Digital Symphony Review: Denéve and the SLSO try a little tenderness

Available through September 25th, the latest digital release from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) is from a series of concerts originally performed live this past Mother's Day weekend (May 7th through 9th) and reviewed by me back then.  On our way home from the May 8th performance, my wife commented that there was a noticeable warmth to Music Director Stéphane Denève's conducting. I’d say there’s also an affection for both the music and musicians that is well-nigh irresistible.

[Find out more about the music with my symphony preview of the original concert.]

"Songs My Mother Taught Me"

You can hear those qualities in the pair of works that open this concert, picked specifically in honor of Mother's Day: settings of the poem "Songs My Mother Taught Me" by Antonín Dvořák and Charles Ives.

Written for voice and piano, the songs are heard here in arrangements by Michi Wiancko for string orchestra, with a single wind instrument taking the vocal line. Principal Clarinet Scott Andrews is the soloist in the Dvořák and Associate Principal Flute Andrea Kaplan in the surprisingly sentimental Ives. Both use their instruments to sing with a kindheartedness that was a perfect match for the music.

In the original live performance, the placement of Andrews and Kaplan towards the rear of the stage occasionally allowed the accompaniment to overwhelm them. The video overcomes that with a sound balance that makes them more clearly heard (despite the overall lack of audible stereo separation), as well as with close-up shots that allows you to see them playing in a way that could never be achieved in the concert hall. Alicia Revé Like (the narrator for "Peter and the Wolf") reads the English translation of the simple, sentimental poem in between the two performances, which is a nice touch.

Alicia Revé Like

Next is that venerable favorite, Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf,” which has made regular appearances in SLSO programs since 1939, only three years after its first performance by the Moscow Philharmonic. Like’s take on the role of the narrator is a perfect balance of theatricality and simplicity—fun to watch without drawing focus from the many wonderful solo performances by the members of the orchestra. Here, again, the video makes it possible to see each soloist at work with a clarity you can't get any other way—and to get a better look at Like's entertaining performance as well.

Speaking of the soloists, here’s a shout-out to Kaplan’s virtuoso performance as the little bird, with all the rapid “flighty” passages delivered with assurance. Percussionists Alan Stewart, Tom Stubbs, and Will James are particularly fearsome as the hunters, Andrews is a sinuous cat, Principal Bassoon Andrew Cuneo a comically pompous grandfather, and Principal Oboe Jelena Dirks an elegant and, in the end, somewhat mournful duck.

Denève’s interpretation shows his usual fine sense of balance and ability to bring out some of the more interesting details of the score, including Prokofiev’s periodic dips into dissonance. In his introduction to the video, Denève describes the work as being "very dear to me..a lesson of creativity, courage, and freedom for listeners of every generation." That affection for the work is both visible and audible here.

Concluding the festivities is the suite Stravinsky prepared in 1922 from the score for his 1920 ballet “Pulcinella.” The suite takes a collection of tunes by the short-lived (1710-1736) Italian Baroque composer Giovanni Battista Pergolesi (along with a few ohters what were mistakenly attributed to him at the time) and dresses them in the light, transparent style of Stravinsky’s early “Neoclassical” period.

"Pulcinella" Suite

Most of the performances I’ve heard in the past have given this music the kind of bright, nose-thumbing cheer associated with the ballet’s titular commedia dell’arte clown. In the program notes, though, Denève is quoted as describing the suite as “such tender and charming music,” so it’s no surprise that his approach  more on the lyrical side.

Which, as it turns out, works just fine. The wider range of tempi allows movements like the opening Sinfonia to really breathe and makes energetic movements such as the Tarantella-Toccata and the Vivo (with its comic solo delivered with appropriate swagger Principal Trombone Timothy Myers) that much more exhilarating. Denève insures that the many solos can be clearly heard while still maintaining a cohesive ensemble sound.

There is, in short, much to love in this program.

The SLSO Mother's Day program is available on demand through September 25th at the SLSO web site. You can also watch the video version of the concert from the week before the Mother's Day series there through September 4th, along with information on the orchestra's fall series of live concerts, which begins with a special preview concert on September 19th.

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

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of August 30, 2021

Now including both on-line and live events during the pandemic. Your event information should be in text format (i.e. not part of a graphic), but feel free to include publicity stills. To get your event listed here, send an email to calendar [at] stageleft.org.

The Blue Strawberry presents Open Mic Night with Sean Skrbec and Patrick White Sundays at 7 pm. "Come on down and sing, come on down to play, or come on down to listen and enjoy." The Blue Strawberry at 356 North Boyle requires proof of vaccination and masking as part of its COVID careful environment. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Circus Harmony in St. Louis and Circus Circuli in Stuttgart, St. Louis's German sister city, present Sister City Circus, on Circus Harmony’s YouTube page.  "Through a series of online meetings, workshops, and classes the two troupes created 6 different circus acts and then filmed them at iconic architectural locations in each of their cities." This and many other Circus Harmony videos are available at the Circus Harmony YouTube channel.

ERA Theatre presents the radio play SHE by Nancy Bell with music by Joe Taylor and Lyrics by Nancy Bell via on-demand streaming  "SHE controls the radio station of the fascist regime in power. SHE's also the star of the broadcast. Her recording studio abounds with music and oysters. But in the nearby government camps full of misfits and would-be revolutionaries, only torture and starvation is thick on the ground. Tonight, however, SHE's realm feels different. The bombs sound closer. Time moves faster. But SHE will finish her radio show, and it will be her finest. If executing every number in the broadcast means some people need to die, so be it; it is a small sacrifice. The citizens need her and she will not let them down." SHE is available for digital purchase via bandcamp at eratheatre.bandcamp.com. For more information: www.eratheatre.org

The Lemp Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre and Jest Mysteries present The Haunted Hunter September 3 through through October 30. "The rumors are true... this place is haunted!  And the word on the street is The Lemp Mansion’s most famous ghost is going to make an appearance tonight!  Lots of famous sleuths, detectives and ghost hunters from around the world will be here to catch a glimpse of our resident apparition.  But some seem to have more than just a passing interest in this paranormal investigation, could it be that they have something more sinister on their mind? Gee!  If someone gets whacked, we’ll have plenty of detectives to solve this Halloween whodunnit, won’t we? " The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place in south city. For more information: www.lempmansion.com

Moonstone Theatre Company presents Moonstone Connections, a series of in-depth interviews with arts leaders by company founder Sharon Hunter. The latest episode features musical theatre composer and director Kevin Connors. New episodes air the third Tuesday of each month; see linktr.ee/moonstoneconnections for more information.

