Review: John Cleese and the Holy Grail

John Cleese as Sir Lancelot

Share on Google+:

When I first saw Monty Python and the Holy Grail at the Westport Cinema back in 1975, the TV show that spawned the film hadn't made its way to St. Louis yet and I didn't really get the humor. The movie struck me as mostly unfunny and, in the second half, downright dull.

A few years later, after seeing the entire run of Monty Python's Flying Circus, my opinion of the film had changed. Now I saw the inspired silliness of the argument between Graham Chapman's King Arthur and Michael Palin's peasant over whether Great Britain was a kingdom or an anarcho-syndicalist commune, the loopy charm of the Knights of Ni, and the satire of the "she's a witch" scene. The second half of the movie still dragged and the ending seemed to be part of another film, but it was entertaining stuff nevertheless.

Last night (Thursday, November 16th), following a showing of Monty Python and the Holy Grail at the Peabody Opera House, there was a 45-minute talkback with a noted British actor and writer who shares my view of the uneven nature of the movie. And he should know, because his name is John Cleese.

Mr. Cleese is touring the USA with Grail screenings. After the film he takes the stage with a local media personality for a moderated discussion in which he answers some questions submitted in advance from the audience, tells some stories about his life in show biz, and generally acts like the raconteur he so clearly is.

Having just celebrated his 78th birthday last month, Mr. Cleese is now heavier and creakier than he was in his Monty Python days. Towards the end of his chat he noted that he'd had both knees replaced, a hip replacement, artificial lenses in his eyes, and hair transplants. "I don't see," he quipped, "how I can ever die."

Thereby confirming that whatever his physical infirmities might be (and who among us geezers doesn't have them?) his mordant wit remains as sharp as ever.

In the course of the Q&A he made some caustically hilarious comments about the USA and about his fellow Pythons. Architecture in American cities, he observed, looks like it was designed by someone "inspired by cornflake boxes." He hates Cleveland ("what a dump!") and, when queried about the difference between American and British humor, said that there were parts of the USA "that appear to be mystified by irony."

Regarding his fellow partners in comedy, he dismissed Michael Palin's many travel documentaries as boring (I couldn't disagree more) and noted that Terry Gilliam's great failing as a filmmaker was that while he has a brilliant visual imagination, he has no idea how to tell a story (I couldn't agree more). The secret to making a good film, he noted, was to understand your limitations and find collaborators who can fill in those gaps.

On a more serious note, he also talked briefly about Terry Jones's struggles with dementia and the horror of seeing someone close to you slowly slip away.

Asked about how he got into show business, he said that while he had always known that he had a gift for making people laugh, and that this was something that made both him and his audience feel good, he nevertheless had attended university with the intention of becoming a lawyer, working for a big London firm, and then shooting himself when he turned 50 "because that's what lawyers do." But the collegiate revue A Clump of Plinths turned into a West End Show and before long he and a bunch of other blokes who expected to be lawyers, teachers or accountants suddenly found themselves wearing black t-shirts to work and making jokes for a living.

His favorite role? Archie in the highly acclaimed 1988 comedy A Fish Called Wanda, which Mr. Cleese also wrote. His least favorite role? The Minister of Silly Walks in Monty Python. To this day, he thinks it's just not funny and doesn't really understand why the fans like it so much.

Mr. Cleese closed with the story of a practical joke played on Michael Palin. Mr. Palin was in Norway filming one of his travel documentaries and Mr. Cleese needed to contact him about an upcoming meeting. He got the phone number of the hotel from Mr. Palin's wife, but before he made the call he realized that "Michael wouldn't be expecting me to call him and wouldn't know where I was calling from." So when the hotel operator connected him to Mr. Palin's room, Mr. Cleese put on a phony Norwegian accent and claimed he was a local broadcaster with a camera crew in the lobby who wanted to do an interview with Mr. Palin on the spot.

Mr. Palin repeatedly demurred, pointing out that it was late and he was in his pajamas. "Oh, that's all right," fluted Mr. Cleese, "our audience will just feel more relaxed." Finally Mr. Palin asked why they wanted to interview him, of all people. "Well," said Mr. Cleese, "we're going a documentary on one of the world's great comedians, John Cleese, and we just wanted to talk to one of his assistants!"

Ouch.

John Cleese's tour moves on to Akron, Ohio, next and will circle around in this direction again next year, when he appears in Chicago on January 22nd. Check the official Monty Python web site for details. It has lots of interesting Silly Stuff for your entertainment, so you may want to spend some time there. And don't forget to check the Peabody Opera House web site for upcoming shows there.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of January 25, 2016

[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.

