Review: The Muny's YouTube Variety Hour is just the thing mourning Muny fans

If you’re a fan of The Muny and have not yet had a chance to see an episode of “The Muny 2020 Summer Variety Hour” on their YouTube channel, then, to paraphrase John Adams in “1776”: “Good God, what in the hell are you waiting for?”

Laura Michelle Kelly and the cast of
South Pacific (2013)
Photo by Phillip Hamer

Presented live every Monday and Thursday night at 8:15, the “Variety Hour” (which aired its first episode the week of July 20) isn’t so much a substitute for the postponed 2020 season as it is a logical extension and expansion of the Muny’s commitment to musical theatre. Running around 75 to 90 minutes (including a seven-minute intermission), each episode features archived video clips from previous Muny shows along with a wealth of new material, both live and recorded, by The Muny Kids, Muny Teens, and performers who have made previous appearances on the big Forest Park stage.

It is, in short, a kind of re-invention of the classic Vaudeville show for the digital age, with the additional wrinkle that all the performers are physically distanced—often by many miles. Technically, it’s impressive as hell, and consistently entertaining.

Les Misérables (2013)
Photo by Phillip Hamer

The quality of the archived video clips, while variable, is generally quite good. The sound, which was apparently pulled straight from the mixing board, is excellent, and the single camera often zooms in to give you a view of the performers normally available from only the closest box seats. The August 3rd show, for example, included a performance of “I’m in Love With a Wonderful Guy” (from “South Pacific,” 2013) that brought us right up on stage with Laura Michelle Kelly’s irresistibly charming and fleet-footed Nellie Forbush, while still providing a good view of the ensemble. “One More Day,” the Act I finale of “Les Misérables” from that same year, captured the sweep and grandeur of the 81-member cast while allowing the complex counterpoint of the music to come through with a clarity that is difficult to achieve in a live performance.

And you’re guaranteed a comfortable seat with no rain or oppressive humidity or planes flying overhead. Also no crowds of people walking to the exits during the curtain call. What’s not to like?

Dancer/choreographer
Chloe O. Davis

The best parts of the “Variety Hour,” though, have been the new pieces staged specifically for the show. I have been most impressed with the dance numbers by Muny cast members.

In the first episode, St. Louis native and Muny regular Lara Teeter danced with athletic grace and perky humor through a deserted Muny to “Take Me Away.” The second episode brought us dancer/choreographer Chloe O. Davis (another St. Louis native and Muny veteran) performing a tribute to Black dance legends like Katherine  Dunham, George Faison, Debbie Allen, Hope Clarke, Gregory Hines, Donald Byrd,  Bill T. Jones and Camille A. Brown. Titled “My Tribute to Black Broadway and Black Choreography: I Thrive Now Because You Dared Then,” this bravura piece mixed audio and video clips from the original stars with Ms. Davis’s flawless recreations of their signature moves. I found it totally compelling and was sorry it wasn’t twice as long.

The August 3rd edition, though, brought us the most idiosyncratic and beautifully ambiguous work to date: “undefeat,” by dancer and choreographer Jon Rua (also a Muny vet, but probably best known for his work on the original production of "Hamilton"). Performed to the “Prelude” of Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1, it alternated video of Mr. Rua dancing on the roof of his apartment building with close-ups of him fighting off depression while “sheltering in place” from the pandemic. It was touching and brilliantly conceived.

Beth Leavel and Adam Heller in Gypsy (2018)
Photo by Phillip Hamer

There have been many other highlights over the last few weeks—far too many for a complete list. My favorite moments have included:

• The Muny Kids singing and signing “Happiness” from “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown”; totally adorable.
• The Muny Teens in a high-energy mashup of “Not While I’m Around” and “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” from “Sweeney Todd” and “The Sound of Music,” respectively
• Ken Page’s powerful live performance, from the Culver Pavillion just outside the east entrance, of “Memory” from “Cats”
• The cast of 2019's rewritten version of "Paint Your Wagon" singing the rousing "How Can I Wait?"
• Muny artists and real-life couple Beth Leavel and Adam Heller in their home with a thoroughly heartwarming version of “You’ll Never Get Away From Me” from “Gypsy,” which they did together at The Muny in 2018.

As this is being written, you can still see the third episode of “The Muny 2020 Summer Variety Hour” Thursday, August 6, at 8:15 pm on the Muny YouTube channel. It and other Thursday webcasts will include closed captioning as well as descriptive audio.

Mark Ballas and company in Jersey Boys (2018)
Photo by Phillip Hamer

The fourth installment, which airs August 10 and 13, includes archive video clips from “Jerome Robbins’ Broadway,” “Jersey Boys,” and “The Unsinkable Molly Brown”; Muny artists and real-life couple Jason Gotay and Michael Hartung performing “Song on the Sand” from “La Cage aux Folles”; members of The Muny’s 2018 cast of “Meet Me In St. Louis reuniting via the Internet to sing the famous title song; and "Do-Re-Mi," a special, filmed-at-The-Muny song and dance performance featuring members of The Muny Kids and Teens. If it’s anything like the first three, it should be a must see for musical theatre fans in general and lovers of The Muny in particular.

For more information on the “The Muny 2020 Summer Variety Hour,” visit The Muny’s web site.

Review: The age of gold

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

The ensemble in the West Side Story suite

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The Muny is celebrating its centennial this season, and they're kicking it off this week with a big, bright theatrical present in the form of the musical revue "Jerome Robbins' Broadway."

A compilation of musical numbers from shows either directed or choreographed by the legendary Jerome Robbins, "Jerome Robbins' Broadway" was originally presented on Broadway in 1989, where it was directed and choreographed by Mr. Robbins himself. It ran for 633 performances and 44 previews.

No theatre has produced it since then, primarily because of the massive legal and financial hurdles involved. The individual numbers have to be approved for performance by the estates of nearly two dozen composers and authors, and the production involves the work of dozens of singers and dancers (62 in the Broadway original, 59 at the Muny).

L-R: Drew Redington, Leeds Hill, Garen Schreiber
in "New York, New York" from On the Town

It's a massive undertaking, which is why the current Muny production will probably be a once in a lifetime opportunity for lovers of musical theatre. Although it clocks in at just under three hours, the Muny revival lacks two of the numbers from the Broadway version, but it's otherwise as close as you can get to that famed original. If you love a good musical, in short, "Jerome Robbins' Broadway" is a must-see event.

Because the show is essentially a "greatest hits" compilation, there isn't a single number that isn't at least good, and most are great, although I found some more memorable than others.

