Showing posts with label Theatre Calendars. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Theatre Calendars. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 05, 2017
2018 Winter/Spring CLE-area Theater Calendar
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Friday, August 04, 2017
2017 Fall Cleveland Theater Calendar
Here’s a list of some of the offerings of local theatres through the fall season (September-December, 2017).
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL THEATERS!
You can track my reviews on http://www.royberko.info/, or contact me to get on my direct review list. You can see a synopsis of the local reviewers’ comments about the plays at http://www.clevelandtheaterreviews.com/
BECK CENTER 216-521-2540 or http://www.beckcenter.org 8 p.m. evenings, 3 p.m. matinees
September 15 – October 8
ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST--“Crazy” McMurphy, a charming rogue, is placed in a ward at a mental institution ruled by the terrible Nurse Ratched. It’s a battle of wills!
October 6 – November 5
WAITING FOR GODOT—Beckett’s Existential epic “mystery wrapped in an enigma” which examines the hopeless destiny of the human race. Especially significant in this “reign of Trump.”
December 1 – December 31
Disney’s THE LITTLE MERMAID—A return visit of the 2016 award winning production tells the timeless fairy tale of Ariel, a mermaid princess, as she dreams of the forbidden land above.
BLANK CANVAS 440-941-0458 or http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com/
Thursday, Friday and Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 7 pm
October 6-28
THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW—The 1950s science fiction rock musical in which Brad and Janet run into car trouble, go to a creepy castle for some help and find Dr. Frank N. Furter. (Contains adult language and content.)
December 1-16
URINETOWN THE MUSICAL—In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage causes the government to enforce a ban on private toilets. Watch in delight as this musical satire exposes social irresponsibility, bureaucracy, corporate mismanagement and capitalism at its worst.
CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE 216-241-6000 or go to http://www.playhousesquare.org
7:30 PM Wednesday-Saturday, 2:30 PM Saturday and Sunday
September 9-October 1
SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE—The Academy Award-winning romantic comedy comes to the stage, complete with sword fights, secret trysts, and backstage drama.
October 21-November 19
THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK—Anne’s compelling words come alive and urge viewers to stand up for one another in the face of intolerance, fear, and hate.
November 24-December 23
A CHRISTMAS STORY—Yes, it’s back again…one boy, one holiday wish, The Old Man, Santa at Higbee’s Department Store and the glowing-leg-lamp. A play for the whole family.
CLEVELAND PUBLIC THEATRE 216-631-2727 or go on line to http://www.cptonline.org/
September 9
PANDEMONIUM 2017: UNLEASH—CPT’S annual fundraiser transforms the CPT campus into a labyrinth of theatre, dance visual and performance art on every corner.
October 5-7 & 12 (previews), October 13-28 (official run)
THE FAMILY CLAXON—World Premiere of Cleveland Heights award winning writer Eric Coble’s tale of Andrew Claxon who wants to help Grandad Claxon celebrate his birthday but chaos reigns all around the town.
October 5-7
TEATRO PUBLICO NEW PLAY FESTIVAL---A workshop series of new scripts and scenes created by local Latino artists.
October 26-28 & November 2 (previews), November 3-18 (official run)
THE ART OF LONGING--World premiere of Lisa Lanford’s play that follows the lives of six “third-shift” people who are awake when the rest of the city sleeps.
November 2-5—Y-HAVEN THEATRE PROJECT—An original theater production by the members of Y-Haven, a homeless men’s facility, centering on their life stories.
November 24-26 & 30 (previews), December 1-17 (official run)—
THE LOUSH SISTERS GET HARD FOR THE HOLIDAYS (YIPPIE-KAI-YAY MOTHER LOUSHERS)-- Holly and Jolly Loush return to CPT in this world premiere of a bawdy, boozy, over-the-top holiday cabaret in which they battle villains and attempt to avert disaster.
convergence continuum convergence-continiuum.org or 216-687-0074 Thursday-Saturday @ 8
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August 25-September 16
RHINOCEROS—Ionesco’s Theatre of the Absurd play which places a spotlight on history possibly being replayed by the Trump presidency.
September 28-30
SPARED—A man and two women meet after attending
a funeral, a time when so much needs to be articulated and understood. And yet,
somehow, they cannot bridge the gulf of self-consciousness that separates them.
October 13-November 4
IN THE CLOSET—Sigmund Fuch’s tale find’s four men trying to
confront each of his own humorous, awkward or heart breaking reason for being himself.
November 16-18
CAMP BEACOUP CONGA—World premiere of a play by Clevelander
Jonathan Wilhelm.
December 1-16
THE CHASTE GENIUS AND HIS DEATHRAY GUN—a world premiere of
Chirstopher Johnston’s tale of strange freaky inventor Nikola Tesla.
DOBAMA 216-932-3396 or http://www.dobama.org
check the theatre’s blog for performance times
September 1-24
BROWNSVILLE SONG (B-SIDE FOR TRAY)—The Cleveland premiere of Kimber Lee’s story of the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn where life is often tragically cut short.
October 13-November 12
MARJORIE PRIME—Stars Cleveland legend Dorothy Silver as an 85-year-old woman with a handsome new companion which explores what it means to be human in the digital age.
December 1-30
SHERLOCK HOLMES: THE BAKER STREET IRREGULARS—It’s December on the streets of London, Sherlock Holmes is missing, and a young girl’s grandfather has been abducted. Who will save the day? The game’s afoot.
ENSEMBLE THEATRE 216-321-2930 or http://www.ensemble-theatre.com
Fridays and Saturdays @ 8, Sundays @ 2
September 29-October 22
WELL—Lisa Kron, the Oberlin grad who wrote the book and lyrics for the award-winning FUN HOME, writes about a mother who has the extraordinary ability to heal a changing neighborhood despite her inability to heal herself.
November 17-December 10
THE HAIRY APE—Eugene O’Neill’s epic expressionist play about a brutish, unthinking laborer who searches for a sense of belonging in a world controlled by the rich.
December 1-17
THE LITTLE PRINCE—A play with music tells the tale of a world-weary and disenchanted Aviator whose sputtering plane strands him in the Sahara Desert and his meeting a mysterious “little man.”
GREAT LAKES THEATER http://www.greatlakestheater.org or 216-241-6000 Wednesday-Saturday @ 7:30, Saturdays @ 1:30, Sundays @ 3
September 29-November 4
THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME (A SOARING MUSICAL EPIC)—Victoria Bussert directs the Alan Menken, Stephen Schwartz, Peter Parnell musical tale of Quasimodo, a deformed bell-ringer, who becomes an unlikely hero.
October 6-November 5
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM—Shakespeare’s comic tale of madness, mistaken identity, mismatched lovers and mischief-making fairies.
November 25-December 23
A CHRISTMAS CAROL—Dickens’ classic tale of one man’s ultimate redemption.
INTERPLAY JEWISH THEATER http://interplayjewishtheatre or 216-393-PLAY
Play readings at Dobama are free, but reservations are required.
November 18
Special event—details to be announced!
KARAMU HOUSE 216-795-707) or www.karamuhouse.org
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Check the theater’s website for exact times and dates
September
SIMPLY SIMONE: THE MUSIC OF NINA SIMONE—a musical chronicling the life and career of the songstress.
