms into a remarkable romance between two passionate intellects who play by their own rules. " Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information: repstl.org.

My take: Here's another show I won't see until later this weekend, but notices have been very positive. "Augustin Family Artistic Director Hana S. Sharif makes her directorial debut at The Rep with this exquisitely conceived and accomplished paean to the timeless charm and acute observations of novelist Jane Austen," writes Mark Bretz at Ladue News. "The Rep’s adaptation of Austen’s enduring novel, Pride and Prejudice, is impossibly romantic and richly rapturous in its depiction of Austen’s finely etched characters." At stltoday.com, Calvin Wilson calls this "a brilliantly entertaining show that immediately sweeps the audience up in its joyous storytelling. Deftly sidestepping stodginess, Sharif elicits smart, engaging performances that bring Austen’s characters to vibrant life." I'm looking forward to it.


Held Over:

Dean as Dean
The Blue Strawberry presents Dean Christopher: A Classic-Vegas, Rat-Pack Christmas on Friday, December 13, at 8 pm. "One of the greatest eras in the history of entertainment, Classic Vegas meets the holiday season head-on. The style, the entertainers, all brought to life and rolled up into your favorite holiday tunes by award winning actor, singer, impressionist, Dean Christopher and his band. A holiday show you soon won't forget. Not to mention a surefire way to get into the holiday spirit." The Blue Strawberry is at 364 N. Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

My take: Basically a holiday version of the "Rat Pack" tribute Mr. Christopher has been performing with great success for many years, the evening is an homage to the kind of flashy, mid-1960s Las Vegas nightclub show perfected by legendary performers like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. It's also 90 minutes of rock-solid, raucous entertainment; not to be missed. See my review for KDHX for more details.


It's a Wonderful Life
Photo: Jennifer Lin
Metro Theatre Company presents It's a Wonderful Life, based on the classic film, through December 15. "The beloved American holiday classic leaps to life on stage in a delightful, heartwarming new adaptation. John Wolbers' "It's a Wonderful Life" has a clever twist: it's staged as a play within a play, more specifically a radio play within a play. On Christmas Eve 1949, KMTC Radio St. Louis is prepared to perform a live radio broadcast of "It's a Wonderful Life," when unexpected events transform the station's staff into the radio play's actors. Complete with microphones, live sound effects by a Foley artist, 1940s period costumes, and a diverse company of characters, the play tells the story of George Bailey and his discovery of the life-affirming message that one life can change the whole fabric of a community. " The performances take place at The Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square in Grand Center.. For more information: metroplays.org.

My take: Well, it wouldn't be the holidays without someone doing a stage version of this beloved movie. Metro's approach has the advantage of treating it as the basis for a story that's less about the original film and more about the intrepid group of employees of a fictional radio station doing their best to work together to bring it to life over the air. "Metro Theater Company's It's a Wonderful Life brings an hour or so of a captivating and classy good time to an appreciative audience, a terrific start to the holiday season," writes Mark Bretz at Ladue News. "Don't forget to clap on cue."


WickedPhoto courtesy of The Fabulous Fox
The Fox Theatre presents the musical Wicked opening on Wednesday, December 4, at 7:30 pm and running through December 29. "So much happened before Dorothy dropped in. WICKED, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin-smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”" The Fox Theatre is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

My take: I haven't seen this particular tour, but in my review of the 2005 tour I noted that composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz and book author Winnie Holtzman have done a remarkable job of simplifying and reducing the story of Gregory McGuire's original novel while still remaining true to the original characters and their relationships. The score is one of Schwartz's best, and that's saying something.