Scenes from shows that are rarely seen were the most interesting for me, beginning with the "Charleston" sequence from "Billion Dollar Baby," a 1945 show set in the "Roaring 20s" with a score by noted composer Morton Gould. The setup is deceptively simple: groups of classic 1920s types--flappers, college kids in raccoon coats, gangsters, slumming socialites in evening dress--dash into and out of a speakeasy. They all do character-specific versions of the titular dance step, often combined with a stiff-legged, rocking motion that makes them seem to glide across the stage as if pulled by an invisible string.

L-R: Berklea Going, Marina Lazzaretto, Melissa Hunter McCann,
Peter Garza, Chris Lingner in "Charleston"
from Billion Dollar Baby

On that foundation, Gould and Robbins build an elaborate and wildly inventive sequence crackling with energy. Unlike most of the other numbers, there's no singing here at all, unless you count the occasional bit of spoken period slang ("It's the bees knees!" "Whoopee!") used to punctuate small moments. It's pure dance heaven.

"I Still Get Jealous" (from "High Button Shoes," 1947) is far more modest, featuring only two performers: Maggie Lakis and Rob McClure. Their elegant, Vaudeville-inspired soft shoe is a delight, and allows the rest of the company to recuperate a bit after the strenuous "Charleston." Ms. Lakis and Mr. McClure (who also acts as the show's narrator) are also impressive as Golde and Tevye in the "Fiddler on the Roof" selections in Act II.

The "Bathing Beauty Ballet" (to the tune of "On a Sunday By the Sea"), the other selection from "High Button Shoes," goes on just a bit too long for my taste. But the Mack Sennett-inspired chase scene, with dancers throwing themselves in and out of doors like a Feydeau farce on steroids, is so astonishingly complex and performed with such superhuman precision that I was ultimately captivated.

L-R: Drew Redington, Sarah Bowden, Leeds Hil, Jenny Powers,
Garen Scribner in "Ya Got Me" from On the Town

"The Small House of Uncle Thomas" from "The King and I," is another high point in the evening. In it, Tuptim (Sarah Bowden), one of the King of Siam's slaves, narrates a performance of her own adaptation of the book "Uncle Tom's Cabin," that Anna has loaned her. The play within a play is done in the manner of Siamese ballet, with arms and legs often cocked at unnatural right angles. The Muny cast carries off the highly stylized movement beautifully, led by Erica Wong in the demanding role of Eliza.

And let's hear it for Jenny Powers' smoky, sultry delivery of the Irving Berlin novelty number "Mr. Monotony," about a trombone player whose limited repertory drives his wife into the arms of a clarinetist. It was originally written for (and then dropped from) the 1948 film "Easter Parade" as well as the stage musicals "Miss Liberty" and "Call Me Madam." The fourth time is the charm, apparently. The dance number that followed featured dramatically athletic performances from Alexa De Barr, Garen Scribner, and Sean Rozanski.

For most audience members, I expect, the big hits were the selections from "On the Town" and West Side Story." The latter is probably the most familiar, if only because of the immense popularity the 1961 film version, which Mr. Robbins co-directed. Both are filled with the mix of classical, jazz, and modern dance moves that were typical of his work, and the versatile cast of singers and dancers the Muny has assembled here do them full justice.

Rob McClure and ensemble in
"On a Sunday By the Sea" from High Button Shoes

Sailors Chip, Ozzie, and Gaby (Drew Redington, Leeds Hill, and Garen Scribner) seem to defy gravity as they zip across the stage in "On the Town." Ensemble members posture aggressively and leap through the fight sequences in "West Side Story." Hildy and Claire (Jenny Powers and Sarah Bowden) join the sailors for a raucous comedy number in "Ya Got Me." And the entire ensemble delivers a moving version of "Somewhere" to conclude the first act.

"I'm Flying," from the ever-popular "Peter Pan," was a big hit with the audience as well, with Sarah Marie Jenkins and the three Darling kids (Elizabeth Teeter, Gabriel Cytron, and Cole Joyce) zooming around the stage on flying rigs. The stagehands may be responsible for keeping performers airborne, but it takes a skilled dancer like Ms. Jenkins to make it look graceful.

This is, in short, musical theatre gold.

The program lists Harrison Beal, Dan Knechtges, and Ralph Perkins as "additional choreographers." I'm not sure where Robbins's work ends and theirs begins, but the overall result certainly feels like a Robbins show, which is probably what really matters.

L-R: Sarah Marie Jenkins, Elizbeth Teeter, Gabriel Cytron,
Cole Joyce in "I'm Flying" from Peter Pan

Robin L. McGee's seemingly endless array of eye-catching costumes, Paige Hathaway's bright sets, and Nathan W. Scheuer's video projections all add to the strong visual appeal of the show. Michael Horsley conducts the orchestra in an expert rendition of the long and sometimes complex score (even in pared-down orchestrations, Leonard Bernstein's music can be tricky). And director Cynthia Onrubia pulls everything together into a satisfying whole.

Yes, the unseasonably hot June weather this year can make a trip to the Muny less comfortable than it was in previous decades, but it's worth it for the unique experience that is "Jerome Robbins' Broadway." Performances continue nightly at 8:15 through Sunday on the outdoor stage in Forest Park.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of August 12, 2016

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

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New This Week:

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Aida

The Muny presents Elton John and Tim Rice's musical Aida opening on Monday, August 8, and running nightly at 8:15 pm through August 14 in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "A decade ago, Muny audiences fell in love with an unforgettable tale. Set in ancient Egypt, this timeless saga of forbidden love between the Ethiopian princess Aida and her Egyptian captor has been re-envisioned for this enchanting production. Expect to be captured yourself by Elton John's soaring melodies including “Written in the Stars,” “The Gods Love Nubia” and “Elaborate Lives.” Aida is the thrilling finale to the Muny season." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

My take: When I reviewed the tour of the Broadway production back in 2001, I found Aida to be pretty entertaining but rather thin stuff overall. But reviews for the Muny's version have been good and this is certainly a show that allows the Muny to display its glossy tech. "Surely any story involving ancient Egypt has the potential for good visuals," writes Ann Lemmons Pollack, "and the opening scene, taking place in the dessert, pyramids in the background, gives us to understand that this is all fantasy, simply by creating a scene that evokes something from Tatooine in Star Wars." And given the weather lately, you won't have to try very hard to imagine you're in Egypt.

