St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of April 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+

Kirkwood Theatre Guild presents musical The Addams Family, based on the cartoons of Charles Addams, April 29 - May 8. "Gomez and Morticia are worried about their daughter Wednesday...she's showing signs of “normal” behavior and they can't help but wonder where they've gone wrong. The change in behavior is explained when they find out their little girl has done something unthinkable...she has fallen in love with a kind, smart, and handsome young man who comes from a respectable family from Ohio. When the boyfriend, Lucas Beineke, and his parents are invited to join the Addams family for dinner, Wednesday asks her family to act as ordinary as possible and Lucas warns his parents to be open-minded. As with most family gatherings, the evening includes a giant pet squid, a secret potion, and an uncle announcing he's in love with the moon...you get the picture. Join the creepy, kooky and always lovable Addams family as they deal with their own version of growing pains." 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.

Bosnian-American: The Dance for Life
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents Bosnian-American: The Dance for Life, Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through May 1. "Born in Bosnia and raised in St. Louis - painful history meets present reality in this collaboratively created script that celebrates the true stories of our neighbors." 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 Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Bullets in the Bathtub through July 30. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: mansion.com

The Gateway Men’s Chorus presents Cabaret Risque, its annual fundraiser, on Saturday, April 30, at 8:30 p.m., preceded by a cocktail hour at 7 p.m. The show will star Anna Skidis and Ben Watts, and offers an exclusive after-party hosted by Fred Schneider of the B-52's. Procedes benefit the Gateway Men's Choruis. The show takes place Rialto Ballroom on the fourth floor of the Centene Center for the Arts, 3547 Olive in Grand Center. For more information: gatewaymenschorus.org.

Christy Simmons

Topper Productions presents Christy Simmons in Count Your Blessings: A Tribute to Rosemary Clooney on Sunday, May 1, at 3 p.m. "Christy Simmons reprises her critically acclaimed tribute to Rosemary Clooney, "Count Your Blessings", at the beautiful Boom Boom Room. Wonderful songs, an amazing life story, a great 3 piece band (Joe Dreyer, Dave Troncoso, and Clancy Newell), beautiful surroundings (with delicious food and drink available), and an engaging performance by "The First Lady Of St. Louis Cabaret", Christy Simmons. Come join Christy and company for this powerful tribute to a beloved star." The Boom Boom Room is at500 N. 14th St. downtown. For more information: christysimmons.brownpapertickets.com/.

The St. Louis Art Museum presents a live HD broadcast of the Metropolitan Opera's production Richard Strauss's Elektra on Saturday, April 30, at 11:55 a.m. "The genius director Patrice Chéreau (From the House of the Dead) didn't live to see his great Elektra production, previously presented in Aix and Milan, make it to the stage of the Met. But his overpowering vision lives on with soprano Nina Stemme-unmatched today in the heroic female roles of Strauss and Wagner-who portrays Elektra's primal quest for vengeance for the murder of her father, Agamemnon. Legendary mezzo-soprano Waltraud Meier is chilling as Elektra's fearsome mother, Klytämnestra. Soprano Adrianne Pieczonka and bass-baritone Eric Owens are Elektra's troubled siblings. Chéreau's musical collaborator Esa-Pekka Salonen conducts Strauss's mighty take on Greek myth." 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.

The Glass Menagerie
Photo: ProPhotoSTL

Upstream Theater presents Tennessee Williams' The Glass Menagerie, with live music by Joe Dreyer, April 29 - May 15. "As Tennessee Williams'classic has entered our collective memory, it has moved from cutting-edge to canonical. Upstream Theater aims to take the piece out of the museum in a way guaranteed to move you, and move you to think. We are proud to present this production in conjunction with the inaugural Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis." Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, including show times: upstreamtheater.org.

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents Ivanov by Anton Chekov, as translated by Tom Stoppard, running through May 1. "Once a man of limitless promise, Ivanov is plunged into debt. His marriage is in crisis, and his evenings are spent negotiating loans, avoiding love affairs and fighting to resist the small town jealousies and intrigues which threaten to engulf his life." Performances take place at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

KTK Productions presents the comedy Laughing Stock April 28 - May 8. "A hilarious backstage farce and genuinely affectionate look into the world of the theatre. When the Playhouse, a rustic New England Summer Theatre, schedules a repertory season of Dracula, Hamlet and Charley's Aunt, comic mayhem ensues. We follow the well-intentioned but over-matched company from outrageous auditions to ego-driven rehearsals through opening nights gone disastrously awry to the elation of a great play well told and the comic and nostalgic season close." Performances take place at Southampton Presbyterian Church, 4716 Macklind. For more information: kurtainkall.org or call 314-351-8984.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Nursery Crimes through July 31. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

St. Louis Community College at Wildwood presents Peter/Wendy, a lyrical atmospheric interpretation of Peter Pan. on Friday and Saturday, April 29 and 30, at 7 p.m. The play is written by Jeremy Bloom and directed by Taylor Gruenloh. The campus is at 2645 Generations Drive in Wildwood, MO. For more information: calendar.stlcc.edu.

