Chuck's Choices for the weekend of July 26, 2019

This week: a classic opera, a send-up of a classic movie, and a nostalgic look at a classic time when the USA was actually united against fascism.

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New This Week:

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The All Hands on Deck Show

Lindenwood University presents The All Hands on Deck Show on Saturday, July 27, at 3 pm. " Join us as we pay homage to the days of Bob Hope and war-bond drives, in a show that features Broadway Veterans Jody Madaras and Valerie Hill, a cast of New York voices, the rich sounds of the 9-piece ALL-LIVE Hollywood Victory Caravan Big Band Orchestra, classic commercials, tight harmonies, Broadway tap-dancing, impromptu skits, and 42 of the Greatest American songs ever written -- not to mention a full-circle patriotic salute to the American way of life. Come celebrate the U.S.A. 1942-style with The All Hands on Deck! Show." Performances take place at the Scheiegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood campus in St. Charles, MO. For more information: lindenwood.edu.

My take: This nostalgic tribute to the patriotic shows of World War II originated in Branson, where it continues to play on a regular basis. Reviews of the tour elsewhere have been pretty positive, and it's worth recalling a time when (unlike today) America was largely united in the war against fascism. The 1940s had a lot of problems which, as far as I can see, this upbeat revue ignores, but as I wouldn't expect a production like this to take on a subject that complex, I can hardly say that's a criticism. Bottom line: it looks like great fun.

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La Bohème
Photo by Dan Donovan

Union Avenue Opera presents Puccini's La Bohème Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, July 26 - August 2. 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: By the time Puccini and his librettists got around to translating Henri Murger’s episodic 1849 novel Scènes De La Vie Bohème into the 1896 opera La Bohème, it had already enjoyed a considerable European vogue, so it’s not surprising that La Bohème has gone on to become a favorite of opera companies around the world. The classic tearjerker has been produced many times here in St. Louis (most recently by Opera Theatre in 2016), but a good production is always worth seeing, and given Union Avenue's track record, I expect this one to be solid.

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Jaws: The Parody
Photo by Kayla Lindsay

St. Louis Shakespeare's Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre presents Jaws: The Parody, through July 27. Performances take place at the Regional Arts Commission in University City. For more information: www.stlshakespeare.org

My take: Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre, the illegitimate love-child of St. Louis Shakespeare, got its start by concocting its own scripts from pop culture detritus like the films of Ed Wood and superhero cartoons. In recent years they have branched out to making fun of of material that, unlike Ed Wood's collected works, didn't suck in its original form. "The bigger the original's special effects budget," writes Paul Friswold at the Riverfront Times, "the funnier the Magic Smoking Monkey version becomes, thanks to cardboard sets, dollar-store props and the actors' wild-eyed willingness to try anything for a laugh." Sounds about right.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of April 19, 2019

New this week: a one-woman Titanic send-up and a dark Sam Shepard comedy.

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New This Week:

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Never Let Go: A One-Woman Titanic

The Monocle presents Rachel Tibbets in Never Let Go: A One-Woman Titanic, at 8 pm Thursday through Saturday, April 18-20. "Will your heart go on? Rachel Tibbetts (St. Louis Theatre Circle Award winner) stars in ERA's one-woman Titanic parody. The ensemble of artists developing this new play also includes Will Bonfiglio, Lucy Cashion, Morgan Fisher, and Bess Moynihan. Join us for the maiden voyage of your life and hope it doesn't sink! All performances start at 8:00 pm. The Monocle opens at 6:30 for preshow cocktails and libations. Doors open to the Emerald Room at 7:30pm. Come for a drink and stay for the show!" Performances take place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle on Manchester in The Grove. For more information: themonoclestl.com

My take: Well, no, I haven't actually seen this one, but I have seen the work of nearly everyone associated with it and based on that experience alone, I have to say I don't think you can go wrong here. I also find the concept both audacious and appealing. Dobbs only knows, the film Titanic deserves a little parody. And the Emerald Room at The Monocle is a very cool little theatre/cabaret space with a fun vibe all its own.

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True West
Photo by Patrick Huber

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents Sam Shepard's True West Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 pm, through April 28. " This American classic explores alternatives that might spring from the demented terrain of the California landscape. Sons of a desert-dwelling alcoholic and a suburban wanderer clash over a film script. Austin, the achiever, is working on a script he has sold to producer Sal Kimmer when Lee, a demented petty thief, drops in. He pitches his own idea for a movie to Kimmer, who then wants Austin to junk his bleak, modern love story and write Lee's trashy Western tale." Performances take place at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. For more information call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

My take: Honesty compels me to admit that I have never much cared for Sam Shepard as a playwright. His plays tend to concentrate on the kind of people I'd normally cross the street to avoid. "It's hard to imagine anyone being comfortable watching a Sam Shepherd play, " writes Ann Lemmons Pollack. "His onstage world is a bleak one, no matter the setting." But she goes on the recommend this production anyway, praising the cast and director and concluding that it a "carefully created rendition of an excellent play." At KDHX, Tina Farmer concurs, calling this "a raucous tale that's curiously satisfying, laugh out loud funny and incredibly cathartic." Which tells me that, if you don't share my feelings about Shepard's plays, this is probably well worth your time.

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Held Over:

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Dreamgirls
Photo by John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents the musical Dreamgirls Thursdays through Saturdays through April 20. "Journey back to a time in musical history when rhythm and blues weren't everything, they were the only thing. In the swinging 60s, the Dreamettes, led by the powerful Effie White, embark on an R and B music career that leads them across the country. Romantic entanglements, Effies weight, racism, and the arrival of a fresh new sound in the 70s make this show biz musical a thrilling hit." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

My take: I haven't seen this show since the 1997 USA tour played the Fox, so it's good to see a locally-sourced production. Stray Dog has had a pretty impressive string of hits with its musicals in recent years, and judging from the reviews, this one is keeping the streak going. "Go see Dreamgirls at Stray Dog Theatre because it sounds glorious," writes Ann Lemmons Pollack. "It's a thrilling kind of opera, with a powerful R&B heartbeat," says Richard Green at Talkin' Broadway. "Director Justin Been keeps things moving," writes Calvin Wilson at STLToday.com "with particular attention to creating stage pictures that capture the zing of showbiz life. The contributions of music director Jennifer Buchheit and choreographer Mike Hodges are first-rate, and the performances are excellent."

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of February 8, 2019

This week's new entries are a new send-up of Clue, Arthur Miller's classic drama The Crucible, and a wild revenge comedy at West End.