The Muny presents Chicago, through August 30 through September 5 at 8:15 pm.  'Start the car and head to a “whoopee spot” where crime and corruption are hot! Kander and Ebb’s internationally-acclaimed musical about fame, fortune and justice features a headline-worthy story of how two icon-victs become Jazz Age celebrities. Set during the Prohibition era, this six-time Tony Award-winner, the longest-running American musical in Broadway history, includes showstopping standards such as “Cell Block Tango,” “Mister Cellophane” and the notorious “All That Jazz.”' Performances take place on the Muny's outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information: muny.org.

R-S Theatrics presents While the Ghostlight Burns, a virtual discussion series featuring R-S Artistic Director Sarah Lynne Holt in conversation with St. Louis theatre artists, Mondays at 7 pm.  Conversations will be archived at the R-S Theatrics YouTube channel. For more information: r-stheatrics.com/while-the-ghostlight-burns.html

SATE, in collaboration with COCA and Prison Performing Arts, presents Project Verse: Creativity in the Time of Quarantine. Project Verse presents two new plays: Quatrains in Quarantine by e.k. doolin and Dream On, Black Girl: Reflections in Quarantine by Maxine du Maine. The performances are streamed free of charge on SATE’s website and Facebook page. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

SATE also offers streaming performances of the shows originally scheduled for live 2020 productions: The Mary Shelley Monster Show, As You Like It (produced for SHAKE20, Project Verse, and Classic Mystery Game. The shows are available on their YouTube channel.

Always...Patsy Cline

Stages St. Louis presents Always…Patsy Cline running through September 5. ‘The touching and true story of country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger. Told through the heartfelt and hilarious memories of Louise, ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE is an endearing tale that combines down home humor, unbridled heartache and 27 of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as “Crazy” and “Sweet Dreams.”’ Performances take place at The Ross Family Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. For more information: stagesstlouis.org.

Stray Dog Theatre’s Silver Stage Program presents an on-demand streaming audio version of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. The production features a cast of actors exclusively over the age of 55. For more information: straydogtheatre.org.

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.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of August 23, 2021

Now including both on-line and live events during the pandemic. Your event information should be in text format (i.e. not part of a graphic), but feel free to include publicity stills. To get your event listed here, send an email to calendar [at] stageleft.org.

Alton Little Theater presents the comedy Kong’s Night Out Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2 pm, through August 29. "A crazy backstory of the 1933 film with Fay Wray. Every moment is meticulously coordinated with the events depicted in the movie… BUT with mistaken identities, pies in the face, deceit, underhandedness, and even a couple of romances! "  Performances take place at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL.   For more information, call 618-462-6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

The Blue Strawberry presents Open Mic Night with Sean Skrbec and Patrick White Sundays at 7 pm. "Come on down and sing, come on down to play, or come on down to listen and enjoy." The Blue Strawberry at 356 North Boyle requires proof of vaccination and masking as part of its COVID careful environment. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Joe Dryer and Rosemary Watts

The Blue Strawberry presents  Joe Dreyer and Rosemary Watts: For Better or Worse Friday, August 27, at 7:30 pm. “Rosemary and Joe are delighted to be back performing live, just in time for their 35th anniversary. Exploring the ups and downs of relationships through music, this “First Couple of St. Louis Cabaret” share gems from the Great American Songbook and stories. Featuring Scott Alberici on clarinet. An accomplished musical theater performer with a wonderful voice, Rosemary has played in long runs of both Menopause, The Musical and I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. Joe is one of our town’s most sought after music directors and pianists. Together, Joe and Rosemary are a charming, sophisticated and funny husband-and-wife team. They delight audiences with music, stories of songwriters and their own relationship.” The Blue Strawberry at 356 North Boyle requires proof of vaccination and masking as part of its COVID careful environment. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Circus Harmony in St. Louis and Circus Circuli in Stuttgart, St. Louis's German sister city, present Sister City Circus, on Circus Harmony’s YouTube page.  "Through a series of online meetings, workshops, and classes the two troupes created 6 different circus acts and then filmed them at iconic architectural locations in each of their cities." This and many other Circus Harmony videos are available at the Circus Harmony YouTube channel.

ERA Theatre presents the radio play SHE by Nancy Bell with music by Joe Taylor and Lyrics by Nancy Bell via on-demand streaming  "SHE controls the radio station of the fascist regime in power. SHE's also the star of the broadcast. Her recording studio abounds with music and oysters. But in the nearby government camps full of misfits and would-be revolutionaries, only torture and starvation is thick on the ground. Tonight, however, SHE's realm feels different. The bombs sound closer. Time moves faster. But SHE will finish her radio show, and it will be her finest. If executing every number in the broadcast means some people need to die, so be it; it is a small sacrifice. The citizens need her and she will not let them down." SHE is available for digital purchase via bandcamp at eratheatre.bandcamp.com. For more information: www.eratheatre.org

The Lemp Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Clueless through August 28. "Welcome to the world of big business, old mansions and family politics. You’re invited To the birthday celebration of the oldest, (and richest), man in town. Lucky you! Some would kill for the opportunity to meet Barnabas Barnaby Baggs, the famous Pickle Baron. He sure has made a lot of enemies on his rise to the top! I hope none of his enemies tries to kill him tonight. But if they do, will you know who did it? Maybe his latest girlfriend? The angry ex-wife? the spoiled nephew? Perhaps the jealous competitor? …Or You? Regardless, you’ll have to figure it whodunnit because we’re Clueless!" The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place in south city. For more information: www.lempmansion.com

Moonstone Theatre Company presents Moonstone Connections, a series of in-depth interviews with arts leaders by company founder Sharon Hunter. The latest episode features musical theatre composer and director Kevin Connors. New episodes air the third Tuesday of each month; see linktr.ee/moonstoneconnections for more information.

Arianna Rosario and the company of On Your Feet!
Photo by Phillip Hamer

The Muny presents On Your Feet!, through August 27 at 8:15 pm.  “Based on the inspiring true story of the queen of Latin pop, Gloria Estefan and her husband, Emilio, On Your Feet! is a universal sensation that shows what can happen when two people believe in their talent, music and one another.” Performances take place on the Muny's outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information: muny.org.