Ken Haller

The Presenters Dolan and the Emerald Room Cabaret present Ken Haller in Song by Song by Sondheim on Thursday, April 28, at 7:30 p.m. " Pairing his passions with the songs of Stephen Sondheim, Ken Haller reprises his long ago solo cabaret debut. In songs by turn as sentimental, witty, lacerating, sweet, and rollicking as "Send in the Clowns," "The Little Things You Do Together," "Comedy Tonight," "Children Will Listen," "Not While I'm Around," "Broadway Baby," and "Putting It Together," Ken displays the gifts that led Post-Dispatch theatre critic Judith Newmark to give him a "Judy" Award." The performance takes place in The Emerald Room at The Monocle Bar, 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: www.buzzonstage.com/st-louis.

The Fox Theatre presents the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical The Sound of Music opening Tuesday, April 26, and running through May 8. "The hills are alive! A brand new production of THE SOUND OF MUSIC, directed by Jack O'Brien, is coming to the Fox. The spirited, romantic and beloved musical story of Maria and the Von Trapp Family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony®, Grammy® and Academy Award® winning Best Score, including “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Climb Ev'ry Mountain,” “Edelweiss” and the title song." The Fox is on North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

Trash Macbeth
Photo: eratheatre.org

Equally Represented Arts presents Trash Macbeth running through May 7th. "Lady Macbeth says, 'What's done cannot be undone.' But can it be repurposed? Based on Shakespeare's iconic tragedy, ERA's experimental production Trash Macbeth resuscitates meaning within a climate of destruction, reestablishes the societal norms of America's most traditional era, and reframes the value of our revered Shakespeare, housewifery, and garbage. Trash Macbeth is a full-length, theatrical production created by an ensemble of theatre artists with text from Shakespeare's Macbeth, Emily Post's Etiquette, the book of Revelations, Dr Benjamin Spock's Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care, and 1950's era advertisements." Performances take place at The Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: eratheatre.org.

The Black Rep presents the drama Twisted Melodies April 20 - May 1. "Twisted Melodies is a fictionalized journey through the mind of musical genius Donny Hathaway. We see a man lost in space and time, battling schizophrenia and trying to come to terms with - everything.Join us for an experience that explores the psychology of a genius and his music as he deals with the extreme circumstances of mental illness" 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.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of April 4, 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 Bridges of Madison County
Photo: Matthew Murphy

The Fox Theatre presents the musical The Bridges of Madison County opening Tuesday, April 5, and running through April 17. "THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, one of the most romantic stories ever written, first captured the nation's attention as a best-selling novel by Robert James Waller and is now an irresistible, two time Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical. This stunning new production features gorgeous, soulful music by Tony Award®-winning composer Jason Robert Brown (Parade, The Last Five Years) that the Daily News hails as "one of Broadway's best scores in the last decade." With a book by Pulitzer Prize Winner Marsha Norman (The Secret Garden, The Color Purple) and direction by Tony® winner Bartlett Sher (South Pacific, The Light in the Piazza), THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY is the unforgettable story of two people caught between decision and desire, as a chance encounter becomes a second chance at so much more." The Fox is on North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

That Uppity Theatre Company and The Vital Voice present Briefs: A Festival Of Short Lesbian and Gay Plays Friday through Sunday, April 8-10. "BRIEFS is a unique venture in St. Louis that brings together numerous directors and theatrical artists to showcase the work of eight different playwrights all under one roof. BRIEFS presents theatrical work that address the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning people. The festival is targeted to a diverse and mature audience that appreciates good theatre in unique settings. The playwrights include three-time Pulitzer Prize nominee and five-time Emmy nominee James Still. Still's When Miss Lydia Hinkley Gives A Bird the Bird is the story about a thinly coded women's literary club set in 1859. Award-winning General Hospital writer Scott C. Sickles, will have his world premiere of his play I Knew It, inspired by a rumored relationship between Mick Jagger and David Bowie. We are excited for emerging playwright Stephen Peirick to direct his play titled A Comfortable Fit, about a shopping excursion between a transgender mother and daughter." Performances take place at The Rialto Ballroom at Grand Center_3547 Olive. For more information, visit briefs.eventbrite.com or call (314) 995-4600.