Share on Google+

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents And Away You Go through March 27. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

The Looking Glass Playhouse presents the musical comedy Avenue Q Wednesdays through Sundays January 28 - February 7. "The laugh-out-loud musical tells the timeless story of a recent college grad named Princeton who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. He soon discovers that although the residents seem nice, it's clear that this is not your ordinary neighborhood. Together, Princeton and his new-found friends struggle to find jobs, dates, and their ever-elusive purpose in life." The show is recommended for mature audiences. Performances take place at 301 West St. Louis Street in Lebanon, Ill. For more information, visit www.lookingglassplayhouse.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Clueless through April 16. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com

Newsies
Photo: Deen van Meer

The Fox Theatre presents the musical Disney's Newsies running through January 31. " They delivered the papers, until they made the headlines. Direct from Broadway comes NEWSIES, the smash-hit, crowd-pleasing new musical from Disney. Based on true events, NEWSIES tells the captivating story of a band of underdogs who become unlikely heroes when they stand up to the most powerful men in New York. It's a rousing tale about fighting for what's right...and staying true to who you are." The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, fabulousfox.com or call 314-534-1678. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Hard Road Theatre Productions presents Drinking Habits 2 running through January 30. "Set in the present day outside the small town of Shady Glenn, USA, Drinking Habits 2 follows the misadventures of the Sisters of Perpetual Sewing and their friends. An orphanage with a strong connection to the convent is in danger of closing unless $5,000 can be raised in four weeks. In order to raise the needed funds, the convent decides to perform a play written by Mother Superior. Meanwhile, the other nuns of the convent agree to make a secret batch of their award-winning wine to sell to supplement the play's proceeds. But when Mother Superior believes she's had a holy vision, the lead male actor can't remember his lines, and the woman playing the Blessed Mother can't stop her uncontrollable cravings because she's pregnant with twins, things are thrown into chaos and everything that can go wrong does just as the curtain rises." Performances will be held at Highland Elementary Auditorium, 1800 Lindenthal Ave., Highland, IL. For more information: www.hardroad.org.

Georama
Photo: Peter Wochniak

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents the world premiere of the musical Georama through February 7. "In the mid 1800s, John Banvard created the first georama, a three-mile long scrolled painting celebrating the majesty of the Mighty Mississippi. Once a starving sketch artist, his creation catapulted him to a life of luxury and notoriety, but also brought competition and deception that threatened to push his passion to the wayside. Georama illustrates an artist's rise and fall, and the choice between the art he loves and the life he's always longed for." Performances take place in the studio theater at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org.

Circus Harmony presents Giocoso Saturdays at 2 and 7 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, through January 31. Performances take place at City Museum, 701 N. 15th Street. Show admission is free with museum admission. For more information: circusharmony.org.

Alpha Players present the drama Good People January 29 - February 7 at The Florissant Civic Center Theater, Parker Rd. at Waterford Dr. in Florissant, MO. "In South Boston, this month's paycheck covers last month's bills, bingo is a night out on the town, and single-mom Margie Walsh has lost her job again and is a Bingo game away from homelessness. She reaches out to an old flame from her youth - now a successful doctor - Margie risks everything to find her fresh start in this humor - filled drama, from Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire, about how the twists and turns of life are fated to determine our path." For more information: alphaplayers.org or call 314-921-5678.

The Improv Shop presents Heartbreak opening on Saturday, January 30, at 7 p.m. and running through March 19. "Heartbreak is an improvised serial show where we explore, in depth, the stages of doomed relationships. Watch characters go from strangers to friends, friends to lovers, and from lovers to heartbreakers. Heartbreak. It doesn't happen all at once." The Improv Shop is at 510 North Euclid in the Central West End. For more information on this and other Improv Shop shows: theimprovshop.com.

Angela Sapolis

The Emerald Room at the Monocle and The Presenters Dolan present Angela Sapolis in I Couldn't Have Said it Better on Thursday, January 28, at 7:30 p.m. "A native of St Louis, Angela Sapolis has made a name for herself on stages from coast to coast, and as far away as Tokyo. "I Couldn't Have Said It Better" is a potent marriage of words and music, taking us on a journey through the peak experiences of life, guided by the wit and wisdom of the world's great thinkers, writers, and musicians. Angela is sincerely grateful to her mentor, teacher, and friend, the legendary Andrea Marcovicci, for her invaluable support in creating this show." The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis

Alton Little Theater presents the Neil Simon comedy Last of the Red-Hot Lovers Thursdays through Sundays through January 31, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. " here is a rumor going around that in the 1960s any reasonable adult in search of casual sex could find it in a New York minute. But Neil Simon's Last of the Red Hot Lovers proves that there were exceptions, and the play brings back those days with a clear eye and a warm heart. A middle aged restaurateur begins to feel the desire to roam and decides to use his mother's apartment for his attempts at seduction. Only he learns that it is much more complicated and difficult than he could have imagined, and the problems which result are hilarious - a search for sexual freedom gone awry." For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

The Lion in Winter
Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents James Goldman's The Lion in Winter through January 31. "During Christmas of 1183, King Henry II of England plans to announce his successor to the throne. But in this amusing and high-spirited romp, other members of the royal family have their own opinions of who should be crowned king. As he feuds with his estranged wife, Eleanor, and attempts to navigate the minefield of his bickering sons, all of whom have a stake in the game, it's open season on the English throne, bringing a whole new meaning to dysfunctional family drama." Performances take place on the mainstage at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Monocle Varieté presents Le Nouveau Cabaret Fridays and Saturdays at 7, 9 and 11 p.m., through January 30. "A Parisian-inspired evening of song, Le Nouveau Cabaret brings to life a European tradition of cabaret featuring a creative cast of characters sizzling with risque style. Featuring Kyle Hustedt as emcee, James Dunse both as himself and his alter ego Drag Icon Jessica Leigh Foster, and STL piano mainstay Ron Bryant. Burlesque courtesy of Lola Van Ella Studios." The performances take place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis

Million Dollar Quartet

Peabody Opera House presents the musical Million Dollar Quartet on Saturday, January 30. “Million Dollar Quartet is the Tony® Award winning Broadway musical, inspired by the electrifying true story of the famed recording session that brought together rock 'n' roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time.” The Peabody is at 14th and Market streets, downtown. For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

Dance St. Louis presents the Momix company Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., January 20 and 30. "The irrepressible Moses Pendleton presents Alchemia, his new work for the dazzling dancer-illusionists of MOMIX. Just as he led audiences on a surreal journey through the four seasons inBotanica, Pendleton manipulates the four classic elements - earth, air, fire and water - in Alchemia to produce a show about the art of alchemy, and the alchemy of art. A multimedia spectacle,Alchemia bursts with beauty, daredevil thrills and playful humor. It's MOMIX at its most magical." Performances take place at the Touhill Performing Arts Center on the UMSL campus. For more information: dancestlouis.org.

The Monocle presents an open mic night every Mondays from 9:00pm to midnight. "Musical Theater actor? Cabaret singer? Balladeer? Beleter? Coloratura soprano? Crooner? Student? Teacher? Performer? Fan? Come on down and sing. All are welcome. Ron Bryant is your accompanist. Bring your sheet music"." The monocle is at 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

Upstream Theater presents Shining City by Connor McPherson, with live music by Farshid Soltanshahi, January 29 - February 14. "In 2003 in a modest Dublin office, a young ex-priest-turned-therapist is consulted by a well-off businessman with a terrible secret. How these characters change, and how they change each other, is the story-a story that will grip you and move you and make you laugh and send shivers down your spine." Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, including show times: upstreamtheater.org.

Sunset Baby
Photo: Stewart Goldstein

The Black Rep presents the drama Sunset Baby through January 31. "Kenyatta Shakur is alone. His wife has died, and now this former Black Revolutionary and political prisoner is desperate to reconnect with his estranged daughter." Performances take place at the Edison Theatre on the Washington University campus. For more information: theblackrep.org Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The St. Louis Art Museum presents a high-definition video broadcast of the Metropolitan Opera's production Puccini's Turandot on Saturday, January 30, at 11:55 a.m. "Nina Stemme takes on the title role of the proud princess of ancient China, whose riddles doom every suitor who seeks her hand, opposite Marco Berti as Calàf, the brave prince who sings “Nessun dorma” and wins her love. Anita Hartig and Leah Crocetto share the role of Liù, the faithful slave girl. Franco Zeffirelli's golden production is conducted by Paolo Carignani." The live digital HD video broadcast from New York takes place in The Farrell Auditorium at the Art Museum in Forest Park. For more information: slam.org.

Underneath the Lintel
Photo: Eric Woolsey

New Jewish Theater presents the one-character play Underneath the Lintel by Glenn Berger January 28 - February 13. “A haunting, beautifully constructed one-person meditation on time and devotion. A returned library book, 113 years overdue with a clue scribbled in the margin and an unclaimed dry-cleaning ticket take the Dutch librarian on a life-changing quest with an obsession to find its owner. Our protagonist follows multiple clues- tickets to the Peking Opera, a love letter written in Yiddish - on a world-wide search that ultimately decodes the meaning of life. A metaphysical detective story that is funny and fierce, quirky and smart.” 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.

Cocktails and Curtain Calls presents The Weir, the award-winning play by Irish playwright Conor McPherson, Monday through Thursday at 8:00pm, Jan 25 to February 11. It will be the first local production to utilize the new Members' Project Code, under the auspices of the Actors' Equity Association. All profits from ticket sales go directly to the artists. Performances will take place at McGurk's Irish Pub and Dressel's in the Central West End. For details on performance times and locatsions, visit CocktailsandCurtainCalls.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.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 21, 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.

Share on Google+

All is Calm
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a capella musical All is Calm through December 23. "Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this a capella musical based on the true story of soldiers during World War I who for one night, put down their arms and played soccer instead of exchanging bullets." Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com. Read my review!

Bad Jews
Photo: John Lamb

New Jewish Theater presents Bad Jews through December 23. "Good Jews, Bad Jews - it's all relative in this razor sharp and savage comedy about family, faith, and legacy. Meet Daphna Feygenbaum, a "Real Jew" with an Israeli boyfriend who she met on Birthright. When Daphna's cousin Liam brings home his shiksa girlfriend Melody for their grandfather's shiva and declares ownership of "Poppy's" Chai necklace, a vicious and hilarious family brawl ensues.A gleefully funny, thought-provoking evening of theatre. Outrageously and laceratingly funny, it's about what you choose to believe when you're chosen." Rabbis Amy Feder abd Michael Alper from Temple Israel will host a talk back session after the 2 p.m. performance on Sunday, December 13. Performances take place in the Marvin and Harlene Wool Studio Theater at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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

Peabody Opera House presents Elf the Musical December 26 and 27. “Based on the beloved 2003 New Line Cinema hit, Elf is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy's enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa's permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner Elf.” The Peabody is at 14th and Market streets, downtown. For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