R-S Theatrics presents While the Ghostlight Burns, a virtual discussion series featuring R-S Artistic Director Sarah Lynne Holt in conversation with St. Louis theatre artists, Mondays at 7 pm.  Conversations will be archived at the R-S Theatrics YouTube channel. For more information: r-stheatrics.com/while-the-ghostlight-burns.html


St. Louis Public Radio presents the STLPR Theatre Showcase Friday and Saturday at 7 pm, August 27 and 28. "Join us for the first St. Louis Public Radio Theatre Showcase on the Public Media Commons! Over the course of two nights, we’ll feature short performances by 10 local theatre companies! Bring your favorite lawn chair and a picnic, cold drinks will be available to purchase. Attendance is free but registration is required. Specialty cocktails, local craft beer and more cold beverages will be available for sale at the event by STL Barkeep! Bring your favorite lawn chair, kick back and enjoy the live music in the beautiful Public Media Commons!" The Public Media Commons is at 3653 Olive in Grand Center. For more information: www.grandcenter.org.

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival's TourCo presents a one-act adaptation of Othello at various area parks through August 28th. "TourCo’s inaugural production of Othello in 24 parks and gathering spaces across Missouri and Illinois. The 90-minute adaptation features Courtney Bailey (Desdemona), Charlie Barron (Iago), Ricki Franklin (Emilia), Hannah Geisz (Roderigo), Jason J. Little (Othello) and Jesse Muñoz (Cassio). All performances begin at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted." For a complete list of dates and locations, visit stlshakes.org/production/othello.

SATE, in collaboration with COCA and Prison Performing Arts, presents Project Verse: Creativity in the Time of Quarantine. Project Verse presents two new plays: Quatrains in Quarantine by e.k. doolin and Dream On, Black Girl: Reflections in Quarantine by Maxine du Maine. The performances are streamed free of charge on SATE’s website and Facebook page. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

SATE also offers streaming performances of the shows originally scheduled for live 2020 productions: The Mary Shelley Monster Show, As You Like It (produced for SHAKE20, Project Verse, and Classic Mystery Game. The shows are available on their YouTube channel.

Always...Patsy Cline

Stages St. Louis presents Always…Patsy Cline running through September 5. ‘The touching and true story of country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger. Told through the heartfelt and hilarious memories of Louise, ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE is an endearing tale that combines down home humor, unbridled heartache and 27 of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as “Crazy” and “Sweet Dreams.”’ Performances take place at The Ross Family Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. For more information: stagesstlouis.org.

Stray Dog Theatre’s Silver Stage Program presents an on-demand streaming audio version of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. The production features a cast of actors exclusively over the age of 55. For more information: straydogtheatre.org.

The Glass Menagerie
Photo by ProPhotoSTL

The Tennessee Williams Festival presents The Glass Menagerie Thursdays through Sundays at 8 pm, through August 29. “Williams’ greatest, most famous, and most personal play. The narrator recalls late in life how his youthful devotion to his sister Rose (Laura in the play) conflicted with his creative passions as he was about to escape from St. Louis for good.” Performances take place outdoors at The Tennessee, 4633 Westminster Place in the Central West End. For more information on this and other festival events: www.twstl.org.

The Tennessee Williams Festival presents Why Did Desdemona
Love the Moor? by Tennessee Williams on Saturday, August 28 at 2 pm.  “Only recently unearthed from the Williams archives, this story of an interracial love affair between a white starlet and a Black author speaks to our times, calling out bigotry and exploring the complexity of racial relationships.” Directed by Thomas Mitchell, this “workshop reading” takes place at The Link Auditorium, 4504 Westminster Place in the Central West End. For more information on this and other festival events: www.twstl.org.

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.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of August 16, 2021

Now including both on-line and live events during the pandemic. Your event information should be in text format (i.e. not part of a graphic), but feel free to include publicity stills. To get your event listed here, send an email to calendar [at] stageleft.org.

Alton Little Theater presents the comedy Kong’s Night Out Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2 pm, August 20-29. " A crazy backstory of the 1933 film with Fay Wray. Every moment is meticulously coordinated with the events depicted in the movie… BUT with mistaken identities, pies in the face, deceit, underhandedness, and even a couple of romances! "  Performances take place at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL.   For more information, call 618-462-6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

The Blue Strawberry presents Open Mic Night with Sean Skrbec and Patrick White Sundays at 7 pm. "Come on down and sing, come on down to play, or come on down to listen and enjoy." The Blue Strawberry is on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Christ Memorial Productions presents the musical You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm through August 22.  Performances take place at Christ Memorial Church, 5252 S. Lindbergh Blvd.  For more information, visit CMPShows.org.

Circus Harmony in St. Louis and Circus Circuli in Stuttgart, St. Louis's German sister city, present Sister City Circus, on Circus Harmony’s YouTube page.  "Through a series of online meetings, workshops, and classes the two troupes created 6 different circus acts and then filmed them at iconic architectural locations in each of their cities." This and many other Circus Harmony videos are available at the Circus Harmony YouTube channel.

Circus Harmony offers Summer Circus Camps for ages 7-17 through August 13.  "Registration is open for our summer camps and classes for ages three through adult in our circus ring at City Museum! You can also schedule private lessons or book us to come and teach where you are!"  For more information: circusharmony.org.

ERA Theatre presents the radio play SHE by Nancy Bell with music by Joe Taylor and Lyrics by Nancy Bell via on-demand streaming  "SHE controls the radio station of the fascist regime in power. SHE's also the star of the broadcast. Her recording studio abounds with music and oysters. But in the nearby government camps full of misfits and would-be revolutionaries, only torture and starvation is thick on the ground. Tonight, however, SHE's realm feels different. The bombs sound closer. Time moves faster. But SHE will finish her radio show, and it will be her finest. If executing every number in the broadcast means some people need to die, so be it; it is a small sacrifice. The citizens need her and she will not let them down." SHE is available for digital purchase via bandcamp at eratheatre.bandcamp.com. For more information: www.eratheatre.org

The Lemp Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Clueless through August 28. "Welcome to the world of big business, old mansions and family politics. You’re invited To the birthday celebration of the oldest, (and richest), man in town. Lucky you! Some would kill for the opportunity to meet Barnabas Barnaby Baggs, the famous Pickle Baron. He sure has made a lot of enemies on his rise to the top! I hope none of his enemies tries to kill him tonight. But if they do, will you know who did it? Maybe his latest girlfriend? The angry ex-wife? the spoiled nephew? Perhaps the jealous competitor? …Or You? Regardless, you’ll have to figure it whodunnit because we’re Clueless!" The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place in south city. For more information: www.lempmansion.com

The Midnight Company presents My Violin My Voice Thursday at 7 pm, Saturday at 4:30 pm, and Sunday at 1:30 pm, August 19-22, as part of the St. Lou Fringe Festival. Performances take place outdoors in the parking lot of the Grandel Theatre in Grand Center. The play is conceived and performed by violinist Amy Greenhagh and actor Joe Hanrahan. For more information: midnightcompany.com.

