St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of January 11, 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.

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Topper Productions presents Christy Simmons in Ain't We Got Fun on Sunday, January 17, at 2 and 5 p.m. The show is a "rollicking romp through the Roaring 20s." Paul Westcott is pianist and music director for the show, which takes place at The Boom Boom Room, 500 North 14th Street, downtown. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2485560

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.

Deborah Sharn

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents Bridgette Kossor, Tim Schall, Deborah Sharn in a cabaret evening on Friday, January 15, at 8 p.m. "Three dynamic singers who individually have played some of St. Louis' top venues come together for an evening of jazz standards and sophisticated pop. Rocky Tucker at the piano. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The St. Louis Family Theatre Series presents the TheatreworksUSA production of Charlotte's Web Friday through Sunday, January 15-17. "Wilbur the pig has a problem: how to avoid winding up as pork chops! The little grey spider Charlotte, a fine writer and true friend, hits on a plan to fool Farmer Zuckerman-she will create a “miracle.” Spinning the words “SOME PIG” in her web, Charlotte weaves a solution which not only makes Wilbur a prize pig, but ensures his place on the farm forever. This treasured tale, featuring fun and endearing farm animals, explores bravery, selfless love, and the true meaning of friendship. Based on E.B. White's classic story.." 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.

Kirkwood Theatre Guild presents comedy Enchanted April January 15-24. " Lottie Wilton and Mrs. Arnott have never met but share a mutual feeling of unhappiness in empty relationships with their husbands. The ladies become acquainted through a newspaper advertisement and together decide to take a holiday from their spouses and rent an Italian castle for the month of April. To help with expenses, they advertise for two other women to join them. Together with Mrs. Graves, an elderly widow, and Lady Caroline Bramble, a young and attractive flapper, the women begin their month-long escape. The ladies embrace their time together; but their holiday changes gear once the men start to arrive. In the beautiful surroundings of the castle retreat, friendships are made, and love and hope are rediscovered." 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.

The Theatre Guild of Webster Groves presents Yasmina Reza'a comedy God of Carnage through January 17. "A comedy of manners ... without the manners. Two married couples meet to sort out a playground fight between their sons. At first, niceties are observed but as the evening progresses and the rum flows, the gloves come off and the night becomes a side-splitting free-for-all." Performances take place in the Guild theatre at Newport and Summit in Webster Groves, MO. For more information: theatreguildwg.org or call 314-962-0876.

Java Jived

The Emerald Room at the Monocle and The Presenters Dolan present Java Jived on Thursday, January 11, at 7:30 p.m. "Java Jived specializes in a cappella arrangements of jazz and pop classics from the 20's to the 80's. Known for its fine blend and intonation, this high-energy ensemble performs polished stylistic renditions of challenging repertoire by the best contemporary arrangers, including Deke Sharon, Kirby Shaw, Teena Chin, and Gene Puerling, who is well known for his arrangements for The Manhattan Transfer. " The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis

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.

The Monocle Varieté presents Le Nouveau Cabaret Fridays and Saturdays at 7, 9 and 11 p.m., January 8-30. "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

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.

First Run Theatre presents the comedy The Other Side by David Hawley Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, through January 17. "Stan and Kevin are two post graduate Psychology students from England and Ireland working on their doctorate thesis in Boston. they decide to combine their research into spiritualism with the need to make a few extra bucks by setting up as mediums themselves. Things are going very well for them until a client who wants to contact her father turns out to be the daughter of the local mafia Don. Things start going crazy when she has them confirm he's dead and her brother now demands to know who killed him. How do our boys get out of this mess and evade the overly large strong-arm for the brother who also happens to be a Ph.D. in mathematics from Harvard? We will find out." 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.

Zi

The Emerald Room at the Monocle and The Presenters Dolan present magician Zi in Playing With Impossibilities on Friday and Saturday, January 15 and 16, at 7 p.m. "When was the last time you were truly blown away by a Magic show? Curious about what Mentalism means? There will be no rabbits in hats or doves from sleeves here! Instead, come experience jaw-dropping moments as Zi amazes and delights with feats of the mind, and makes you reconsider the true depths of what we are capable of! Watch as everything from how we think to how we connect with each other become charged with an element of the supernatural, and come witness as things happen that should be utterly impossible. Watch as the impossible becomes a playground. " The performances take place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis

The Black Rep presents the drama Sunset Baby January 13-31. "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

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 September 4, 2015

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:

The Amish Project

Mustard Seed Theatre presents Jessica Dickey's one-woman show The Amish Project through September 13. "Reactions to a school shooting in an Amish community lead us to the crossroads of grief and grace." 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: A friend who knows more about the Amish than anyone else I know has criticized Dickey's script for trading in misconceptions and stereotypes, but reviews of this production have been very positive. Typical is Mark Bretz at Ladue News, who writes that "Mustard Seed Theatre delivers a powerful, profoundly moving interpretation of Dickey's heart-rending story. With artistic director Deanna Jent's carefully crafted guidance and Amy Loui's luminous portrayal of seven different characters, The Amish Project sets the bar high for upcoming productions in the 2015-16 theater season." Ms. Loui has gotten similar raves elsewhere, so maybe the real reason to see this is her virtuoso performance.