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New This Week:

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Classic Mystery Game
Photo by Joey Rumpell

Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble presents Classic Mystery Game Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 pm through February 16. "Classic Mystery Game: a parody (or a spoof, maybe a send-up, possibly a take-off). The use of parody in human culture is ritualistic, so here is SATE, once more, to perform yet another ritual. Classic Mystery Game investigates Western society in 2019 through the lens of the hilarious 1985 movie, CLUE...which in turn was investigating Western society in 1985 through the lens of McCarthyism. Perhaps by distilling our world through so many layers of comedy, as the ritual calls for, we'll discover a bit of Truth - even if it's merely a smile at the end of a funny play." Performances take place at The Chapel Venue, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

My take: Whatever else Classic Mystery Game's PR may claim, it would appear that it is ultimately a big, entertaining, and very funny show. At KDHX, Tina Farmer says its "a comic circus of sorts, paying tribute to the fun of the board game and the campy excess of the 1985 movie. If you are looking for a genuine comedy that the whole family can enjoy or just a fun night out with friends or a date, "Classic Mystery Game"...is an excellent choice." "This is a hilarious show," writes Michelle Kenyon on her blog, "with a spirit reminiscent of old-time sketch comedy shows..There's wordplay and innuendo, along with physical comedy, sight gags and more as the story continues on its rapid pace until its suitably hilarious conclusion. I won't give any more details, because that will spoil the fun. And fun, it certainly is."

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The Crucible

Stray Dog Theatre presents Arthur Miller's The Crucible Thursdays through Saturdays, February 7 - 23. There will also be a show at 2 pm on Sunday, February 17. "Lies. Betrayal. Lust. In 1690s Salem, a young girl leads a Puritanical purge of witchcraft against a local farmer and his wife. As fear and excitement grow in the town, the accusations grow more ferocious and terrifying, until no one is safe, and the truth is obscured completely. Winner of the 1953 Tony Award for Best Play." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

My take: In a 1989 New York Times article reflecting The Crucible, Arthur Miller wrote, "Political movements are always trying to position themselves against the unknown-vote for me and you're safe." The relevance to contemporary politics could hardly be more obvious. Inspired in part by the 20th century witch hunts of the late Senator McCarthy, the play is a searing indictment of the power of mob mentality and the moral corruption of politicians who feed on it. Today the mob is on the Internet and social media, but the intellectually disreputable process is the same. I don't think it's coincidental that the last couple of years have seen a reawakening of interest in this work. In a review for STLtoday Calvin Wilson calls this a "stunning and hauntingly memorable production." And, yes, I have a small part in it.

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Exit, Pursued by a Bear
Photo by John Lamb

The West End Players Guild opens its 108th season with the St. Louis premiere of the comedy Exit, Pursued by a Bear Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, February 8 - 17. "Our twisted take on Valentine's Day is Exit, Pursued by a Bear by Lauren Gunderson, author of last season's smash hit Silent Sky. Exit is a nasty feminist revenge comedy featuring a good old boy named Kyle, his beleaguered spouse Nan and her two buddies, a sweetheart of a cross dresser named Simon and a stripper named Sweetheart. Nan has decided to teach Kyle a long-deserved lesson, and then cover him with meat and honey and feed him to a bear. Yes, it's that funny." There will also be a show on Thursday, February 14, at 8 pm. Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 North Union at Enright in the Central West End. For more information, call 314-367-0025 or visit www.westendplayers.org.

My take: I haven't seen any of the rehearsals for this production yet, but I'm on West End's play reading committee and so I have read the script. It's a hilarious wild ride that's very different in tone from Gunderson's more well-known Silent Sky. This is definitely an adult comedy, though, so leave the little ones at home.

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Held Over:

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Avenue Q
Photo by John Flack

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents the musical Avenue Q running through March 3. "Part flesh, part felt and packed with heart, AVENUE Q is a laugh-out-loud musical telling the timeless story of a bright-eyed college grad named Princeton. When he arrives in the city with big dreams and a tiny bank account, he has to move into a shabby apartment all the way out on AVENUE Q. Still, the neighbors seem nice. There, he meets Kate (the girl next door), Lucy (the slut), Rod (the Republican), Trekkie (the internet entrepreneur), superintendent Gary Coleman (yes, that Gary Coleman) and other new friends! Together, they struggle to find jobs, dates, and their ever-elusive purpose in life." The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza. For more information: www.playhouseatwestport.com.

My take: A smart, hip, and very funny parody of Sesame Street, Avenue Q is also an entertaining (if R-rated) story of college-educated twentysomethings--both flesh and foam rubber--coming to grips with the economic, political and sexual facts of life. The show is good, not-so-clean fun and always worth seeing. This production is "outrageously funny" (Calvin Wilson, STLToday). "A blend of national and local talent brings zest, exquisite precision and rampant enthusiasm to this delightful version of the Tony Award-winning musical melange of puppeteered optimism at its finest," writes Mark Bretz at Ladue News.

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District Merchants
Photo by Eric Woolsey

New Jewish Theater presents District Merchants: An Uneasy Comedy Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Saturdays at 2 and 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm through February 10. "In District Merchants, love, litigation, deep passions and predatory lending are taken to a new level. The play wades fearlessly into the complexities of life in America. It is set among Black and Jewish populations in an imagined time and place, simultaneously Shakespearean and post- Civil War Washington, D.C. In Posner's reimagining, the play becomes less about the quality of mercy and more about how flexible a supposedly egalitarian society can be to the varied tribes struggling to find partners in America. Aaron Posner expertly blends humor, emotional truths and topics that make people think. He is able to create characters who are deeply flawed, like we are. In his "uneasy" comedy, he wants us to look at a snapshot in time, the Reconstruction Era, but what he has written is relevant to audiences today." Performances take place in the Marvin and Harlene Wool Studio Theater at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283.

My take: This ingenious update of Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice is "a richly entertaining re-imagining of a play that's at once timeless and timely" (Calvin Wilson, STLToday). "This is not your high school English teacher's Merchant of Venice," writes Richard Green at TalkinBroadway.com. "Aaron Posner's District Merchants is still a tale of love's many obstacles (most of them funny) and also of the poisonous nature of grievance (decidedly not funny). But this time it's all a lot more personal, and present, and maybe even political, at The New Jewish Theatre."