Moonstone Theatre Company presents Moonstone Connections, a series of in-depth interviews with arts leaders by company founder Sharon Hunter. The latest episode features musical theatre composer and director Kevin Connors. New episodes air the third Tuesday of each month; see linktr.ee/moonstoneconnections for more information.

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
Photo by Phillip Hamer

The Muny presents Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, based on the 1954 musical film, nightly through  August 18 at 8:15 pm.  “With an age-old tale of wooing and winning, the battle of the sexes and some barn-raising dancing, this western rollick features whistle-worthy favorites, including “Bless Your Beautiful Hide” and “Goin’ Courtin’.” With two of the most eminent dance scenes in musical theatre history and seven times the fun, saddle up for an unforgettable joyride through the Oregon frontier.” Performances take place on the Muny's outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information: muny.org.

R-S Theatrics presents While the Ghostlight Burns, a virtual discussion series featuring R-S Artistic Director Sarah Lynne Holt in conversation with St. Louis theatre artists, Mondays at 7 pm.  Conversations will be archived at the R-S Theatrics YouTube channel. For more information: r-stheatrics.com/while-the-ghostlight-burns.html

Dear Donald/Dear Hillary
at the Fringe

The St. Lou Fringe presents the 2021 10th Anniversary St. Lou Fringe Festival through August 22 at The Big Top and other Grand Center locations as well as on line at the Fringe web site.  "Our multidisciplinary stages have brought to life hundreds of performances throughout our history, and this year's offerings are more exciting than ever.  From "Digi Works" on our virtual platform to "In-person Performances" under The Big Top in The Grand Center Arts District, St. Lou Fringe is #STLMADE.  Join us online and in-person for magic, musicals, solo-performances, Shakespeare and so much more!  With safety protocols in place St. Lou Fringe is once again bringing you the most cutting-edge artworks our region has ever experienced!  Tune in or join us outside and help us celebrate ten years of art making, and ten years of St. Lou Fringe".  For more information: www.stlouisfringe.com.

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival's TourCo presents a one-act adaptation of Othello at various area parks through August 28th. "TourCo’s inaugural production of Othello in 24 parks and gathering spaces across Missouri and Illinois. The 90-minute adaptation features Courtney Bailey (Desdemona), Charlie Barron (Iago), Ricki Franklin (Emilia), Hannah Geisz (Roderigo), Jason J. Little (Othello) and Jesse Muñoz (Cassio). All performances begin at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted." For a complete list of dates and locations, visit stlshakes.org/production/othello.

The St. Louis Writers' Group presents a reading of the new play Broom by Mario Farwell on Tuesday, August 17 at 6:30 pm. "Broom is an experimental play dealing with the origins and ramifications of police brutality in America. The play is structured around the events of the brutal assault on a Haitian American by the New York Police Department. Abner Louima was arrested in1997 and charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. He was taken to the 70th precinct in Brooklyn, NY, and soon after his arrival at the precinct was taken to a bathroom and sodomized with a broomstick by two of the arresting officers.."  The reading takes place upstairs at Big Daddy's, 1000 Sidney in Soulard and will also be available via Zoom. For more information, visit the St. Louis Writers' Group Facebook page.

SATE, in collaboration with COCA and Prison Performing Arts, presents Project Verse: Creativity in the Time of Quarantine. Project Verse presents two new plays: Quatrains in Quarantine by e.k. doolin and Dream On, Black Girl: Reflections in Quarantine by Maxine du Maine. The performances are streamed free of charge on SATE’s website and Facebook page. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

SATE also offers streaming performances of the shows originally scheduled for live 2020 productions: The Mary Shelley Monster Show, As You Like It (produced for SHAKE20, Project Verse, and Classic Mystery Game. The shows are available on their YouTube channel.

Stages St. Louis presents Always…Patsy Cline running through September 5. ‘The touching and true story of country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger. Told through the heartfelt and hilarious memories of Louise, ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE is an endearing tale that combines down home humor, unbridled heartache and 27 of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as “Crazy” and “Sweet Dreams.”’ Performances take place at The Ross Family Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. For more information: stagesstlouis.org.

Art
Photo by John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents Yasmina Reza’s Art Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 pm, through August 21. “Marc, Serge, and Yvan have been the best of friends for years. When Serge buys a very expensive piece of art, the intellectual and emotional arguments that ensue become less theoretical and more personal and threaten to destroy their friendships. This production will be presented outdoors on the lawn of our historic home, Tower Grove Abbey. The seating pods will be filled from front to back, in guest arrival order, starting a half hour before curtain.”  For more information: straydogtheatre.org.

Stray Dog Theatre’s Silver Stage Program presents an on-demand streaming audio version of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. The production features a cast of actors exclusively over the age of 55. For more information: straydogtheatre.org.

The Tennessee Williams Festival presents The Glass Menagerie Thursdays through Sundays at 8 pm, August 19-29. “Williams’ greatest, most famous, and most personal play. The narrator recalls late in life how his youthful devotion to his sister Rose (Laura in the play) conflicted with his creative passions as he was about to escape from St. Louis for good.” Performances take place outdoors at The Tennessee, 4633 Westminster Place in the Central West End. For more information on this and other festival events: www.twstl.org.

The Tennessee Williams Festival presents You Lied to Me About Centralia by John Guare Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm, August 21 and 22. Described as "A Short Sequel to The Glass Menagerie," performances of the play take place outdoors at The Tennessee, 4633 Westminster Place in the Central West End. For more information on this and other festival events: www.twstl.org.

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.

Symphony Digital Review: Youthful music for winds highlights the St. Louis Symphony's final summer digital concert

The live concert season of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) is on hiatus until the fall, but the orchestra’s on-demand video series is still going strong. Available through September 4th, the latest release stars members of the SLSO winds in a thoroughly engaging pair of serenades by Mozart and Richard Strauss under the baton of Music Director Stéphane Denève.

[Find out more about the music with my original symphony preview.]

Stéphane Denève conducts the Strauss Serenade

Recorded at Powell Hall April 30th through May 2nd and originally reviewed by me back then, the concert features a pair of works by young composers just starting to make a name for themselves, albeit around a century apart.

In a reversal of the usual musical cliché, the Strauss Serenade for Winds in E-flat major, op. 7 that opens the program is the short and pithy one, while Mozart's Serenade No. 10 in B-flat major, K. 361 (370a) is the symphony-length work with seven entrancing movements. Both get exceptionally well-crafted performances by Maestro Denève and his musicians, beginning with a pleasant trip through Strauss’s musical terrain.

