CCM Brings Greek Comedy and Tragedy Alive
Students’ production skills are highlighted during intermission, as the audience is invited to watch the transition from the bright and colorful Lysistrata set to war-torn destruction. A thunderous crack breaks the floor allowing the release of smoke and fog, adding to the feel of the smoldering and immediate Fall...
‘Lysistrata’ and ‘The Trojan Women’ at CCM: Two views of war
By Kathleen Lamorelle, LCT Lysistrata and The Trojan Women, adapted by Ellen Mclaughlin and directed by Brant Russell is now playing at University of Cincinnati’s College Conservatory of Music. The evening melds a satirical comedic with a contemplative tragedy under an umbrella of common themes: sex and gender, war...
Miami’s “These Shining Lives” Glows
Review by Liz Eichler Audiences may be surprised by a number of things in These Shining Lives by Melanie Marnich, playing now through October 2 at Miami University Theatre. For the college students, it may be the language of the late 1920’s and 30’s and the slang sprinkled throughout...
Radiant performances at Falcon’s “Marie Curie”
This is an uplifting, anthem to two extremely brilliant women who overcome the travails of their time. This is a good play, very well acted and Weil directed....
It’s a long but meaningful “journey” at Know
Review by Liz Eichler Do you have people you can trust? I mean, trust trust. How about a group who you can share your deepest insecurities? “It’s not a trip it’s a journey” is about four people who share and deepen friendships, though each has a rather major flaw...
A Tattoo With a Better Story: Healing Scars within the NKU musical “Violet”
This production is strong vocally, with well harmonized songs from the company like “On My Way” and “Bring Me To Light.” Not only did the ensemble delivering strong vocal performances, but the principles are also strong singers. ...
“it’s not a trip it’s a journey” Takes Us To More Places Than You’d Imagine
While the story is summarized as “a play about tumbleweed, friendship, being black, and needing to soothe something you don’t always have words for,” I daresay we can all relate to something we learn on this journey.
...
No Shrinking “Violet” at NKU
This passion-filled musical is a testament to overcoming our fears–whether imposed by society or ourselves, and that we will truly be able to live our best lives when we let go of the past. ...
Friendship Triumphs in Falcon Theatre’s “The Half Life of Marie Curie”
a must-see for those people in love with Laura Gunderson's work and wanting an authentic exploration of the love and regard between two women fighting against the forces of societal repression and chauvinism ...
I Am That Which Began: “The Half-Life of Marie Curie” electrifies at Falcon
This play is funny, teaches a lot of facts about both women and their accomplishments but also some history and cool scientific facts. ...
Review of “My Way: A Tribute to the Music of Frank Sinatra”
Review by Kathleen Lamorelle What a trip down Memory Lane! Cincinnati Landmark Productions’ presentation of My Way: A Tribute to the Music of Frank Sinatra, created by David Grapes and Todd Olson and arranged by Vince di Mura, is a chance to revisit the life and music of the...
Doing it “My Way” at Covedale
This is enjoyable evening for both long time Sinatra lovers or first-timers to the great songs of the middle 20th Century. ...
Riveting “Grounded” launches Human Race’s Season
The audience in the Loft are very literally in the cockpit, on dark desert roads and in the intimate spaces of a family in turmoil. The distance between audience and play has all but vanished....
Many A True Word Is Spoken in Cincy Shakes’ Season Opener “King Lear”
And what is there to say of Hopkins as the titular character? I’ll say it simply: it’s good to be king - and it’s even better when it’s Jim Hopkins. Bravo, Sir....
Cincy Shakes Opens Season with Compelling “King Lear”
Jim Hopkins as Lear commands the stage. He is physically a big man with a shock of white hair but it is his bluster, ranting, raving, and railing that dominates the space. Hopkins, essentially, plays multiple characters ranging from the narcissistic egomaniac at the start to the doddering fool...