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Bat Boy

Stray Dog Theatre presents Bat Boy: the Musical Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM, through August 20. “This offbeat comedy/horror musical is a big-hearted satire about prejudice. As ripped from a bizarre tabloid headline and set in a tiny West Virginia town, a strange, deformed boy is found alone in a cave. Once the “bat boy” is brought to light, dark - and hilarious - secrets emerge, shaking the community to its core. A clever, playful pop/rock score highlights the show's delirious take on American eccentricities._For MATURE AUDIENCES: In an effort to keep the selection of shows engaging and dynamic, this production may not be appropriate for all ages." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

My take: This is not the first local appearance of this odd little musical which first saw the light of day in London in 1997, and I expect it won't be the last. Reviews have been good, which is not surprising, given that this is just the sort of ensemble cast thing Stray Dog does so well. They show is also a kind of memorial to Stray Dog's late production manager Jay Hall, who died during rehearsals.

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Amy Ogle

The Emerald Room at the Monocle presents singer Amy Ogle in Nick of Time on Friday, August 12, at 8 p.m. "In her all new show, Amy explores the realization of a dream. And ours." The performance takes place in The Emerald Room at The Monocle Bar, 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

My take: Amy is a genuinely talented performer with a wide range and a solid voice. She can make you laugh as easily as she can bring a tear to your eye. I've seen her do great work at the St. Louis Cabaret Conference and at the open mic nights at the late, lamented Tavern of Fine Arts.

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David Giuntoli

The Emerald Room at the Monocle and The Presenters Dolan present David Guintoli in Sinatra...The Man and His Music on Saturday, August 13, at 8 p.m. "David Giuntoli sings songs that Frank Sinatra made famous. He would have been 100, if alive, and although he was from a different era, his musical stylings are a as swinging today as they were in the 40s, 50s, and 60s when he was at his peak. Sinatra had a gift of taking songs from great composers like, Cole Porter, Jimmy Van Heusen, Sammy Cahn, and, along with his fantastic arrangements, giving them that “Sinatra” stamp. The show includes these songs; I've Got the World on a String, All or Nothing at All, The Best is Yet to Come, I've Got You Under My Skin, The Way You Look Tonight, Angel Eyes, Fly Me to the Moon, Night and Day, The Lady is a Tramp and more." The show features Adam Maness on piano and Ben Wheeler on bass. The performance takes place in The Emerald Room at The Monocle Bar, 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: www.buzzonstage.com/st-louis.

My take: No, this is not the David Giuntoli who stars in Grimm, but rather my fellow Cabaret Project board member in his first solo show. The focus on Sinatra makes perfect sense, given that Mr. Giuntoli is a baritone with a crooner's sensibility and an affection for the Great American Songbook.

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Held Over:

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The Drowsy Chaperone
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical satire The Drowsy Chaperone through August 21. "With its laugh-a-minute script and one show-stopping song and dance number after another, it's easy to see why THE DROWSY CHAPERONE won the most Tony Awards of any musical on Broadway in 2006, including Best Book and Score. It all begins when a die-hard musical theatre fan decides to play his favorite cast album in his small brownstone apartment - a 1928 smash hit musical called "The Drowsy Chaperone." The show magically bursts to life before him as audiences are instantly transported to an earlier time and place and immersed in the glamorous and hilarious tale of a celebrity bride and her uproarious wedding day, complete with gangsters, mistaken identities, an off-course aviatrix, and an uplifting ride to the rafters. " Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

My take: The Drowsy Chaperone is a very smart and mostly very funny parody of musical theatre and, to a certain extent, the very concept of theatre itself. It's fun to watch, and when I saw the local premiere at the Fox back in 2007 I found my appreciation of its cleverness increasing in retrospect - always a good sign. It's essentially the most elaborate in joke in living memory. I haven't seen the Stages production, but honestly it's hard to see how they could not do well by this very strong material. If you love musical theatre, you won't want to miss it.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of August 8, 2016

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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.

The Muny presents Elton John and Tim Rice's musical Aida opening on Monday, August 8, and running nightly at 8:15 pm through August 14 in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "A decade ago, Muny audiences fell in love with an unforgettable tale. Set in ancient Egypt, this timeless saga of forbidden love between the Ethiopian princess Aida and her Egyptian captor has been re-envisioned for this enchanting production. Expect to be captured yourself by Elton John's soaring melodies including “Written in the Stars,” “The Gods Love Nubia” and “Elaborate Lives.” Aida is the thrilling finale to the Muny season." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

Bat Boy

Stray Dog Theatre presents Bat Boy: the Musical Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM, through August 20. “This offbeat comedy/horror musical is a big-hearted satire about prejudice. As ripped from a bizarre tabloid headline and set in a tiny West Virginia town, a strange, deformed boy is found alone in a cave. Once the “bat boy” is brought to light, dark - and hilarious - secrets emerge, shaking the community to its core. A clever, playful pop/rock score highlights the show's delirious take on American eccentricities._For MATURE AUDIENCES: In an effort to keep the selection of shows engaging and dynamic, this production may not be appropriate for all ages." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

The Randy Dandies presents Burlesque Bingo on Thursday, August 11, from 9 to 11 p.m. "As anyone who frequents the bingo parlors knows, the facade of genteel decorum drops once the first game is won. The first cry of “Bingo!” fires up the blood something fierce, and all bets are off from that point forward. Now, imagine what would happen if you throw semi-clad young women into the mix - Ok, now stop imagining. The Randy Dandies present Burlesque Bingo from 9pm to 11:30 pm on Thursdays, and and it promises all the thrills of cutthroat bingo, with the added titillation of local burlesque performers and specialty variety acts plus silly prizes." The show takes place at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: therandydandies.com..

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents CSI: Bissell through October 30. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Drowsy Chaperone
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical satire The Drowsy Chaperone through August 21. "With its laugh-a-minute script and one show-stopping song and dance number after another, it's easy to see why THE DROWSY CHAPERONE won the most Tony Awards of any musical on Broadway in 2006, including Best Book and Score. It all begins when a die-hard musical theatre fan decides to play his favorite cast album in his small brownstone apartment - a 1928 smash hit musical called "The Drowsy Chaperone." The show magically bursts to life before him as audiences are instantly transported to an earlier time and place and immersed in the glamorous and hilarious tale of a celebrity bride and her uproarious wedding day, complete with gangsters, mistaken identities, an off-course aviatrix, and an uplifting ride to the rafters. " Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

Insight Theatre Company presents the drama Inherit the Wind August 12 - 28. "Bert Cates a 1920's schoolteacher is put on trial for violating the Butler Act, a state law that prohibits public school teachers from teaching evolution instead creationism. Rachel Brown who is Cates girlfriend is also the daughter of Reverend Brown is torn between the opposing beliefs held by Cates and her father and her love for both of them." Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre, 530 East Lockwood on the campus of Nerinx Hall High School in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-556-1293 or visit insighttheatrecompany.com.