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Wittenberg
Photo by ProPhotoSTL

Upstream Theater presents the St. Louis premiere of Wittenberg Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 7 pm (except for February 10, which is at 2 pm) through February 10. "It's October 1517, and the new fall semester at the University of Wittenberg finds certain members of the faculty and student body at personal and professional crossroads. Hamlet (senior, class of 1518) is returning from a summer in Poland spent studying astronomy, where he has come in contact with a revolutionary scientific theory that threatens the very order of the universe, resulting in psychic trauma and a crisis of faith for him. His teacher and mentor John Faustus (Professor of Philosophy) has decided at long last to make an honest woman of his paramour, Helen, a former nun who is now one of the Continent's most sought-after courtesans. And Faustus' colleague and Hamlet's instructor and priest, Martin Luther (Professor of Theology), is dealing with the spiritual and medical consequences of his long-simmering outrage at certain abusive practices of the Church. Tavern disputes, tennis duels, 16th century lounge hits, and the slings and arrows of outrageous wit will tickle your brain into overdrive." Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, including show times: upstreamtheater.org.

My take: Hamlet meets Martin Luther, with Dr. Faustus and Helen of Troy in the mix as well. It's the sort of idea that might make for an extended comic sketch, but apparently playwright David Davalos has turned it into "a whimsical journey to 16th century Germany" that "offers tasty food for thought" (Mark Bretz, Ladue News). Ann Lemmons Pollack writes that Wittenberg is "all about wit, both mental agility and humor, and we get plenty of both here." Go thou and enjoy.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of June 11, 2018

This week, Magic Smoking Monkey takes on Game of Thrones, The Muny presents a rarely-seen tribute to Jerome Robbins, and the Shakespeare Festival presents Nancy Bell's adaptation of King Lear.

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An American Soldier
Photo by Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents the world premiere of An American Soldier, by Huang Ro and David Henry Hwang, running through June 22. "Danny Chen is the son of Chinese immigrants, and a proud American. He enlists in the US Army in 2011, eager to serve his country. In boot camp, Danny is welcomed by his band of brothers. But in Afghanistan, his own base becomes enemy territory as military hazing turns deadly. Based on a true story, this opera asks powerful questions about what it means to be an American." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org call 314-961-0644.

Blithe Spirit
Photo by John Lamb

Act Inc presents Noël Coward's comedy Blithe Spirit Fridays at 8 pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 pm through June 24. "Blithe Spirit is a comic play by Noël Coward. The play concerns the socialite and novelist Charles Condomine, who invites the eccentric medium and clairvoyant, Madame Arcati, to his house to conduct a séance, hoping to gather material for his next book. The scheme backfires when he is haunted by the ghost of his annoying and temperamental first wife, Elvira, after the séance. Elvira makes continual attempts to disrupt Charles's marriage to his second wife, Ruth, who cannot see or hear the ghost." Performances take place in the Emerson Black Box Theatre at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood campus in St. Charles, MO. For more information, visit actincstl.com.

The Shakespeare Festival St. Louis presents Blow, Winds, an adaptation by Nancy Bell of Shakespeare's King Lear, Friday and Saturday, June 15 and 16 at 8:30 pm. "During our frequent conversations with residents this past year, we heard many stories about their love for St. Louis and the pride they have in their neighborhoods. But we also heard about their frustration with problems that seem to be ingrained not only in our city but throughout the world including, inequality, injustice, and violence. This project sheds light on what there is to celebrate in our city, while still acknowledging the problems we all face. Our fate belongs to one another." Performances take place on the steps of the St. Louis Public Library at 13th and Olive, downtown. The library will be closed for the event. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own chairs and sit in the closed street or the adjacent park. For more information: sfstl.com.

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

Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville presents Disney's Beauty and the Beast Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2 pm, June 15 - 24. " With the classic songs, "Be Our Guest," "Something There," and "Beauty and the Beast," this will be a fairy-tale musical experience the whole family can share and enjoy. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature, the stage version of Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" has enthralled Broadway audiences for over 22 years." Performances take place in the Dunham Hall Theater on the campus in Edwardsville, IL. For more information, call 618-650-2774 or visit siue.edu.

The Curtain Call Lounge at the Fox presents Mark Saunders in Everything's Fine: A Bear in Search of His Honey on Friday, June 15, at 7:30 pm. "The world of online dating can be a tricky game to master. In a one man cabaret, Mark Saunders will take you on a journey through the ups and downs, the good and bad, and especially the tops and bottoms of his journey to find love. The evening will be full of laughter, heartbreak, and 100% true horror stories that will make us all feel better about ourselves. Mature audiences only." The Curtain Call Lounge is next to the Fabulous Fox in Grand Center. For more information: brownpapertickets.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents A Fistful of Hollers through July 28. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

The Game of Thrones Seasons 2 - 4

St. Louis Shakespeare's Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre presents The Game of Thrones seasons 2 - 4: Four Weddings and a S#!t-ton of Funerals Fridays and Saturdays at 8 and 10:30 pm, June 15 - 23. "Join us in June for a wacky evening of sex (sorta), violence (ouch!), nudity (kinda), cussing ($#!%), dragons, shadow demons, White Walkers, kings, queens, weddings, and deaths. Lots and lots of deaths!" Performances take place at the Regional Arts Commission in University City. For more information: brownpapertickets.com.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Get "Hitched" To A Redneck Or Die through July 29. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

Stray Dog Theatre presents Ibsen's tragedy Hedda Gabler Thursdays through Saturdays through June 23. There will also a 2 pm on Sunday, June 17. " A masterpiece of modern theatre, Hedda Gabler exposes a powerful and reckless heroine who finds herself stranded in the seemingly ordinary but dangerously imbalanced Victorian Era. Employing methods that define the modern psychological drama, the plot stealthily reveals the bitter conflicts and thwarted longings that lie just below the "civilized" interactions of daily life and unflinchingly leads us to a shocking but inevitable conclusion." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

Corinne Melançon and Steve Isom in I Do! I Do!
Photo by Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical I Do! I Do!, by the creators of The Fantasticks, through July 1. "I DO! I DO! tells the poignant story of 50 years in the married lives of Michael and Agnes. This two character musical version of the comedy/drama 'The Fourposter' takes place entirely in a bedroom and takes its audience on a whirlwind journey that begins in 1895 and ends half a century later. I DO! I DO! offers its audiences a frank look at the miracle of marriage as Michael and Agnes experience childbirth, parenthood, and the eventual settling down to face the future and their advancing years together. Originally written for the Broadway stars, Mary Martin and Robert Preston, STAGES employs the innovative theatrical hat-trick of two separate rotating casts: neither of which you will want to miss! An unabashed gift to the many couples who have walked through our doors, I DO! I DO! will be sure to steal your heart while celebrating the many triumphs and heartaches of marriage: past, present, and future!" Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information: stagesstlouis.org.