The Elves and the Shoemaker
Photo: Eric Woolsey

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

The Monocle Varieté presents Holi-Dazzle Done Fridays and Saturdays at 9 and 11 p.m., through December 26. "Holi-Dazzle is the avant-retro variety show that will help you make it through the season that's not all fun and good cheer. Isn't it just sometimes weird, and a little crazy? And not dazzling in the right way? Get your holiday cure right here on our stage." This ninety-minute comedy show will have you rolling in the aisles with the bawdy humor of the late Joan Rivers." The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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

The Monocle presents an open mic night every Monday from 9:00pm to midnight. "Musical Theater actor? Cabaret singer? Balladeer? Beleter? Coloratura soprano? Crooner? Student? Teacher? Performer? Fan? Come on down and sing. All are welcome. Ron Bryant is your accompanist. Bring your sheet music"." The monocle is at 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

Peter and the Starcatcher
Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

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

The Fox Theatre presents the musical Wicked, based on the novel by Gregory McGuire, through January 3. "Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One - born with emerald green skin - is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for 'the most complete - and completely satisfying - musical in a long time' (USA Today)." The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, fabulousfox.com or call 314-534-1678. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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

Chuck's choices for the weekend of January 16, 2015

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

Share on Google+:

New This Week:

The Book of Mormon

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

My take: As you probably know, this show has collected lots of critical praise and has been a huge hit with audiences. Everyone says the show is crude and funny and, as I observed in my review of the show when it played the Fox two years ago, it certainly is. But what you hear less often is how very smart and well-constructed it is. Anybody can be a smart-ass. Being a smart-ass with a little heart is more difficult, but this show pulls it off.  Trey Parker and his collaborators know just how far they can push the envelope without braking it.  The Peabody is less cavernous than the massive Fox, which makes it a better venue for theatre, so the show should work well there.

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

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

My take: Reviewing the show for Thinking Dance at it's premiere last spring, Lisa Bardadrson wrote: "The Clothesline Muse is a work so densely rich with metaphor, symbolism and reference to the African diaspora that I, a white woman from the suburbs of Seattle, likely missed much of it. But no matter; the universality of the message was crystal clear: we are all connected by the actions of our ancestors, whose humble beginnings can yield rich rewards to future generations...The Clothesline Muse is a fully realized work that I found deeply gratifying. The line, in the end, connected and closed, forming a perfect circle." This is the final season for the Ovations! series at Edison, so this may be your only opportunity to see this and the other non-traditional shows in the current lineup.

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

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

My take: Reviews have been very positive for this show. Writing for Broadwayworld.com, for example, Chris Gibson calls it "an engaging and thoroughly entertaining theatrical experience that I cannot recommend highly enough." "Under Seth Gordon's expert direction," writes Malcom Gay at the Riverfront Times, "the Rep's cast teases the nuances from Kreidler's adaptation, delivering a powerful, immersive performance that - if not exactly challenging to an audience already won over to its essential argument - masterfully navigates the shifting waters of race, class, familial acceptance and personal responsibility as they move to overrun the narrow cultural channels that have defined them." Other critics have been equally enthusiastic. It looks like a winner is coming to dinner.

Archie Coleman and Curtis Lewis
in Stereo Heart

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

My take: First Run performs the highly valuable service of producing new plays by area playwrights. Mr. Farwell has had a number of his scripts produced there, so he's hardly the new kid on the block. In his review for KDHX, Bob Nickles says the script is "strong and rich in symbolism." "Something special happens when a community tells stories about itself," he writes. "Space opens up to laugh at ourselves and to weep together, especially when the stories we tell are true ones. For all its uneven energy and clever lines, 'Stereo Heart' tells the truth, and I have to think our communities are the better for it."

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

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

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

Share on Google+

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Archie Coleman and Curtis Lewis
in Stereo Heart

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

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

Chuck's Theatre Choices for the weekend of December 12, 2014

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

Share on Google+:

New This Week:

Blithe Spirit
Photo: John Lamb

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents Noel Coward's comedy Blithe Spirit through December 21 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. "The smash comedy hit of the London and Broadway stages, this classic from the playwright of Private Lives offers up fussy, cantakerous novelist Charles Condomine, re-married but haunted (literally) by the ghost of his late first wife, the clever and insistent Elvira who is called up by a visiting "happy medium", one Madame Arcati. As the (worldly and un-) personalities clash, Charles' current wife Ruth is accidentally killed, "passes over", joins Elvira and the two "blithe spirits" haunt the hapless." For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

My take: This play is one of Coward's greatest hits, and with good reason. It's skillfully constructed, unfailingly witty, and sharply observant in its look at human foolishness. The SLAS production has gotten good notice from the majority of local critics. At the Riverfront Times, for example, Malcom Gay observes that "under Bobby Miller's skillful direction, the Actors' Studio cast ably channels the period piece's fluid charms." Steve Allen at the Stage Door St. Louis blog agrees. "All of the wit, charm and bubbling humor," he writes, 'come across from the deft and delicious cast with director Bobby Miller bringing out every nuance of this absurd yet somehow plausible scenario."

nebraskatheatrecaravan.org

The Fox Theatre presents The Nebraska Theatre Caravan's musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol Friday through Sunday, December 12-14. "The Nebraska Theatre Caravan has been touring Charles Jones' delightful adaptation of A CHRISTMAS CAROL since 1979. The Caravan's Carol, which weaves traditional Christmas carols throughout the narrative, is probably the most widely produced production of Dickens' in the nation, annually performing for more than 100,000 people in more than 60 cities across the country." The Fox is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, fabulousfox.com.

