Arkansas Theatre Newsroom

Believe it or not, I have never really seen the movie A CHRISTMAS STORY. Sure, I’ve heard ‘you’ll shoot your eye out’, I’m familiar with the kid sticking his tongue on the frozen pole, and I’ve seen the leg lamp, but I have never sat down and watched the movie. So, my real introduction to this Christmas classic was at the Twin Lakes Playhouse, 600 West Sixth Street, in Mountain Home, Sunday, Nov. 10.

The world of Sony Pictures' Insidious is set to jump off the screen and directly into your seat during the 80-plus city North American tour of 'INSIDIOUS: THE FURTHER YOU FEAR'. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets.

What did our critic think of HEATHERS THE MUSICAL at University Of Central Arkansas Theatre?

Framed like a Christmas dream full of color and glee, Dr. Seuss’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS THE MUSICAL was simply magical, and we were thrilled to catch a performance Saturday, Nov. 9, at Robinson Center in Little Rock. With its whimsical sets, dazzling costumes, and a heartwarming story brought to life by a talented cast, the production captured the essence of Seuss’ timeless tale. It was a truly enchanting experience and a perfect way to kick off the holiday season! 

Broadway World loves it when companies produce shows that take risks unapologetically. Several times now the Actors Theatre of Little Rock has left me speechless and proud at the same time, and this is one of those moments with their production of DANCE NATION, which was presented Oct. 30 through Nov. 9 at the Quapaw Methodist Church. Similar to the show Dance Moms but taken to a whole new level, this show probes into the intense, complicated lives of 13-year-old dancers and explores the brutal yet exhilarating process of discovering who they are and what they want.  

The Lantern Theatre in Conway has reimagined William Shakespeare’s HAMLET by casting a female in the titular role, and it has proved to be the most inspirational and creative choice allowing you to experience this classic in a whole new way. Directed by Vera Proctor, this innovative approach not only honors Shakespeare’s original text but also underscores the timelessness of his work, proving that great storytelling transcends boundaries of gender. This is their final weekend, so grab your tickets at https://www.conwaylanterntheatre.org. You don’t want to miss this one. 

The inventive, magic-filled T2 original—a new Northwest Arkansas family tradition. Three spirits come to visit the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and take him on a fantastic journey through past, present, and future. But will it be enough to save him? For all ages.

The holiday shows have officially begun, and my first introduction into the season was by my favorite a cappella group STRAIGHT NO CHASER, who took the Reynolds Performance Hall stage in Conway on Friday, Nov. 1, and performed a mixture of hits and Christmas tunes to a packed house of appreciating Chasers and new-to-them fans. From their beautiful harmonies to their humor and heart, Straight No Chaser brought something special to Arkansas, and we can’t wait for them to return next year! 

Theatre education is incredibly important for fostering a range of skills and values that benefit students far beyond the stage, so I love going to the different schools to see what they are learning. For my inaugural trip to the University of Arkansas Little Rock’s Haislip Theatre Thursday, Oct. 24, I was able to experience Moliere’s THE IMAGINARY INVALID, directed by the amazing Ben Grimes.

Voting is now open for the 2024 BroadwayWorld Arkansas Awards! Nominations were reader-submitted and now our readers get to vote for their favorites.

What did our critic think of DRACULA at The Collins Theatre?

As a journalist, I don’t want to say that I have favorites when it comes to my artistic community, but well..... Ben Grimes is juggling all sorts of projects, and Broadway World wanted to catch up with him to see what he had for us.

What did our critic think of HARVEY at Hot Springs World Class High School Theater?

The Historic Royal Theatre will bring Silver Belles (A Christmas Comedy), written by Lauren Grove to the stage in December, sponsored by Everett Buick GMC. Learn more about the production and how to get tickets here!

The Arkansas Repertory Theatre has announced the return of a special holiday performance event: “A Merrier Motown Christmas”, running December 18-23, 2024. Single tickets for “A Merrier Motown Christmas” are on sale now.

What did our critic think of DISNEY'S DESCENDANTS at Red Curtain Theatre?

Walton Arts Center, 495 W Dickson St, in Fayetteville, brought the excitement again, this time with BEETLEJUICE THE MUSICAL, which ran from October 22-27. I would say his name three times just to see the show again! Directed by Alex Timbers, the thrilling blend of dark humor, incredible music and spooky charm had us smiling through the whole production! We loved it! 

What did our critic think of AGATHA CHRISTIE'S MURDER ON THE NILE at Murry's Dinner Playhouse?

What did our critic think of THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY FLURFFY at Arkansas Museum Of Fine Arts?

Arkansas Repertory Theatre announced a series of free community events, including workshops and performances, aimed at engaging local audiences and fostering a deeper connection with the arts.

When I go to shows that I have not seen before, I do not do any research so I can go in fresh with no expectations. This was the case for my trip to Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas in Pine Bluff for GEORGE A ROMERO’S NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD LIVE, which was performed Oct. 17th through the 20th.

The Arkansas Repertory Theatre has announced two free performance events in conjunction with their fall community programs.

What did our critic think of CHAR-BOOOOOO-TERIE at The Public Theater?

Time is running out to submit nominations for the 2024 BroadwayWorld Arkansas Awards. Don't miss Thursday's October 31st deadline!

For three years, The Peoples Courte has been giving Morrilton a safe space for the LGBTQIA community to come together and express themselves through various forms of entertainment, with Drag being a focal point in the merriment, and because we are a friend to everyone, I wanted to check it out.