Maggie Lou Rader Soars in Human Race’s “Grounded”
This story, told by a masterful actress, is definitely worth seeing by military personnel or civilians alike, if you have or have never thought about who flies a drone to deliver the Hellfire missiles, or if it is something that haunts you. ...
HAMILTON at Aronoff Provides Extra Bits of Magic
HAMILTON is undoubtedly a masterpiece. The fast paced score sweeps you away and the energy is undeniable. If you have seen it live, if you have seen it on TV, or even if you’ve never heard of it, you need to get into the room where it happens....
HAMILTON Storms the Stage at the Aronoff
This is Burr’s show this time. Understudy Bryson Bruce delivers powerfully from the first moment to the end. His electric current is transmitted into the audience and by “Rise Up” you know you’re seeing a star. ...
You’re Invited to the LCT Annual Meeting!
Mark your calendars for the LCT Annual Meeting on Monday September 12 from 6 to 7 pm, open to current organizational representatives and (for the first time) those interested in individual membership. The LCT Annual Meeting is for organizational representatives, individual artists, and Cincinnati theatre supporters. “We will be...
Know’s “Sunrise Coven” is Authentic and Witty
...the playwright balances tough issues with comedy well throughout the play...
August is Bustin’ Out All Over with Talent at Incline Theatre’s “Carousel”
All of the elements combine into an excellent production of this timeless show directed by Dee Anne Bryll....
Warsaw Federal Incline Theater Takes The Audience on a Ride with “Carousel”
Both the performers’ inherent vocal talent and Music Director Ryan Heinrich’s guidance provide the audience with some lovely renditions of songs many of us know such as “If I Loved You,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” and “June Is Bustin’ Out All Over.” ...
“George Remus” at Carnegie Shows Pride of Place
Since Remus lived in our backyard, you will recognize the references: Covington, Price Hill, the Tafts, the Cincinnati Enquirer, and more. ...
“George Remus, A New Musical” now at Carnegie
With "George Remus, A New Musical" the creators have set themselves up for success with a story of epic proportions that you don’t want to miss. ...
Cincinnati Theatre Royalty Light Up The Stage with “Ages of The Moon”
Even when the characters remain seated for a time as the conversation (and bourbon) flow, the veteran actors naturally keep the pacing strong ...
Know’s “Sunrise Coven”Strong Season Opener
It is here that we see some unpleasant truths in a world where doing our best to help might be choosing the lesser of two evils.
...
Emotional, Powerful “Bourbon at the Border”
"Bourbon at the Border" is a must see. ...
Putting Youth First, How American Legacy Theatre Is Working to Make Theatre Accessible for All
By Ariel Mary Ann This past Friday, I spent my afternoon attending the world premiere of The Mess created and presented by high school and middle school students at Hughes STEM High School in Clifton. This production was put on through American Legacy Theatre (ALT) as part of their...
Confronting our Own Phases in “Ages of the Moon” Now at Liberty Exhibition Hall
By Liz Eichler– Sam Shepherd’s “Ages of the Moon” depicts two men wrestling with their past. Literally. Well, the wrestling bit at least. Clifton Players at Liberty Exhibition Hall, Cincinnati Artists Theatre and Creative Asylum are all behind this engaging 1-hour presentation, now through August 27. The play is...
The Falcon Explores a Shattering Black American Experience in “Bourbon at the Border”
The actors and director Piper Davis have crafted an excellent show which stays with you long after leaving the theater....
One Big “Cast Party for All” to Connect and Reconnect Theatre People
Because so many cast parties were cancelled due to the pandemic, the League of Cincinnati Theatres is hosting one big “Cast Party for All” to gather theatre lovers, makers and friends on Monday, July 25 at The Carnegie in Covington, Kentucky. All are invited 7-9:30 pm for Happy Hour...
Broadway in Cincinnati’s “The Band’s Visit” Full of Heart
“The Band’s Visit” is thought-provoking, sweet, and filled with heart...
