Rich Mehrenberg - Page 5

What did our critic think of THE ODD COUPLE-THE FEMALE VERSION at Little Theatre Of Mechanicsburg? Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg puts a new spin on an old favorite with their recent production of The Odd Couple-The Female Version. The classic comedy by Neil Simon, tells the story of bickering roommates, lifelong friendships, and second chances. Nancy Meister stars as the messy and carefree Oliver Madison-a woman long on sports knowledge and short on patience. Andrea Stephenson plays the uptight, fussbudget, Felicia Unger.

XL Live in Harrisburg was taken over by the crunchy sounds of Freekbass and the Bump Assembly on Friday. This Cincinnati funk band put on a great show for the small but appreciative crowd. The group played tune after tune that were slick, tight and ready for a party.

Dutch Apple celebrates the jazz age in their newest production of Chicago. Although the playbill references a cast of 22, the orchestra is the true star of this show. The ten-piece ensemble is bold and brassy. They are placed prominently and permanently onstage with good reason. They serve as the engine that propels the story.

A powerful and thoughtful drama that questions the concept of normalcy. Currently on Belmont Theater's stage is a challenging, yet rewarding production of The Elephant Man. The play, like the film, concerns nineteenth-century, London doctor, Fredrick Treves and his attempts to bring dignity and normalcy to the severely disfigured, John Merrick.

Broadway World talks with Dutch Apple's Velma Kelly. Read our interview.

What did our critic think of THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL at EPAC?

What did our critic think? Dutch Apple’s production of The Little Mermaid will be loved by kids, but if you are older than ten, it probably won’t be “part of your world”.

What did our critic think of JERSEY BOYS at Fulton Theatre? Jersey Boys made its local premiere at Fulton Theatre recently. While there were certain pandemic related setbacks and obstacles, it was definitely worth the wait. Fulton's production of Jersey Boys is an amazing combination of blockbuster songs, amazing harmonies, and engaging storytelling.

The Crucible is a timeless story of the dangers of authority, the problems with the over-reliance of religion, and the value of self-integrity.  EPACs production highlights these themes through an compelling story and a high quality production.

Chances are good that you will also find something to like and might end up dancing in the aisles. The limited run of the show plays now through June 25th. A wop bop a loo bop a wop bam boom!

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike is an enjoyable night of entertainment.  Contrary to the show’s title, knowledge of Anton Chekov is not necessary to enjoy the show.  It runs now through June 19th at Krevsky Center in Harrisburg.

Fulton's newest fourth floor production will definitely make you want to come back for 'Moe'. Five Guys Named Moe is a peppy, cheerful musical dedicated to the music of jazz giant, Louis Jordan. Davon Williams stars as Nomax, a down on his luck fella who would rather spend an evening with the bottle than his best girl.

Sometimes life imitates art in strange and unpredictable ways. On Friday May 27th, I saw Fulton Theatre's production of Man Of La Mancha. For reasons that will soon become clear, my commentary will be presented alongside select lyrics of the show's iconic number, The Impossible Dream.

Dance the night away with Hairspray at Hershey. The musical adaption of the John Waters' film is a celebration of acceptance and individuality. Niki Metcalf stars as vibrant teen, Tracy Turnblad. Metcalf is a joyful performer who exudes confidence. Metcalf has a good voice and uses it to great effect. One minor critique is that while she is a competent dancer, her moves don't really pop like I have seen in other productions. Tracy usually sticks out (in a good way) compared to the other teens, but that just wasn't coming across. Perhaps the flaw lies the choreography, not the dancer?

Feel free to disagree, but EPAC's current production of A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder is a great example of attempting to create a silk purse out of a sow's ear.

Fog machines! Stripper poles! Poop jokes!  This ain’t your Grandma’s dinner theater! Dutch Apple goes outside their comfort zone with the funny and fun musical, Rock of Ages.

Strap on your boogie shoes, get out your Afro pick, and hustle down to Hanover Little Theatre. Their current production of Polyester is more fun than a double date with Pinky Tuscadero and Florence Jean Castlebury. This was my first visit to HLT, and they did not disappoint! Perks like friendly parking attendants, modest ticket prices, and excellent, yet intimate sight lines, makes this a great venue.

The Ephrata Performing Arts Center takes a step outside of the community theater comfort zone with their recent production of Hedda Gabler. While many theaters are catering to the greatest common denominator, EPAC continues to take risks and prioritize quality over quantity. This production is a perfect example of that mission.