St. Louis Shakespeare presents Shakespeare's tragedy Julius Caesar Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. through August 14. Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Carondelet neighborhood. For more information, call 314-361-5664 or visit stlshakespeare.org.

Act Two Theatre presents the comedy Moon Over Buffalo through August 14. "Moon Over Buffalo centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950's who are playing Private Lives and Cyrano De Bergerac in rep in Buffalo, New York. On the brink of a disastrous split-up, they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom: Frank Capra is coming to town to see their matinee, and if he likes what he sees, he might cast them in his new film. Unfortunately for George and Charlotte, everything that could go wrong does. As a result, this tribute to “Life in the Theatre” is simply outrageously hilarious!! "" Performances take place in the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre at 1 St Peters Centre Blvd, St. Peters, MO 63376. For more information: act2theater.com.

Amy Ogle

The Emerald Room at the Monocle presents singer Amy Ogle in Nick of Time on Friday, August 12, at 8 p.m. "In her all new show, Amy explores the realization of a dream. And ours." The performance takes place in The Emerald Room at The Monocle Bar, 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

The Emerald Room at the Monocle and The Presenters Dolan present David Guintoli in Sinatra...The Man and His Music on Saturday, August 13, at 8 p.m. "David Giuntoli sings songs that Frank Sinatra made famous. He would have been 100, if alive, and although he was from a different era, his musical stylings are a as swinging today as they were in the 40s, 50s, and 60s when he was at his peak. Sinatra had a gift of taking songs from great composers like, Cole Porter, Jimmy Van Heusen, Sammy Cahn, and, along with his fantastic arrangements, giving them that “Sinatra” stamp. The show includes these songs; I've Got the World on a String, All or Nothing at All, The Best is Yet to Come, I've Got You Under My Skin, The Way You Look Tonight, Angel Eyes, Fly Me to the Moon, Night and Day, The Lady is a Tramp and more." The show features Adam Maness on piano and Ben Wheeler on bass. The performance takes place in The Emerald Room at The Monocle Bar, 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: www.buzzonstage.com/st-louis.

New Line Theatre presents Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical Tell Me on a Sunday Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM, August 11-27. "This pop-rock song cycle follows a young English woman newly arrived in New York, brimming with optimism, and her journey through America and the perils of ill-advised romance. As she seeks out success and love, she weaves her way through the maze of New York and Hollywood social life, and through her own anxieties, frustrations, and heartaches, and she begins to wonder whether there are better choices to be made." Performances take place at the Marcelle Theater, 3310 Samuel Shepard Drive, three blocks east of Grand, in Grand Center. For more information, visit newlinetheatre.com or call 314-534-1111.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Zombie Love through October 28. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

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

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of August 5, 2016

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

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New This Week:

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The Puppet Guild of Greater St. Louis is presenting the Great Regional Puppet Festival through Sunday, with performances by various groups at different venues in the city. You can see a complete list at puppetfestivalstl.org, but here are a few I thought look especially interesting:

• Puppet Potpourri and Puppet Slam on Friday, August 5, at 10 p.m.: "This is a combination of an open mike and slam. The Puppet Potpourri features an "open mike" short 3 to 5 minute acts by volunteer puppeteers attending The Great Regional Puppet Festival. The Potpourri acts are usually family friendly, sometimes including performances by budding child puppeteers. The second part of the program is the Puppet Slam. Here there are no time limits or rules. The acts are often more adult oriented anywhere from reverent to artistic to bawdy." The performance takes place at The Stage at KDHX, 3524 Washington in Grand Center.
• Still Life on Saturday, August 6, at 2:30 p.m.: "Sill Life is a collection of (mostly) nonverbal shadow puppetry shorts. In these vignettes, people struggle-humorously, for the greater part-to make sense of or contend with a world that refuses to obey their expectations." The performance takes place at the St. Louis University Theatre, 3733 West Pine on the St. Louis University campus. For more information: puppetfestival.org.
• A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Death Star on Saturday, August 6, at 3:15 p.m.: "Mike Horner imagines what would have happened if George Lucas had turned his epic space saga into a musical puppet show? Find out in this wacky parody of the Star Wars trilogy written by musician Curt Bright and adapted and performed by puppeteer Mike Horner. Wookies and Jedis and Droids, Oh my! " The performance takes place at the St. Louis University Theatre, 3733 West Pine on the St. Louis University campus.
• Immigrant Stew at the Chat 'n' Chew on Saturday, August 6, at 4 p.m.: "Eulenspiegel Puppets and Friends present a humorous, touching, and quite timely as we welcome immigrants into the rural Midwest. Cathy Schmidt-McGillicutty, played by Monica Leo, is the proprietress of the local cafe, the Chat 'N' Chew. She's upset because her daughter wants to marry a member of a Mexican immigrant family. She confronts her prejudice as flashbacks play out scenes from her own family history. The flashbacks are performed by older children or adults from the local community to an accompaniment of live music by Tim Hillis." The performance takes place at the St. Louis University Theatre, 3733 West Pine on the St. Louis University campus.

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THOMPAIN (based on nothing)

The Midnight Company presents Will Eno's THOMPAIN (based on nothing) Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., through August 6. Performances take place at Herbie's Vintage72, 405 N. Euclid in the Central West End, It will be a 10-year anniversary revival production for Midnight, with Artistic Director Joe Hanrahan once again the performer, and Larry Dell once again directing. "Nearly indescribable, THOMPAIN was described thus by the NYTimes: 'A surreal meditation on the empty promises life makes, the way experience never lives up to the weird and awesome fact of being...but also, in its odd, bewitching beauty an affirmation of life's worth...a small masterpiece.' Actor Joe Hanrahan calls it 'Existential Stand-Up,' while director Larry Dell describes it as 'Stand-Up Tragedy.'" Tickets will be on sale later in the spring at brownpapertickets.com.

My take: Joe Hanrahan has had something of a monopoly on the one-man show genre for many years, and with good reason. He's a skilled actor who is not afraid to take on unusual and difficult material. "Hanrahan is relaxed, comfortable in the world of the narrator, oddball as it is," writes Ann Lemmons Pollack, "pacing and gesturing and occasionally talking to specific members of the audience. He makes it look easy, creating an experience as much as he’s creating theatre." She goes on to note how much the whole experience reminds her of the early days of Gaslight Square, which ain't bad.