The Muny presents Jerome Robbins' Broadway, opening on Monday, June 11, at 8:15 p.m. and running through Sunday. "In its first staging ever in the world since its original Broadway production and tour, Jerome Robbins' Broadway is an epic musical anthology that honors the career highlights of Tony Award-winning director and choreographer, Jerome Robbins. Filled with mesmerizing production numbers from some of Robbins' biggest hits, including West Side Story, On the Town, Peter Pan, The King and I and Fiddler on the Roof, this is one monumental Muny premiere befitting a celebratory start to our centennial season!" Performances take place on the Muny's outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information: muny.org.

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents Late Night Catechism through June 17th. "Late Nite Catechism is, an uproarious piece of theater that takes audience members back - sometimes nostalgically, sometimes fearfully to the children they once were. The irrepressible Sister teaches an adult catechism class to a roomful of "students" (the audience). Over the course of the play, Sister goes from benevolent instructor, rewarding the "students" for correct answers with glow-in-the-dark rosaries and laminated saint cards, to authoritative drill sergeant. These abrupt mood swings are bound to strike a resonant chord with everyone who survived the ups and downs of going to school, with an omniscient authoritarian at the helm." The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza. For more information: playhouseatwestport.com.

Luchadora!
Photo by John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre and Theatre Nuevo present Luchadora! through June 17. "A story of a young girl's journey to save the honor of her family, and inspired by the Ancient Chinese folktale of Mulan, LUCHADORA! explores themes of courage, identify, family and determination. Join Lupita as she becomes immersed in the world of Lucha Libre wresting, and gains profound insight about her Mexican-American culture and family history. The cast includes 4-6 youth ages 14-18 and 6-10 adults. Directed by Anna Skidis." Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Gluck's Orfeo and Euridice through June 21. "What would you do if you lost your soulmate? For Orfeo, the answer is simple: get her back - even if it means traveling to the underworld. He braves every challenge, armed with nothing more than his music and his devotion. Little does he realize that his greatest obstacle will ultimately be his own passion. As a myth, it's a celebration of love and of music's transcendent power. As an opera, it's a ravishing masterpiece." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org call 314-961-0644.

Regina
Photo by Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Mark Blitzstein's Regina running through June 24. "Theft. Blackmail. Murder. Is there nothing that Regina Giddens won't do to satisfy her ambition? Based on Lillian Hellman's play The Little Foxes, and set against a Southern backdrop of spirituals, jazz, and ragtime, this deliciously twisted opera pits siblings and spouses against each other in a battle for the family business. Prepare to be scandalized - and entertained - as the renowned Susan Graham returns to Opera Theatre to portray one of the American stage's most fascinating characters." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org call 314-961-0644.

Romeo and Juliet

Shakespeare Festival St. Louis presents the tragedy Romeo and Juliet nightly except for Tuesdays through June 24. Beginning at 6:30, the Green Show presents pre-play entertainment a variety of local performers. The play begins at 8 p.m. Performances take place in Shakespeare Glen next to the Art Museum in Forest Park. For more information, visit sfstl.com.

The Monroe Actors Stage presents the Neil Simon comedy Rumors Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 and Sundays at 2:30 pm through June 17 in the Historic Capitol Theatre in downtown Waterloo, Illinois. For more information, visit www.masctheatre.org or call 618-939-7469.

Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble presents Run-On Sentence through June 17th. " Based on the experiences of female prison inmates, Run-On Sentence, tells the story of cellmates whose lives are turned upside down by the arrival of a new inmate. Commissioned by Prison Performing Arts in 2016, Run-On Sentence was initially performed by inmates at Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center (WERDCC) in Vandalia, MO and students at Fairleigh Dickinson University. SATE produces it's professional premiere." Performances take place at The Chapel Venue, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

La Traviata
Photo by Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Verdi's La Traviata through June 23. "Violetta has one important rule: never fall in love. As a Parisian courtesan, her life is full of parties, admirers, and - most importantly - freedom. Then she meets Alfredo. His naive sincerity sweeps her off her feet. Just when Violetta thinks she has escaped her past, she is asked to make an unthinkable sacrifice. Will pride, love, or honor prevail? Embrace the romance of this Verdi masterpiece, featuring the directing debut of star soprano Patricia Racette" Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org call 314-961-0644.

Yeast Nation
Photo by Jill Ritter Lindberg

New Line Theatre presents the St. Louis premiere of the rock musical Yeast Nation Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM, through June 23. "The world's first bio-historical musical comedy, from the mad geniuses who brought you Urinetown! It is the year 3,000,458,000 BC. The Earth's surface is a molten mass of volcanic islands and undulating waves. The atmosphere is a choking fog lit by a dim red sun. And the mighty waters of the world are inhabited only by rocks, sand, salt, more rocks, a little silt, and the great society of salt-eating yeasts - yes, yeasts! - the world's very first life form! These single-cell salt-eaters are the only living creatures on earth, and they're struggling against a food shortage, a strange new emotion called Love, and the oppression of a tyrannical yeast king. But when the king's son ventures out of the known yeastiverse, the yeasts' epic story - and ours - is changed forever." 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.

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 October 9, 2017

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St. Louis University Theatre presents Sophocles' tragedy Antigone Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., October 12 - 15.  Performances take place in Xavier Hall, 3373 West Pine Mall. For more information, call 314-977-3327 or visit slu.edu/utheatre.

Insight Theatre Company presents Ken Ludwig's Baskerville, A Sherlock Holmes Mystery October 12 - 29.  The play is "a tour de force with actors playing many different characters in madcap comedy." Performances take place at The .ZACK, 3224 Locust in Midtown.   For more information, call 314-556-1293or visit insighttheatrecompany.com.

The University of Missouri at St. Louis presents Aristophanes' comedy The Birds Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., October 12 – 15.  "Aristophanes’ comedy, The Birds, tells the story of two Athenians who set out in search of a better life. They are disgusted with their city due to its politics, poetry, religion and business, and they decide to travel to where the birds dwell. After meeting the birds and seeing how their land is ruled, these two men now believe that if they control the sky, they can have power over the gods and the mortals on Earth. Leave it to the birds to show these two men how to rule a world."  Performances take place at the Touhill Performing Arts Center on the University of Missouri – St. Louis campus.  For more information: touhill.org.