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

Webster University's Conservatory of Theatre Arts presents The Cockfight Play Friday at 7:30 pm, Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. April 8-10. “John has been in a stable relationship with his boyfriend for a number of years. But when he takes a break, he accidentally falls in love with a woman. Torn between the two, filled with guild and conflicting emotions, he doesn't know which way to turn. As the pressure mounts, a dinner with both parties is arranged, and everyone wants to know what John's decision will be.” Performances take place in the Stage III Auditorium in Webster Hall on the Webster University campus. For more information, events.webster.edu or call 314-968-7128.

Steven Lutvak

The Presenters Dolan presents singer/songwriter Steven Lutvak in A Gentleman's Guide to the Gentleman's Guide on Friday and Saturday, April 8 and 9, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "Come hear the man who was behind the Broadway hit, A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER sing his songs, and let you in on the fascinating backstory and incredible journey of the making of a Tony Award winning musical." The performances take place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

The West End Players Guild continues their 105th season with Lee Blessing's comedy/drama Great Falls Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, April 8-17. "This long, strange trip is undertaken by Monkey Man, a divorced middle-aged writer, and his teenaged ex-stepdaughter, who goes by the name of Bitch. Both of them have lost their way in life, and they set off in search of answers on a road trip through the great American West. By turns funny, sad, touching and profane, Great Falls will take you on a memorable and moving theatrical tour." There will also be a show on Thursday, April 14, at 8 PM. Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 North Union at Enright in the Central West End. For more information, call 314-367-0025 or visit www.westendplayers.org.

Hedwig and the Angry Inch
Photo: Tom Gannam

Stray Dog Theatre presents the rock musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through April 16. "The 'internationally ignored song stylist' Hedwig Schmidt, an East German diva, is also the victim of a botched sex-change operation. As she tours the U.S. with her loyal band, Hedwig candidly shares her life story. Raucous, soulful and wickedly funny with a brilliant rock score, this show has inspired legions of fans." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

Tesseract Theatre Company presents Helvetica, A Play About Stories Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m., through April 10. "A children's author, with the help of her beloved stuffed bear, must face the trials of life and death through fantasy and adventure." Performances take place at the Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar. For more information: tesseracttheatre.org.

The University of Missouri at St. Louis presents Idris Goodwin's How We Got On Thursday through Sunday, April 7-10. "Hank, Julian, and Luann are three talented, determined suburban teens coming of age in the 1980s. Dreaming of fame and fortune in the new Hip-Hop music scene, they must overcome cultural isolation, familial dysfunction, and ruthless rivalries to make the music that defines their lives. A sultry DJ spins their stories with her own meta-theatrical perspective in this contemporary ode to the roots of rap." The performances take place at the Touhill Performing Arts Center on the University of Missouri-St. Louis campus. For more information, touhill.org or call 314-516-4949.

Lindenwood University presents the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on Thursday, April 7 at 7 p.m.. "One of the most enduring shows of all time, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is the irresistible family musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel's favorite son." The performance takes place on the main stage 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.

Topper Productions present Dawn Schmid in Let Them Eat Cake on Sunday, April 10, at 3 p.m. " Puppy love, adolescent love, troubled love, seasoned love, self love...no matter the season, or the circumstances, love asks us to grow, to question, to trust, to risk. Talented newcomer, Dawn Schmidt explores the many questions love asks us,with a fresh new perspective, as quirky and endearing as she is!" The Boom Boom Room is at500 N. 14th St. downtown. For more information: theboomboomroomstl.com.

Love and Information
Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Performing Arts Department at Washington University presents Love and Information Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, through April 10. " 57 vibrant scenes. Over 100 colorful characters. In this kaleidoscopic collection of micro-stories, Caryl Churchill explores the roller coaster of existence in our dizzying world. Within the play's vivid anthology, the characters engage in a varied menu of touching and humorous life vignettes, affirming that while we may require vast amounts of knowledge in our digitally-defined era, our hunger for human connection remains essential. The play, by one of Britain's most esteemed playwrights, premiered in 2012 at London's Royal Court Theatre." Performances take place in the Hotchner Studio Theatre in the Mallinckrodt Student Center on the Washington University campus. For more information, visit pad.artsci.wustl.edu or call 314-935-6543.

