Rachel Weinberg - Page 17

The South African Isango Ensemble's production of 'The Magic Flute: Impepe Yomlingo,' strips away some of the glossy sheen of Mozart's master work, leaving a show that is more down to earth and yet still revels in the joy of the composer's music. Under Mark Dunford May's direction, this 'Magic Flute' transports the show to an African township, showcasing a transposed score for African instruments and encompassing various African dialects (as well as English - the primary language used in the show).

'The Uncanny Valley' invites audiences to take a trip down the technological rabbit hole. Created and directed by University of North Carolina Chapel Hill professor Francesca Talenti, this new play makes for an unsettling evening at the theater - yet its overly moralistic tone prevents it from probing as deeply as it could. The play provides a twist on the concept of the uncanny valley - the idea that that which possesses human features and moves almost like a human being, but is slightly off, will have an effect of repulsion on the human viewer.

Goodman Theatre's production of Lerner and Loewe's 1947 musical Brigadoon lovingly pays homage to the tradition of classic American musical theatre while also retaining a sense of exuberance and delight. Helmed by director and choreographer Rachel Rockwell, this production does not shy away from spectacle and largely has the talent to back it up. The show preserves Lerner and Loewe's lush music and lyrics with an updated book by Brian Hill that provides an even sense of pacing and storyline.

AstonRep Theatre Company's high-quality production of "Wit" packs an emotional punch yet also revels in cleverness. Margaret Edson's Pultizer Prize winning play profoundly deals with the experience of cancer, and the capable actors in the show's ensemble - particularly Alexandra Bennett in the lead role - are up to the challenge. There is much to admire here, but this is an intense theatre experience (and rightfully so when dealing with such a difficult, indescribable topic). "Wit" inevitably spirals towards tragedy, and this sadness looms during the entire 90 minutes of the play.

'Motown the Musical' plays out like a veritable hit parade. Directed by Charles Randolph-Wright, this first national touring production showcases Motown Records producer Berry Gordy's greatest songs as performed by some capable onstage talent. The show makes for a lively and fun evening at the theatre but provides little in the way of truly meaningful plot or character development.