The Fox Theatre presents the musical The Bodyguard through October 15th.  "Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A breathtakingly romantic thriller, THE BODYGUARD features a host of irresistible classics including Queen of the Night, So Emotional, One Moment in Time, Saving All My Love, Run to You, I Have Nothing, I Wanna Dance with Somebody and one of the biggest selling songs of all time – I Will Always Love You."  The Fox in at 527 North Grand in Grand Center.  For more information: fabulousfox.com.

St. Louis Shakespeare presents Cardenio by William Shakespeare and John Fletcher at 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., October 12 - 15.  "Based on an episode from Miguel de Cervantes DON QUIXOTE and lost since 1612, Shakespeare's CARDENIO is set in 16th century Spain. Cardenio loves Luscinda, but before they can marry, he is called to Court to be the companion of Fernando, the Duke's wild younger son. Fernando is obsessed with a wealthy farmer's daughter, Dorotea, but he has a roving eye. St. Louis Shakespeare is proud to present the regional premiere of Shakespeare's lost tragicomic romance, rich with passion, disguise, madness and betrayal! " Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Carondelet neighborhood.  For more information, call 314-361-56 or visit stlshakespeare.org.

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents the one-man show Defending the Caveman, opening on Tuesday, October 10th, and running through October 29. "Defending the Caveman, is the longest running solo show in Broadway history, is a hilariously insightful play about the ways men and women relate. This prehistoric look at the battle of the sexes is full of wonderful scenarios that celebrate the differences between men and women, making it a perfect entertainment option for couples or for a girls’ night out. The show has also been seen and recommended by thousands of marriage and family therapists and counselors for its humorous look at the inherent differences between the sexes."  The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza.  For more information: westportstl.com.

Emery Entertainment presents Evil Dead -  The Musical opening on Thursday, October 12, at 7:30 p.m. and running through October 22. "The Winner of the 2007 Dora Audience Choice Award for Toronto’s favorite show, Evil Dead - The Musical is the hilarious and outrageous story of five college friends spending the weekend in an abandoned cabin in the woods after accidently unleashing an evil force that turns them all into Candarian demons. The “Splatter Zone,” located within the first three rows of seating, is for super fans who can’t get enough of blood “splatter” during their favorite scenes of death and destruction in the woods. Audience members in these seats are covered in fake blood as part of the ‘real-life’ effects that take place during scenes in the show. In addition to some dismembered limbs, demons telling bad jokes and catchy tunes ("Look Who’s Evil Now," "All the Men in My Life Keep Getting Killed by Demons"), the show features a saucy combination of wit and sexual innuendo that keeps audiences laughing."  The performance takes place at the Grandel Theatre across from Powell Hall in Grand Center.  For more information: metrotix.com.

Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville presents August Wilson's drama Gem of the Ocean Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m., October 11 - 15.  "Gem of the Ocean begins on the eve of Aunt Esther's birthday. When Citizen Barlow comes to her Pittsburgh's Hill District home seeking asylum, she sets him off on a spiritual journey to find a city in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Gem of the Ocean is the ninth work in Wilson's ten-play cycle that has recorded the American Black experience and helped to define generations." Performances take place in the Dunham Hall Theater on the campus in Edwardsville, IL.  For more information, call 618-650-2774 or visit siue.edu.

Mustard Seed Theatre presents Girls in Boys Pants through October 15th.   The show is an exploration of gender identity through articles of clothing and media material. Performances take place in the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre on Wydown and Big Bend.  For more information: www.fontbonne.edu/academics/departments/fine-arts-department/theatre-productions.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Shakespeare's Hamlet October 11 – November 5.  “For the first time in its 50-year history, The Rep will produce Hamlet. Spurred on to vengeance by the ghost of his father, Prince Hamlet hovers in limbo between bloody retribution and madness. Potentially fatal indecision delays his every step. With its profound soliloquies, complexly shaded characters and brutal plotting, it’s Shakespeare’s most enduring tragedy.” Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus.  For more information: repstl.org.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents The Haunted Hunter through October 27. "The rumor is true! Word on the street? This place is Haunted! That's right! ...and lots of famous sleuths, detectives and ghost hunters from around the world will be there to catch a glimpse of our famous, (and elusive), ghost "Billy", (better known as "Billy, the Spook"). Gee! If someone gets "Whacked", we'll have plenty of detectives to solve the crime, won't we! Everyone plays a part! You could be "Sherlock Homes", "Miss Garble", or even "The Hardly Boys". Call today for tickets to this "hauntingly silly" dinner theater." The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Lizzie

Photo: Jill Ritten Lindberg

New Line Theatre presents the rock musical Lizzie Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through October 21. "A prominent businessman and his wife are brutally axed to death in their home. Their daughter Lizzie Borden is the prime suspect. Lizzie's trial is a coast-to-coast media sensation, and her story becomes an American legend." 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.

Take Two Productions the musical Next to Normal October 13 - 21. "The Tony Award winning musical explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness. Dad's an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens, appearing to be a typical American family. And yet their lives are anything but normal. The mother has battled manic depression for 16 years. Next to Normal takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character, presenting their family's story with love, sympathy and heart." Performances take place at Southampton Presbyterian Church, 4716 Macklind. For more information, visit taketwoproductions.org.

Hard Road Theatre Productions presents Neil Simon's comedy Plaza Suite through October 14. Performances will be held at the Highland Elementary School Auditorium, 12760 Troxler Ave, Highland IL.  For more information: www.hardroad.org   

Clinton County Showcase presents the drama Robert's Here Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m and Sundays at 2 p.m. "A new family moves into a long-abandoned house…or so they thought.  A spirit of sorts has resided in this house awaiting to fulfill his destiny. This show asks the questions, “What is our destiny?” and “How long does it take to fulfill?”  Come join us for this thought-provoking drama.  That will have you questioning the intentions of characters throughout." Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL.  For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

Alfresco Productions presents the musical The Rocky Horror Show Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., October 13 - 21.   "One fateful night, Brad Majors and his fiancée, Janet Weiss — a wholesome, well-behaved, utterly normal young couple — innocently set out to visit an old professor. Unfortunately for them, this night out is destined to be one they will never forget. A thunderstorm and a flat-tire force them to seek help at the castle of Dr. Frank ’N’ Furter, a transvestite scientist with a manic genius and insatiable libido. Brad, Janet, and Frank’ N’ Furter’s cohorts are swept up into the scientist’s latest experiment. The night’s misadventures will cause Brad and Janet to question everything they’ve known about themselves, each other, love, and lust. A loving homage to the classic B sci-fi film and horror genres with an irresistible rock’n’roll score, The Rocky Horror Show is a hilarious, wild ride that no audience will soon forget." Performances take place at the Alfresco Art Center, 2401 Delmar in Granite City, IL.  For more information: (618) 560-1947 or www.alfrescoproductions.org.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Smoking Gun through October 29. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