Written when the composer was a lad of 17 who had yet to graduate from high school, the Op. 7 serenade has often been called a surprisingly mature-sounding work. Presumably that’s a reflection of the mood of quiet contemplation that can be heard in some of the composer’s much later work. Scored for a 13-member ensemble (three pairs of flutes, oboes, clarinets, and bassoons, four horns, and either contrabassoon or double bass) the work gets a warm and welcoming treatment from Mr. Denève that neatly balances the calm outer sections with the more stormy B-minor interlude in the middle.

It’s as if a serene sunset were briefly interrupted by a sudden squall that subsides into a euphonious horn chorale before returning to the more contemplative mood of the opening. Principal Horn Roger Kaza and his fellow players Julie Thayer, Tod Bowermaster, and Victoria Knudtson truly distinguish themselves here and in the Mozart that follows.

Stéphane Denève conducts the Mozart "Gran Partita"

Speaking of which: Mozart was only a few years older than Strauss when he wrote the Serenade No. 10. The composition date is a bit obscured by the fog of history, but it probably dates from around 1781—almost exactly a century before the Strauss serenade. Equally obscure is the nickname the work has picked up over the centuries, “Gran Partita” (literally “Large Suite”). Someone other than Mozart scribbled it on the manuscript, and it has clung, like a stubborn barnacle, over the years.

It not hard to understand why, though. At around 45-50 minutes and boasting a 13-piece orchestra (like Strauss’s serenade, but with two basset horns instead of flutes) the piece is over twice the size of the conventional aristocratic garden party wind band of the late 18th century. Everything about it is, for its time, larger than life, from the opening Largo—Allegro molto that feels more like an opera overture, to the theme and virtuoso variations of the sixth movement and the high-stepping Finale seventh movement.

In his introductory comments on the video, Denève describes the Serenade as “an incredible masterwork of epic proportions [that] exudes joy and vital energy.” No surprise, then, that his interpretation is appropriately grand and expansive without ever getting within even hailing distance of stodgy.

The first Menuetto is dignified and graceful—aristos gliding in the garden—with a bubbly, bucolic trio featuring Scott Andrews and Tzuying Huang on clarinets and Ryan Toher and Jane Carl on the larger and lower-pitched basset horns. The second Menuetto gets a good-humored treatment that suggests the servants dancing in the cellar—more openly jolly with a Ländler trio that brings in a bit of brisk Tyrolean air.

L-R: Xiomara Mass and Cally Banham

Anyone who has seen Peter Shaffer’s play "Amadeus" in any of its multiple stage revisions or its 1984 film adaptation will recognize the exquisite Adagio third movement as the music whose beauty drives poor Salieri to distraction. Here in the real world, Erik Smith has called the Adagio “the loveliest of all movements written for wind instruments”. It’s easy to believe both, given the lovely treatment of this music by oboists Xiomara Mass and Cally Banham (usually heard on English horn), along with Andrews, Huang, Toher, and Carl. The videography brings you face-to-face with Mass during her solo, allowing you to see the intense concentration of her performance.

The Thema mit Variationen gives everyone a chance to show off a bit, including bassoonists Andy Gott and Felicia Foland, along with the redoubtable Erik Harris providing a solid foundation on double bass, just as he does in the Strauss. Mr. Denève follows that attacca (without pause) with a frolicsome Finale (to steal a phrase from Benjamin Britten) that brings everything to a happy conclusion. To quote Caitlin Custer’s original program notes on that last movement: “Serve the coffee, gather the coats, get the guests on their way!”

Available through September 4th, this is the last in a summer series of digital recordings of concerts by the SLSO from this past spring. If you missed them live, this is a golden opportunity to see them in the comfort of your own home. For more information, visit the SLSO web site.

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

In the eye of the beholder: Stray Dog finds more laughs and less cruelty in "Art"

In a review of the Old Vic’s 2016 revival of Yasmina Reza’s comedy Art (in the 1996 Christopher Hampton English adaptation of the 1994 French original), The Guardian’s Michael Bilington, while praising the acting and directing, has questions about the script itself. “Is Reza’s play, in the end,” he asks, “a modern classic or a modish crowdpleaser? I lean to the former view but the answer…lies in the eye of the beholder.”

L-R: Ben Ritchie, Stephen Peirick, Jeremy Goldmeier
Photo by John Lamb

I’ve never been that taken with the play, its many awards notwithstanding, so for me “modern classic” is right out.  It can, however, be a crowd pleaser, modish or not, especially when done in bright, comic style by a trio of skilled actors. Which is what director Gary Bell and his talented trio of performers are doing with it at Stray Dog Theatre through August 21st.

First performed in 1994 at Comédie des Champs-Élysées in Paris, Art is a one-act, 90-minute comedy that examines the way a simple disagreement over the value of a work of modern art quickly escalates into an emotional and intellectual demolition derby that nearly destroys a long-standing friendship among Parisians Marc, Serge, and Yvan.

The painting—a blank white canvas that could easily pass for unpainted drywall—is purchased by Serge, the oldest of the trio, for an absurd amount of money. Serge points out that there are faint white lines on the white background and praises its subtlety. Marc dismisses it as "a piece of white shit," and before long their conflict has expanded to include the hapless Yvan. Already battered by the emotional hurricane brewing around his upcoming wedding, Yvan is ill-equipped to deal with the battle between Marc and Serge. His attempts to act as a calming influence fail, and the final battle royal ultimately leaves all three emotionally exhausted but, perhaps, with a better understanding of the complicated and messy nature of their relationship.  

The script has been widely praised by critics for addressing issues of the nature of friendship and art, but to my mind it does so only in the a superficial way. Mostly it’s a virtuoso display of the kind of brittle verbal comedy I associate with (say) Noël Coward, but with a cruel edge that ultimately makes the lines less funny and the characters very nearly unbearable by the end of the play’s 90-minute run.

That said, Stray Dog’s production is an excellent one. Bell keeps the comedy front and center, with brisk pacing, clear blocking, and a generally very creative use of the awkward rectangular outdoor stage. In that, he gets a bit assist from Josh Smith’s simple and versatile set and Tyler Duenow’s lighting.

L-R: Ben Ritchie, Stephen Peirick, Jeremy Goldmeier
Photo by John Lamb

More importantly, the performances are first rate. Ben Ritchie’s Serge is a perfect balance of sincerity and smug self-assurance. Stephen Peirick’s voluble Marc repeatedly punctures both, armed by an unshakable conviction of his own rightness and a more genuine concern about what he sees as the loss of Serge’s friendship. Their battles have the fine comic timing of a classic Vaudeville team. I have worked with both actors myself in the past, and their work here only enhances my esteem for their skills.