My take: The Nebraska Theatre Caravan's version of this holiday classic has become an annual tradition at the Fox. I'm not enough of a Scrooge to suggest you shouldn't see it. "If the audience wasn't in the holiday spirit when they arrived," wrote Tina Farmer in her KDHX review of last year's visit, "I am confident the theater's sparkling lobby decorations and the sweetly reverent tone of this holiday classic quickly put them in the mood."

Photo: Michael Young

R-S Theatrics presents Courtney Baron's seriocomedy Eat Your Heart Out through December 14. " childless couple desperate to adopt become surprisingly involved in the life of their social worker and her daughter." Performances take place at The Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive in Clayton. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

My take: I've been hearing good things about this show from some of my theatrical friends, and reviews seem to bear that out. Writing for Ladue News, for example, Mark Bretz says the production is "richly rewarding, compelling and engaging food for thought and some gut-wrenching emotion, too." When I saw this play at the Humana Festival in 2012 (where it had its world premiere), I wrote that it "ultimately deals with very real issues of pain, rejection, and the difficulty of real-world love, even if it does sometimes feel more like the unfinished first act of a more substantial work." R-S continues to do the hard work of bringing new theatre to St. Louis, and deserves our support.

The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical
Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through December 20. "In this sequel to the original show [the runaway hit of 2013 at Stray Dog Theatre], Betty, Lin and Pickles jingle all the way with some new neighbors in Florida's Armadillo Acres Mobile Home Park. All is calm and bright with holiday beer until the local Scrooge is stricken by a freak bout of amnesia, putting neighborly love to the test. Just as much cat-fightin', sun-worshippin', chair-throwin' as the first, but with tinsel and Keg Nog to boot!" Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

My take: Stray Dog's Great American Trailer Park Musical was a tremendous hit with critics and audiences alike, and it looks like the holiday version is following suit. "If you're looking for a quirky Christmas show that's extremely funny and a little bit raunchy," writes Chris Gibson at broadwayworld.com, "then you owe it to yourself to see this show."

Craig Pomranz
craigpomranz.com

Midtown Artists and Topper Productions present cabaret artist Craig Pomranz in Here's to the Ladies on Saturday, December 13, at 7 p.m. "In his new show, Craig will lead you on an exploration of women's names in song, as only he can...with wit, sensitivity, and one of the dreamiest voices you'll ever hear! "Here's To The Ladies" will be presented at Cyrano's Cafe Webster Groves (603 East Lockwood), in their beautiful event room. Dinner is available before the show (in the main dining room), or during the show. If you plan to dine during the show, please arrive by 6:30, to place your order." Cyrano's is at 603 East Lockwood in Webster Groves, MO. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/943491.

My take: St. Louis's own Craig Pomranz has made a nice career for himself on the international theater and cabaret stage, but that doesn't mean he neglects the home town crowd, as his repeated visits to local stages attest. When he played the Kranzberg Center back in 2011 I wrote that he had "impressive vocal technique with an enviable head voice, easy falsetto, and solid breath control " along with the theatrical skill necessary to convincingly act a song. I haven't seen the event space at Cyrano's, but I've eaten there often enough to testify to the high quality of the food and drink.

Peabody Opera House presents the Stephen Schwartz musical Pippin on Wednesday through Sunday, December 10-14. For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

My take: It's a pity my schedule doesn't allow me to see this one as the reviews have been glowing. It's a musical I have always enjoyed, especially after appearing as Charles in the Stray Dog production a few years back. This revival, originally created for Diane Paulus's American Repertory Theater in Chicago back in 2011, adds stage magic and circus elements to the show, with what appear to be spectacular results.

The Flying Wallendas at Powell Hall
circusflora.org

Circus Flora and the St. Louis Symphony present A Winter Fable Friday through Sunday, December 12-14. "Set among the High Tatras Mountains in the ancient and beautiful Kingdom of the Spiis, A WINTER FABLE is a classic fairy tale with an edge of romance and deceit. Imagine a strange and wonderful world, in which the pairing of symphony and the circus arts is only the beginning of the magic you will experience. With a cast that mixes all-new Circus Flora performers with returning favorites including the gravity-defying Flying Wallendas, there's no better way to usher in winter and the Christmas season than with Circus Flora and the Symphony!" Performances take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

My take: Music has always been a part of the Circus Flora experience, so the partnership with the symphony isn’t as unusual as it might seem. This is, in fact, the orchestra's fourth team-up with our much-loved local circus; the last one was "A Child's Christmas in Wales" two years ago. SLSO Resident Conductor Steven Jarvi conducts a program with a heavy Eastern European and Russian flavor. Dvorak, Bartok, Janacek, and Ippolitov-Ivanov are heavily featured. There are also some Brahms "Hungarian Dances," along with Berlioz's "Hungarian March" from "The Damnation of Faust."

A Raisin in the Sun
Photo: Stewart Goldstein

The Black Rep presents Lorraine Hansberry's drama A Raisin in the Sun through December 21. Performances take place at the Emerson Performance Center at Harris-Stowe State University in midtown. For more information: theblackrep.org

My take: Hansberry's classic family drama is getting a much-praised presentation at the Black Rep. Over at KDHX, Missy Heinemann describes it as "stellar." At the Riverfront Times, Malcom Gay says that the script "maintains enormous narrative power, which the Black Rep's talented cast harnesses well."

