Review: HOT THE MUSICAL at Unicorn Theatre
In performance now through June 2 is HOT THE MUSICAL, an entertaining and original new take on the Greek Mythology surrounding Helen of Troy and the Trojan Wars. The show is staged at Unicorn Theatre on Main Street. This one is definitely worth your time.
Review: A CHRISTMAS CAROL at Kansas City Repertory Theatre
Last night, November 21, 2023, a Kansas City tradition, the 42rd annual (almost) Kansas City Repertory Theatre production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” opened at the Spencer Theater on the UMKC campus for an extended run through Christmas Eve. Except for the Covid year when the live production was replaced by a video version, audiences have gathered for “A Christmas Carol” since 1980.
The house lights dim and a cast of Victorian holiday carolers appear complete with an onstage costumed orchestra. Our Storyteller (Nedra Dixon) also dressed in stunning early Victorian garb, welcomes us. Ms. Dixon is elegant and charming in this her first stint as the Storyteller.
Kansas City Repertory Theatre Announces Cast For A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Kansas City Repertory Theatre continues its 2023-24 season with the beloved holiday classic, Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, adapted for the stage by Geoff Elliott and directed by Kansas City Repertory Theatre's Associate Artistic Director of KCRep/UMKC Partnership Jason Chanos.
World Premiere of BOXED Comes to Whim Space in October
Whim Productions, KC's LGTBTQ+ theater company, will present the world premiere of Boxed, written by Kevin King. The play is a compelling drama that delves into the intricacies of relationship boundaries and consent, through a queer lens. Learn more about the play and how to get tickets here!
Review: DREAMGIRLS at New Theatre & Restaurant
The point of musical theater (for most people) is pure entertainment, and the New Theatre & Restaurant original production of 1981’s DREAMGIRLS hits the bullseye. DREAMGIRLS is directed by Jerry Jay Cranford and stars a comparatively large, twenty-one member cast backed by an eight-piece orchestra. Cranford has assembled a cast of Broadway belters and fine dancers to tell the tale of a Supremes-like black female singing trio around 1960 and in the decade to follow.
The show is flashy and impeccably costumed. The set, while relatively simple, is technically superior. LED screens are used across the background to simulate locations. Not much was spared when the producer was asked to fund this production. Choreography by Courtney German is frenetic, well drilled, and perfectly appropriate for this genre. The musical score is spectacular by Henry Krieger and Tom Eyen. Several numbers (including the title track) became number one hits outside the show.
Review: FLOOD at KC Rep
This reviewer has always been a fan of absurdist theatre, so it was with considerable excitement that she attended the evening's performance, eager to see a premiere that has come a mere 3 years after its workshop reading in 2019 (thanks again, covid). Happily, this reviewer can safely say she was not disappointed. Flood is a truly contemporary take on absurdist theatre written with sharp and fresh relevance.
TINY BEAUTIFUL THINGS Begins Rehearsal at the Unicorn Theatre
Rehearsals have begun at Unicorn Theatre for Tiny Beautiful Things, based on the book by Cheryl Strayed (Wild) and adapted for the stage by Nia Vardalos (My Big Fat Greek Wedding). Tiny Beautiful Things is directed by Sidonie Garrett and will feature a cast that includes Carla Noack, Darren Kennedy, Jackie Price, and Darrington Clark.