Gateway Opera presents William Bolcom's chamber opera Lucrezia Friday and Saturday, April 8 and 9, at 8:00 p.m. "Lucrezia is a chamber opera, composed by William Bolcom, with libretto by Mark Campbell, scored for five singers and two pianists. It's a zarzuela riff on Machiavelli's La Mandragola and re-imagines the comedy's heroine as an intelligent seductress in charge of her own destiny." Performances take place at Washington University's 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity in University City. For more information: gatewayopera.org.

The Westport Playhouse presents Men Are From Mars-Women Are From Venus Live! running through April 17. "The Off-Broadway hit comedy Men Are From Mars - Women Are From Venus LIVE!, is a one-man fusion of theatre and stand-up, and is a light-hearted theatrical comedy based on the New York Times #1 best-selling book of the last decade by John Gray. Moving swiftly through a series of vignettes, the show covers everything from dating and marriage to the bedroom." Performances take place at the Westport Playhouse in Westport Plaza. For more information: marsvenuslive.com.

Joe Dreyer and
Rosemary Watts

The Presenters Dolan presents Joe Dreyer and Rosemary Watts in Nuance and Novelty on Thursday, April 7, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "Joe and Rosemary grace the Gaslight stage with an all new show." The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

The Hawthorne Players present the Thornton Wilder's Our Town April 8-17. "Narrated by a stage manager and performed with minimal props and sets, audiences follow the Webb and Gibbs families as their children fall in love, marry, and eventually-in one of the most famous scenes in American theatre-die." 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.info.

St. Louis Shakespeare presents Shakespeare's tragedy Richard III Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m., April 9-17. "A brilliant military commander, Richard, Duke of Gloucester, cannot be content in peacetime. As Richard centralizes power and makes a play for the crown, his motives grow uglier, sending him, enraged, into a bloody battle at Bosworth Field against Henry Tudor." Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Carondelet neighborhood. For more information, call 314-361-5664 or visit stlshakespeare.org.

Satchel Paige and the Kansas City Swing
Photo: John Gitchoff

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Satchel Paige and the Kansas City Swing through April 10. "The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd-it's what every baseball player dreams of. In 1947, Jackie Robinson had broken baseball's color barrier, while Satchel Paige and his Negro League All-Stars were barnstorming against their white counterparts in the Majors. It was baseball by day and jazz by night as the impassioned and devoted players tried to find their place in a country on the verge of change." 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 Monroe Actors Stage Company presents Moliere's comedy Tartuffe, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., through April 10, in the Historic Capitol Theatre in downtown Waterloo, Illinois. For more information, visit www.masctheatre.org or call 618-939-7469.

The Social Justice Center presents There is a Field on Friday, April 8, at 7 p.m. at Washington University. "As the Second Intifada erupted in the West Bank and Gaza, demonstrations also began in Palestinian villages and towns inside Israel. In October 2000, Israeli forces killed thirteen unarmed Palestinians in these demonstrations. The youngest of those killed was a 17-year old boy named Aseel Asleh. Aseel was shot point blank in the neck by Israeli police while nonviolently demonstrating outside his village. There Is A Field is a documentary-style play about Aseel's life and his killing, told from the perspective of his older sister, Nardeen. Through Nardeen's struggle to cope with the murder of her brother, the play also addresses the larger struggle facing Palestinians inside Israel." For more information: thereisafield.info.

Hands Up United and St Louis Palestine Solidarity present There is a Field on Sunday, April 10, at 3 p.m. in Ferguson, MO. "As the Second Intifada erupted in the West Bank and Gaza, demonstrations also began in Palestinian villages and towns inside Israel. In October 2000, Israeli forces killed thirteen unarmed Palestinians in these demonstrations. The youngest of those killed was a 17-year old boy named Aseel Asleh. Aseel was shot point blank in the neck by Israeli police while nonviolently demonstrating outside his village. There Is A Field is a documentary-style play about Aseel's life and his killing, told from the perspective of his older sister, Nardeen. Through Nardeen's struggle to cope with the murder of her brother, the play also addresses the larger struggle facing Palestinians inside Israel." For more information: thereisafield.info.