Held Over:

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a cappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 and 5 PM through December 14. "Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this acapella [sic] 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: This show is apparently going to be a holiday tradition at Mustard Seed, and with good reason. The story of the remarkable holiday truce that spontaneously interrupted the insanity of World War I remains an inspiring reminder of what happens when ordinary people ignore the manipulations of their leadership and allow their basic decency to take control of their actions. The lesson for contemporary politics is clear.

Chuck's St. Louis theatre choices for the weekend of November 28, 2014

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

Share on Google+:

New This Week:

Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre presents Trey Parker's Cannibal the Musical November 28 - December 6. "Created in the style of the 1950's movie musical Oklahoma!, Cannibal follows the life of Alferd Packer, the man who lead an ill-fated party of men to Colorado Territory during the winter of 1873-74. Alferd was the lone survivor of this trip and was later put on trial for murdering and eating his party. Along the journey to Colorado Territory, Packer loses his beloved horse, Liane, and encounters trappers, snowmen, ninjas, sheep, Indians, aliens and a cyclops, all in an effort to find her." Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7622 Michigan. For more information: cannibal-stl.com.

My take: Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre, the illegitimate love-child of St. Louis Shakespeare, is known mostly for concocting its own scripts from pop culture detritus like the films of Ed Wood and superhero cartoons. Producing an actual book musical—by Trey Parker of South Park and Book of Mormon fame, no less—is an unusual step for them, even if it is the same one they took back in 2011. Reviewing the original production, stltoday.com's Gabe Hartwig described it as "hilarious." "'Cannibal!' is full of inside jokes, profanity and toilet humor. If you enjoy 'South Park,' you'll be right at home." And what better way to celebrate Thanksgiving, I ask you?

The "Ghost Brothers" gang

Peabody Opera House presents the musical The Ghost Brothers of Darkland County on Saturday, November 29, at 8 p.m. "Written by Stephen King, with Music and Lyrics by John Mellencamp, and Musical Direction by T-Bone Burnett, this extraordinary collaboration, 13 years in the making, is a haunting tale of fraternal love, lust, jealousy and revenge, performed by an ensemble cast of 15 actors and a four-piece live band, comprised of members of John Mellencamp's band. The staging of Ghost Brothers is an amalgam of different styles - both old fashioned, resembling an old-style radio show, and yet, modern and unique in its interactive use of storytelling, music and singing to move the macabre Ghost Brothers story forward." For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

My take: I'll confess that I haven't seen this and, because of time constraints, almost certainly won't. But the combination of talents behind this make it impossible not to recommend. I mean: a Stephen King musical? How can you resist that? Besides, most local theatre is taking the Thanksgiving weekend off.

Held Over:

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the acappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 and 5 PM through December 14. "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: This show is apparently going to be a holiday tradition at Mustard Seed, and with good reason. The story of the remarkable holiday truce that spontaneously interrupted the insanity of World War I remains an inspiring reminder of what happens when ordinary people ignore the manipulations of their leadership and allow their basic decency to take control of their actions. The lesson for contemporary politics is clear.

"Motown, the Musical"

The Fox Theatre presents Motown, the Musical Tuesdays through Sundays through November 30. "It began as one man's story... became everyone's music... and is now Broadway's musical. MOTOWN The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy's journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as "My Girl" and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," experience the story behind the music in the record-breaking smash hit MOTOWN The Musical!" The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, visit the web site.

My take: As Amy Burger writes in her review for KDHX, this show is a must see for fans of the record label that brought the national spotlight to so many great black performers: Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, The Temptations; the list just goes on and on. There's also a more serious reason to see this show, though. "At various points," writes Ms. Burder, "it seemed serendipitous that this particular show should be running at this time in this city. The racial themes and moments reflecting both Motown's and the nation's history felt searingly real and meaningful in light of current racial tensions in St. Louis. To that effect, those scenes were much more impactful than they might be playing to a different city."

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of November 24, 2014

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

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

Share on Google+

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a cappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 and 5 PM through December 14. “Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this a cappella 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.

Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre presents Trey Parker's Cannibal the Musical November 28 - December 6. "Created in the style of the 1950’s movie musical Oklahoma!, Cannibal follows the life of Alferd Packer, the man who lead an ill-fated party of men to Colorado Territory during the winter of 1873-74. Alferd was the lone survivor of this trip and was later put on trial for murdering and eating his party. Along the journey to Colorado Territory, Packer loses his beloved horse, Liane, and encounters trappers, snowmen, ninjas, sheep, Indians, aliens and a cyclops, all in an effort to find her." Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7622 Michigan. For more information: cannibal-stl.com.

The St. Louis Family Theatre Series presents Click, Clack, Moo, Cows that Type November 28 and 29 at 2 p.m. ""Cows that type? Hens on strike! Whoever heard of such a thing!" Farmer Brown cries. When his granddaughter Jenny comes for a visit, Farmer Brown declared the farm a "tech-free zone." He confiscates her laptop in the cold barn along with the shivering cows who use her computer to type messages requesting blankets. “No way," replies Farmer Brown. "No blankets!” So the cows go on strike and the chickens join them in solidarity. No blankets: no milk, no eggs! Will Farmer Brown give in to the animals' demands? Will Jenny get her computer back? Find out in a hilariously "mooooo-ving" new musical about negotiation and compromise, Based on the Caldecott Honor book by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin." Performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 314-921-5678 or visit www.florissantmo.com.