October-November
THE LAKE EFFECT—Cleveland Heights native Rajiv Joseph’s tale about estranged siblings who reunite at their father’s restaurant in an evening of memories and family secrets. (Produced in collaboration with Ensemble Theatre.)
December
TBA--An original world premiere of a jazz review featuring holiday classics from Cole Porter to Gershwin.
LAKELAND CIVIC THEATRE 440-525-7134 or http://lakelandcc.edu/academic/arts/theatre/index.asp
Productions are staged at Lakeland Community College October 11 & 12 @ noon, October 13 & 14 @ 7:30 PM
A GUIDE’S GUIDE TO LAWNFIELD—Local playwright Faye Sholiton’s play about an 18-year old history geek and unabashed fan of James A. Garfield. While leading a tour of the late president's Mentor home, he encounters a visitor who is particularly adamant that he gets the story right.
NEAR WEST THEATRE 216-961-6391 or nearwestheatre.org
September 22-October 1
XANADU (Youth Production, ages 9-15)-- a musical comedy based on the 1980 cult classic film of the same name
November 17-December 10
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Intergenerational Production (Ages 7 and up)—A musical based on the Disney film of the same name which tells the story of a cold-hearted prince who has been transformed into a creature as punishment for his selfish ways. To revert into his human form, he must earn the love of a beautiful young lady.
none-too-fragile theatre 330-671-4563 or http://www.nonetoofragile.com
September15-30
LAST OF THE BOYS—Steven Dietz’s serio-comedy about a Vietnam vet which examines identities and memoires of the past.
October 27-November 11
A STEADY RAIN— With a plot similar to a real-life event that involved Jeffrey Dahmer, it focuses on two Chicago policemen who inadvertently return a Vietnamese boy to a cannibalistic serial killer who claims to be the child's uncle.
OHIO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL www.ohioshakespearefestival.com (Winter and Spring Home: Greystone Hall, Akron)
103 S. High Street, Akron 44308
September 22-October 8
THREE MUSKETEERS: AN ADVENTURE WITH MUSIC—An OSF Family Theatre production of Alexander Dumas's classic tale of friendship, daring, romance, and intrigue...with music! Curtain—7 PM-Thursday-Saturday and 2 PM on Sunday.
December 1-17
CAMELOT—Lerner and Loewe’s “one brief shining moment” musical tells the legend of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot and the Knights of the Round Table. Thursday-Saturday @ 8, Sunday @ 2.
PLAYHOUSESQUARE 216-241-6000 or go to www.playhousesquare.org
See the website for dates and times
September 12-17
THE BOOK OF MORMON—The award winning outrageous musical comedy which follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of Mormon missionaries sent halfway across the world to spread the “Good Word.”
September 29-30
MARTIN LUTHER ON TRIAL—A new original play about Martin Luther on Trial. A trial in the afterlife, and the prosecutor is the Devil.
October 17-November 5
WAITRESS—This ground-breaking show, with an all-female creative team, with music and lyrics by 5-time Grammy nominee Sara Bareilles, is an empowering musical about a woman whose dreams come true. (The national tour will be rehearsed and start in CLE.)—Key Bank Broadway Series.
November 8-December 3
WICKED—a return visit of the Broadway sensation that looks at what happened in the Land of Oz long before Dorothy arrives. Key Bank Broadway Series.
December 5-23
ON YOUR FEET! —Emilio and Gloria Estefan’s musical story of their breaking barriers to become crossover sensations at the very top of the pop music world. Key Bank Broadway Series.
THE MUSICAL THEATER PROJECT http://www.MusicalTheaterProject.org or 216-529-9411 for tickets and information
(productions staged in review format with narration)
October 14 @ 7 PM-Stocker Center, Lorain County Community College,
October 15-3 PM-Ohio Theatre, Playhouse Square
OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL MORNIN’: THE IMPACT OF OKLAHOMA! —75 years after its
Broadway premiere the first truly book musical reaffirms the strength of our national character. Featuring Bill Rudman, Nancy Maier, Ursula Cataan, Lindsey Sandham Leonard, Joe Monaghan, Shane Patrick O’Neill and Fabio Polanco.
December 15—8 PM, December 16—2 PM—Stocker Center, Lorain County Community College
December 17 and 18—7 PM—Night town Restaurant, Cleveland Heights
A CHRISTMAS CABARET—Several dozen songs about the holidays which will please the entire family. Featuring Nancy Maier, Joe Monaghan, Bill Rudman and Sandra Simon.
Tuesday, August 02, 2016
2016 Fall Cleveland Theater Calendar
Soon, the leaves will start to turn and many local theatres will be lifting their curtains to welcome a new season. Here’s a list of some of the offerings of local theatres through the fall season. SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL THEATRES!
You can track my reviews on http://www.royberko.info, or contact me to get on my direct review list. You can see a synopsis of the local reviewers’ comments about the plays at http://www.clevelandtheaterreviews.com
BECK CENTER 216-521-2540 or http://www.beckcenter.org
8 p.m. evenings, 3 p.m. matinees
RUTHLESS!, September 16-October 16-- Ruthless! is a campy cult favorite musical about Tina Denmark, the greatest song-and-dance sensation to ever hit the third grade.
BODY AWARENESS, October 7-November 6--It's "Body Awareness" week on campus and Phyllis, the organizer, and her partner, Joyce, are hosting a guest artist in their home. Their family is quickly divided as Frank, a photographer famous for his female nude portraits, settles in.
Disney’s THE LITTLE MERMAID—December 2-31-- Based on the classic fairy tale and film, the musical begins under the sea where Princess Ariel is fascinated by the forbidden land above. After saving Eric from stormy waters, she begins to discover her love for the human prince.
BLANK CANVAS 440-941-0458 or http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com
2016 BENEFIT—September 3—A concert dedicated to raising money for the theater. Hors d’oevres and music from 7-7:50 PM, followed by an 8:00 PM performance by some of Cleveland’s most talented actor-singers! Limited seating!
SILENCE! THE MUSICAL—October 21-November 5—A parody of The Silence of the Lambs which has been called, “irreverent, filthy and funny.” Of course, this show contains adult language and content.
CABARET—December 2-17—Yes, the Kander and Ebb, “Maybe This Time,” musical where your table, Sally Bowles and the Emcee are waiting.
CESEAR’S FORUM
216-241-6000 or go to http://www.playhousesquare.org
TAKE 5—September 23-October 29—Kennedy’s Theatre (entrance off the lobby of the Ohio Theatre)—An evening of five short plays by Lanford Wilson about the concerns of black Americans.
CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE 216-241-6000 or go to http://www.clevelandplayhouse.com
7:30 Wednesday-Saturday, 2:30 Saturday and Sunday
ALL THE WAY—September 17-October 9 (Allen Theatre)—A Tony-Award winning drama that is a mirror of our time, the play reflects the power of one person and one vote to transform our country.
SEX WITH STRANGERS—October 22-November 13 (Outcalt Theatre)—Takes on the ever-blurring line between public and private in our digital age as a steamy romance erupts at a remote B&B.
A CHRISTMAS STORY—November 25-December 23 (Allen Theatre)—It’s back yet again-- Ralphie, Randy, the Old Man, the triple-dog-dare, the glowing leg-lamp, the pink-bunny suit, and the bee-bee gun!