R-S Theatrics presents Mr. Burns: a Post-Electric Play September 4 - 20. " Mr. Burns tells the story of a group of survivors recalling and retelling an episode of the TV show The Simpsons shortly after a global catastrophe, then examines the way the story has changed seven years after that, and finally, 75 years later." Performances take place at The Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Caroldelet neighborhood. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

My take: I'm on the play reading committee at West End Players Guild. We read and considered this one for our coming season but ultimately rejected it, in part, because we thought it might be too technically demanding. it is, however, a wildly innovative concept that raises interesting questions about how legends are born and mutate. R-S is always up to a challenge and it will be interesting to see what they do with this odd little play.

Ron Himes

The Black Rep presents the musical revue Tell Me Somethin' Good September 2- 20. "One of the most popular shows ever produced at The Black Rep. This critically acclaimed audience favorite is a stroll down memory lane, beginning with street corner acapella doowop and moving through the 60s, 70s,80s right to hip hop. Nonstop music will have you dancing in your seats and in the aisles. " Performances take place at the Edison Theatre on the Washington University campus. For more information: theblackrep.org.

My take: This upbeat revue has been a favorite at the Black Rep for some time now. It gets refreshed and rearranged a bit with each new production, so expect some new faces and new songs in this celebration of fifty years and some change of black American musical experience. Black Rep artistic director Ron Himes, quoted in the St. Louis American notes that the show "is the most popular musical in Black Rep history. We've had more people come into the lobby and say, ‘when are you gonna bring tell me something good again?'" When would be now, as the kickoff the the company's 39th season.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of April 20, 2015

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

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

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The Age of Bees

Tesseract Theatre Company presents The Age of Bees through April 28. "It's the year 2098. The bees are gone and the world struggles to keep up with the resulting ecological and economic changes. In the midst of this, we meet Mel, a young woman who has found sanctuary on an agricultural compound, where there's food and safety. She works alongside other girls, also orphans or castoffs. Sarah and Zed, who run the farm, hope that their next child will be a boy; Sarah is at the end of her fertility, however, and, to her dismay, Mel stands next in line to carry children for Zed. Into this uncertain sanctuary steps Jonathan, an independent field researcher who collects samples of plants to forestall additional ecological devastation. Meeting Mel provides a glimmer of other kinds of scientific riches on this compound, and he is determined to take her with him. Zed's history of violence makes any escape a dangerous proposition. Still, there's the hope that something new can grow, that something good can come from the ruined world they struggle to make theirs." Performances take place at the Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar. For more information: tesseracttheatre.org.

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents Yasmina Reza's comedy Art through May 3 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. "How much would you pay for a white painting? Would it matter who the painter was? Would it be art? One of Marc's best friends, Serge, has just bought a very expensive painting. It's about five feet by four, all white with white diagonal lines. To Marc, the painting is a joke, but Serge insists Marc doesn't have the proper standard to judge the work. Another friend, Ivan, though burdened by his own problems, allows himself to be pulled into this disagreement. Eager to please, Ivan tells Serge he likes the painting. Lines are drawn and these old friends square off over the canvas, using it as an excuse to relentlessly batter one another over various failures. As their arguments become less theoretical and more personal, they border on destroying their friendships. At the breaking point, Serge hands Marc a felt tip pen and dares him: “Go on.” This is where the friendship is finally tested, and the aftermath of action, and its reaction, affirms the power of those bonds." For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

St. Louis University Theatre presents Shakespeare's comedy As You Like It April 24-May 3. The source of some of Shakespeare's most famous lines this comedy follows the challenging path of love for Rosalind and Orlando. Performances take place in Xavier Hall, 3373 West Pine Mall. he cast will also be performing an excerpt from the show as part the Shakespeare Festival of St. Louis Shake 38 event on Saturday, April 25 from 12-1 pm at the LaMancha Coffee House, 2800 N. 14th St. in Old North St. Louis. For more information, call (314) 977-2998 or visit slumarketplace.slu.edu.
 

Crimes of the Heart

The Hawthorne Players present the Beth Henley's Crimes of the Heart through April 26. "Crimes of the Heart is filled with humanity and humor as it examines the plight of three young Mississippi sisters betrayed by their passions. In the end, the play is the story of how its young characters escape the past and seize the future-but the telling is so true and touching and consistently hilarious that it will linger in the mind long after the curtain has descended. This winner of the 1981 Pulitzer Prize will be directed by Ken Clark, who says, "If you think your family has issues, wait until you visit the Magrath household. As my grandmother once said, Southern hospitality can't fix crazy."" The performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 921-5678 or visit hawthorneplayers.com.

Family Musical Theater presents the Stephen Sondheim musical A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum through April 26 at the Ivory Theatre, 7622 Michigan. For more information, visit familymusical.org or call 314-571-9579.

An Invitation Out
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents An Invitation Out by Shaulee Cook through May 3. "In this world-premiere comedy of manners, a young man searches for “truth” while living in virtual reality and explores the “reality” of life offline." 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.