COCA presents Presentation House Theatre production of Where The Wild Things Are Thursday through Sunday, April 7-10. "This intimate and interactive "guided play" experience invites the audience on stage to help transform Max's bedroom into the various landscapes of his adventures...ending with a Wild Rumpus in which the audience becomes the Wild Things themselves!" COCA is at 524 Trinity in University City. For more information, call (314) 725-6555 or visit www.cocastl.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 February 12, 2016

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

Share on Google+:

New This Week:

As You Like It
Photo: Joey Rumpell

Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble presents Shakespeare's As You Like It Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. through February 13. " SATE adapts Shakespeare's beloved pastoral comedy As You Like It to Depression-era Ozark forests, complete with original, Old-Time tunes played live by the cast and Jason Scroggins, of the local band, The Foggy Memory Boys. Old-Time music features playing styles that pre-date bluegrass, emerging from the string band tradition stretching back to the early years of United States history. SATE's adaptation takes place in 1929 when the Union Electric Company began to buy-out farm property to create what is now the Lake of the Ozarks. Duke Senior, one of the usurped land owners now lives in the forest with her farm hands. Duke's daughter, Rosalind, has determined to find and live with her mother in the forest along with her cousin, Celia and friend, Touchstone. Along the way and disguised as a boy, leading to her mistaken identity as Ganymede, she meets and falls in love with Orlando, another usurped land-owner. Learning the Ozark ways of life from the locals, Rosalind, Orlando, Celia, and Duke find love, music, and a home among the trees of an Ozark forest." Performances take place at The Chapel Venue, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

My take: Directors never seem to tire of comin up with new twists on The Bard's plays, especially the comedies. Those approaches don't always work, but apparently moving the rustic action to the Ozark hills hits the right note (so to speak). "Director Ellie Schwetye focuses on the romance in this adaptation," writes Tina Farmer at KDHX, "complementing it with authentic bluegrass melodies by Jason Scroggins that transform many of the play's best known speeches and poems. The entire cast sings, stomps, and plays a variety of instruments throughout the fast-paced show, keeping the audience enthralled and eagerly awaiting the next scene."

Eleemosynary
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the comedy Eleemosynary Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through February 21. "Both funny and poignant, this play examines the subtle and often perilous relationship between three remarkable women: a young girl, her mother, and her grandmother. Artie abandons her daughter Echo to be raised by Echo's grandmother, Dorothea. But when Dorothea's health begins to fail, can Artie and Echo move beyond the superficiality of words and begin to build a deeper relationship?" 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: Les Blessing's play has been around for a while now and seems to be a perinneal favorite for small theatre companies. Writing for Stage Door St. Louis, Steve Allen says that he's seen several productions and "the current presentation at Mustard Seed Theatre is definitely one of the best. Three powerful actresses manage to energize us, empower us and tug at the old heart strings." At KDHX, Shannon Cothran calls it "solid and moving" while Mark Bretz at Ladue News says it's "a gentle and caring excursion into the magical and sometimes hazardous reaches of the mind and its mysterious powers."

I'll Be Back Before Midnight
Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents the thriller I'll Be Back Before Midnight Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through February 20. "Having suffered a nervous breakdown, Jan retreats with her husband to an old, country farmhouse where the owner delights in telling gruesome ghost stories. Before long, eerie sounds and visions are tormenting Jan. Is she suffering another breakdown or is someone trying to drive her mad?" Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

My take: What could be better for a cold winter night than a tidy thriller? At KDHX, Tina Farmer says this one is "filled with enough twists and dark comedy to hold the attention of even the most jaded of mystery fans. Clues are casually dropped along the way and then neatly tied in a bow, and each character's motivations are called into question as this tale winds its way to a satisfying conclusion." Other local critics are less positive, but since I've generally been impressed by Stray Dog's work over the years, I'm going to give them the benefit of the doubt and include this on the list.

Riverdance
Photo: Jack Hartin

The Fox Theatre presents Riverdance - The 20th Anniversary World Tour Friday through Sunday, February 12-14. Riverdance - The 20th Anniversary World Tour is an innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song. Drawing on Irish traditions, the combined talents of the performers propel Irish dancing and music into the present day, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures. Riverdance - The 20th Anniversary World Tour has set design by Robert Ballagh, lighting design by John Comiskey, costume design by Joan Bergin and sound design by Michael O'Gorman. The Fox is on North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

My take: Yeah, I know. It has been around for so long it has become something of a cliche. But unless it has changed over the years since I first saw it, you can still depend on this high-gloss tribute to Irish step dancing to deliver plenty of high-decibel thrills. Go and enjoy, already.