CLEVELAND PUBLIC THEATRE 216-631-2727 or go on line to http://www.cptonline.org
44 PLAYS FOR 44 PRESIDENTS—October 6-29—Showcases the life and times of the 44 Presidents of the United States, featuring singing, dancing and an all-female cast!
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CERLEBRANDO THREE YEARS—October 6-8—The world premiere of an
original work and community event as presented by Teatro Publico de Cleveland.
Y-HAVEN THEATRE PROJECT—November 3-6—An original theatre project performed by the men in the Y-Haven traditional housing facility for homeless men recovering from substance abuse and mental health challenges.
LIGHT THE LIGHTS, OL’ MOSES CLE! (A WILD HOLIDAY ROMP)—November 25-December 18—A vaudeville-inspired evening of holiday folly, mischief and merry-making, CPT style.
THE SANTALAND DIARIES-- December 1-18--(Outcalt Theatre at PlayhouseSquare)—A joint CPT-PHSq production of David Sedaris’ story of Crumpet, a jaded and out-of-work actor who takes a job as a Macy’s Christmas Elf!
convergence continuum
convergence-continiuum.org or 216-687-0074
Thursday-Saturday @ 8
SELFIES AT THE CLOWN MOTEL—August 26-September 17—The world premiere of Chris Johnson’s play.
LIKE I SAY—October 14-November 5—A structurally bizarre play of stories within stories, weird puppet shows, and an Alpine zombie.
THE KNIFE IS MONEY, THE FORK IS LOVE—December 2-17—Jonathan Wilhelm’s world premiere comedy about Tobias, a young man enamored by radio serials and pulp fiction, who is on a search for the members of a secret society.
DOBAMA 216-932-3396 or http://www.dobama.org
check the theatre’s blog for performance times
THE MYSTERY OF LOVE & SEX—September 2-October 2—The Midwest premiere of Bathsheba Doran’s tale about Charlotte and Jonny, life-long friends…she’s white and Jewish, he’s Christian and black.
AN OCTOROON—October 21-November 13—The Obie Award winner for best New American Play explores the 1859 plantation relationship between a handsome white man and a beautiful octoroon.
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER—December 2-30—A return engagement of last year’s critically well-received Peter Pan prequel.
ENSEMBLE THEATRE 216-321-2930 or http://www.ensemble-theatre.com
Fridays and Saturdays @ 8, Sundays @ 2
MARGIN OF ERROR (or the Unassailable wisdom of the Mouse and the Scorpion)—September 30-October 23—The regional premiere of Cleveland Heights’ playwright Eric Coble’s tale of Harold Carver, the greatest political strategist the nation has ever known and the night he is stuck at Gate C19 at Cleveland Hopkins Airport amidst four possibly doomed campaigns.
THE BLOODLESS JUNGLE—September 15-October 2 (with a possible week extension)—Terrance Spivey directs former Cuyahoga County Commissioner Peter Lawson Jones’ script about a state senator and rising political star who is running for a pivotal seat in Congress.
THE NIGHT THOREAU SPENT IN JAIL—November 18--December 11—Clevelander Jerome Lawrence and Elyrian Robert E. Lee, authors of INHERIT THE WIND and AUNTIE MAME, tell the tale of Thoreau being jailed for refusing to pay taxes as a protest against a war of aggression in Mexico, his relationship with Emerson, and his romance and friendship with an illiterate cellmate.
GREAT LAKES THEATER
http://www.greatlakestheater.org or 216-241-6000
Wednesday-Saturday @ 7:30, Saturdays @ 1:30, Sundays @ 3
MY FAIR LADY—September 23-October 29 (Hanna Theatre)—The Tony Award-winning Lerner and Loewe musical, based on George Bernard Shaw’s PYGMALION, about the relationship between a linguistics professor and a Cockney flower girl. Songs include: “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” and “The Rain in Spain.”
TWELFTH NIGHT—September 30-October 30 (Hanna Theatre)—Shakespeare’s bewitching comedy about a violent shipwreck off the coast of Illyria, an exotic island, which is turned topsy-turvy by love, false identities and misguided lovers.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL—November 26-December 23 (Ohio Theatre)—It’s back again! The Dickens’ “bah,” “humbug,” classic tale of Tiny Tim, Scrooge and the true meaning of Christmas.
INTERPLAY JEWISH THEATRE
%Dobama Theatre, 2340 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights
interplayjewishtheatre@gmail.com or 216-393-PLAY
(Play readings at Dobama are free, but reservations are required. Presentations at the Maltz Museum are fee based)
U.S. V HOWARD MECHANIC—September 18—(Dobama Theatre, 1430 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights)—A staged reading of Faye Sholiton’s play about Shaker native, Howard Mechanic, who was falsely arrested on charges that turned him into a fugitive for 30 years.
KARAMU HOUSE
216-795-707) or www.karamuhouse.org
BLUES IN THE NIGHT—September 9-October 2—Sheldon Epps’ Tony nominated compilation of 26 hot and torchy blues tunes is a musical commentary on three women’s relationships with one snake of a guy.
RASHEEDA SPEAKING—November 4-20—A dark comedy of the realities of what happens when two co-workers, one black, the other white, are driven apart by the machinations of their boss.
SISTER ACT—December 2-30—A musical which relates what happens when a lounge singer witnesses her boy friend commit murder and she is relocated to a convent to the frustration of the Mother Superior and the delight of the audience.
LAKELAND CIVIC THEATRE
440-525-7134 or http://lakelandcc.edu/academic/arts/theatre/index.asp
THE LAST FIVE YEARS—September 16-October 2— Told almost completely through song, this Jason Robert Brown’s Drama Desk Award-winning musical, is an unconventional glance into love-and-life-compartmentalized.
none-too-fragile theatre
330-671-4563 or http://www.nonetoofragile.com
THE WHIPPING MAN—September 23-October 8—The Civil War is over and throughout the South soldiers are returning home. Caleb DeLeon, a young Jewish Confederate officer finds his family's home in ruins and abandoned, save for two former slaves who wait for the family's return.
ANNAPURNA—November 4-November 19—A dark comedy that examines what happens when two damaged people get caught in the emotional whirlpool of not being able to live with or without each other.
PLAYHOUSESQUARE 216-241-6000 or go to www.playhousesquare.org.
See the website for specific dates and times
JERSEY BOYS—September 20-25 (State Theatre)—The musical tale of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. Hear “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Oh What a Night,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.”
FUN HOME—October 2-22 (Connor Palace)—Cleveland is the launch-point for the national tour of the 2015 Tony Award winner for Best Musical. Based on Alison Bechdel’s graphic memoir, written while she was a student at Oberlin College, we see her at three different ages as she explores her own lesbianism and her father’s homosexuality. (Part of the Key Bank Series)
FINDING NEVERLAND—November 1-20 (Connor Palace)—A prequel which tells the story behind J. M. Barrie’s meeting four young brothers and their mother, which gives birth to the make believe adventures of Peter Pan. (Part of the Key Bank Series)
AVENUE Q—October 27-November 6 (Allen Theatre)—Cleveland State University stages Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx’s musical tale of Princeton, who moves into a shabby New York apartment and discovers a neighborhood filled with unique characters.
DR. SUESS’S HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS: THE MUSICAL—December 6-11 (Connor Palace)—Visit the whimsical world of Whoville to learn the true meaning of the holiday season.