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Tosca
Photo: John Lamp

Union Avenue Opera presents Puccini's Tosca Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, through August 6. "Tosca is a powerful tale of an unholy bargain between the tragic heroine Floria Tosca and the chief of the Roman police, Baron Scarpia, arguably one of opera's vilest characters, who will stop at nothing to get his way. Will Tosca give herself to a man she hates to save Cavaradossi, the man she loves? Will she betray everything her lover believes to spare his life? Intrigue, cruelty, and betrayal swirl about the doomed diva in this riveting drama that explores the dark side of human emotion, set to some of Puccini's most passionate and unforgettable music." Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. The opera is sung in Italian with projected English text. For more information, visit unionavenueopera.org or call 314-361-2881.

My take: This production has been updated to Mussolini's Italy. Which, if you think about it, makes a fair amount of sense. The political subtext for the opera, after all, is the struggle between a democratic underground and an autocratic government that uses torture and terror as political tactics. Reviews have been very positive—Steve Callahan's for KDHX is a good example—and while I won't see the show until Friday, I see no reason to doubt their accuracy. Union Avenue has a very impressive track record.

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Held Over:

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The Drowsy Chaperone
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical satire The Drowsy Chaperone through August 21. "With its laugh-a-minute script and one show-stopping song and dance number after another, it's easy to see why THE DROWSY CHAPERONE won the most Tony Awards of any musical on Broadway in 2006, including Best Book and Score. It all begins when a die-hard musical theatre fan decides to play his favorite cast album in his small brownstone apartment - a 1928 smash hit musical called "The Drowsy Chaperone." The show magically bursts to life before him as audiences are instantly transported to an earlier time and place and immersed in the glamorous and hilarious tale of a celebrity bride and her uproarious wedding day, complete with gangsters, mistaken identities, an off-course aviatrix, and an uplifting ride to the rafters. " Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

My take: The Drowsy Chaperone is a very smart and mostly very funny parody of musical theatre and, to a certain extent, the very concept of theatre itself. It's fun to watch, and when I saw the local premiere at the Fox back in 2007 I found my appreciation of its cleverness increasing in retrospect - always a good sign. It's essentially the most elaborate in joke in living memory. I haven't seen the Stages production, but honestly it's hard to see how they could not do well by this very strong material. If you love musical theatre, you won't want to miss it.

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Fiddler on the Roof

The Muny presents the musical Fiddler on the Roof opening running nightly at 8:15 pm through Friday in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "A musical that celebrates family, tradition and community, Fiddler on the Roof is one of the greatest musicals ever written. This cherished musical is a poignant folk tale, laden with happiness and tears - a musical that grows more resonant with every passing year. See it with someone you love." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

My take: Bock and Harnick's music is as engaging today as it was nearly fifty years ago. Joseph Stein's book, adapted from Sholem Aleichem, remains powerful. Its tragic depiction of the plight of refugees trying to hold on to their religion and culture as they are persecuted and driven from their homes ought to feel very relevant today. I haven't seen the Muny production, but the fact is this is the sort of big, old-fashioned Broadway chestnut that they usually do quite well. Besides, those actors wearing those bulky costumes in this sub-tropical heat really do deserve our support.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of July 22nd, 2016

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

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New This Week:

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Mamma Mia!

The Muny presents the musical Mamma Mia!, based on the songs of ABBA, opening on Thursday, July 21, and running nightly at 8:15 pm through July 28 in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "After 14 years and nearly 6,000 performances on Broadway, the phenomenal worldwide megahit Mamma Mia! arrives at The Muny like a breath of fresh island air. Prepare to be swept into the contagious excitement of 22 memorable ABBA hits, including "Dancing Queen," "Take a Chance on Me" and "The Winner Takes It All." You haven't seen Mamma Mia! in its full splendor until you've seen it under the stars at The Muny." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

My take: As I wrote in my review of the 2002 USA tour of this show on its first visit to the Fox, I am not now nor have I ever been a fan of the 1970s pop quartet ABBA. When they were cranking out hits like "Dancing Queen", I was sneering at them and listening to Elvis Costello and The Ramones. But when I first saw Mamma Mia! in London back in 2001 surrounded by wildly enthusiastic Brits (who apparently feel about ABBA the way the French feel about Jerry Lewis), I had to admit it was great fun. I found it a completely captivating evening of musical theatre, mostly because Judy Craymer, director Phyllida Lloyd and playwright Catherine Johnson (all from Britain, where this show began) have put together a fast-paced, funny, and occasionally even touching show that can send even a die-hard ABBA hater like yours truly out of the theatre with a smile on his face and a handful of those bouncy, hook-laden melodies rattling around in his brain. So enjoy it, already.

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Orgullo
Photo: Mike Snodderly

Theatre Nuevo presents Orgullo: A Pride of One Acts through July 24. Orgullo (Spanish for "pride") will feature bilingual scripts from playwrights nationwide, focusing on the themes of Latin pride and identity. Original work from national playwrights like Tlaloc Rivas, José Casas, Alvaro Saar Rios and more will be featured in the lineup of one act plays. Performances take place at the 1900 Park Creative Space in Lafayette Square. For more information: www.theatrenuevo.com.

My take: With deranged hatred of immigrants in general and Latino immigrants in particular spewing from Cleveland right now, the timing of this unusual evening could not be better. "The ten stories tell of the Latino experience with contemporary, relatable stories that could happen in almost any community in the United States," writes Tina Farmer in her review for KDHX. "But each story is varied, with truths and complexities that represent the fullness of life, not simply a single perspective. Rather than focusing on fancy sets or big production numbers, Theatre Neuvo demonstrates a deep commitment to storytelling with this production...a compelling evening's entertainment."

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The Cabaret Project presents The St. Louis Cabaret Conference Closing Night Showcase and Celebration on Sunday, July 24, at 7 p.m. as part of the 2016 St. Louis Cabaret Festival. "The newly remolded Jazz at the Bistro is the perfect supper club! Dinner seating or just drinks and appetizers start at 6 pm. And at 7 p.m. its time for the core group of talented singers of the St. Louis Cabaret Conference to show audiences why they've come from all over the country to be mentored by the Conference's renowned faculty. Join us for this closing night showcase and stick around for the post show party that starts up as soon as the last bow is taken. Party noshes are on us!" The performance takes place at Jazz at the Bistro, across from The Fox in Grand Center. For more information: thecabaretproject.org.

My take: As someone who has seen and/or performed in most of the closing showcases over the years, I can attest to the wonderful variety and skill of the performers who take the stage in this big, two-act show. Seating for pre-show dinner or drinks begins at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7.