Craig Pomranz

Topper Productions presents Craig Pomranz in Spend the Night With Craig, a special Valentine's Day cabaret show on Sunday, February 14, at 7 p.m. "Romance is in the air when one of the dreamiest voices in music', international cabaret star, Craig Pomranz, comes back home for Valentine's Day." Michel Roberts is pianist and music director for the show, which takes place at the Boom-Boom Room, 500 North 14th Street downtown. For more information: craigpomranz.brownpapertickets.com.

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 have yet to make it over to the Boom Boom Room but I hear from those who have that it's a pretty cool space in the Washington Avenue nightclub district.

Held Over:

Shining City
ProPhotoSTL

Upstream Theater presents Shining City by Connor McPherson, with live music by Farshid Soltanshahi, through 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.

My take: Lovers of Irish theatre get not one but two shows by noted Irish playwright Conor McPherson. An site-specific production of The Weir is running at two local pubs through February 11 (see below) and now Upstream has opened Shining City. In his review for KDHX, Steve Callahan calls this "a splendid evening of moving theatre."

Underneath the Lintel
Photo: Eric Woolsey

New Jewish Theater presents the one-character play Underneath the Lintel by Glenn Berger through 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.

My take: As I noted in my review of the St. Lou Fringe presentation of this play in 2014 (which featured a bravura performance by Pat O'Brien), this is a terrific script. It's a fantasy, a mystery, and a wonderfully human story about the pursuit of someone who is no longer human at all. New Jewish is doing a revised version of the script in which the character is female rather than male, and Glynis Bell turns in a performance which, while very different from Mr. O'Brien's, is no less accomplished. As I write in my review for OnSTL, this .compelling and literate script offers plenty of food for thought, including implications about the nature of God that not everyone will find comfortable, and Ms. Bell's performance is a genuine gem. Don't miss it.

The cast of The Weir

Cocktails and Curtain Calls presents The Weir, the award-winning play by Irish playwright Conor McPherson, Monday through Thursday at 8:00pm through February 18. 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.

My take: We saw McPherson's play many years ago in London, and found it a rattling good ghost story: well written with plausible characters. In his review for KDHX, Steve Callahan says that "Cocktails and Curtain Calls company gives us what, to me, must be the definitive production of this beautiful play." At Ladue News, Mark Bretz writes that the company "makes an impressive debut with a grand regaling of Irish playwright Conor McPherson's chilling drama...Setting the production in an actual tavern enhances the atmosphere immensely and, combined with director Kari Ely's careful direction of a top-rate cast, makes The Weir a fanciful tale and a tonic for a deep winter's night."

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 18, 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 Presenters Dolan presents Dom Thomas and Maria Bartolotta in Dom and Maria's Holiday Celebration on Thursday, December 17, at 7:30 p.m. "Come enjoy a night full of love songs and holiday cheer. Music from Nat King Cole to Barbara Streisand will surely get you in the holiday spirit!" The Monocle is at 4510 Manchester in The Grove. For more information: domthomasmusic.com.

My take: I first saw Mr. Thomas shortly after he arrived in St. Louis last year at The Cabaret Project open mic night (which I host) . He impressed me (and everyone else who has seen him) with his smooth, charming song delivery, with its echoes of the great Nat "King" Cole and other classic crooners. I heard Maria for the first time at last night's open mic, and I think the two of them will deliver an entertaining evening of holiday tunes for you.

The Monocle Varieté presents Holi-Dazzle Done Fridays and Saturdays at 9 and 11 p.m., through December 27. "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

My take: Looking for something a bit more adult in terms of holiday fun? The Monocle has just the thing for you. In her review for KDHX, Tina Farmer says the show "puts a little spice into the season with a festive evening of fun among friends...The Emerald Room at The Monocle is an intimate space, with audience members seated around tables just a few feet from the stage. The close proximity makes the venue a perfect setting for a cabaret that references the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood and New York supper clubs with a touch of vaudeville."

Shana Farr
Photo: Sandy Durell

Topper Productions presents Shana Farr in Home for the Holidays on Friday, December 18, at 7 p.m. "It has been five years since Missouri native Shana Farr came through St. Louis and this year the five-star award-winning singer comes home from New York City to sing some of her favorite holiday songs. Join her as she takes you on a journey through a "Winter Wonderland" as she shares some of the great hits such as "Sleigh Ride", "Christmas Time Is Here", "The Christmas Song", "Santa Baby", "White Christmas", "Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer", "Frosty The Snowman", "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch", "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" and more." The performance takes place at Cyrano's 603 East Lockwood in Webster Groves. For more information: www.eventbee.com/v/shanafarrholiday

My take: When I reviewed Ms. Farr's first solo endeavor, Pure Imagination, back in 2010, I described it as a very intelligently crafted, beautifully sung and highly entertaining show. She's had five years of experience to build on since then, so you can probably expect great things from her this time around. A classically trained singer with a respectable theatre background, Ms. Farr has vocal technique to spare and a good sense of how to build a cabaret show.