THE MUSICAL THEATER PROJECT
http://www.MusicalTheaterProject.org or 216-529-9411 for tickets and information
(productions staged in review format with narration)
THE CRADLE WILL ROCK—September 21 (@ 7:30, Beck Center for the Arts) and September 25 (@ 2 PM, Kent State’s E. Turner Stump Theatre)—Marc Blitzstein’s pro-union musical gets a staged reading directed by Terri Kent featuring Joe Monaghan and members of the Kent State University Musical Theatre program.
CURTAIN UP AT THE COTTON CLUB—October 15 (@ 3 PM, Lakeland Community College) and October 16 (@ 2PM, Stocker Center, Lorain County Community College)—The multi-media concert, which played to sold-out performances last year, is back by popular demand. Featuring the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, the Joe Hunter Trio, John Morton, Treva Offutt and Evelyn Wright.
ALMOST LIKE BEING IN LOVE: THE SONGS OF LERNER AND LOEWE—November 20 (@ 2 PM, Hanna Theatre, PlayhouseSquare)—The remarkable music of two men who saw the world in the same way and told the tales of the perfect time, perfect place and perfect love story in MY FAIR LADY, CAMELOT, BRIGADOON and GIGI.
Saturday, August 08, 2015
2015 Fall Cleveland Theater Calendar
Though the weather is still warm, soon the leaves will be turning and the Fall 2015 theatre season will be upon us. Here’s a list of some of the offerings from September through December.
You can track my reviews on http://www.royberko.info, or contact me to get on my direct review list. You can see a synopsis of the local reviewers’ capsule comments about the plays they see at http://www.clevelandtheaterreviews.com
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL THEATRES!
ACTOR’S SUMMIT
330-374-7568 or go to www.actorssummit.org
Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 PM and Sundays @ 2 PM
QUILTERS (Oct. 8-Nov. 1, 2015)—A play with music, in which frontier women share their love, warmth, and lively humor while facing a life of adversity.
GUYS ON ICE (Nov. 25-Dec. 22, 2015)—Lloyd and Marvin brave the cold as they dream about catching the big one, while enjoying the pleasure of a fishing-pole and a warm snowmobile suit.
BECK CENTER 216-521-2540 or http://www.beckcenter.org
8 p.m. evenings, 3 p.m. matinees
SPITFIRE GRILL (Sept. 18-October 18, 2015)—A play with music and lyrics about a feisty parolee Percy Talbott, as she takes a job at Hannah’s Spitfire Grill in rural Wisconsin with startling results.
MOTHERS AND SONS (Oct. 9-Nov. 15, 2015)—Terrence McNally’s play about what happens when a mother, whose son has died of AIDS, visits the home of her son’s ex-partner and is forced to come to terms with the life her son might have lived.
MARY POPPINS (Dec. 4, 2015-Jan 3, 2016)—An encore production of the local and Broadway award winning show that broke all Beck Center box office records last year. Again starring Rebecca Pitcher, with choreography by Martin Céspedes.
BLANK CANVAS 440-941-0458 or http://www.blankcanvastheatre.com
BAT BOY THE MUSICAL (October 16-31, 2015)—A horror spook satire musical of a half boy/half bat discovered in a cave near fictional Hope Falls, Virginia, who is taught the “civilized” ways of society with disastrous results.
REEFER MADNESS (December 4-19, 2015)—a raucous musical comedy which takes a tongue-in-cheek look at the hysteria caused when clean-cut kids fall prey to marijuana, with the resulting outcome of listening to evil jazz music, and partaking in sex and violence.
CESAR’S FORUM
Kennedy’s Theatre (entrance in the Ohio Theatre lobby)
216-241-6000 or go to http://www.playhousesquare.org
THE INVESTIGATION (Oct 16-Nov 14, 2015)—A documentary drama based on the verbatim testimonies from the Frankfurt Trials of 1963-1965, where survivors of Auschwitz face those in charge of the camp.
CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE 216-241-6000 or go to http://www.clevelandplayhouse.com
7:30 Wednesday-Saturday, 2:30 Saturday and Sunday
A COMEDY OF TENORS (Sept 5-Oct 3, 2015)--The Tony Award winning CPH kicks off its 100t th season with the world premiere of Ken Ludwig’s farcical play about three tenors, three egos, and one stage!
THE CRUCIBLE (Oct 10-Nov 8, 2015)—Arthur Miller’s classic that uses the Salem Witch trials to put the McCarthy House Un-American Activities Committee and the American society on trial.
A CHRISTMAS STORY (Nov 27-Dec 23, 2015)—It’s back! Yes, its all there--Ralphie wants a Red Ryder b-b gun, he has to wear that pink-bunny suit, his dad wins a glowing-leg lamp, his friend gets his tongue stuck on a steel pole because of a triple-dog-dare, and the entire family has fun watching this holiday classic.
CLEVELAND PUBLIC THEATRE 216-631-2727 or go on line to http://www.cptonline.org
WHITE RABBIT RED RABBIT (Oct 8-25, 2015)—An absurdist adventure by Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour, with a performance by a different actor each night.
TEATRO PUBLICO DE CLEVELAND (title to be announced)—(Oct 15-24, 2015)—an original show created and performed by the ensemble.
THE LOUSH SISTERS LOVE DICK’NS (GREAT EXPECTATIONS)—(Nov 27-Dec 19, 2015)—Join Holly and Jolly Loush (aka—The Loush Sisters) for a bawdy, boozy, over-the-top holiday cabaret.
FEEFER RISING (Dec. 3-19, 2015)—A devised solo performance that explores emerging sexuality and selfhood through the eyes of an adolescent girl.
DOBAMA 216-932-3396 or www.dobama.org
check the theatre’s blog for performance times
OR (Sept 4-Oct 4, 2015)—Liz Duffy Adams’ bawdy farcical sex comedy.
THE CALL (Oct. 23-Nov 15, 2015)—A politically charged story about a white couple who decide to adopt a child from Africa.
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER (Dec. 4, 2015-Jan 3, 2016)—A farcical musical prequel to Barrie’s “Peter Pan” that is filled with madcap fun.
ENSEMBLE THEATRE 216-321-2930 or http://www.ensemble-theatre.comFridays and Saturdays @ 8, Sundays @ 2
FARRAGUT NORTH (Aug 27-Sept 6, 2015)—A timely story about the lust for power and the costs one will endure to achieve it.
DEATH OF A SALESMAN (Sept 18-October 11, 2015)—Considered one of Americas greatest plays, playwright Arthur Miller exposes the underside of success, happiness, and false dreams.
AGES OF THE MOON (Nov 3-Dec. 6, 2015—Sam Shepard’s gruff and funny play about the mutual desperation of two friends, which is put to a test at the barrel of a gun.
THE LION, THE WITCH, & THE WARDROBE (December 4-13, 2015)-- This new dramatization of C.S. Lewis’ classic, set in the land of Narnia, recreates the magic and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, his struggle with the White Witch, and the adventures of four children.
GREAT LAKES THEATER http://www.greatlakestheater.org or 216-241-6000
Wednesday-Saturday @ 7:30, Saturdays @ 1:30, Sunday @ 3.
THE SECRET GARDEN (Sept 25-Oct 31, 2015)—Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon’s musical based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, tells the tale of 10-year-old Mary who returns to England to live with her melancholy uncle at his neglected estate.