Broadway in Cincinnati’s “The Band’s Visit” Definitely Worth the Trip
“The Band’s Visit” is a subtle, slice-of-life musical that appreciates the ordinary and makes for a thought-provoking evening of theater....
RENT is Intense, Superb at the Carnegie
The cast and production values are superb....
Raging, Shifting Winds of Change: The Carnegie’s RENT is Extraordinary
The Carnegie’s Rent is THE summer show to see – raw, relentless, mesmerizing, cathartic and glorious; just as it had felt in 1996. ...
Carnegie’s RENT Powerfully Reminds Us There’s “No Day But Today”
In every essence of the word, my experience was transformational, it was spiritual, and it was simply liberating....
Revue: Jerry Herman’s Music at the Incline
Review by Doug Iden Featuring “hummable” tunes and witty, conversational lyrics, the music of Broadway composer/lyricist Jerry Herman is highlighted in Jerry’s Girls playing now at the Incline Theater. The Golden Age of Broadway melded veterans such as Richard Rodgers, Cole Porter and Irving Berlin with a crop of...
Venture ‘Into the Woods’ at the Carnegie
this is an excellent show done with exuberance by a highly talented and animated cast...
“My 80-Year-Old Boyfriend” at Human Race is a MUST SEE for All Ages
This a must-see new musical--next stop NYC...
Human Race’s “My 80-Year Old Boyfriend” is THE Show of the Summer
The music, lyrics and storyline are so uniquely compelling and powerful it’s hard to believe that this show is not already a Broadway hit. (It is heading to NYC next!)...
Fringe ‘22 Final Weekend and Review: Rosegold
"Rosegold" is highly recommended and highly effective...
FRINGE ’22 REVIEWS: Be My Thief, The Sex Life of Butterflies, Take a Chance with Toybox
Staying home tonight?
Catch DIGITAL FRINGE "Take a Chance with Toybox" or streaming "The Definition Association"...
FRINGE ’22 REVIEWS: Destiny, USA, Sally Salem, ExperiMENTAL
So many great shows with different viewing experiences...
Ariel’s Fringe ’22 Reviews: Week 1
Here’s a list of some of my favorites from the first week of the Fringe: ...
Kate’s Fringe ’22 Reviews: Silver Hammer, Wuthering, and Texas Annie
By Kate Mock Elliot, Guest Reviewer – Silver Hammer a SPECIAL EVENT SHOW by Nick Ryan This is a debut solo performance from Nick Ryan, who many audiences may know from past Cincinnati Fringe appearances as part of The Coldhearts. Silver Hammer continues the Coldheart tradition of dark, eerie stories as...
FRINGE 2022 DAY 5: MeSSeS and Wuthering
"Wuthering" has some legs and I would love to see where it can go. ...
FRINGE 2022 – DAY 4
By Liz Eichler – “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these Fringers from the completion of their appointed rounds.” Fringe is rain or shine, Cincinnati! The Outdoor Stage moved indoors last night, but the rain did not detract from the shenanigans of loyal Fringers. ...
FRINGE 2022 DAY 3
Day 3...
FRINGE ‘22 DAY 2:
By Liz Eichler – Saturday was a great day to Fringe and Sunday also proved exciting. The weekend featured great performances, super creativity, and live connections with theatre makers and supporters. There is such love and respect in these audiences, y’all. Cincinnati Fringe Festival runs through June 18 and...
FRINGE ’22 DAY 1: June 4
By Liz Eichler – Woohoo! Fringe is back! This two-week Festival of creativity, storytelling and connection of various Cincinnati arts communities has returned–LIVE! The one thing you can guarantee at the Fringe, is that you will be moved in some way. Moved by witnessing creativity, by witnessing risk taking,...
LCT is Changing to Serve You Better!
As Cincinnati grows, the arts community is growing! LCT is evolving to include individual artists, creators, and supporters (as well as our beloved theatre institutions). But the question is–what does the community want? More classes? A directory? Fellowship? Please take this SURVEY to tell us about yourself and what...