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The Cabaret Project presents The St. Louis Cabaret Conference Professional Track Showcase on Saturday, July 23, at 8 p.m. as part of the 2016 St. Louis Cabaret Festival. "Mentored by Marilyn Maye, Faith Prince, Tedd Firth and Billy Stritch, as well as other members of the prestigious St. Louis Cabaret Conference Faculty, these singers take to the stage to show you why they are on the right track! The St. Louis Cabaret Conference presents these select singers in there own showcase of mini cabaret sets to show so you can see why they are ready to take their talents and ambitions and make their mark in the cabaret world - if they haven't already." The performance takes place at The Stage @ KDHX in Grand Center. For more information: thecabaretproject.org.

My take: These are singers from the most advanced of the Cabaret Conference's three tracks. They're established cabaret pros from around the country, often with many shows to their credit, who are polishing their craft here in St. Louis. The showcase presents each of them in short, carefully tailored sets that display their range and talent. Pro Track students have also been acting as warm-up acts for the three shows by Conference faculty this year (the last of which, starring Tony DeSare, is tonight, the 22nd) and their work has been truly impressive.

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Tont DeSare

The Cabaret Project presents singer/pianist Tony DeSare and his Trio in From Sinatra to Prince on Friday, July 22, at 8 p.m. as part of the 2016 St. Louis Cabaret Festival. "Named a Rising Star Male Vocalist in Downbeat magazine, DeSare brings his youthful, contemporary flair to the masterful Sinatra style standards of the past and offers sophisticated takes on pop classics such as the late genius Prince's Kiss- throwing in some of his own top notch originals along the way. DeSare has three top ten Billboard jazz albums under his belt and has headlined in prestigious venues such as New York's 54 Below and Carnegie Hall, along with major performing arts centers and numerous symphony orchestras throughout North America and abroad. Tony DeSare and his trio offer St. Louis audiences a fresh take on old school class that swings, swoons and gets your feet stompin'!" The performance takes place at the Sheldon Concert Hall in Grand Center. For more information: thecabaretproject.org.

My take: Although he has appeared in St. Louis as part of jazz combos in the past, this is Mr. DeSare's first solo cabaret appearance in town. Singers attending the St. Louis Cabaret Conference, where Mr. DeSare (like the other Cabaret Festival headliners) is on the faculty, have had nothing but good to say about him. Here's your chance to catch a rising star.

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Held Over:

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Grey Gardens
Photo: Dan Donovan

Max and Louie Productions presents the musical Grey Gardens through July 30. "Not since Mama Rose and Gypsy has there been a mother/daughter act as hilarious, as heartbreaking and as utterly unforgettable as "Big" Edith and "Little" Edie Beale - Jackie Kennedy's most outrageous relatives - in the acclaimed musical smash Grey Gardens! From the grandeur of an East Hampton high society party in 1941 to the sensational tabloid headlines that rocked the Kennedy clan in 1973, Grey Gardens is scandalously entertaining. Step into the world of Grey Gardens and see the other side of Camelot." Performances take place at the Wool Studio Theatre at the JCC, 2 Millstone Campus Drive. For more information, visit maxandlouie.com.

My take: The folks at Max and Louie must be popping open the champagne right now, given how much critical praise they're getting. Steve Allen's review at Stage Door STL is typical. "Reviewing a production is, of course, a personal viewpoint", he writes, "and every one of the several critics we have in our town will vary in their opinions. But with “Grey Gardens,” the current musical from Max and Louie Productions, I think we'll join forces in our praise for just about every aspect from casting and direction down through the technical creators. If it isn't flawless, it comes pretty darn close." 'Nuff said, I guess.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of August 14, 2015

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

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Oklahoma!

The Muny presents Rodgers and Hammerstein's classic musical Oklahoma! nightly at 8:15 PM, August 10-16, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Rodgers and Hammerstein's masterpiece Oklahoma!, the musical that changed Broadway and America, returns to The Muny stage in a grand and glorious production. In its first Muny production since 2007, this beautiful and dramatic show features an unforgettable story and a score filled with landmark songs such as "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'," "The Surrey With the Fringe on Top," "People Will Say We're in Love," and of course, "Oklahoma!"" For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

My take: It's easy to forget, all these years later, how innovative this first collaboration between Rodgers and Hammerstein was when it opened in 1943. With direction by Rouben Mamoulian and choreography by Agnes de Mille (the first of her 15 Broadway shows), this was serious musical theatre. The tight integration of book, music, and dance was unusual at the time, as was the seriousness of the subject matter. "A show this deeply ingrained in our collective memory can be tough to produce," writes Tina Farmer at KDHX, "but the MUNY's production delivers the familiar with affection in a bright, quick-paced show that mostly hits all the right notes." "This lovingly rendered production breathes new life into a show that's an absolute natural for the outdoor setting that The MUNY's stage provides," says Chris Gibson at Broadwayworld.com. "See it, and be enriched by a vibrant presentation that's a perfect way to introduce your family to the considerable charms of this musical, as well as the venue staging it!"

Mariposa Artists presents Dionna Raedeke in Shine Like Gold on Friday, August 14, at 8 p.m. Described as "a musical journey from dark to light," the show features guest performers Mike Krysl on guitar, Ben Wheeler on bass, Jonnie Brown on percussion, and vocalist Emilie Nevins-Carter. Admission include two complimentary drinks and parking is free. The performance takes place at The Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive in Clayton. For more information: brownpapertickets.com.

My take: When most folks think of cabaret, I expect the image that comes to mind is that of a single performer backed up by a piano, possibly augmented with bass or percussion. That's certainly the most common arrangement but, as singer (and visual artist) Dionna Raedeke and guitarist Mike Krysl will be demonstrating this Friday, it's by no means the only one. A relatively new addition to the St. Louis cabaret scene, Ms. Raedeke has garnered raves for her singing and musical taste. "Dionna is one of my new favorite singers," says actor, singer and teacher Jason Graae. "Her voice has such a haunting beauty and it comes directly from her soul." New York-based singer, songwriter and music director Rick Jensen—who accompanied Ms. Raedeke for her 2011 show Sight - Sound—agrees, describing her as a "vocally compelling and consistently original in her performance." An inventive musician who lists influences as diverse as Robin Trower, Django Reinhardt and Leonard Bernstein, Mike Krysl has often impressed me with both the ingenuity and virtuosity of his inventive and original takes on rock and pop standards. Note also the The Chapel provides its space for free, so all procedes go straight to the artists.