KING LEAR (Oct 2-Nov 1, 2015)—Shakespeare’s classic brutal, exciting, terrifying tragedy.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Nov 28-Dec 23, 2015)—Great Lakes celebrates the holiday with its 27 th annual production of Gerald Freedman’s adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale.
INTERPLAY JEWISH THEATRE
mailto:interplayjewishtheatre@gmail.comor 216-393-PLAY
(staged readings are free at Dobama; performance cost at The Maltz Museum: members--$6, for non-members the performance is free with the purchase of an admission to the museum; reservations required.
HAPY ENDING (Oct 19-2 PM)—Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Rd., Beachwood—A play about the power of denial by Iddo Netanyahu, playwright, author and physician. Reservations at 216-593-0575 or visit maltzmuseum.org
EXQUISITE POTENTIAL (Nov 8 & 9 @ 7 PM)—Dobama Theatre, 2340 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts—His dad thinks David Zuckerman, one of the characters in this play, is the messiah. What do you think? Playwright Stephen Kaplan, who will attend the Sunday staged reading of his show, will share his views in a talk back with the audience.
LAKELAND COMMUNITY THEATRE
440-525-7134 or http://lakelandcc.edu/academic/arts/theatre/index.asp
evenings at 7:30, matinees at 2:00
WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF (September 18-October 4)—Edward Albee’s award winning drama examines the volatile marriage of George and Martha over one alcohol soaked evening…staring Gregory Violand and Molly McGuiness.
none-too-fragile http://www.nonetoofragile.comor 330-671-4563
evenings at 7:30, matinees at 2:00
IN A FOREST, DARK AND DEEP (Aug 28-Sept 12, 2015)—Neil LaBute’s 110-minute fun, rug-snatching meditation on what is and is not true and the ease of rushing to misjudgment.
FIRST LOVE (Sept 9-24, 2015)—Charles Mee’s play about two people in their seventies who fall in love for the first time in their lives, but they work in fits and starts toward sabotaging their last chance for happiness.
TBA (Nov 6-21, 2015)
PLAYHOUSESQUARE 216-241-6000 or go to http://www.playhousesquare.org
See the website for specific dates and times
BULLETS OVER BROADWAY THE MUSICAL (Oct 6-18, 2015)—Musical comedy written by Woody Allen, with original direction and choreography by Susan Stroman, about a young playwright who, in desperate need of financial backing for his play, accepts an offer from a mobster looking to please his showgirl girlfriend. (Connor Palace)
EVIL DEAD THE MUSICAL (Oct 16-18, 2015)—Combines the cult films “Evil Dead,” “Evil Dead 2” and “Army of Darkness” to make a crazy theatrical experience that allows the audience to sit in the “Splatter Zone” and get drenched from the onstage mayhem. (Ohio Theatre)
GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE & MURDER (Nov 3-15, 2015)—A musical that tells the story of Monty Navarro, a distant heir to a family fortune, who sets out to jump the line of succession by eliminating the eight relatives (all played by one actor) who stand in his way. (Connor Palace)
STEVE SOLOMON’S CANNOLI, LATKES, AND GUILT! (Nov 8, 2015)—The author/performer of “My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish and I’m in Therapy” continues the tale with this, his newest project. (Ohio Theatre)
SOULMATE? A True Love Story (Nov 14, 2015)—About a quirky boy who falls in love with the most popular girl in school and tries everything to get her to notice him until he realizes all he has to do is be himself. (Ohio Theatre)
THE DUMBASS (Nov 21, 2015)—Najee Mondalek’s play about an Arab American community that centers on Im Hussein, her know-it-all husband, which deals with divorce, infertility, drug abuse, conflict between generations, welfare fraud and more. (Hanna Theatre)
THE WIZARD OF OZ (Dec 1-6, 2015)—A new production which contains all the beloved songs from the Oscar winning movie score plus new songs by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. (Part of the Star Performance Series) (State Theatre)
ELF (Dec 29, 2015-Jan 3, 2016)—A modern day Christmas classic about Buddy, a young orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. (Part of the Star Performance Series) (Connor Palace)
THE MUSICAL THEATER PROJECT
http://www.MusicalTheaterProject.org or 216-529-9411 for tickets and information, except where indicated
PERFECTLY MARVELOUS: THE SONGS OF JOHN KANDER (Oct. 31-Nov 1, 2015)—Oberlin Grad John Kander, who wrote the scores for “Cabaret,” “Chicago,” and “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” joins Karen Ziemba, who starred in three of Kander’s shows, join in this concert tribute to Kander and his writing partner, the late Fred Ebb. (Allen Theatre) For tickets to this Musical Theater Project show go to: 216-241-6000 or go to www.playhousesquare.org
THEATRE NINJAS
http://theaterninjas.com/shows
Performance venues vary…see individual play listings
TALL SKINNY CRUEL CRUEL BOYS (Oct. 22-Nov 7, 2015)—This bold dark comedy about self-destruction, honesty, and finding what you really need centers on Brandy, a children’s entertainer, with some serious demons in her personal life.
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
2015 Summer Cleveland Theater Calendar
ACTOR’S SUMMIT
330-374-7568 or go to www.actorssummit.org
Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 PM and Sundays @ 2 PM
ALWAYS PATSY CLINE (May 28-June 21, 2015)—A musical tribute to Patsy Cline’s spirit and a celebration of her music—“Crazy,” “Sweet Dreams,” “Walkin’ After Midnight” and 17 more.
BECK CENTER
216-521-2540 or http://www.beckcenter.org
8 p.m. evenings, 3 p.m. matinees
AMERICAN IDIOT (July 10-August 16 2015)—Two-time Tony winner tells the story of three lifelong friends, forced to choose between their dreams and the safety of suburbia.
BLANK CANVAS
440-941-0458 or www.blankcanvastheatre.com
TRIASSIC PARK THE MUSICAL (June 12-27)—Religion, identity, sex and raptors! Chaos is unleashed upon the not-so-prehistoric world when one dinosaur in a clan of females turns out to be male!
OUR TOWN (August 14-29)—Thornton Wilder’s beloved, Pulitzer Prize-winning classic depicts life, love and death in Grover’s Corners, New Hampshire while exploring life’s meaning and purpose.
CAIN PARK
14591 Superior Road at Lee, Cleveland Heights
216-371-3000 (Box office opens May 23--Cleveland Heights residents/May 30-- general public)
Information: http://www.cainpark.com/
GODSPELL (June 11-28)—Alma Theatre—Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak’s “hippie” musical with such pop songs as “Day by Day,” “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord,” and “Learn Your Lessons,” contains a series of parables based on the Gospel of Matthew.
CLEVELAND PUBLIC THEATRE
216-631-2727 or go on line to www.cptonline.org
DONTRELL, WHO KISSED THE SEA (May 21-June 6, 2015)
It’s a month before his first day of college and Dontrell Jones III wakes up from a dream that will change his life.
JOHANNA: FACING FORWARD (May 28-June 13)—7:30 Gordon Square Theatre--Based on the true story of Johanna Orozco, a Cleveland teen who survived a gunshot wound to the face by her boyfriend in 2007 and whose story sparked a nation-wide movement against teen domestic violence.
CLEVELAND SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
Free outdoor performances
For sites and times go to: http://www.cleveshakes.com/
THE LIFE OF TIMON OF ATHENS (June 5-28, 2015)—Set in 1970, against a backdrop of unpopular war and student unrest, TIMON is a hilarious history of his hypocrisy.