Jeremy Goldmeier’s Yvan, like his Jeff in SDT’s Lobby Hero last year, is the perfect schlemiel—well-meaning but incompetent. It makes him the perfect foil for Ritchie and Peirick’s dueling divas and also neatly sets up the moment towards the end when his character finally decides he has had enough and stands up to the bullying of Serge and Marc.

The bottom line here is that if you are an admirer of Art, I think it likely that you will enjoy this well-crafted presentation despite the vagaries of weather and outdoor noise.  Seating pods are sensibly distanced and audience members are required to wear masks until seated in their pods, keeping health concerns to a minimum.

Performances of Art continue through August 21st. on the lawn outside of Stray Dog’s home at 2336 Tennessee in the Tower Grove East neighborhood, with lighted and guarded parking. For more information, visit the Stray Dog web site.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of August 9, 2021

Now including both on-line and live events during the pandemic. To get your event listed here, send an email to calendar [at] stageleft.org.

Arts for Life presents an on-demand video stream of their fifth annual Theatre Mask Awards, honoring excellence in community theatre productions during 2020, on their YouTube channel. Act Two Theatre’s production of the farce “Who’s in Bed with the Butler?” leads this year’s Theatre Mask Awards nominations with nine. Alton Little Theater, with its two productions of “Inherit the Wind” and “The Miracle Worker,” earned 12 nominations in total – six for each. Two classic comedies by Clayton Community Theatre, “The Philadelphia Story,” and Monroe Actors Stage Company, “The Solid Gold Cadillac,” both received eight nominations apiece. Arts For Life announced the TMA nominations on March 12, during the nonprofit organization’s first-ever virtual trivia night. For more information: www.artsforlife.org

The Blue Strawberry presents Open Mic Night with Sean Skrbec and Patrick White Sundays at 7 pm. "Come on down and sing, come on down to play, or come on down to listen and enjoy." The Blue Strawberry is on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Christ Memorial Productions presents the musical You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm, August 13-22.  The August 14th performance will also be available as a live video stream. Performances take place at Christ Memorial Church, 5252 S. Lindbergh Blvd.  For more information, visit CMPShows.org.

Circus Harmony in St. Louis and Circus Circuli in Stuttgart, St. Louis's German sister city, present Sister City Circus, on Circus Harmony’s YouTube page.  "Through a series of online meetings, workshops, and classes the two troupes created 6 different circus acts and then filmed them at iconic architectural locations in each of their cities." This and many other Circus Harmony videos are available at the Circus Harmony YouTube channel.

Circus Harmony offers Summer Circus Camps for ages 7-17 through August 13.  "Registration is open for our summer camps and classes for ages three through adult in our circus ring at City Museum! You can also schedule private lessons or book us to come and teach where you are!"  For more information: circusharmony.org.

ERA Theatre presents the radio play SHE by Nancy Bell with music by Joe Taylor and Lyrics by Nancy Bell via on-demand streaming  "SHE controls the radio station of the fascist regime in power. SHE's also the star of the broadcast. Her recording studio abounds with music and oysters. But in the nearby government camps full of misfits and would-be revolutionaries, only torture and starvation is thick on the ground. Tonight, however, SHE's realm feels different. The bombs sound closer. Time moves faster. But SHE will finish her radio show, and it will be her finest. If executing every number in the broadcast means some people need to die, so be it; it is a small sacrifice. The citizens need her and she will not let them down." SHE is available for digital purchase via bandcamp at eratheatre.bandcamp.com. For more information: www.eratheatre.org

The Lemp Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Clueless through August 28. "Welcome to the world of big business, old mansions and family politics. You’re invited To the birthday celebration of the oldest, (and richest), man in town. Lucky you! Some would kill for the opportunity to meet Barnabas Barnaby Baggs, the famous Pickle Baron. He sure has made a lot of enemies on his rise to the top! I hope none of his enemies tries to kill him tonight. But if they do, will you know who did it? Maybe his latest girlfriend? The angry ex-wife? the spoiled nephew? Perhaps the jealous competitor? …Or You? Regardless, you’ll have to figure it whodunnit because we’re Clueless!" The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place in south city. For more information: www.lempmansion.com

Moonstone Theatre Company presents Moonstone Connections, a series of in-depth interviews with arts leaders by company founder Sharon Hunter. The latest episode features musical theatre composer and director Kevin Connors. New episodes air the third Tuesday of each month; see linktr.ee/moonstoneconnections for more information.

Kate Rockwell in The Sound of Music

The Muny presents Rodgers and Hammerstein's The Sound of Music through August 9.  “Considered by many to be the world’s most beloved musical, The Sound of Music reminds us that with high-spirited hope, heartfelt compassion and unwavering determination, life’s mountains can always be climbed. With its Tony, Grammy and Academy Award-winning score, including “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” “Edelweiss” and the iconic title track “The Sound of Music,” the hills of Forest Park come alive once more!.” Performances take place on the Muny's outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information: muny.org.

The Muny presents Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, based on the 1954 musical film, August 12-18 at 8:15 pm.  “With an age-old tale of wooing and winning, the battle of the sexes and some barn-raising dancing, this western rollick features whistle-worthy favorites, including “Bless Your Beautiful Hide” and “Goin’ Courtin’.” With two of the most eminent dance scenes in musical theatre history and seven times the fun, saddle up for an unforgettable joyride through the Oregon frontier.” Performances take place on the Muny's outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information: muny.org.

PRISM Theatre Company presents Spotlight on...Women Writing: Festival of New Works Friday and Saturday, August 13 and 14 at 7:30 pm. Each evening will feature staged readings of two plays (one short and one full-length) followed by a talkback with the actors, playwrights, and creative team. Friday the plays are ACADEME.compassion by Dr. Laura Perkins and See the Dove by Laurie McConnell. Saturday the plays are Stay Awhile by Dana Hall and Bandera, Texas by Lisa Dellagiarino Feriend. Performances take place at Brittany Woods Middle School, 8125 Groby Road. For more information: www.prismtheatrecompany.org

R-S Theatrics presents While the Ghostlight Burns, a virtual discussion series featuring R-S Artistic Director Sarah Lynne Holt in conversation with St. Louis theatre artists, Mondays at 7 pm.  Conversations will be archived at the R-S Theatrics YouTube channel. For more information: r-stheatrics.com/while-the-ghostlight-burns.html

Dear Donald/Dear Hillary
at the Fringe

The St. Lou Fringe presents the 2021 10th Anniversary St. Lou Fringe Festival August 13-22 at The Big Top and other Grand Center locations as well as on line at the Fringe web site.  "Our multidisciplinary stages have brought to life hundreds of performances throughout our history, and this year's offerings are more exciting than ever.  From "Digi Works" on our virtual platform to "In-person Performances" under The Big Top in The Grand Center Arts District, St. Lou Fringe is #STLMADE.  Join us online and in-person for magic, musicals, solo-performances, Shakespeare and so much more!  With safety protocols in place St. Lou Fringe is once again bringing you the most cutting-edge artworks our region has ever experienced!  Tune in or join us outside and help us celebrate ten years of art making, and ten years of St. Lou Fringe".  For more information: www.stlouisfringe.com.