Peabody Opera House presents the musical The Ghost Brothers of Darkland County on Saturday, November 29, at 8 p.m. "Written by Stephen King, with Music & Lyrics by John Mellencamp, and Musical Direction by T-Bone Burnett, this extraordinary collaboration, 13 years in the making, is a haunting tale of fraternal love, lust, jealousy and revenge, performed by an ensemble cast of 15 actors and a four-piece live band, comprised of members of John Mellencamp's band. The staging of Ghost Brothers is an amalgam of different styles - both old fashioned, resembling an old-style radio show, and yet, modern and unique in its interactive use of storytelling, music and singing to move the macabre Ghost Brothers story forward." For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

Brass Rail Players present the solo stage adaptation of It's a Wonderful Life Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and and Sunday at 2 p.m., November 28 and 29. The performances take place at The Turkey Hill Grange, 1375 Illinois Rte. 15 in Belleville, IL. For more information, visit brassrailplayers.org.

The Fox Theatre presents Motown, the Musical Tuesdays through Sundays through November 30. "It began as one man's story... became everyone's music... and is now Broadway's musical. MOTOWN The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music in the record-breaking smash hit MOTOWN The Musical!" The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, visit the web site. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Murder on 34th Street through December. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Black Rep presents Lorraine Hansberry's drama A Raisin in the Sun November 28-December 21. Performances take place at the Emerson Performance Center at Harris-Stowe State University in midtown. For more information: theblackrep.org

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

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of March 24, 2014

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

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

Share on Google+

Mariposa Artists presents an encore performance of Liz Murphy's cabaret debut The Best is Yet to Come, Sunday, March 30, at 7 PM. The show is directed by Lina Koutrakos with music direction by Rick Jensen. “Liz shares the incredible opportunities of her life, the people that have influenced her, and her eagerness for self-discovery. This show celebrates the joy of newfound possibilities: the spirit, energy, sparkle, and exuberance of a colorful life. With her musical partner, Rick Jensen, the evening of song will take us from Cy Coleman to Christopher Cross, Stephen Schwartz to Stephen Sondheim, Martina McBride to Julie Gold....just to mention a few.” The performance takes place at the Belleville Philharmonic, 116 North Jackson in Belleville, IL. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/567490

The Washington University Performing Arts Department presents Betrayal by Harold Pinter, Thursday and Friday at 8 PM, and Saturday at 2 and 8 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, March 27-20. " Harold Pinter's 1978 masterpiece about an adulterous love triangle, asks one big question: If you knew what a choice would cost you, would you still make it? With characteristically sparse dialogue and rich subtext, Pinter explores human desire and mines the depths one goes to satisfy it." Performances take place in the Studio Theatre in the Mallinckrodt Center on the Washington University campus. For more information: pad.artsci.wustl.edu or call (314) 935-5858.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents its Bullets in the Bathtub through April 27. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com

Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville Department of Theater and Dance presents Pinter's The Caretaker through March 30. The performances take place on the campus in Edwardsville, IL. For more information, call 618-650-2774.

The Presenters Dolan present an encore performance of Connie Fairchild: Down by the River on Friday, March 28, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. " As the lead singer of Fairchild, one of the most popular bands ever to call St. Louis home, Connie Fairchild was recognized by the RFT as Best Female Vocalist several times. A few years on, and Connie makes her cabaret debut in a show entitled Down By The River. Connie was mesmerized by the rhythms of the rivers that surrounded her home towns. Growing up in Kentucky on the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers, in Louisiana on the Mississippi, and then following the river up to St. Louis, her voice was chiseled from other voices she listened to from these lush environments, such as Irma Thomas and Rosemary Clooney." The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

St. Louis University Theatre presents Five Women Wearing the Same Dress by Alan Ball March 28-30. Performances take place in Xavier Hall, 3373 West Pine Mall. For more information, call (314) 977-2998 or visit http://slu.edu/x38573.xml.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Flaming Saddles through April 27. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents a staged reading of Georama - A Mostly True Story of the Forgotten John Banvard with book by West Hyler and Matt Schatz, music and lyrics by Matt Schatz, and additional music and lyrics by Jack Herrick on Saturday March 29, at 3:00 PM as part of the Ignite! New Play Festival. “In the mid 1800s, American artist John Banvard created the first georama, a 3,000 foot-long scrolled painting celebrating the beauty of the Mississippi River. His creation took him from the life of a starving artist to one of luxury and notoriety when his moving panorama became a nationwide hit. But can he handle the stresses and competition this new life brings or will his passion fall by the wayside in the search for fame and fortune?” The reading takes place at the Sally S. Levy Opera Center, 210 Hazel in Webster Groves. For more information, visit repstl.org.