THE MERCHANT OF VENICE (July 17-August 2, 2015)-- Filled with contrasts and controversy, containing comic elements mixed with trenchant comment on the nature of intolerance, justice and forgiveness.
convergence continuum
convergence-continiuum.org or 216-687-0074
Thursday-Saturday @ 8
THE RECKLESS RUTHLESS BRUTAL CHARGE OF IT, OR THE TRAIN PLAY (June 26-July 18, 2015)—A “comi-threnody musical” about a 12-year old heroine who is on a comic-poetic collision course with time, history and a supernatural climax.
TEAR IT OFF (August 14-September 5, 2015)—A world premiere of Cleveland playwright Mike Geither’s play about two sisters who pass their time by writing a romance novel.
OBERLIN SUMMER THEATRE FESTIVAL
Free family classics in rotating rep
check blog for dates of individual productions: http://www.oberlinsummertheaterfestival.com/current-season/
TREASURE ISLAND (July 3-August 8, 2015)—Ken Ludwig’s play about 14-year old Jim Hawkins who finds a treasure map and embarks on an unforgettable voyage of treachery and mayhem.
ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL (July 10-August 8, 2015)—Shakespeare’s bawdy comedy which asks, “all ends well. Or does it?”
CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY (July 17-August 7, 2015)—17-year-old Ernestine questions conflicting ideas and tolerance needed to live in a changing world when her African American family moves from Florida to Brooklyn.
OHIO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
714 N. Portage Path, Akron, Ohio 44303
For tickets go tohttp://www.ohioshakespearefestival.com/ or call 1-888-71-tickets
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING (July 2-19, 2015)—Considered Shakespeare’s finest comedy, it examines honor, shame, and politics.
KING HENRY (July 30-August 16, 2015)—A Shakespeare history play based on the life of Henry VIII of England.
OLMSTED PERFORMING ARTS
6941 Columbia Road Olmsted Falls
For tickets call 440-235-6722 or go to http://www.olmstedperformingarts.com/
Performances at 7:30 Friday and Saturday, and 2:30 on Sunday)
GUYS AND DOLLS (August 7-9, 14-16, 2015)—A musical that takes us from the heart of Times Square to the cafes of Havana, Cuba, and even into the sewers of New York City, but eventually everyone ends up right where they belong.
PLAYHOUSESQUARE
For tickets: 216-241-6000 or go to http://www.playhousesquare.org
See the website for specific dates, times and details of each show
JOSHUA SETH’S BEYOND BELIEF (June 6, 2015)--Hanna Theatre—Combines thought reading, magic, hypnotism and some good old fashioned showmanship to create an atmosphere of mystery and laughter.
EXACT CHANGE (June 11-27, 2015)—The Helen--Christine Howey’s personal story is a tour-de-force spiced with political rants, historical reflections, and personal stories about her transitioning from being Dick Howey.
DOG POUNDED (July 17-August 8, 2015)—Kennedy’s Theatre—Tim Tyler’s comedic production returns for its second season to tell the tale of the tortured history of Cleveland Browns’ fans through words and music.
RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA (July 21-August 2, 2015)—Connor Palace--Part of the Key Bank Series, this Tony Award winning musical, is a contemporary take on the classic tale.
THE BOOK OF MORMAN (August 25-30, 2015)—State Theatre--The nine-time Tony winner returns for another visit! If you hurry, you might be able to get tickets this time!
PORTHOUSE
Kent State University’s professional theatre
Located on the grounds of Blossom Center
For tickets: 330-672-3884 or http://www.kent.edu/porthouse/tickets
(Tickets go on sale May 26th)
A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC (June 11-27, 2015)—Porthouse’s Artistic Director Terri Kent stars in Stephen Sondheim’s musical about a tangled web of romantic affairs. Libretto includes “Send in the Clowns.”
VIOLET (July 9-25, 2015)—Tells the musical tale of self-discovery by a young lady with a disfigured face who is seeking out an Evangelical minister.
HAIRSPRAY (July 30-August 16, 2015)—With her bouffant hair and social activist attitudes, plus-sized teen Tracy Turnblad advocates for racial integration in her hometown of Baltimore in this family friendly treat.
Monday, March 23, 2015
Sir Isaac Newton wonderfully unmasked at convergence continuum; CPH 2015-16 season announced
Before probing into Lucas Hnath’s play, there must be an understanding of what is meant by “scientific inquiry.” The process starts with the development of a hypothesis which is a guess at what might be. An experiment is carried out and a determination of validity is made. Before being universally accepted as “fact” the experiment has to be replicated by other experts in the field. If it can’t, it is not accepted by the scientific community.
In the early days of research, self-proclaimed “scientists” often came to conclusions with no controlled experimentation and lots of intuition. Having a vivid imagination, and thoroughly convinced that his ideas were the direct messages from “God,” young Isaac Newton perceived “scientific” theories.
Hnath's play is filled with “information” about Sir Isaac Newton. Some of it may well be true, other narrations and statements are of questionable validity. In fact, one may wonder if any of Hnath’s tale is valid. But, in the end, that matters little, as the audience gets swept up in the mystery and the humor and takes it all in.
The play, developed in conversational twenty-first century language, tells a seventeenth century tale. We are exposed to the height-challenged boyish Newton in his twenties before he became “Sir Isaac.” Yes, before he was credited with developing the theory of gravitation and the laws of motion.
The tale centers on Newton’s relationship with Catherine, a woman five years his elder, with whom he has had a life-long relationship. Was there really a Catherine in his life? We also are involved in an episode between Newton and Robert Hooke, curator of Experiments at the Royal Society. Yes, the Robert Hooke of the “Hooke Law of Elasticity.” But, was he really part of Newton’s life?
As the tale goes, Newton wants to get into the Royal Society. Hooke is his latchkey for entrance. If Newton can be convinced that Isaac’s theory of light particles is true, he’s in. If not, he remains a dreamer on the outside. Questions abound. Did Newton really stick a needle in his eye and prove the theory? Will the blackmail that Newton has on Hooke be used to accomplish his goal? What is Catherine’s role in all this? Is all this truth or fantasy?
This is a cleverly written play filled with lots of meta-theatrical devices. The language is filled with wit, humor and tension. The tale is filled with “facts” and modern slang. A well-conceived narrator keeps us apprised of the real versus the “it could be” or “it definitely is fantasy,” or “this is departing from the written record.”
We know for sure that Newton’s hair turned white at an early age, he invented calculus about the same time as a German did, and he did threaten to kill his parents and set their house on fire. Hooke did discover combustion, petrifaction, the basic theories of mechanical engineering, and did experiments in which he made the lungs of dogs explode. And then there is the other “stuff.”
The con-con production is cleverly staged by director Clyde Simon, with an emphasis on the humorous. He well-paces the show, which keeps the audience‘s attention throughout.
The cast is wonderful. Jonathan Wilhelm is emphatic as the narrator, and does a fun side-track as a man dying of the plague. (Remember this is 1765-66, when death stalked England.) Wilhelm, writes everything we need to know in a meticulous handwriting on a series of blackboards, giving us a school room lesson of authenticity.
Bobby Coyne is a cherubic Newton. He has the boyish charm, the uncontrolled enthusiasm, and the air of believability that twists us around his little pinky, and makes us believe. He is the little kid who tells an obvious lie, but looks at you with innocent eyes and as says, “But it could be,” and you just have to believe him. This is an endearing performance.