Gateway Opera presents Mozart's The Impresario Friday and Saturday, April 24 and 25, at 7:00 p.m. "In this hilarious hour-long show, an entrepreneur struggles to hold together an opera company filled with affairs, feuding singers, and a strained budget. This new expanded English edition commissioned by Gateway Opera features favorites from other Mozart operas including Così fan tutte, The Magic Flute, Idomeneo and more!" Performances take place at the Kranzberg Center 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: 1-800-838-3006 or gatewayopera.org.

Clayton Community Theatre presents Shakespeare's Macbeth Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, April 23-May 3. Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre. For more information, call 314-721-9228 or visit placeseveryone.org.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Muuurder in Maaaybury through April 25. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Alfresco Productions presents the musical Next to Normal Friday through Sunday, April 24-26 "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, because the mother has been battling 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. This deeply moving piece of theatre provides a wonderful opportunity for performers to explore dramatic material and showcase vocal talents with an energetic pop/rock score. Next To Normal is an emotional powerhouse that addresses such issues as grieving a loss, ethics in modern psychiatry, and suburban life. PARENTAL ADVISORY - STRONG LANGUAGE AND MATURE CONTENT" Performances take place at the Alfresco Art Center, 2401 Delmar in Granite City, IL. For more information: (618) 560-1947 or www.alfrescoproductions.org.

Dramatic License Productions presents the female version of Neil Simon's comedy The Odd Couple April 24-May 10. "Oscar and Felix become Olive and Florence in this, the equally-hilarious female version of Neil Simon's classic comedy about two unlikely roomies who will either become the best of friends or kill each other trying!" Performances take place at Dramatic License Theatre located at upper-level Sears wing of Chesterfield Mall. For more information, call 636-821-1746 or visit www.dramaticlicenseproductions.org.

The Black Rep presents the musical Once on This Island April 22-May 3. "Once on this Island is a warm fairy tale for children of all ages, told with breezy Caribbean rhythms. A young peasant girl in the French Antilles uses the power of love to bring together people of very different social classes." Performances take place at the Edison Theatre on the Washington University campus. For more information: theblackrep.org.

Lindenwood University presents Shakespeare's Pericles, Prince of Tyre through April 25. "This action-packed production is a tempest-tossed hero's quest-a magical mystery tour spanning decades and continents, culminating in one of the most joyous reunions in the Shakespearean canon. Featuring pirates, goddesses, jousting knights, and a lost princess, Pericles, Prince of Tyre is a theatrical journey you don't want to miss!" Performances take place at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood campus in St. Charles, MO. For more information, call 636-949-4433 or visit lindenwood.edu/center.

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

St. Charles Community College presents Ionesco's absurdist comedy Rhinoceros Wednesday through Sunday, April 22-26. Performances take place in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building on the campus at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville, MO. For more information, call 636-922-8050 or visit stchas.edu.

KTK Productions presents the farce Sex, Please, We're Sixty April 24-May 3. "Mrs. Stancliffe's Rose Cottage Bed and Breakfast has been successful for many years. Her guests (nearly all women) return year after year. Her next door neighbor, the elderly, silver-tongued, Bud "The Stud" Davis believes they come to spend time with him in romantic liaisons. The prim and proper Mrs. Stancliffe steadfastly denies this, but really doesn't do anything to prevent it. She reluctantly accepts the fact that "Bud the Stud" is, in fact, good for business. Her other neighbor and would-be suitor Henry Mitchell is a retired chemist who has developed a blue pill called "Venusia," after Venus the goddess of love, to increase the libido of menopausal women. The pill has not been tested. Add to the guest list three older women: Victoria Ambrose, a romance novelist whose personal life seems to be lacking in romance; Hillary Hudson a friend of Henry's who has agreed to test the Venusia: and Charmaine Beauregard, a "Southern Belle" whose libido does not need to be increased! Bud gets his hands on some of the Venusia pills and the fun begins, as he attempts to entertain all three women! The women mix up Bud's Viagra pills with the Venusia, and we soon discover that it has a strange effect on men: it gives them all the symptoms of menopausal women, complete with hot flashes, mood swings, weeping and irritability! When the mayhem settles down, all the women find their lives moving in new and surprising directions." Performances take place at Southampton Presbyterian Church, 4716 Macklind. For more information: kurtainkall.org or call 314-351-8984.

Shakespeare Festival St. Louis presents Shake 38, a city wide performance festival in which all 38 of Shakespeare's plays are performed by 38 different groups in a variety of neighborhoods and locations. Performances take place Wednesday through Sunday, April 22-26. For a complete schedule: sfstl.com.

St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley presents Steel Magnolias through April 25. Performances take place in the Fisher Theatre on the campus at 3400 Pershall Road. For more information: stlcc.edu/FV under Fischer Theatre or call 314-644-5522.