Stray Dog Theatre presents the rock musical Spring Awakening Thursdays through Saturdays through October 21. "Spring Awakening explores the journey from adolescence to adulthood with poignancy and passion that is illuminating and unforgettable. This landmark musical is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality, and rock & roll that since its premiere has been exhilarating audiences like no other musical in years. A heart-rendering story that follows a group of teenage friends as they travel the fraught and rocky path of adolescence and find themselves along the way." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee.  For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

Upstream Theater presents the St. Louis premiere of Sweet Revenge Fridays through Sundays through October  22.  "Considered the finest Polish comedy ever written, this 19th century verse drama uses Molière-like wit to poke fun of human follies. Upstream takes the hijinks to another level by presenting the play as performed by an actual amateur Polish immigrant theater from the 1930s. A sympathetic satire with a focus on tolerance." Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center.  For more information, including show times: upstreamtheater.org.

New Jewish Theater presents Tuesdays With Morrie through October 22.   "In this adaptation of the dearly loved book by Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie explores the ever-deepening relationship of journalist Albom with his Brandeis University professor and mentor, Morrie Schwartz. 16 years after graduation from college, Mitch catches Morrie on a television news program and discovers he is battling Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS). What begins as a one-time visit to his former professor turns into a weekly pilgrimage where Mitch is schooled in life lessons and ultimately discovers the meaning of life." Performances take place in the Marvin and Harlene Wool Studio Theater at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur.  For more information: www.newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283.

Peabody Opera House presents the romantic comedy Two Can Play That Game on Sunday, October 15, at 3 p.m.  “Two Can Play That Game is the comedy that proves when men start playing around, women will even the score. Hollywood Star and Queen of the Screen Vivica A. Fox reprises her role from the original movie as relationship guru, Shante Smith and gives fans the real low down on everyday rules to relationships. The stage version gives audiences the same story they fell in love with in the original movie with some new twists and turns. When it comes to matters of the heart, Shante Smith is so adept at navigating the waters of romance that her girlfriends look to her for relationship advice. But soon, Shante’s own relationship becomes the example when her boyfriend, Keith, is caught red-handed stepping out with his co-worker and her archrival, Conny. However, when Shante institutes a plan full of tricks and games to get Keith to act right, he, with the help of his friend Tony, fire back with a quickness, letting Shante know that “Two Can Play That Game.” The Peabody Opera House is at 14th and Market, downtown.  For more information: peabodyoperahouse.com.

Clayton Community Theatre presents August Wilson's drama Two Trains Running Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m., October 12 - 22.  "This Pulitzer Prize-nominated play, set in a diner in the Hill District of Pittsburgh in 1969, dramatically highlights the changing attitudes toward race in the North at the time, from the perspective of urban blacks. This will be Nada Vaughn's second August Wilson production for CCT, having previously directed The Piano Lesson in 2015."  Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre.  For more information, call 314-721-9228 or visit placeseveryone.org.

Valhalla Cemetery and The Hawthorne Players present Voices Of Valhalla: A Hayride Through History through October 14.  Hayrides through Valhalla Cemetery depart every fifteen minutes beginning at 6:30 each evening as members of the Hawthorne Players portray some of the noted locals buried in Valhalla.  Valhalla Cemetery is located at 7600 St. Charles Rock Road.  For more information, visit hawthorneplayers.com.

The Presenters Dolan presents Paula West on Friday and Saturday, October 13 and 14, at 8 p.m. as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival.  "To say that Paula West is a great jazz singer only begins to state her gifts. With a regular residency at Feinstein's in San Francisco, Paula always brings fresh looks to her material, standard or contemporary. That her velvet contralto is among the most beautiful in the business makes her compelling shows all the more pleasurable."  The performances take place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com. 

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

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

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

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of July 3, 2017

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St. Louis Shakespeare's Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre presents The AFI's Top 100 Greatest American Films of All Time: A Parody Fridays and Saturdays at 8 and 10:30 p.m. July 7 - 15. "That's right! The Magic Smoking Monkey players are attempting their boldest feat yet: to parody all 100 movies on the American Film Institute's list in 60 minutes! From Blade Runner to Sunset Boulevard! From Modern Times to King Kong! From Citizen Kane to... The Sixth Sense? Well, no list is infallible." Performances take place at the Regional Arts Commission in University City. For more information: stlshakespeare.org.

Union Avenue Opera presents Benjamin Britten's comedy Albert Herring Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, July 7 - 15. Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. " In a small Suffolk market town Mr. Gedge the Vicar, Police Superintendent Budd, Mr. Upfold the Mayor and the local head teacher Miss Wordsworth meet at the home of Lady Billows to appoint at her behest a May Queen as an encouragement to local chastity. Nobody can agree on a candidate, so instead a May King is proposed and Albert Herring - blameless son of a widowed shopkeeper - is chosen." Spiked lemonade at the celebration and Albert's unexpected disappearance result in comic confusion and, of course, a happy ending. The opera is sung in English with projected English text. For more information, visit unionavenueopera.org or call 314-361-2881.