Robert Hooke creates a convincing and smarmy Robert Branch, a sexaholic, pedophile and a brilliant scientist.
Amy Bistok Bunche lives the role of Catherine, the only character who seems like a reasonably mentally healthy person.
CJ Pierce’s lighting design effectively leads the audience through the actions.
Viewer alert: The scientific uninformed need fear not, everything that is the least bit abstract is explained in plain English.
Capsule Judgement: ISAAC’S EYE is one of those productions that if you don’t see it, you’ll be missing a very special theatrical experience. Good job con-con!
ISAAC’S EYE runs through April 11 at 8 pm Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at convergence-continuum’s artistic home, The Liminis, at 2438 Scranton Rd. in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood. For information and reservations call 216-687-0074.
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Cleveland Play House 2015-2016 season
Cleveland Play House has announced its schedule of plays for the theatre’s 100th anniversary:
Ken Ludwig’s A Comedy of Tenors
WORLD PREMIERE
Sept 5-Oct 3, 2015 • Allen Theatre
The Crucible
Oct 10-Nov 8, 2015 • Outcalt Theatre
Little Shop of Horrors
Jan 9-Feb 7, 2016 • Allen Theatre
The Mountaintop
Jan 23-Feb 14, 2016 • Outcalt Theatre
Luna Gale
Feb 27-Mar 20, 2016 • Allen Theatre
Mr. Wolf
Apr 2-24, 2016 • Outcalt Theatre
Steel Magnolias
Coming May 2016
A Christmas Story
Nov 27-Dec 23, 2015 • Allen Theatre
For play descriptions and ticket information go to: www.clevelandplayhouse.com
Sunday, December 21, 2014
2015 Winter-Spring Cleveland Theater Calenda
ACTOR’S SUMMIT
330-374-7568 or go to www.actorssummit.org
Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 PM and Sundays @ 2 PM
EINSTEIN (January 15-February 1)—Brian Zoldessy, as Albert Einstein, invites the audience into his home to set the record straight. Remember, it’s all relative.
THE BOOK CLUB PLAY (February 26-March 15)—A famous filmmaker chooses Ana’s book club to be part of his next documentary with comic results.
BAD JEWS (April 16-May 3)—She is the family’s “Superjew,” he is an assimilated atheist. This comedy asks, “who gets the sacred family heirloom?”
ALWAYS . . . PATSY CLINE (May 28-June 21)—A musical tribute to Patsy’s spirit and a celebration of her music. Yes, “Crazy,” “Sweet Dreams,” “Walkin’ After Midnight” and 17 more.
BECK CENTER
216-521-2540 or http://www.beckcenter.org
8 p.m. evenings, 3 p.m. matinees
MARY POPPINS (December 5-January 4, 2015)—The supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical in its local premiere.
DOGFIGHT (February 6-March 15)—In collaboration with Baldwin Wallace University’s Music Theatre Program, this musical, based on the film of the same name, centers on three young Marines, who, in 1963, before the night of their deployment, learn the power of compassion. (Studio Theatre)
LEND ME A TENOR (March 27-April 26)—Ken Ludwig’s farce, with mistaken identities, misunderstandings, and lots of slammed doors, follows Tito Morelli, the fiery-tempered Italian superstar, who arrives in Cleveland to star in a local opera, and then disappears.
THE YOUNG MAN FROM ATLANTA (May 29-June 28)—Horton Foote’s Pulitzer Prize winning drama tells the story of a Texas couple’s attempt to make sense of the death of their son.
BLANK CANVAS
440-941-0458 or www.blankcanvastheatre.com
TBA
CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE
216-241-6000 or go to www.clevelandplayhouse.com
7:30 Wednesday-Saturday, 2:30 Saturday and Sunday
FIVE GUYS NAMED MOE (January 23-February 15)—Main Stage--His woman left him, he’s broke, and it’s almost five o’clock in the morning. But don’t worry about our hero. All he needs is the right music—and the right guys—to get him through. Enter five guys named Moe, stepping out through his radio to cajole, comfort and jazz him with dozens of whimsical hit songs from the extraordinary Louis Jordan.
THE PHILADELPHIA STORY (February 25-March 7)—The Helen—CPH and CWRU/MFA program perform Phillip Barry’s romantic comedy focusing on the mixed-up lives of the rich and famous who seemingly “have it all.”
THE PIANIST OF WILLESDEN LANE (February 27-March 22)—Main Stage--Jura’s daughter, renowned pianist Mona Golabek, brings her mother’s true tale of survival and triumph to the stage. Featuring live performances of classics by Chopin, Beethoven, and Debussy. Content and themes include war and the Holocaust.
VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE (April 3-April 26)—Main Stage—Siblings Vonya and Sonia are contentedly discontent to pass into their twilight years sipping coffee and watching for blue herons. However, when their fading B-movie-star sister descends upon their quiet country home with sexy boy toy Spike, chaos ensues. (To read my review of the New York production go to: http://www.royberko.info, click on Broadway, scroll down to “Absurd Vonya and Sonya and Masha and Spike delights.”
FAIRFIELD (May 1-May 24)—Outcalt Theatre—Clevelander Eric Coble’s play examines how we each determine what’s appropriate and inappropriate, and whether “We Shall Overcome.” (Content Advisory: Play contains strong language, including profanity and derogatory terms, mild violence, innuendo, and frank conversations on race.)
CLEVELAND PUBLIC THEATRE
216-631-2727 or go on line to www.cptonline.org
FIRE ON THE WATER: PART FOUR OF THE ELEMENTS CYCLE (January 29-February 14)—7:30, Gordon Square Theatre--This concluding work will focus on how the environment can shape identity and will celebrate the remarkable recovery of Cleveland’s waterways.
STANDING ON CEREMONY: THE GAY MARRIAGE PLAYS (March 5-21)-- 7:30, Gordon Square Theatre--Back by popular demand, this powerful series of short plays promote marriage equality and the power of love to overcome.
IN A WORD (April 16-May 2)—7:00, James Levin Theatre--Two years have passed since Fiona’s eight-year-old son mysteriously vanished. As she delves back into her memories of that fateful day to find the missing piece.
DONTRELL, WHO KISSED THE SEA (May 21-June 6)—7:00, James Levin Theatre—It’s a month before his first day in college and Dontrell Jones III wakes up from a dream that will change his life. The young man’s unconventional journey begins with swimming lessons, and ends in a boat drifting into the sea to meet his grandfather’s spirit.
JOHANNA: FACING FORWARD (May 28-June 13)—7:30 Gordon Square Theatre--Based on the true story of Johanna Orozco, a Cleveland teen who survived a gunshot wound to the face by her boyfriend in 2007 and whose story sparked a nation-wide movement against teen domestic violence
convergence continuum
convergence-continiuum.org or 216-687-0074
Thursday-Saturday @ 8
ISAAC’S EYES (March 20-April 11)—A quirky look at what drove Isaac Newton, a brilliant but troubled farm boy, to become one of the modern world’s greatest thinkers.
WOLVES (May 8-30)—A female narrator tells an urban fable that takes place during a long and terrible night at the apartment of Ben, his roommate and one time boyfriend, Jack.