Held Over:

All is Calm
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a capella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays 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.

My take: As I say in my review, this show combines splendid and often quite complex a cappella singing with readings of letters from soldiers and other historical documents. It's powerfully moving and beautifully performed by a fine ensemble of eleven of our town's most talented singing actors. Highly recommended, especially given the current level of hateful and aggressive political rhetoric that is currently despoiling our holiday season.

Bad Jews
Photo: Eric Woolsey

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.

My take: New Jewish Theater has brought some intriguing new shows to town over the years, and this one appears to be a good example. In her review for KDHX, Tina Farmer says Bad Jews is "a clever script filled with just the right levity, enabling the excellent cast to deliver a deeply evocative and thought-provoking story that sneaks up on you with surprising force."

Devil Boys from Beyond
Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents the comedy Devil Boys from Beyond Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through December 19. "Men are from Mars; women are from Venus; all the rest are from Pluto. A high-camp parody of '50s B-movies and trashy romance novels, mixed with a dash of 'Adult Swim' cartoon. Fold in a heaping portion of screwball comedy and stir gently but keep it lumpy!" Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

My take: Ah, Stray Dog theatre! This small, smart local company treats is actors and its audiences like royalty and has produced some very fine work over the years. I'm a bit biased in that I've done a number of shows with them and always found the experience worthwhile, but the continued growth of their audience numbers and long string of good reviews indicate that I'm not alone in my admiration. "[T]he crisp, quick paced show," writes Tina Farmer in her review for KDHX, "is a mash up of science fiction and romantic comedy with abundant laughs, quirky characters, compromising situations, and a retro feel. To keep with the season, there's also and uplifting ending and genuine, positive messages about sexuality, gender roles, and acceptance."

The Gin Game
Photo: John Lamb

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents The Gin Game through December 20 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. "This winner of the 1978 Pulitzer Prize, which originally starred Jessica Tandy and Hume Cronyn and was later revived with Julie Harris and Charles Durning, uses a card game as a metaphor for life. Weller Martin is playing solitaire on the porch of a seedy nursing home. Enter Fonsia Dorsey, a prim, self righteous lady. They discover they both dislike the home and enjoy gin rummy, so they begin to play and to reveal intimate details of their lives. Fonsia wins every time and their secrets become weapons used against one another. Weller longs for a victory to counter a lifetime of defeats but it doesn't happen. He leaves the stage a broken man and Fonsia realizes her self-righteous rigidity has led to an embittered, lonely old age." For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

My take: Donald Coburn's script has been a staple of small theatre groups for a long time now, and with good reason. It's filled with great lines for two very well-drawn characters. "Similar to the game of gin itself," writes Tina Farmer at KDHX, "the story behind each of the two characters in the show is neither as simple nor straightforward as it may first appear, and neither are willing to reveal their hand too quickly. The result is a show that teeters on the line between comic and tragic, accidentally revealing truth that is at times humorous to behold, at times painful to consider."

Wicked
Photo: Joan Marcus

The Fox Theatre presents the musical Wicked, based on the novel by Gregory McGuire, running 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.

My take: I haven't seen this particular tour, but in my review of the 2005 tour I noted that composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz and book author Winnie Holtzman have done a remarkable job of simplifying and reducing the story of Gregory McGuire's original novel while still remaining true to the original characters and their relationships. The score is one of Schwartz's best, and that's saying something.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of November 27, 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 2013 production of All is Calm

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the acapella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays, November 27-December 20. "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. "The singing is deep, strong and wide ranging in voice," wrote Dennis Corcoran in his review of the 2013 production for KDHX, "with arrangements spanning the complex to the surprisingly simple and pure...This show is a special treat. "

Animals Out of Paper
Photo: Michael Young

R-S Theatrics presents Animals Out of Paper Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m., through December 8 "When a reclusive origami artist opens her studio to a teenage prodigy and his eager high-school teacher, she discovers that life and love can't be arranged neatly in this drama about finding the perfect fold." Performances take place at The Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

My take: As someone who entered into a major love affair with origami as a youth, I find the subject of this play fascinating. In her review for KDHX, Tina Farmer says that Animals Out of Paper "is a cerebral story about intimacy told from three incomplete and deeply emotional perspectives. As such, there are thoughts left unsaid, confusion caused by good intentions, and anger and hurt that springs from misplaced need and misunderstood actions. Each character is authentically human and flawed, and the actors and Schaefer don’t hesitate in peeling back the skin and showing the turmoil, indecision, and impulses that drive the characters. The show poses more questions than it answers and opens more wounds than it heals, making for a compelling, if at times messy, story arc."