The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival's TourCo presents a one-act adaptation of Othello at various area parks through August 28th. "TourCo’s inaugural production of Othello in 24 parks and gathering spaces across Missouri and Illinois. The 90-minute adaptation features Courtney Bailey (Desdemona), Charlie Barron (Iago), Ricki Franklin (Emilia), Hannah Geisz (Roderigo), Jason J. Little (Othello) and Jesse Muñoz (Cassio). All performances begin at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted." For a complete list of dates and locations, visit stlshakes.org/production/othello.

The St. Louis Writers' Group presents a reading of the new play The Huddled Masses: Part 4, The Dreamer and the  Muslim by Bradford Slavik on Tuesday, August 10 at 6:30 pm via live in person and via  Zoom. "The Huddled Masses is a cycle of four one-act plays telling the story of three families, the McFeeneys, the Rosensteins, the Tanakas, and the Bukharis through 160 years of American immigration and history. Lucy Cervantes is a law clerk, soon to be lawyer. She is intelligent, energetic and one of the top people in her field. She is also a DACA recipient. Iskandar Bukhari is shy and highly introverted with an aversion to crowds. He is also a highly gifted doctor and a new citizen. Against all odds the Hispanic Catholic Lucy and the Pakistani Muslim Iskandar meet and click. They struggle to remain to together as the country around them rapidly descends into madness in the wake of the 2016 election." The reading takes place upstairs at Big Daddy's, 1000 Sidney in Soulard. For more information, visit the St. Louis Writers' Group Facebook page.

SATE, in collaboration with COCA and Prison Performing Arts, presents Project Verse: Creativity in the Time of Quarantine. Project Verse presents two new plays: Quatrains in Quarantine by e.k. doolin and Dream On, Black Girl: Reflections in Quarantine by Maxine du Maine. The performances are streamed free of charge on SATE’s website and Facebook page. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

SATE also offers streaming performances of the shows originally scheduled for live 2020 productions: The Mary Shelley Monster Show, As You Like It (produced for SHAKE20, Project Verse, and Classic Mystery Game. The shows are available on their YouTube channel.

Stages St. Louis presents Always…Patsy Cline running through September 5. ‘The touching and true story of country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger. Told through the heartfelt and hilarious memories of Louise, ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE is an endearing tale that combines down home humor, unbridled heartache and 27 of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as “Crazy” and “Sweet Dreams.”’ Performances take place at The Ross Family Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. For more information: stagesstlouis.org.

Art
Photo by John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents Yasmina Reza’s Art Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 pm, August 5-21, with an additional performance on Sunday, August 15 at 8 pm. “Marc, Serge, and Yvan have been the best of friends for years. When Serge buys a very expensive piece of art, the intellectual and emotional arguments that ensue become less theoretical and more personal and threaten to destroy their friendships. This production will be presented outdoors on the lawn of our historic home, Tower Grove Abbey. The seating pods will be filled from front to back, in guest arrival order, starting a half hour before curtain.”  For more information: straydogtheatre.org.

Stray Dog Theatre’s Silver Stage Program presents an on-demand streaming audio version of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. The production features a cast of actors exclusively over the age of 55. For more information: straydogtheatre.org.

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.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of August 2, 2021

Now including both on-line and live events during the pandemic. To get your event listed here, send an email to calendar [at] stageleft.org.

Arts for Life presents an on-demand video stream of their fifth annual Theatre Mask Awards, honoring excellence in community theatre productions during 2020, on their YouTube channel. Act Two Theatre’s production of the farce “Who’s in Bed with the Butler?” leads this year’s Theatre Mask Awards nominations with nine. Alton Little Theater, with its two productions of “Inherit the Wind” and “The Miracle Worker,” earned 12 nominations in total – six for each. Two classic comedies by Clayton Community Theatre, “The Philadelphia Story,” and Monroe Actors Stage Company, “The Solid Gold Cadillac,” both received eight nominations apiece. Arts For Life announced the TMA nominations on March 12, during the nonprofit organization’s first-ever virtual trivia night. For more information: www.artsforlife.org

The Blue Strawberry presents Steve's Against Humanity on Friday, August 6, at 7;30 PM "Steve Neale's hilarious and interactive cabaret game - Steve battles with the audience!! Steve Neale turns the traditional cabaret on its head and makes it a hilarious and interactive upside down cabaret, Steve versus the audience. An evening of great music, raucous fun, unpredictable ad lib, special guests, and tales of the incredible true adventures of an introvert in the extroverted world of performing arts!" The Blue Strawberry is on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

The Blue Strawberry presents Open Mic Night with Sean Skrbec and Patrick White Sundays at 7 pm. "Come on down and sing, come on down to play, or come on down to listen and enjoy." The Blue Strawberry is on North Boyle in the Central West End. For more information: bluestrawberrystl.com.

Circus Harmony in St. Louis and Circus Circuli in Stuttgart, St. Louis's German sister city, present Sister City Circus, on Circus Harmony’s YouTube page.  "Through a series of online meetings, workshops, and classes the two troupes created 6 different circus acts and then filmed them at iconic architectural locations in each of their cities." This and many other Circus Harmony videos are available at the Circus Harmony YouTube channel.

Circus Harmony offers Summer Circus Camps for ages 7-17 through August 13.  "Registration is open for our summer camps and classes for ages three through adult in our circus ring at City Museum! You can also schedule private lessons or book us to come and teach where you are!"  For more information: circusharmony.org.