DOBAMA
216-932-3396 or www.dobama.org
check the theatre’s blog for performance times
A CIVIL WAR CHRISTMAS: AN AMERICAN MUSICAL CELEBRATION (December 5-January 5, 2015)—A musical that weaves together characters, story lines and pieces of music about hope, joy, and the beauty of the human spirit.
SLOWGIRL (January 23-February 15)--A teenager is sent to her reclusive uncle’s retreat in the Costa Rican jungle to avoid the aftermath of a tragic accident. In the days that follow, they are forced to face the choices they’ve made and what they both are truly running from.
BECKY SHAW (March 6-March 29)-- When a couple of newlyweds set up their abrasive and confident friend with a sexy and strange new co-worker, it’s the blind date from hell.
SUPERIOR DONUTS (April 24-May 24)-- When his donut shop in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago is vandalized, an uninspired, ex-hippie, seems both hapless and indifferent. But when an African-American college student enters the doors of Superior Donuts, both men are changed forever.
ENSEMBLE THEATRE
216-321-2930 or http://www.ensemble-theatre.com
Friday and Saturdays @ 8, Sundays @ 2
THURGOOD (January 31-February 22)--Brings to life a civil rights giant who attended Fredrick Douglas High School in Baltimore, as well as Lincoln University where his class mates were the likes of poet Langston Hughes and Musician Cab Calloway.
BENGAL TIGER AT THE BAGHDAD ZOO (April 24-May 17)—Cleveland Heights native Rajiv Joseph’s play about the lives of two American Marines and an Iraqi translator whose lives are forever changed by an encounter with a quick-witted tiger who haunts the streets of war-torn Baghdad. Starred Robin Williams on Broadway.
GREAT LAKES THEATER
http://www.greatlakestheater.org or 216-241-6000
Wednesday-Saturday @ 7:30, Saturdays @ 1:30, Sunday @ 3.
DIAL M FOR MURDER (February 27-March 22)—An ex-tennis professional married his wife for her money. Now he plans to kill her for the same reason, convinced that she is having an affair. When his precise murder plot goes awry, can he improvise an equally deadly plan B?
THE TEMPEST (April 10-26)—Along a magically tempestuous journey, passions are unleashed, villainy is thwarted and a family is reunited in Shakespeare’s comic and cathartic tale of romance and renewal.
LAKELAND COMMUNITY THEATRE
440-525-7134 or http://lakelandcc.edu/academic/arts/theatre/index.asp
VIOLET (January 30, 31, February 6, 7, 13, 14 @ 7:30, February 1, 8, 15 @ 2)--Tony nominated musical tells the story of a young disfigured woman who embarks on a journey, by bus, from her farm in North Carolina to Tulsa, Oklahoma in order to be healed.
none-too-fragile
www.nonetoofragile.com or 330-671-4563
evenings at 7:30, matinees at 2:00
THE LONESOME WEST (February 5-21)--Marin McDonagh’s contemporary Irish play about the murderous goings-on in the Western Ireland town of Leenane.
GOD OF CARNAGE (April 24-May 9)-- Two sets of parents, one of whose child has hurt the other at a public park, meet to discuss the matter in a civilized manner. As the evening goes on, the parents become increasingly childish, resulting in the evening evolving into chaos.
PLAYHOUSESQUARE
216-241-6000 or go to www.playhousesquare.org.
See the website for specific dates and times
STOMP (January 16-18)—Connor Palace--The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments--matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps--to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms.
PIPPIN (February 3-15)—Connor Palace--Full of extraordinary acrobatics, wondrous magical feats and soaring songs from the composer of Wicked, PIPPIN is noted for such Broadway standards as “Corner of the Sky,” “Magic To Do,” “Glory,” “No Time at All,” “Morning Glow,” and “Love Song.” (For Roy Berko’s review of the Broadway show go to http://www.royberko.info, go the Broadway link and scroll to PIPPIN.)
DEFENDING THE CAVEMAN (February 4-15)—Outcalt Theatre-The longest running solo play in Broadway history, the insightful play about the ways men and women relate, or don’t relate.
HAL HOLBROOK IN MARK TWAIN TONIGHT (February 21)--Fifty years ago, a young actor took the stage in a tiny off-Broadway theater and introduced the world to a man they would never forget. The actor was Hal Holbrook and the man was Mark Twain.
DIRTY DANCING (March 3-22)—Connor Palace--Tells the story of Baby and Johnny, two independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Featuring such songs as “Hungry Eyes,” “Hey Baby,” “Do You Love Me?” and the heart stopping “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life.”
POTTED POTTER (March 26-29)—Ohio Theatre--Whether you camped outside a bookstore for three days awaiting the release of the “Deathly Hallows” or you don't know the difference between a “horcrux” and a “Hufflepuff,” the comedy, magic and mayhem makes for perfect entertainment for the entire family.
KINKY BOOTS (April 7-19)—Connor Palace—Based on a true story, the musical follows a struggling shoe factory owner who works to turn his business around with help from Lola, a fabulous entertainer in need of some sturdy stilettos. Together, this unlikely pair find that they have more in common than they ever dreamed possible… proving that when you change your mind about someone, you can change your whole world. (For Roy Berko’s review of the Broadway show go to http://www.royberko.info, go the Broadway link and scroll to KINKY BOOTS.)
AMERICA’S GOT DOWNTON (April 18)—Ohio Theatre—Direct from London’s West End, Luke Kempner creates more than thirty characters in this parody that blends celebrity visitors with well-known characters from Downton Abbey. Cultures clash and eras hilariously collide to help the cast save the estate from financial ruin – again!
DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (April 24-26)—Connor Palace--The classic musical love story filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song.
RAIN-A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES (May 3)—State Theatre--A live multi-media spectacular that takes you on a musical journey through the life and times of the world’s most celebrated band. It includes such songs as “I Want To Hold Your Hand,” “Hard Day’s Night,” “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” “Let It Be,” “Come Together” and “Hey Jude.”
I LOVE LUCY: LIVE ON STAGE (May 15-17)—Connor Palace--It’s 1952 and you are a member of the Desilu Playhouse studio audience awaiting the filming of two oh-so-familiar I LOVE LUCY® episodes and the sidesplitting antics of America’s favorite foursome – Lucy, Ricky, Fred and Ethel – are presented live on stage.
THE MUSICAL THEATER PROJECT
http://www.MusicalTheaterProject.org or 216-529-9411 for tickets and information
(productions staged in review format with narration)
OVER THE RAINBOW (The Songs of Harold Arlen)--January 18 @3 PM—Main Stage Theatre Tri-C Metro—A national survey found that Arlen’s “Over the Rainbow” was the most beloved song of the 20th century!
FINE ROMANCE (The Love Song Cabaret)—February 15—Vosh Lakewood (area’s newest entertainment venue, 1414 Riverside Drive, Lakewood) @ 7 PM—Puts a spotlight on the many faces of love.
SWING’S THE THING!—Saturday, March 21 @ 8 PM—Ohio Theatre, and Saturday, April 11, 7 PM—Lorain County Community College—A salute to the electrifying Swing Era, a golden age for musical theatre history.
BEHIND THE MUSICAL: HELLO, DOLLY—Sunday April 26 @ 3 PM—Chagrin Falls High School Performing Arts Center—From Carol Channing to Pearl Bailey to Barbra Streisand, the musical is 50 years old and still “going strong.”
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