Proud and Defiant: Incline’s “Newsies” Soars
Review by David Brush – Disney’s 1992 film Newsies was not an initial hit. Who knows why? Legions of fans felt its true life was always on the stage. Twenty years later, after some re-working with a truly remarkable new book by Harvey Fierstein, Disney’s Newsies found its life...
What’s New(sies) at the Incline?
This is one of the best productions I have seen at the Incline...
“Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird'” Brilliant Retelling at Aronoff
With their innocence and curiosity, the play’s young narrators relate to the audience the on-stage action and contemplations. They verbalize our thoughts and ask our questions....
Do Not Miss Highly Relevant “To Kill a Mockingbird”
From the accusation to the betrayal of justice to the vehement regurgitation of generations of hate, it feels like modern day America is not far off from Maycomb....
“Pride and Prejudice” Fresh and Updated at CSC
Mr. Darcy remains as one of the most beloved romantic heroes in literature of all time. When he finally wins over the heart of the stubborn and spirited Lizzy, the audience at CincyShakes collectively swoons. ...
“Please. Anything but Formal”: An Inside Look at International Diplomacy in Falcon Theatre’s “A Walk in the Woods”
I left the theatre feeling as though there was the possibility of hope in the world, even amongst all the craziness and disappointments life throws at us. This is a good thing and sorely needed....
Funny, Moving, Modern “Pride and Prejudice” at CSC
This is a production to love–modern, accessible, and moving, and highly recommended for audiences of all ages. ...
Falcon Theatre’s War of Words While Walking in the Woods
Director Ted Weil and the actors have created an intriguing and provocative production complete with very thought-provoking ideas. It’s the type of play that stays with you after leaving the theater. ...
Cincinnati Landmark Productions has a Great “Comedy Tonight” at the Incline
Director Bob Brunner elevates this production through numerous additional bits that leave the audience howling. Music Director Michael Kennedy harnesses a cast of powerhouse voices while maintaining the comedy... ...
CCM’s “The Burials” is a gripping, touching, and immersive new theater experience
Hunter Trammell’s Ben, whose face is a shattered mask of anguish and vacancy, is both endearing and frightening - everything anyone says about a school shooter after he’s committed his heinous act. You really do want to know what’s going on in his head as he stares into the...
Funny “Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” at Incline
a well-oiled, brilliant comic machinery on stage with all its components working together beautifully to create a laugh-riot for over two hours...
You’ll be “Head Over Heels” for Miami University’s The Go-Go’s Musical
At a basic level, this is the love story of three very different couples. On a deeper level, the play explores issues of queerness, gender, acceptance, authenticity, and being true to oneself. ...
“Head Over Heels” the Go-Go’s/Elizabethan Musical Mashup Entertains at Miami
Directed by the dynamic duo of Lindsey Augusta Mercer and Music Director Erin McCamley, they move the story along with joy, killer voices, strong dancers, and attitude....
“Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help” Shines at the Human Race Theatre Company
The week-long saga of the Catholic O’Shea’s is narrated by eldest daughter Linda (the always remarkable Cecily Dowd). The 4th wall isn’t just broken – it is shattered as every family member has a slightly different version of the events of that week in 1973. ...
Jokes, Drama, Insight: Know Theatre’s “The Twunny Fo’” Has It All
Starring and written by Cincinnati-based playwright A.J. Baldwin, “The Twunny Fo’” is bright and vibrant. Packed with snappy banter and welcome wisdom, Baldwin’s dialogue leaps off the page, exploring themes of race, gender inequality, community, privilege, and class. ...
A.J. Baldwin’s “The Twunny Fo'” is a Must See at Know
Baldwin writes a powerful and deeply moving script challenging the consciousness of America. By juxtaposing Tyra’s goals of wanting more out of life with Rissa wanting to stay in their neighborhood, Baldwin expertly explores themes of classism, internalized anti-Blackness, gentrification, and the struggle of being a Black woman in...