Spellbound!
Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents the musical Spellbound! A Musical Fable Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through August 22. "Spellbound is the story of a young woman's journey for inner strength and self-worth in a mythical land where at every turn she is thwarted by an evil enchantress, shape-shifting beasts, and a plethora of magic potions. Full of humor and adventure this world premiere musical is not to be missed! " Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

My take: Written by Stray Dog founder Gary F. Bell and Robert L. White, Spellbound! is a big step forward for this gutsy company. In her review for KDHX, Tina Farmer writes that the show "doesn't tell a new story, and it never pretends to be more than the lovely, fantasy-laden fable that it presents. But it is richly layered, with several memorable tunes that successfully mix musical genres into a fresh, uplifting story. The effect is immersive and cathartic, encouraging audiences to let go of their cares and embrace a delightfully new interpretation of a much-loved tale." I'm a great admirer of Stray Dog's work, both as an actor and audience member, so I have no hesitation in recommending this first foray into presenting original material.

Held Over:

The cast of Anything Goes
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents Cole Porter's Anything Goes through August 16. "Set sail on the S. S. American with a zany group of travelers, bound from New York to merry old England, where gangsters, socialites, and arrow-collar lads collide in a true tap-sensation from a by-gone era when travel was still fun and as unpredictable as the weather. There'll be laughs a-plenty set to a raucous and romantic Cole Porter score. Enjoy meltingly romantic melodies as "I Get A Kick Out Of You," "It's De-Lovely," "Easy To Love," "You're The Top," and "Anything Goes," that will inspire an uproarious and tune-filled trip across the Atlantic where ANYTHING GOES!" Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

My take: Porter's hit-laden score and the breezy (and often revised book) combine for great fun, and it looks like Stages is doing it justice. "Every song, every character, every step, every gesture, every tiny comic bit is perfect," writes Steve Callahan at KDHX. "Every single moment of this show is a delight." Having finally had a chance to see it myself, I concur. The original Billy Crocker has been replaced by Brent Michael Diroma, who is a very talented comic actor with a lovely crooner's light baritone/tenor. Definitely worth seeing.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of August 10, 2015

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

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

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Anything Goes
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents Cole Porter's Anything Goes through August 16. "Set sail on the S. S. American with a zany group of travelers, bound from New York to merry old England, where gangsters, socialites, and arrow-collar lads collide in a true tap-sensation from a by-gone era when travel was still fun and as unpredictable as the weather. There'll be laughs a-plenty set to a raucous and romantic Cole Porter score. Enjoy meltingly romantic melodies as "I Get A Kick Out Of You," "It's De-Lovely," "Easy To Love," "You're The Top," and "Anything Goes," that will inspire an uproarious and tune-filled trip across the Atlantic where ANYTHING GOES!" Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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

The Randy Dandies presents Burlesque Bingo on Thursdays from 9 to 11 p.m. "As anyone who frequents the bingo parlors knows, the facade of genteel decorum drops once the first game is won. The first cry of "Bingo!" fires up the blood something fierce, and all bets are off from that point forward. Now, imagine what would happen if you throw semi-clad young women into the mix - Ok, now stop imagining. The Randy Dandies present Burlesque Bingo from 9pm to 11:30 pm on Thursdays, and and it promises all the thrills of cutthroat bingo, with the added titillation of local burlesque performers and specialty variety acts plus silly prizes." The show takes place at Meyer's Grove, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: therandydandies.com.

Stages St. Louis presents Cheers!, its annual cabaret fundraiser, on Monday, August 10, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The evening features a performance of The Story Goes On: The Songs of Maltby and Shire, the inaugural workshop production from Emerson American Musical Creative. ""Be the first to hear the world premiere of this new work of Musical Theatre at STAGES' one-night only event. The evening will feature St. Louis Actress Kari Ely and New York Actor Brennan Caldwell as co-hosts, plus cast members from STAGES' 2015 productions of Anything Goes and The Full Monty, including Julie Cardia, John Flack, Leah Berry, Austin Hohnke, Bronwyn Tarboton, and Erik Keiser. Triple Threats, STAGES Performing Arts Academy's Premiere Performance Group, also will entertain the audience with a short set of songs." The event opens at 6:30pm with a reception and pre-show activities including a wine pull and Triple Threats raffle. The performance begins at 7:30pm with a live auction during the intermission. A post-show reception with the performers will close the evening. The event takes place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Get "Hitched" To A Redneck Or Die through October 31. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

ANNONYArts and Salt House Collective present Home: An Original Post-dramatic Immersive Event Thursday through Saturday, August 13-15 at 7:30 p.m. "Home is an immersive performance event told through abstract images, anecdotes, original music and supper." Performances take place at Satori 3003 Locust in Midtown. For more information: www.eventbrite.com.

Act Two Theatre presents Moonlight and Magnolias through August 16. "1939 Hollywood is abuzz. Legendary producer David O. Selznick has shut down production of his new epic, Gone with the Wind, a film adaptation of Margaret Mitchell's novel. The screenplay, you see, just doesn't work. So what's an all-powerful movie mogul to do? While fending off the film's stars, gossip columnists and his own father-in-law, Selznick sends a car for famed screenwriter Ben Hecht and pulls formidable director Victor Fleming from the set of The Wizard of Oz. Summoning both to his office, he locks the doors, closes the shades, and on a diet of bananas and peanuts, the three men labor over five days to fashion a screenplay that will become the blueprint for one of the most successful and beloved films of all time." Performances take place in the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre at 1 St Peters Centre Blvd, St. Peters, MO 63376. For more information: act2theater.com.

The Muny presents Rodgers and Hammerstein's classic musical Oklahoma! nightly at 8:15 PM, August 10-16, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Rodgers and Hammerstein's masterpiece Oklahoma!, the musical that changed Broadway and America, returns to The Muny stage in a grand and glorious production. In its first Muny production since 2007, this beautiful and dramatic show features an unforgettable story and a score filled with landmark songs such as "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'," "The Surrey With the Fringe on Top," "People Will Say We're in Love," and of course, "Oklahoma!"" For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

Mariposa Artists presents Dionna Raedeke in Shine Like Gold on Friday, August 14, at 8 p.m. Described as "a musical journey from dark to light," the show features guest performers Mike Krysl on guitar, Ben Wheeler on bass, Jonnie Brown on percussion, and vocalist Emilie Nevins-Carter. Admission include two complimentary drinks and parking is free. The performance takes place at The Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive in Clayton. For more information: brownpapertickets.com.