ERA Theatre presents the radio play SHE by Nancy Bell with music by Joe Taylor and Lyrics by Nancy Bell via on-demand streaming  "SHE controls the radio station of the fascist regime in power. SHE's also the star of the broadcast. Her recording studio abounds with music and oysters. But in the nearby government camps full of misfits and would-be revolutionaries, only torture and starvation is thick on the ground. Tonight, however, SHE's realm feels different. The bombs sound closer. Time moves faster. But SHE will finish her radio show, and it will be her finest. If executing every number in the broadcast means some people need to die, so be it; it is a small sacrifice. The citizens need her and she will not let them down." SHE is available for digital purchase via bandcamp at eratheatre.bandcamp.com. For more information: www.eratheatre.org

Fly North Theatricals presents three new free digital series. Their new digital line up includes The Spotlight Series, the Grown-Up Theatre Kids Podcast, and Gin and the Tonic. The Spotlight Series highlights the Fly North family of students and actors performing songs from previous FNT shows. In the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast you can join Colin Healy and Bradley Rohlf every other Friday as they explore life after drama club and what it means to make a living in theatre far from the lights of broadway. Gin and the Tonic is a "reckless unpacking of music history’s weirdest stories hosted by Colin Healy.” The Spotlight Series and Gin and the Tonic are available at the Fly North Theatricals YouTube channel and the Grown-Up Theatre Kids podcast can also be found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Sticher, other podcast platforms. All three are updated on a bi-weekly (every other week) basis.

The Goshen Theatre Project presents Disney’s Beauty and The Beast August 5-8. “Step into the enchanted world of Broadway's modern classic, Disney's Beauty and the Beast, an international sensation that played a remarkable 13-year run on Broadway and has been produced in 37 countries worldwide. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature, the stage version includes all of the wonderful songs written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Mr. Menken and Tim Rice. The original Broadway production ran for over thirteen years and was nominated for nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical. 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 into 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 McKendree University’s Hettenhausen Center for the Arts in Collinsville, IL. For more information: www.goshentheatreproject.org.

The Lemp Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Clueless through August 28. "Welcome to the world of big business, old mansions and family politics. You’re invited To the birthday celebration of the oldest, (and richest), man in town. Lucky you! Some would kill for the opportunity to meet Barnabas Barnaby Baggs, the famous Pickle Baron. He sure has made a lot of enemies on his rise to the top! I hope none of his enemies tries to kill him tonight. But if they do, will you know who did it? Maybe his latest girlfriend? The angry ex-wife? the spoiled nephew? Perhaps the jealous competitor? …Or You? Regardless, you’ll have to figure it whodunnit because we’re Clueless!" The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place in south city. For more information: www.lempmansion.com

Tiny Beautiful Things
Photo by Patrick Huber

Max and Louie Productions presents the St. Louis premiere of Tiny Beautiful Things based on the New York Times bestseller, Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar by Cheryl Strayed and adapted for the stage by Oscar nominee, Nia Vardalos,  through August 8. "When life is hard, turn to Sugar. Tiny Beautiful Things follows Sugar, an online advice columnist who uses her personal experiences to help the real-life readers who pour their hearts out to her. Rich with humor, insight, compassion and absolute honesty, “Tiny Beautiful Things” is a play about reaching when you’re stuck, healing when you’re broken, and finding the courage to take on the questions that have no answers." Performances take place at the Grandel Theare in Grand Center. For more information: maxandlouie.com

Moonstone Theatre Company presents Moonstone Connections, a series of in-depth interviews with arts leaders by company founder Sharon Hunter. The latest episode features musical theatre composer and director Kevin Connors. New episodes air the third Tuesday of each month; see linktr.ee/moonstoneconnections for more information.

The Muny presents Rodgers and Hammerstein's The Sound of Music opening on Tuesday, August 3 at 8:15 pm and running through August 9.  “Considered by many to be the world’s most beloved musical, The Sound of Music reminds us that with high-spirited hope, heartfelt compassion and unwavering determination, life’s mountains can always be climbed. With its Tony, Grammy and Academy Award-winning score, including “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” “Edelweiss” and the iconic title track “The Sound of Music,” the hills of Forest Park come alive once more!.” Performances take place on the Muny's outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information: muny.org.

R-S Theatrics presents While the Ghostlight Burns, a virtual discussion series featuring R-S Artistic Director Sarah Lynne Holt in conversation with St. Louis theatre artists, Mondays at 7 pm.  Conversations will be archived at the R-S Theatrics YouTube channel. For more information: r-stheatrics.com/while-the-ghostlight-burns.html

The St. Louis Writers' Group presents a reading of the new play The Huddled Masses: Part 3, The Jap by Bradford Slavik on Tuesday, August 3 at 6:30 pm via live in person and via  Zoom. "The Huddled Masses is a cycle of four one-act plays telling the story of three families, the McFeeneys, the Rosensteins, the Tanakas, and the Bukharis through 160 years of American immigration and history. In Part 3 – The Jap Ryoko “Rose” Tanaka is Issei, first generation Japanese-American. She is married to a Nissei, second generation. In 1944 she is confined with all other west coast Americans of Japanese ancestry to a War Relocation Camp in Arizona. Her husband has enlisted and is fighting in Italy. She is pregnant and the camp doctor, Major Joe Rosenstein, has a severe resentment against all Japanese." The reading takes place upstairs at Big Daddy's, 1000 Sidney in Soulard. For more information, visit the St. Louis Writers' Group Facebook page.

SATE, in collaboration with COCA and Prison Performing Arts, presents Project Verse: Creativity in the Time of Quarantine. Project Verse presents two new plays: Quatrains in Quarantine by e.k. doolin and Dream On, Black Girl: Reflections in Quarantine by Maxine du Maine. The performances are streamed free of charge on SATE’s website and Facebook page. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

SATE also offers streaming performances of the shows originally scheduled for live 2020 productions: The Mary Shelley Monster Show, As You Like It (produced for SHAKE20, Project Verse, and Classic Mystery Game. The shows are available on their YouTube channel.

Stages St. Louis presents Always…Patsy Cline opening on Friday, August 6, at 8 pm and running through September 5. ‘The touching and true story of country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger. Told through the heartfelt and hilarious memories of Louise, ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE is an endearing tale that combines down home humor, unbridled heartache and 27 of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as “Crazy” and “Sweet Dreams.”’ Performances take place at The Ross Family Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. For more information: stagesstlouis.org.

Stray Dog Theatre presents Yasmina Reza’s Art Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 pm, August 5-21, with an additional performance on Sunday, August 15 at 8 pm. “Marc, Serge, and Yvan have been the best of friends for years. When Serge buys a very expensive piece of art, the intellectual and emotional arguments that ensue become less theoretical and more personal and threaten to destroy their friendships. This production will be presented outdoors on the lawn of our historic home, Tower Grove Abbey. The seating pods will be filled from front to back, in guest arrival order, starting a half hour before curtain.”  For more information: straydogtheatre.org.

Stray Dog Theatre’s Silver Stage Program presents an on-demand streaming audio version of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. The production features a cast of actors exclusively over the age of 55. For more information: straydogtheatre.org.

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.