Richard Brandt

BWW Reviews: The Guthrie Theater and Lyric Arts Present Two Different Versions of the Heartwarming A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Charles Dickens' novella A CHRISTMAS CAROL has become a staple of holiday traditions. It shouldn't be surprising, then, that this classic story can currently be seen on multiple stages in the Twin Cities. The biggest of these is the Guthrie Theater; this is the 40th year that the Guthrie has produced A CHRISTMAS CAROL. I think it's safe to say this is one of their most popular shows every year, with many families incorporating it into their annual traditions. Lyric Arts is also producing the show on their Main Street Stage in Anoka. I was lucky enough to see these two different interpretations of this classic story on back-to-back nights. And while I do have a clear favorite between the two, it's really unfair to compare them too closely. Both are entertaining and creative interpretations of Charles Dickens' heartwarming story about the rich-in-money poor-in-friends businessman who learns through the visitation of four ghosts that it's better to be kind than rich.

BWW Reviews: Lovestruck and Crazy Like Foxes: BUS STOP at Spotlighters

The flaws I've mentioned are real, but are far from detracting altogether from the enjoyment Bus Stop has to offer. Inge not only speaks up for crazy love, but for rustics who in their own ways are crazy like foxes in their pursuit of it. Crazy like a fox is usually good, especially when presented by as fine an ensemble as The Spotlighters have assembled here.

Spotlighters Celebrates 50th Anniversary Season with BUS STOP, Now thru 11/11

BUS STOP by William Inge, directed by Fuzz Roark and stage managed by Molly Hopkins will play Spotlighters, October 12 - November 11, 2012 (Thur, Fri & Sat - 8pm / Sun - 2pm). The first play presented by Audrey Herman and the Spotlighters, opening on Oct 12, 1962; we revisit William Inge's masterpiece.

HELLO DOLLY! & DO OR DIE MURDER MYSTERY Play the Spotlighters this Spring

Spotlighters presents Hello, Dolly! and one weekend only, Do or Die Murder Mystery, One of the Gang. Tickets are available at: www.spotlighters.org.