Spellbound!
Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents the musical Spellbound! A Musical Fable Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through August 22. "Spellbound is the story of a young woman's journey for inner strength and self-worth in a mythical land where at every turn she is thwarted by an evil enchantress, shape-shifting beasts, and a plethora of magic potions. Full of humor and adventure this world premiere musical is not to be missed! " Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

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 3, 2015

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

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

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Anything Goes

Stages St. Louis presents Cole Porter's Anything Goes through August 16. "Set sail on the S. S. American with a zany group of travelers, bound from New York to merry old England, where gangsters, socialites, and arrow-collar lads collide in a true tap-sensation from a by-gone era when travel was still fun and as unpredictable as the weather. There'll be laughs a-plenty set to a raucous and romantic Cole Porter score. Enjoy meltingly romantic melodies as "I Get A Kick Out Of You," "It's De-Lovely," "Easy To Love," "You're The Top," and "Anything Goes," that will inspire an uproarious and tune-filled trip across the Atlantic where ANYTHING GOES!" Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Beauty and the Beast

The Muny presents Beauty and the Beast nightly at 8:15 PM, opening on Wednesday, July 29 and running through Friday, August 7, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "'Be Our Guest' for the magical family extravaganza, Disney's Beauty and The Beast, returning to The Muny for 10 amazing performances. This enchanting, musical tells the classic love story set to the Academy Award® winning music of Alan Menken and Tim Rice. Based on the 1991 hit animated film, Disney's Beauty and The Beast has become one of the most popular musicals in the world. For 97 years, The Muny 'family show' has been one of the greatest St. Louis traditions, and our production of this Disney classic show will thrill you and your family!" For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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

The Randy Dandies presents Burlesque Bingo on Thursdays from 9 to 11 p.m. "As anyone who frequents the bingo parlors knows, the facade of genteel decorum drops once the first game is won. The first cry of "Bingo!" fires up the blood something fierce, and all bets are off from that point forward. Now, imagine what would happen if you throw semi-clad young women into the mix - Ok, now stop imagining. The Randy Dandies present Burlesque Bingo from 9pm to 11:30 pm on Thursdays, and and it promises all the thrills of cutthroat bingo, with the added titillation of local burlesque performers and specialty variety acts plus silly prizes." The show takes place at Meyer's Grove, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: therandydandies.com.

Carousel

The Hawthorne Players present the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Carousel through August 9. "Carousel tells the story of a swaggering, carefree carnival barker, Billy Bigelow, who falls in love with a mill worker, Julie Jordan. Years after he dies tragically, Billy is given a chance to return for a day to try to brighten the life of his unhappy 15-year-old daughter Louise. He watches as the school principal inspires Louise by assuring her that so long as she has hope in her heart, she'll never walk alone." The performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 921-5678 or visit hawthorneplayers.com.

The Further Adventures of Hedda Gabler
Photo: Kim Carlson

St. Louis Shakespeare presents The Further Adventures of Hedda Gabler by Jeff Whitty Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m., through August 9. "This play follows Hedda into the hereafter. There, she encounters Mammy of "Gone With the Wind" fame, and they join forces. Along the way, they encounter starlets, leading ladies, and other madwomen locked in the literary attic, in this darkly funny show." Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Carondelet neighborhood. For more information, call 314-361-5664 or visit stlshakespeare.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Get "Hitched" To A Redneck Or Die through October 31. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

Clinton County Showcase presents Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's Jesus Christ Superstar August 6-9. “1970 rock opera musical based on the Gospel accounts of the last week of Jesus's life. The show highlights political and interpersonal struggles of Jesus' time, of our time, between Jesus and others, and between Jesus' message and our perception of him.” Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL. For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

Act Two Theatre presents Moonlight and Magnolias August 7 - 16. "1939 Hollywood is abuzz. Legendary producer David O. Selznick has shut down production of his new epic, Gone with the Wind, a film adaptation of Margaret Mitchell's novel. The screenplay, you see, just doesn't work. So what's an all-powerful movie mogul to do? While fending off the film's stars, gossip columnists and his own father-in-law, Selznick sends a car for famed screenwriter Ben Hecht and pulls formidable director Victor Fleming from the set of The Wizard of Oz. Summoning both to his office, he locks the doors, closes the shades, and on a diet of bananas and peanuts, the three men labor over five days to fashion a screenplay that will become the blueprint for one of the most successful and beloved films of all time." Performances take place in the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre at 1 St Peters Centre Blvd, St. Peters, MO 63376. For more information: act2theater.com.

Moon Over Buffalo
Photo: John Lamb

Insight Theatre Company presents Ken Ludwig's farce Moon Over Buffalo through August 9. "Moon Over Buffalo centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950's who are playing Private Lives and Cyrano De Bergerac in rep in Buffalo, New York. On the brink of a disastrous split-up, they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom: Frank Capra is coming to town to see their matinee, and if he likes what he sees, he might cast them in his new film. Unfortunately for George and Charlotte, everything that could go wrong does. As a result, this tribute to "Life in the Theatre" is simply outrageously hilarious!! " Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre, 530 East Lockwood on the campus of Nerinx Hall High School in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-556-1293 or visit insighttheatrecompany.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Rigoletto
Photo: John Lamb

Union Avenue Opera presents Verdi's Rigoletto Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, July 31 - August 8. "A tale of innocence lost, Rigoletto is Verdi's tense and brutal tale of a deformed court jester caught in a snare of corruption, lechery, and vengeance. It is a chilling whirlwind of revenge: Rigoletto, jester to the Duke of Mantua, cannot protect the person he most loves from the person he most loathes. His beloved daughter Gilda falls in love with the hated Duke and eventually sacrifices her life to save the Duke from the assassin hired by her father. This iconic melodrama boasts an action-packed plot and a parade of brilliant music, including the Duke's boastful "La donna è mobile," Rigoletto's "Cortigiani, vil razza dannata," and Gilda's stunning "Caro nome."" Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. The opera is sung in Italian with projected English text. For more information, visit unionavenueopera.org or call 314-361-2881. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Spellbound!

Dramatic License Productions presents Six Plays in Three Days Friday through Sunday, August 7-9, as part of its Play Reading Series. " DLP presents the staged readings of six plays by, for and about women. Scripts will be selected by a play reading committee. During performance weekend, audiences can select by ballot their choices for a future fully-staged production." The performance takes place at Dramatic License Theatre located at the upper-level Sears wing of Chesterfield Mall. For more information, call 636-821-1746 or visit www.dramaticlicenseproductions.org.

Stray Dog Theatre presents the musical Spellbound! A Musical Fable Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM August 6 - 22. "Spellbound is the story of a young woman's journey for inner strength and self-worth in a mythical land where at every turn she is thwarted by an evil enchantress, shape-shifting beasts, and a plethora of magic potions. Full of humor and adventure this world premiere musical is not to be missed! " Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

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.