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 March 20, 2015

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:

Jeremy Webb in Buyer and Cellar
©Photo by Jerry Naunheim Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Buyer and Cellar through March 29. "Inspired by Barbra Streisand's coffee table book, My Passion for Design, this uproarious fictional account of celebrity eccentricity takes us into Babs' basement, where she houses her unique collections in a small street of shops. An underemployed actor becomes the caretaker, interacting with Barbra in moments both hilarious and surprisingly tender. A runaway hit in New York, this one-man show takes us into the ultimate fantasy of a star-struck dreamer as he fills the oddest of odd jobs." 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.

My take: One-man shows can be risky propositions, but this one is apparently a success. "If you are a Streisand fan (and who among us isn’t?)," writes Bob Cohn at St. Louis Jewish Light, "'Buyer & Cellar' is a double treat. Not only is the play itself highly amusing and satisfying, it also contains enough Streisand trivia to satisfy an entire season of questions on 'Jeopardy.'" "Jonathan Tolins is a very clever writer," says Bob Wilcox at KDHX. "Jeremy Webb is a very smart actor. Put them together, with some inventive guidance from director Wendy Dann, and you get a quite enjoyable ninety minutes or so in the Studio Theatre at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis."

Anna Blair

The Presenters Dolan present Anna Blair in Inside Story - Celebrating the Songs of Fran Landesman on Saturday, March 21, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "Anna got the chance to work with Fran Landesman several years ago at the Gaslight Theater, when Jim Dolan brought Fran back to Gaslight Square for several shows. He asked Anna to sing some of Fran's standards. They connected, and Anna became a devotee of Fran's songs. Prior to Fran's death, Anna was able to visit and study with her, and her then-composer Simon Wallace, in London. This show is the fruit of that collaboration." The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

My take: I saw this show the first time Anna did it back and 2009 and was very impressed. At the time, Andrea Braun reviewed it for KDHX and had this to say about Anna's performance: "She has a supple, melodic voice, and she looks like she was born to wear a red dress (and proves that redheads needn't avoid that color) and lean against a baby grand. She is sultry, playful, sad, straight-forward, and she provides the audience with an altogether lovely evening." Anna was still relatively new to cabaret back then and has only gotten stronger over the years. Fran Landesman might not have always been the most profound lyricist, but her work was always intelligent, and Anna brings real heart to her performances of Fran's songs.

Robert McNichols, Jr. as Paul Robeson
Photo: Stewart Goldstein

The Black Rep presents Paul Robeson through March 29. "In Phillip Hayes Dean's biographical two-man play, the legendary actor, singer and political activist Paul Robeson sings songs and tells stories of his multi-faceted career, from triumphs in Show Boat and The Emperor Jones, to his fight for racial equality to accusations of Communist involvement." Performances take place at the Emerson Performance Center at Harris-Stowe State University in midtown. For more information: theblackrep.org.

My take: Paul Robeson's story is an important one, and not just because he was one of the great bass-baritones of the early 20th century. His courage in the face of virulent racism and deranged red baiting is an inspiration to us all. "Seeing a performance of playwright Phillip Hayes Dean’s fascinating, one-man drama, Paul Robeson," writes Mark Bretz at Ladue News, "is an exhilarating and educational experience." Over at stltoday.com, Judy Newmark has words of praise for the show's star, Robert McNichols, Jr.: "An opera singer himself, McNichols performs the song with feeling and intention, and gives an equally meaningful treatment to a trio of gospel numbers that Robeson sang in his stage debut. McNichols is also a fine actor, a big plus for a show that’s not a musical."

Meghan Kirk

The Presenters Dolan present Meghan Kirk in The Story Goes On on Friday, March 20, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "Meghan reprises her wildly popular and sold-out splash. What a talent! Recently moved back to St. Louis after appearing many times at the Gardenia in LA." The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

My take: Conflicts have prevented me from seeing Meghan's solo shows until now (yes, I'll be there on Friday), but her work at the Cabaret Project's open mic nights (which I host) has always been exemplary. I'm looking forward to this one.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents a staged reading of This Thing of Ours by Caridad Svich on Saturday, March 21, at 3 p.m. as part of the Ignite! New Play Festival. "When an act of violence strikes an American city, how do we react? It's happened before. We say we will put our lives back together, but years will go by. We will grow apart, come together and some of us will wonder how to keep going, as we turn to myths and seek lessons there. This Thing of Ours is the latest play by Caridad Svich, winner of the Obie Award for Lifetime Achievement and author of the loving adaptation of Love in the Time of Cholera, read in the 2012 Ignite! series." The reading takes place at Sally S. Levy Opera Center, 210 Hazel Avenue, on the Webster University Campus. For more information: repstl.org

My take: The Rep's Ignite! festival offers a fascinating glimpse at new works while they're a-borning. Some, like Soups, Stews, and Casseroles 1976, have gone on to full productions and proven worthy of attention. Will this be the start of something big? The only way to know is to attend. It's a fascinating experience and a great opportunity to let the playwright know what you think.