Alton Little Theater presents Disney's Beauty and the Beast Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m., July 7 - 16. "Please 'Be Our Guest"'and spend time with Belle, Lumiere, LeFou, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts (and Chip), Babette, Gaston, the Prince (and the Beast). The whole gang will be there! Picture opportunities with the cast will be available after the show along with ice cream!" Performances take place at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Death of a Blackheart through July 29. "Welcome aboard the largest, (and safest), cruise liner ever to sail the low seas. That's right. Welcome aboard the Gigantic! But wait! What do I hear? "Argggghhhhhhh!" Avast ye mateys and get yer gizzard ready to be robbed by the most famous pirate ever to pillage a maiden! Of course, we're talkin' Captain Jack Blackheart! He's the pirate that has cheated more people, emptied more pockets and pillaged more ladies than any politician. Gee. I hope no one kills him off. You'll meet lots of fun characters at this show. In fact audience members will get to play lots of fun characters in this show because it's "chock full" of "Fair Maidens", "Lost Boys", "Rival Pirates", and more. One thing is for sure. If you've ever wanted to stand up and shout out Arggggghhhh!...then "Death of a Blackheart" is the show for you!" The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

First Run Theatre presents Dreaming in Black and White Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, July 7 - 16 "Summer, 1963. Danville, Virginia. Here and elsewhere in the South, civil rights protests are dividing the races. Half a world away, a war is heating up that'll also have folks choosing sides. Less ominous but vying for attention are a looming presidential election and a down-to-the-wire race for the National League pennant. Against this backdrop, we meet Sonny - white, bitter, suffering the effects of rheumatic heart disease - who hopes to live long enough to see his son play major league baseball and Pearlene - black and poor - who dreams of seeing her troubled son employed. Dreams and fears collide when Pearlene is hired to help care for Sonny who's chased away dozens of other would-be caretakers." Performances take place in the Thomas Hunter Theatre at DeSmet Jesuit High School, 233 N New Ballas Road. For more information, call (314) 352-5114 or visit www.firstruntheatre.com.

The Muny presents A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum opening on Wednesday, July 5, at 8:15 p.m. and running through the 11th. "Load up the chariots, we are off to The Muny for big, big laughs! Considered one of Broadway's greatest farces, this musical romp through Rome includes desperate lovers, mistaken identities, scheming neighbors and secrets behind every toga. With delicious music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, this is one hair-brained Roman forum you won't want to miss!" Performances take place on the Muny's outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information: muny.org.

Clinton County Showcase presents Disney's The Lion King Jr. Thursday through Sunday, July 6 - 9. "Join Simba, Nala, Scar, & Mufasa in the musical twist of this classic Disney film. An awesome tale of tragedy, friendship, love, and loyalty, with unforgettable songs like Hakuna Matata, The Circle of Life, and Can You Feel the Love Tonight, this is one show you won't want to miss!" Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL. For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents the Neil LaBute New Theater Festival, Part 1 July 7 - 16 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. The festival features professional, new and previously unproduced one-act plays 45 minutes or less in length, chosen from submissions to the festival over the previous year. The plays in Part 1 are "Hate Crime" by Neil LaBute, “Waiting for the Erie Lockdown“ by Ron Radice, “Sacred Space" by Barbara Blumenthal-Ekrlich, and "Percentage America by Carter Lewis. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

On Golden Pond

Insight Theatre Company presents the drama On Golden Pond july 6 - 23. "On Golden Pond had its Broadway appearance in 1979. Directed by Ernest Thompson and reopened again the following season. It received a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play and received 5 Drama Desk Awards: When it was adapted for the screen in 1981, it starred Henry Fonda, Katherine Hepburn and Jane Fonda, and was highly acclaimed. It is a love story of Ethel and Norman Thayer, a long married couple in their near 80s and their relationship with their daughter, Chelsea." 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.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Phantom of the Grand Old Opry through July 30. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

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

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

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

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 9, 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 University of Missouri at St. Louis presents 1984, adapted from the George Orwell novel by by Michael Gene Sullivan, Friday and Saturday a 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., December 9 - 11. "1984 brings us the story of Winston Smith, a cog in the giant machine state of Oceania. Physically and mentally under the omnipresent eye of Big Brother, Winston has been caught struggling for scraps of love and freedom in a world awash with distrust and violence. With the brutal "help" of four Party Members, Winston is forced to confess his Thoughtcrimes before an unseen inquisitor, and the audience -- which acts as a silent witness to his torture. A ferocious and provocative adaptation of one of the most prescient works of literature of the last century." The performances take place at the Kranzberg Center at Grand and Olive in Grand Center. For more information, kranzbergartscenter.org/calendar/current-events/item/umsl-theatre-1984.

My take: In his review for KDHX, Steve Callahan calls this "a stunningly fine stage adaptation" of Orwell's apparently prophetic novel. "Director Matthew Kerns", he writes, "has done beautiful work in his staging of this difficult but very important piece." At a time when local theatre is running heavily towards vision of sugarplums, here's a dystopian nightmare that serves as a warning.

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Will Bonfiglio in Buyer and Cellar
Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents the one-man comedy Buyer and Cellar through December 17. “Underemployed Los Angeles actor, Alex More, is hired to work in a faux shopping mall created by superstar, Barbra Streisand in the basement of her Malibu home. One day, the Lady Herself comes below to play. It soon feels like real bonding downstairs, but will their relationship ever make it upstairs? Buyer & Cellar is a comedic tour-de-force, fictionally drawn from fact, which explores the price of fame, the cost of things, and the oddest of odd jobs." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

My take: A one-actor show can be great fun if the script is worthwhile and the actor is up to the task. The script for Buyer and Cellar got plenty of praise from local critics when the Rep did it last spring and Will Bonfiglio has gotten good marks for his work (Judy Newmark calls it a "knockout performance"), so this looks like a safe bet for your weekend.

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The Gateway Men's Chorus presents A Celebration of the Season on Friday and Saturday, December 9 and 10, at 8 p.m. GMC unwraps their 30th anniversary season with a night of beautiful music, campy carols, and holiday favorites, including John Rutter's "Gloria" with a full brass and percussion ensemble and pipe organ. The concert takes place at Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. For more information: gmcstl.org.

My take: The GMC is a local musical treasure, so I always include them in this list. 'Nuff said.

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A Christmas Carol
Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

Through December 24, the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents A Christmas Carol, adapted by David H. Bell from the novel by Charles Dickens. "On Christmas Eve, the miser Ebenezer Scrooge is given a chance at redemption as he's visited by four ghosts - his old partner Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future - who teach him it's never too late to change." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information: repstl.org.

My take: Some of my friends turn into Scrooges at this time of year. I turn into Scrooge's nephew, cheerfully singing along with every carol and enjoying the hell out of holiday gatherings. That means I'd probably recommend this even if the reviews weren't so good, but as it happens my fellow critics are in danger of running out of verbal laurel wreaths to bestow on this production. Harry Hamm calls it "a polished, warm and large-scale production". "The redemption of Ebenezer Scrooge is among the most beloved of holiday stories," writes Tina Farmer at KDHX, "and The Rep's production delivers the spectacle of the story in a standout revival that's a welcome theatrical treat." I'll be there this weekend; join me.