“Incident at OLPH” is Hilarious, Warm and Modern Storytelling
It is not so much a Catholic comedy as a FAMILY comedy, and you will relate to the dilemmas no matter what your age or religion....
NKU YES Fest: “New Year’s Eve at the Stop-N-Go”
The setting is December 31, 1999, when Y2K was on everyone’s mind and conspiracy theories about the end of the world abounded....
NKU YES Fest: “Falstaff and the Endless Machine”
...the play is thought provoking, often funny, sometimes sad and at the end quite frightening. Definitely it is engrossing....
CSC’s “Comedy of Errors” Hits the Jackpot
Review by Liz Eichler Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Comedy of Errors is a non-stop flight to classic Vegas where you’ll enjoy almost non-stop belly laughs as this hilarious mashup hits the jackpot. Comedy of Errors is a story about two sets of twins, masters and their servants, separated as infants,...
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s “The Comedy of Errors” is a Doppelganger-filled Delight
The modern twist on the classic Shakespearian production is delightful and the perfect blend of old and new. ...
Glamorous Must-See Production of “The Wiz Jr.” by Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati
Brandi Langford Sherrill’s (Dorothy) powerful voice carried throughout the Taft Theater and brought audience members to their feet with applause....
NKU YES Fest: “Keeper of the Realm” at The Carnegie is a Love Letter to Cincinnati
Review by Swapna Mirashi ‘Keeper of the Realm’ at The Carnegie is a love letter to Cincinnati. The new play, written by Cincinnati playwright D. Lynn Meyers and directed by Brian Robertson, is set in the city’s West Side. It is also a first-of-its-kind regional collaboration and it kicks-off...
‘Silent Sky’ at Falcon Theatre Inspiring
Falcon’s production of this delightful play, directed by Bridget Leak, is intimate and simple. It invites you into the story and keeps you there...
Covedale’s “On The Town” is a Night Well-Spent
The entire cast is vivacious and tireless...
Madcap’s ‘Story Quest’ is an Engaging Treat for Families
One is transformed into another world through the puppets...There is giggling galore when the audience meets the Screaming Hag and the Burping, Belching Hag...It is amazing looking at the audience and seeing everyone thoroughly entranced by the puppets....
A Fabulous “On the Town” now at Covedale Theatre
Review by Doug Iden Cincinnati’s Covedale Theater is challenging itself in its final season production with a riotous, dance-filled homage to New York City. Based upon the ballet Fancy Free originally choreographed by Jerome Robbins of West Side Story fame, On the Town follows three sailors on a 24-hour...
I “Ain’t Too Proud” to Sing and Dance in My Seat to Celebrate the Temptations
Traveling Broadway show is a classic reminder that despite life’s troubles, the music and nostalgia it brings, remains forever....
Broadway in Cincinnati’s “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations” is Slick and Soulful
Director Des McAnuff has created a show immensely centered on the audience experience..."Ain’t Too Proud" is fast, fun, and occasionally heartbreaking...
Rising Out of the Ashes–CCM Transmigration 2022
Each year, the entire CCM Acting community would break up into six teams with each team creating a new thirty-minute play based on any topic of their choosing.
The result marries the make-shift mentality of Fringe Festivals to the aesthetic of a mad theatre scientist experimenting with primal forces. ...
A roasting and a rousing good time at The Thanksgiving Play
High school theatre teacher Logan wins a grant to create the annual Thanksgiving play. She and her boyfriend and fellow actor Jaxton struggle to devise a politically correct Thanksgiving play for the school’s juvenile audience. They’re joined by history teacher, Caden, who dreams of being a playwright, and LA-based...
Funny, Thought Provoking and Intense: Review of Know Theater’s “Harpers Ferry 2019”
Dang, Fisher, and Richmond’s acting keeps the audience enthralled throughout the 100 minute play. ...