Jacob Ruscoe

The Manatee Performing Arts Center has once again delighted audiences with its enchanting production of 'The Wizard of Oz,' a timeless musical that brings to life L. Frank Baum's beloved story.

The Asolo Repertory Theatre’s rendition of All is Calm - The Christmas Truce of 1914 offers a poignant breath of fresh air.

Sometimes it is great to review a show you are really familiar with as it provides the varied perspectives by which one views a musical. Such is the case with Little Women. I loved watching a tale I knew from a fresh perspective. The Sarasota Players’ production of Little Women is a beautifully rendered adaptation that brings Louisa May Alcott’s beloved story to life with grace, emotion, and a remarkable sense of intimacy.

The Fantasticks, the beloved musical that has captured the hearts of audiences for over 50 years, recently graced the stage at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, and what a delightful performance it was! With its timeless story, enchanting music, and talented cast, this production of The Fantasticks was truly an engaging experience.

The Sarasota Players' production of 'American Idiot' was a thrilling and electric performance that captured the raw energy and rebellious spirit of Green Day's iconic album. Directed by Brian Finnerty, the show was a powerful and immersive experience that left the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Federico Hradek, has worked tirelessly to transform his garage into a fully functioning theater complete with a stage and professional lighting. The ambience created by this intimate setting was perfect for the dark comedy that is Heathers.

Hamilton is one of those musicals that everyone should see at some point. Let’s face it, even non-musical theatre people know of and have most likely seen the production. The show has received heralded reviews at every turn. So it is no surprise that the Broadway touring version of Hamilton that graced Sarasota at the Van Wezel provided its audience with that same level of excellence and expectation.

Ruby is a masterpiece of musical theater that deserves all the praise it receives. The creative direction, sensational vocals, and chemistry between the cast members all contribute to making it a must-see production.

I have seen over 90 shows either on Broadway or as part of a Broadway Tour. I have a database where I have ranked them in order that I like the show. Obviously with 90 shows to get in the top ten is quite a feat. I would see a show in my top 10 ANY time I could. Now to make it in the top 5, well that has to be a show beyond compare. Hadestown is one such show!

Stars are awesome and they are stars for a reason, but this show was a reminder that theatrical experiences are ones that immerse you in a story and take your mind from the cares of the world if only for a moment. That experience is exactly what you will get if you go see FST’s rendition of this classic musical.

While it might not be on the top of your must-see list, if this cast comes to your town, it is a musical you will be glad you saw!

“The Burdens” should not be missed. If you love to text message, (and who doesn’t) this is the show for you.

Let It Be is a great way to experience the classic songs of the Beatles! The Players Centre for the Performing Arts is continuing its 92nd season with the concert revue style musical, 'Let It Be.' Director, Sunny Smith, notes that the musical is 'the journey of Beatles songs through the turmoil of war and loss in the 60's, and the battle of holding on to your family and trying to find yourself.'

In a deviation from your typical theatrical experience, may I present you Urbanite Theatre’s World Premiere of “A Skeptic and a Bruja.” Much to its title premise, this new work takes you on a paranormal journey.

Some shows get away from all the glitz and glamour and just tell a story. There are times where musical theatre transcends the fancy costume and strobe lights; a place where the big numbers wait for another time. What we are left during those moments is something raw and powerful. What we have is “The Last Five Years.”

By nature, musicals are vastly more popular than plays. They have a natural ability to engage an audience and if there are any lulls in the action, you have a high-flying musical number to bring the show back to life. A play has no safety nets. The actors must be dynamic and make genuine connections in order for thee beauty of a show to be felt.

The Asolo continues its season with the timeless play, Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town,” directed by Desdemona Chiang. Any time I see this classic piece on stage I am drawn to its simplicity. The show is typically done without a set or props and relies completely on the characters themselves to tell the story of life and mortality.

It is time for a little bit of magic as Manatee Performing Arts Center produces their next mainstage production of “Cinderella.” The theatre touts Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella as the new Broadway adaptation of the classic musical.

It is such an exciting time with Broadway reopened. I spent a day recently in New York City and the hustle and bustle of the theatre district reminded me of why I love the city and Broadway in particular. I have seen a measly 73 shows on Broadway or ones that are part of a Broadway tour and I have ranked them all in the order that I love/like them. One of those shows that has remained in the top 10 since I first witnessed its magical artistry is “Come From Away.” So, I jumped at the chance to see it again at the Van Wezel.

There are shows that make you laugh and others that make you cry. We go to the theatre and are swept away by all kinds of emotions. Some shows make us angry and others inspire hope. Then there are the shows that just make us happy. Above all else, “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story” at Florida Studio Theatre is just that show.