Women Under the Influence
L-R: Carol Schmidt, Michele Isam,
Debbie Schuster, Katie McGrath

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents Women Under the Influence on Saturday, March 21, at 8 PM. "Women Under the Influence includes St. Louis cabaret singers Katie McGrath and Debbie Schuster, and features the former Jasmine duo Michele Isam and Carol Schmidt. With a soulful, strong and sultry style, their uplifting harmonies bring new interpretations of their girl-group musical influences, from LaBelle to Adele. Join them for songs of passion, romance, betrayal, survival and joy. A donation of $15 is suggested. All collected donations will go directly to Stray Rescue. The Tavern will also contribute a percentage of all food and drink sales to Stray Rescue." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

My take: I will confess to knowing all the the members of Women Under the Influence for a number of years now (especially Carol Schmidt, who is the music director for the monthly open mic night I mentioned earlier). Their first show back in 2012 took a classic '60s R & B song list and, by artfully arranging the songs, turned the show into a narrative that moved from the first crush, through true love, down into betrayal and back up into independence. It’s could have the story of one woman or of late 20th century women in general. It might even be a little of both. WUI created a space for ambiguity there, and ambiguity is where art lives. They have added songs to their list and rearranged things a bit since then, so it will be interesting to see what the new show look like.

Held Over:

Afflicted: Daughters of Salem
Photo: Victoria Lafferty

Metro Theatre Company and the Missouri History Museum present Afflicted: Daughters of Salem by Laurie Brooks through March 22. "Abigail Williams, Ann Putnam, Mercy Lewis, Mary Warren, and Betty Paris meet deep in the dark woods of Puritan New England at night. Denied all outlets for imagination and all hope for the future, the girls unite in a secret society - Allies are found, promises made and broken, power taken. When the girls force the slave Tituba to tell their fortunes, they ignite a crucible of events that burns out of control, leading straight to the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Through their secrets, gossip and accusations these girls become some of the most notorious teens in history." Performances take place in the Lee Auditorium at the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park. For more information: mohistory.org.

My take: Metro can usually be relied upon to redefine the concept of "children's theatre" in ways that will engage and adult audience as well. In her review for KDHX, Tina Farmer says this new take on the Salem witchcraft trials is "an enjoyable well-researched fiction that successfully reminds audiences there are two sides to every story, even history."

Jerry Springer the Opera
Photo: Jill Ritter Lindberg

New Line Theatre presents the St. Louis premiere of the musical Jerry Springer the Opera Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM, through March 28. "The New Line season continues with one of New Line's wildest and most ambitious projects, JERRY SPRINGER THE OPERA, the smash-hit, multi-award winning musical that ran to unprecedented rave reviews and standing ovations at the National Theatre in London, after a sold-out run in London's West End. The Sunday Times called it “a shocking, irresistibly funny masterpiece.” With music by Richard Thomas, and book and lyrics by Thomas and Stewart Lee, this is an audacious, fearless piece of theatre that brilliantly and hilariously dissects the cultural forces that have kept Jerry Springer on the air all these years, the lives of quiet desperation that explode into public view in Springer's weirdly nonjudgmental, national confessional." Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre, 6501 Clayton Road. . For more information, visit newlinetheatre.com or call 314-534-1111.

My take: Come on, how can you not want to see a show with a title like this? The second act, after all, is a "very special" episode of the Jerry Springer Show broadcast live from Hell. And, yes, it really is an opera—or at least a musical in which there is no spoken dialog. "I recognize a quality production with strong direction and spot-on performances," says Tina Farmer in her KDHX review, "and I applaud the company for the bold and daring theater they produce."

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of February 9, 2015

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

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

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KTK Productions presents the comic thriller Any Number Can Die February 13-22. "A hilarious take off on the mystery plays of the Twenties complete with sliding panels, robed figures, wills being read at midnight, etc. The idioms, costumes, hairdos, and make up of the period add to the thrills and laughter. Four ingenious murders take place in an island mansion as a pair of elderly detectives set to work on their first case. The ever popular storm, the unexpected guests, the cryptic poem, and the missing fortune all add to the intricate and inventive mystery off which the laughs bounce." Performances take place at Southampton Presbyterian Church, 4716 Macklind. For more information: kurtainkall.org or call 314-351-8984.

Bashir Lazhar
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Upstream Theater presents Bashir Lazhar by Évelyne de la Chenelière through February 12. "An Algerian refugee in Montreal is hurriedly hired as a substitute for a class of sixth graders who, like him, have experienced recent trauma. As he devotes his heart and soul to his students, his unorthodox methods challenge a system embedded in routine. A timely and poetic piece about grief and healing, love and survival. In 2011 the play was adapted into the Oscar-nominated film Monsieur Lazhar." The play stars J. Samuel Davis with live music by Farshid Soltanshahi Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, including show times: upstreamtheater.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Wildey Theater presents Rob Becker's one-man comedy Defending the Caeman on Friday and Saturday, February 13 and 14. The Wildey Theatre is at 252 North Main Street in Edwardsville, Illinois. For more information, visit wildeytheatre.com.