Christy Simmons

Topper Productions presents Christy Simmons in A Woman of a Certain Age on Sunday, November 29 at 3 p.m. "Christy Simmons takes to the stage at the beautiful Boom Boom Room, to explore the many contrasts between life as a twenty-something, and life as a well-beyond-twenty-something. Always funny and engaging, Christy tackles her subject matter with wit, honesty, a touch of wistfulness and romance, and an impressive variety of songs from The Great American Songbook. The song list ranges from Harold Arlen and Johhny Mercer, to Sondheim, and even Billy Joel. She is backed-up by some of St. Louis' premier musicians; Joe Dryer (Piano), Clancy Newell (Drums), and Dave Troncoso (Bass), to provide an afternoon of truly wonderful music, and story-telling." The performance takes place at The Boom Boom Room, 500 N. 14th St. downtown. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2461506.

My take: It has been a while since Christy has brought her big, brassy, sassy stage persona to the local cabaret scene, so this is a welcome return. Ms. Simmons has a well-trained voice that can belt or purr as needed, so she’s equally at home up-tempo numbers and ballads. And she has some pretty impressive sidemen this time around, including Joe Dreyer, a guy with some solid cabaret credentials of his own. I know nothing about the Boom Boom Room, but I know plenty about Ms. Simmons and that's enough to recommend this show.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of November 23, 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+

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the acapella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays, November 27-December 20. “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.

Animals Out of
Paper

R-S Theatrics presents Animals Out of Paper Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m., through December 8 "When a reclusive origami artist opens her studio to a teenage prodigy and his eager high-school teacher, she discovers that life and love can't be arranged neatly in this drama about finding the perfect fold." Performances take place at The Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

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

The St. Louis Family Theatre Series presents Fly Guy and Other Stories Friday and Saturday, November 27, and 29, at 2 p.m. "A new musical revue based on favorite children's books. Book titles subject to change: Fly Guy Meets Fly Girl by Tedd Arnold, Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin, Fluffy the Classroom Guinea Pig by Kate McMullan, Horace and Morris But Mostly Dolores by James Howe, Kitten's First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes, Lilly's Big Day by Kevin Henkes and Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch." 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.

Jeremiah Clark

The Emerald Room Cabaret presents Jeremiah Clark on Friday and Saturday, November 27 and 28, at 7 p.m. " In a small town outside of Memphis, Tennessee, singer-songwriter Jeremiah Clark grew up on gospel, country and classic rock. His sound is organic, refreshing and vocally-driven, much like artists Jason Mraz, Kelly Clarkson and Dave Matthews, but with a country twist." The performances take place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis

Brass Rail Players present It's a Wonderful Life opening Saturday, November 28, with performances at 2 and 7:30 pm and running through November 30. " This radio play adaptation of Frank Capra's holiday favorite features a cast of old-timey radio actors reading the parts of multiple characters, and two sound-effects artists on stage!" The performances take place at The Turkey Hill Grange, 1375 Illinois Rte. 15 in Belleville, IL. For more information, visit brassrailplayers.org.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents The Naughty List November 20 - 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 8:00pm to 11:00pm" "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.

Christy Simmons

Topper Productions presents Christy Simmons in A Woman of a Certain Age on Sunday, November 29 at 3 p.m. "Christy Simmons takes to the stage at the beautiful Boom Boom Room, to explore the many contrasts between life as a twenty-something, and life as a well-beyond-twenty-something. Always funny and engaging, Christy tackles her subject matter with wit, honesty, a touch of wistfulness and romance, and an impressive variety of songs from The Great American Songbook. The song list ranges from Harold Arlen and Johhny Mercer, to Sondheim, and even Billy Joel. She is backed-up by some of St. Louis' premier musicians; Joe Dryer (Piano), Clancy Newell (Drums), and Dave Troncoso (Bass), to provide an afternoon of truly wonderful music, and story-telling." The performance takes place at The Boom Boom Room, 500 N. 14th St. downtown. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2461506.

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.