Peabody Opera House presents Ghost the Musical, based on the popular film, Tuesday through Sunday, March 25-20. “Ghost The Musical delivers a visual experience unlike anything you've seen before. Relive the iconic and magical moments from the Oscar-winning movie in a brand-new Broadway musical that takes you on a thrilling adventure to the afterlife. You will be amazed to see inanimate objects take on a life of their own, a person walk through a solid door right before your eyes and other special effects that will astonish and leave you gasping.” For more information, visit peabodyoperahouse.com or call 314-622-5420.

The Presenters Dolan present an encore performance of Joe Dreyer and Rosemary Watts: Swing Into Spring on Saturday, March 29, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. " Rosemary Watts and Joe Dreyer premier their new show "Swing Into Spring" at the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. Music from the masters of musical theatre makes up the heart of the show, with a few Dreyer originals too. The first couple of St. Louis cabaret brings a brand new show to the Gaslight stage." The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

Mariposa Artists Robert Breig in Making Every Moment Count: The Music of Peter Allen, Friday and Saturday, March 28 and 29, at 8 PM. The show is directed by Lina Koutrakos with music direction by Rick Jensen. “Robert Breig opens his new cabaret show "Making Every Moment Count - The Music of Peter Allen", March 28-29th, 8PM at the Kranzberg Arts Center. Rick Jensen serves as music director and arranger of songs that give us more than just a glimpse of Peter Allen's life in story and song....to Oz and beyond!” The performance takes place at the Kranzberg Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/559044

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Michael Frayn's comedy Noises Off through April 13. “Disasters abound as a frantic, sleep-deprived touring company of actors rehearses and performs their fictional farce, Nothing On. Too many doors, too many sardines and not near enough time combine to create a riotously funny situation on and off stage for both cast and crew. Michael Frayn's intricately crafted mayhem is hailed as one of the greatest comedies ever written.” Performances take place on the mainstage at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Price
Photo: John Lamb

New Jewish Theater presents Arthur Miller's The Price through April 16. “Everything has a price. In one of the most emotional pieces that Arthur Miller ever wrote, two estranged brothers reunite for one day to sort and sell their deceased father's "furniture," before the building is torn down. The brothers are forced to deal with the price of decisions made in their shared past.” 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. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University presents Reckless by Craig Lucas Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, March 28-20. “With Reckless... Mr. Lucas has given us a bittersweet Christmas fable for our time. It's a Wonderful Life as it might be reimagined for a bruising contemporary America in which homelessness may be a pervasive spiritual condition rather than a sociological crisis... Reckless has a simple emotional pull akin to that of a Crosby ballad born of the lonely World War II home front, it yanks us through every conceivable absurdist hoop, fracturing narrative, language and characterization on the way to its rending destination." Performances take place in the Stage III Auditorium in Webster Hall on the Webster University campus. For more information: www.webster.edu/fine-arts/departments/conservatory/index.html or call 314-968-7128

HotCity Theatre presents Red Light Winter by Adam Rapp through March 29. “A tempestuous love triangle smolders between two college buddies and the red light woman they share for a night. Sex, lies and decadence will change their lives forever!” Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, visit www.hotcitytheatre.org or call 314-289-4063. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Photo: Jill Ritter Lindberg

New Line Theatre presents the rock musical Rent Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM, through March 29. "New Line continues its 23rd season with Jonathan Larson's Pulitzer Prize winning, long-running rock opera Rent. This cheerfully transgressive, 1990s rock/pop riff on the classic story, set in New York City’s East Village, is best described in its creator's own words: 'In these dangerous times, where it seems the world is ripping apart at the seams, we can all learn how to survive from those who stare death squarely in the face every day and we should reach out to each other and bond as a community, rather than hide from the terrors of life at the end of the millennium.'"Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre, 6501 Clayton Road. For more information: newlinetheatre.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

St. Louis Shakespeare presents Romeo and Juliet March 28 - April 6. Performances take place in the Thomas Hunter Theatre at DeSmet Jesuit High School, 233 N New Ballas Road. For more information, call 314-361-5664 or visit stlshakespeare.org.

©Photo by Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Soups, Stews, and Casseroles: 1976 through March 30. “When the main employer in Monroe, Wisconsin is acquired by a major manufacturer, a once peaceful small town turns into a battleground as families struggle to retain their independence, identity and livelihoods. While new opportunities develop for some, difficult choices must be made, putting loyalties and relationships to the test. This world premiere play has been commissioned by The Rep and was developed through the Ignite! New Play Festival.” Performances take place in the studio theatre at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

O'Fallon TheatreWorks presents Twelve Angry Jurors. at the O'Fallon Municipal Centre auditorium through March 30. The O'Fallon Municipal Centre is located at 100 North Main Street in O'Fallon, MO. For more information, visit www.ofallon.mo.us or call 636-379-5606.

The Fox Theatre presents the musical We Will Rock You through March 30. "From London's West End, the worldwide smash hit musical by Queen and Ben Elton comes to St. Louis for a limited engagement! We Will Rock You features the greatest hits of the legendary British rock group, Queen. Now in its 11th year in London and seen by a staggering 15 million people worldwide, this hilarious, multi-award-winning and record-breaking phenomenon boasts a fantastic score of killer Queen tunes that you just can't resist singing along to, such as Another One Bites The Dust, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, We Are The Champions, Bohemian Rhapsody and of course, We Will Rock You. It's the world champion of musicals and the show that rocks harder than any other, so don't miss the party - book your tickets now!" The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, call 314-534-1678. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

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