Kevin Cherry

Mariposa Artists presents Kevin Cherry in Feelin' Good on Friday and Saturday, February 13 and 14, at 8 p.m. The show is directed by Ken Haller and features Patty Becker on piano. "Late in life, Kevin Cherry took his voice from the shower to the stage with the Gateway Men's Chorus. That led to ensemble performances in community engagements and on to St. Louis Cabaret Project conferences and showcases. Now he brings his tenor voice in three octaves to the Kranzberg Arts Center for an evening of light music." The performance takes place at the Kranzberg Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: kevincherry.brownpapertickets.com

St. Louis Community College at Meramec presents Larry's Shue's farce The Foreigner Wednesday through Sunday, February 11-15. Performances take place in the theatre on the campus at 11333 Big Bend Road. For more information, call 314-984-7500.

God of Carnage
Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents Yasmina Reza's God of Carnage Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through February 21. "A comedy of manners ... without the manners. Two married couples meet to sort out a playground fight between their sons. At first, niceties are observed but as the evening progresses and the rum flows, the gloves come off and the night becomes a side-splitting free-for-all." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Jason Graae and Liz Callaway

Edison Theatre Ovations! presents Liz Callaway and Jason Graae in Happily Ever Laughter: A Valentines Party on Saturday, February 14, at 8 p.m. "Celebrate valentine's day with Liz Callaway and Jason Graae as they return to St. Louis for a romantic but platonic evening of love songs, high belting, and hilarity! With more than 11 Broadway shows, 60 recording/cast albums, and 35 movies and tv shows between them, these Broadway buddies will have you head over heels for their sweet stylings." The performance takes place at the 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity in University City. For more information: edison.wustl.edu.

The Gateway Men's Chorus presents Homegrown Cabaret Friday, February 13, at 8 PM. "Seventeen members of the Gateway Men's Chorus each take the spotlight in solo turns at a special fundraising concert, turning their personal stories into song. Ticket price includes drinks, hor d'oeuvres, a silent auction, and a tax-deductible contribution to the GMC's GALA Fund, which helps send the chorus to the 2016 GALA Festival.Ticket price includes drinks, hor d'oeuvres, a silent auction, and a tax-deductible contribution to the GMC's GALA Fund, which helps send the chorus to the 2016 GALA Festival." The concert takes place in the Rialto Ballroom at the Centene Center for the Arts, 3547 Olive Street in Grand Center. For more information: gmcstl.org.

The Monroe Actors Stage Company presents Neil Simon's Lost in Yonkers Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., through February 11, in the Historic Capitol Theatre in downtown Waterloo, Illinois. For more information, visit www.masctheatre.org or call 618-939-7469.

Mr. Marmalade
Photo: John Lamb

The West End Players Guild continues their 104th season with the comedy Mr. Marmalade Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, February 13-22. "Growing up isn't easy these days. Little Lucy is spending her childhood doing all the things little girls like to do - playing house, having tea parties and playing with friends both real and imaginary. But even as a tot, Lucy seems to have learned most of what she knows about life from reality TV and her childhood is chock-full of very odd, very adult stuff - the oddest of which may be Mr. Marmalade. He's the imaginary friend who rarely has time for Lucy because he's way too busy dealing with the demands of his day planner, anger management issues and some very adult naughty habits." There will also be a show on Thursday, February February 19, 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.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Murder in Mayberry. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Brass Rail Players present Dan Goggins' musical comedy Nunsense II: The Second Coming February 13-22. The performances take place at The Turkey Hill Grange, 1375 Illinois Rte. 15 in Belleville, IL. For more information, visit brassrailplayers.org.

GoodPeople Theatre presents the one-act play Old Wounds, written and directed by Mollie Jeanette Amburgey, Thursday through Saturday, February 12-14. "Old Wounds is a one-act performance piece about two old friends who reunite one evening for dinner which turn into a discussion of a dark event that happened in their pasts." The performances take place at the Betty Grable Room on the 7th floor of the Moonrise Hotel, 6177 Delmar in the Loop. For more information: goodpeopletheatre.tickleap.com/old-wounds.

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

Clinton County Showcase presents Prelude to a Kiss trough February 15. "Prelude to a Kiss is a 1988 play by Craig Lucas. It tells the story of a couple that falls in love despite the girl's pessimistic outlook on life. Shortly after their wedding, a supernatural event tests the strength of their love and commitment to each other." Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL. For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley presents John Guare's comedy Six Degrees of Separation February 13-21. Performances take place in the Fisher Theatre on the campus at 3400 Pershall Road. For more information, call 314-644-5522.

The Black Rep presents Stick Fly through February 22. "This is the new, knockout comedy-drama featuring steamy romance, sexual sparks and generational conflicts. A wealthy African-American family gather in Martha's Vineyard for a few, super-charged days, and the results are gasp-worthy revelations. Directed by Lorna Littleway, director of The Piano Lesson." Performances take place at the Emerson Performance Center at Harris-Stowe State University in midtown. For more information: theblackrep.org Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Mustard Seed Theatre presents White to Gray through February 22. "Mustard Seed Theatre is proud to offer the world premiere of local playwright Rob Maesaka’s White to Gray-the story of a young couple, one white and one Japanese-American, en route to the mainland from Hawaii on a cruise ship when bombs drop on Pearl Harbor. Amidst fear and uncertainty and caught in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, loyalties are tested and love comes under suspicion." 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 the 88.1 KDHX review!

Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents Edward Albee's dark comedy Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? February 13 - March 1 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. "George, a professor at a small college, and his wife, Martha, have just returned home, drunk from a Saturday night party. Martha announces, amidst general profanity, that she has invited a young couple-an opportunistic new professor at the college and his shatteringly naïve new bride-to stop by for a nightcap. When they arrive the charade begins. The drinks flow and suddenly inhibitions melt. It becomes clear that Martha is determined to seduce the young professor, and George couldn't care less. But underneath the edgy banter, which is crossfired between both couples, lurks an undercurrent of tragedy and despair. George and Martha's inhuman bitterness toward one another is provoked by the enormous personal sadness that they have pledged to keep to themselves: a secret that has seemingly been the foundation for their relationship. In the end, the mystery in which the distressed George and Martha have taken refuge is exposed, once and for all revealing the degrading mess they have made of their lives." For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

The Winslow Boy
©Photo by Lon Brauer

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Terrence Rattigan's The Winslow Boy February 11 - March 8. "When young Ronnie Winslow is expelled from military school for stealing a five-shilling postal order, his father wages an exhaustive fight to clear his son's name. What begins as a private matter quickly becomes a larger question of the rights of the individual against the power of the state. Though the legal battle jeopardizes his health and the reputation of the entire family, Arthur Winslow is determined that right will prevail, no matter what the sacrifice." 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.

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 February 2, 2015

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

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

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Bashir Lazhar

Upstream Theater presents Bashir Lazhar by Évelyne de la Chenelière through February 12. "An Algerian refugee in Montreal is hurriedly hired as a substitute for a class of sixth graders who, like him, have experienced recent trauma. As he devotes his heart and soul to his students, his unorthodox methods challenge a system embedded in routine. A timely and poetic piece about grief and healing, love and survival. In 2011 the play was adapted into the Oscar-nominated film Monsieur Lazhar." The play stars J. Samuel Davis with live music by Farshid Soltanshahi Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, including show times: upstreamtheater.org.

The St. Louis Family Theatre Series presents Curious George January February 6-8. 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.

Stray Dog Theatre presents Yasmina Reza's God of Carnage Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM February 5-21. "A comedy of manners … without the manners. Two married couples meet to sort out a playground fight between their sons. At first, niceties are observed but as the evening progresses and the rum flows, the gloves come off and the night becomes a side-splitting free-for-all." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

Imagining Madoff
Photo: Eric Woolsey

New Jewish Theater presents Imaginaing Madoff through February 8. "A fantasia conjured by the playwright featuring an imagined conversation between unrepentant Ponzi schemer Bernie Madoff and Holocaust survivor, poet and investment client Solomon Galkin. In an all-night study session, these two Jewish men find themselves in a moral showdown as they banter about a myriad of subjects from baseball, to the Talmud, to human decency and the story of Abraham and Isaac. The play concerns itself with the terrible beauty and magnificent danger of absolute faith, either in God or men. As an audience, we share a sense, even to the end, that we can change what's already past. It is a moral investigation." 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 Lion in Winter

Clayton Community Theatre presents James Goldman's The Lion in Winter Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, through February 8. "Sibling rivalry, adultery, and dungeons - Lion in Winter, by James Goldman, is a modern day classic. Comedic in tone, dramatic in action - the play tells the story of the Plantagenet family who are locked in a free for all of competing ambitions to inherit a kingdom. The queen, and wealthiest woman in the world, Eleanor of Aquitaine, has been kept in prison since raising an army against her husband, King Henry II. Let out only for holidays, the play centers around the inner conflicts of the royal family as they fight over both a kingdom, as well as King Henry's paramour during the Christmas of 1183. As Eleanor says, "every family has its ups and downs," and this royal family is no exception." Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre. For more information, call 314-721-9228 or visit placeseveryone.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Monroe Actors Stage Company presents Neil Simon's Lost in Yonkers Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., February 6-11, in the Historic Capitol Theatre in downtown Waterloo, Illinois. For more information, visit www.masctheatre.org or call 618-939-7469.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Murder in Mayberry. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.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

Clinton County Showcase presents Prelude to a Kiss February 6-15. “Prelude to a Kiss is a 1988 play by Craig Lucas. It tells the story of a couple that falls in love despite the girl's pessimistic outlook on life. Shortly after their wedding, a supernatural event tests the strength of their love and commitment to each other.” Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL. For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

Safe House
Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Safe House through February 8. "In 1843 Kentucky, the Pedigrews hold a unique place in their community as free people of color. While one brother has dreams of opening his own business as a cobbler and creating a life for his family, the other risks everything in an effort to help slaves escape. Inspired by the lives of his ancestors, playwright Keith Josef Adkins tells a gripping and heart-wrenching story of love, freedom and survival." 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!

The Black Rep presents Stick Fly February 4-22. "This is the new, knockout comedy-drama featuring steamy romance, sexual sparks and generational conflicts. A wealthy African-American family gather in Martha's Vineyard for a few, super-charged days, and the results are gasp-worthy revelations. Directed by Lorna Littleway, director of The Piano Lesson." Performances take place at the Emerson Performance Center at Harris-Stowe State University in midtown. For more information: theblackrep.org

Mustard Seed Theatre presents White to Gray February 6-22. 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.