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Driving Miss Daisy
Photo: Eric Woolsey

New Jewish Theater presents Driving Miss Daisy through December 18. "In 1948 Atlanta, Daisy Werthan, a rich, sharp-tongued, Jewish, 72-year-old widow has just demolished another car. Her son Boolie informs her that he will from this point on be hiring a chauffeur for her. Thus begins the 25-year relationship between Daisy and Hoke Colburn, her driver. She regards him with disdain and he is not impressed with her patronizing tone and latent prejudice. But despite their differences, they grow closer and more dependent on each other over time. The once contentious relationship blossoms into a profound, life-altering friendship that transcends all the societal boundaries placed between them. An iconic tale of pride, changing times and the transformative power of friendship." Performances take place in the Marvin and Harlene Wool Studio Theater at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283.

My take: I've had a great deal of affection for this show since I played the role of Boolie many years ago at West End Players. NJT appears to be doing a good job with this very funny and moving script, and its message could not be more timely. As Robert Cohn writes at the Jewish LIght, the play "is not only good theater: It is a reminder that even in the darkest days, people of good will can improve human relations and substitute the power of love for the corrosive effects of hate."

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Finding Neverland
Photo: Carol Rosegg

The Fox Theatre presents the musical Finding Neverland running through December 18. "Directed by visionary Tony®-winner Diane Paulus and based on the critically-acclaimed Academy Award®-nominated film starring Johnny Depp, Finding Neverland tells the incredible story behind one of the world's most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys' enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever. The magic of Barrie's classic tale springs spectacularly to life in this heartwarming theatrical event." The Fox is on North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

My take: Looking for a family friendly show that isn't A Christmas Carol? This might be a good bet. "The story behind the story of Peter Pan" writes Mark Bretz at Ladue News, "is a refreshing and delightful concoction of high-stepping choreography, intelligent lyrics and a lush, beautifully written score that make for an evening of engaging entertainment for children and adults alike. Handsomely mounted and energetically performed, Finding Neverland makes for an ideal holiday treat at the Fox Theatre." In a review soon to be published at KDHX, Amy Burger calls it an "inspiring story of life, death, love and the power of imagination."

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The Glorious Ones

Webster University's Conservatory of Theatre Arts presents the musical The Glorious Ones Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., December 9-11. “In sixteenth-century Italy, a new form of comedic theatre is forming at the hands of Flaminio Scala: Commedia Dell'arte. Flaminio gathers a group of lowlifes together to create an acting troupe that specializes in improvisational comedy with masked characters. From the creators of Seussical and Ragtime comes a beautiful tribute to an important moment in theatre history and to the highs and lows of being an actor, then and now. Prepare yourselves for jokes that are as bawdy as they are old and as silly as they are sweet.” Performances take place in the Stage III Auditorium in Webster Hall on the Webster University campus. For more information, www.webster.edu/conservatory/season or call 314-968-7128.

My take: Anything by the team of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty is worth seeing, in my view. Writing for KDHX, Steve Callahan describes this as "a fond, loving, bawdy musical bouquet" and goes on to say that the production "is a small but rich one, under the caring direction of Quin Gresham. High praise must go to him as well as to music director Larry Pry and movement coach Jamie McKittrick. All the others in the production team--designers, actors and staff--are very gifted students at the Conservatory." The Webster students do consistently good work, in my experience, and this is a nice contrast with the various holiday sugarplums on stage right now.

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The Making of the Star Wars Holiday Special

St. Louis Shakespeare's Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre presents The Making of the Star Wars Holiday Special Friday and Saturdas at 8 and 10:30 p.m. December 9 and 10. "Hop aboard the Millennium Falcon and help Luke, Leia, Han, Artoo, and Threepio get Chewbacca home in time to celebrate Life Day with his Wookie family! Originally airing just once in 1978, Magic Smoking Monkey brings this galactic and cosmically bizarre spectacular back to life, and takes you behind the curtain to witness its creation. Featuring a kitschy cavalcade of 70s superstars like Bea Arthur, Art Carney, Charles Bronson, and other surprises - your holiday season will never be the same! Costume contest nightly - come as your favorite member of the Rebel Alliance or Wookie or Droid or Representative of the Galactic Empire or 1970's TV personality and win! (braggin' rights and a cheap prize!)" Performances take place at the Regional Arts Commission in University City. For more information: stlshakespeare.org.

My take: Speaking of contrasts, here's a loopy tribute to one of the oddest things ever to hit the boob tube. Broadcast for the first (and only) time in 1978, the original show was greeted with a mix of incredulity and, by those watching it under the influence of the right chemicals, dangerous hilarity. It was perhaps best summed up by Nathan Rabin at AV Club, who wrote: ""I'm not convinced the special wasn’t ultimately written and directed by a sentient bag of cocaine." Reviewing this production for KDHX, Tina Farmer describes it as "a great choice for light, laughter filled entertainment with plenty of fresh references and skewering wit." Honestly, I'm surprised MSM hasn't decided to roast this particular turkey before.

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Santa's Helpers Inc. presents Songs of Peace and Joy: The Music of Christmas on Sunday, December 11, at 3 p.m. "Merry Keller and her singing friends, Bob Becherer, Brian Derton, Paul MacFarlane, Katie McGrath, Angie Nicholson, and Dionna Raedeke will delight and entertain you with all your favorite holiday music! Ron Bryant is at the piano and Paul McFarlane will be on guitar. This concert will donate net proceeds to Santa's Helpers, Inc. providing the spirit of Santa to thousands of St. Louis families for over 48 years." The performance takes place at the Sun Theatre, 3625 Grandel Square in Grand Center. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2592087

My take: Rounding out the new entries in this week's very long hit list, here's a show of holiday favorites by some of our finest cabaret artists, and all for a good cause. I've seen and worked with nearly all of these folks in the past and, trust me, you can't go wrong with this lineup of talent.

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Held Over:

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The 2015 cast of All is Calm
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a cappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays through December 11. “Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this acapella musical based on the true story of soldiers during World War I who for one night, put down their arms and played soccer instead of exchanging bullets.” Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

My take: All is Calm has become an annual winter tradition at Mustard Seed. With a script by Peter Rothstein and musical arrangements by Erick Lichte and Timothy C. Takach, this story of the remarkable Christmas truce of 1914—a spontaneous outbreak of peace that occurred at multiple points along the trenches in France—combines splendid and often quite complex a cappella singing with readings of letters from soldiers and other historical documents. At a time when opportunistic politicians are pushing an agenda of hate, fear, and eternal war, this is a play that everyone needs to see. As we used to ask back in the 1960s, "what if they gave a war and nobody came?