The Looking Glass Playhouse presents the the Mel Brooks musical Young Frankenstein Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. through February 8. Performances take place at 301 West St. Louis Street in Lebanon, Ill. For more information, visit www.lookingglassplayhouse.com.

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

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of April 25, 2014

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:

The Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University presents the musical Into the Woods Wednesday through Sunday, April 23-27. Performances take place on the Browning Mainstage Theater at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information: www.webster.edu/fine-arts/departments/conservatory/index.html or call 314-968-7128.

My take: The Webster Conservatory does consistently excellent work and Into the Woods is one of Sondheim's more thoughtful and inventive shows. The second act is nearly always problematic, but if anyone can make a good case for it, they can.

The Presenters Dolan present Lara Teeter in Lucky to Be Me on Friday and Saturday, April 25 and 26, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "Join Lara Teeter for his St. Louis cabaret debut, sharing his journey as artist, teacher, husband and dad. Claimed by both our town and Broadway (a Tony Nominee) as one of its own, Lara Teeter shows us just how fresh the songbook is in a master song and dance man's hands. And feet. " The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

My take: Lara Teeter has a been an important force on the musical theatre and cabaret scene locally for many years. He and Neal Richardson have done impressive work with the musical theatre students at the Webster Conservatory, as anyone who has seen their annual cabaret night can attest. It will be interesting to see what his own show looks like.

Equally Represented Arts presents Make Hamlet, April 21 through May 3. "This experimental, theatrical production re-envisions Shakespeare's iconic play. It uses the play's inherent meta-theatricality to explore its theme of fractured identity. Shakespeare's tragic text, ERA's ensemble-driven ideals, and the ritual of performance collide as six actors Make Hamlet." Performances take place at The Chapel Venue, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: equallyrepresentedarts.com.

My take: Non-traditional approaches to Shakespeare's classics can be a risky proposition, but as Steve Callahan notes in his review for 88.1 KDHX, this production "powerfully captures all the fears, doubts, anxieties and philosophical wonderings in which Shakespeare's play is so rich. This production expects much of its audience: it expects intelligence; it expects a good familiarity with Shakespeare's play; it expects an open mind; it expects a sense of humor. But if you have these things then ERA's production of 'Make Hamlet' is certainly for you." The Chapel Venue is non-traditional in its own way. It offers the space free of charge to performers and volunteers run the bar at the back of the house. It's definitely worth supporting that kind of attitude.

Shakespeare Festival St. Louis presents Shake 38, a city wide performance festival in which all 38 of Shakespeare's plays are performed by 38 different groups in a variety of neighborhoods and locations. Performances take place Wednesday through Sunday, April 23-27. For a complete schedule: sfstl.com.

My take: Speaking of non-traditional approaches to The Bard, Shake 38 provides more Shakespeare than you can (ahem) shake a stick at ("if that's your idea of a good time," to quote Groucho). Want to see Titus Andronicus at a hookah bar? Or Romeo and Juliet at a juvenile detention center? How about Julius Caesar at City Hall, Pericles at a coffee house, or Henry V at The Stage @ KDHX? All this and more will unfold this weekend; check out the web site for a complete schedule

Held Over:

Mustard Seed Theatre presents Falling, written and directed by Deanna Jent. "Fresh from its off-Broadway run, Falling returns with the original St. Louis cast. The New York Post writes: "This heartfelt and nuanced family drama is shot through with dark humor. Falling soars!" While Falling explores hard truths within a family dealing specifically with autism, the story is really about loving someone who is hard to love." Performances take place through May 4 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: St. Louis doesn't export that much theatre, so when it does it's worth taking notice. In his review for 88.1 KDHX, Steve Callahan says that "you can count your lucky stars that right now it is again playing in St. Louis. This is the most powerful, moving new play I've seen in years." I think you can take that to the bank, as they say.

Photo: Stewart Goldstein

The Black Rep presents Wole Soyinka's The Trials of Brother Jero through April 27. This Nobel Prize-winning play "depicts the delightful day in the life on an evangelical con man, forced to deal with creditors, politicians, and the endless temptation of beautiful women." Performances take place at the Emerson Performance Center on the campus of Harris-Stowe State University. For more information: theblackrep.org.

My take: Once again, the Black Rep has brought us a rarely-seen show from the pen of a noted playwright—in this case Nigeria's Wole Soyinka. "This play might have come from the pen of an archaic Aristophanes," writes Steve Callahan in his review for 88.1 KDHX. "But this little play is awash in quite beautiful dance and music and ravishing African rhythms. There is African song with gorgeous harmonies. At one moment, in a frenzy of prayer, there is a shrill ululation—the most thrilling sound in the world. All of this music and dance is so exquisitely done. And it so beautifully supports the feeling of stylization—the feeling that this is an ancient folk tale." If that doesn't sound fascinating, you must be fascination proof.