Review by Danny Gaisin
Scottish playwright Rona Munro, of TV’s “Dr. Who” series, is also respected for her contributions to the contemporary British theatre. “IRON” refers to the metal endemic to a prison, but also refers albeit obliquely, to the indomitability of the spirit. This 4-member play is a serious study into the human psyche and a thought-provoking challenge for actor & audience.
Monthly Archives: April 2012
‘Hairspray’, not a tress out of place Reply
Review by Danny Gaisin
What kind of a production could possibly attract Susan Anton; Corbin Bleu; John Stamos & Drew Carey to perform at the Hollywood Bowl? Not a fundraiser or telethon, but rather a 2011 performance of “HAIRSPRAY”. Version -The Shaiman & Whittman musical adaptation of John Waters’ 1988 movie film.
“Communion” @ Ottawa’s N.A.C. Studio. Reply
In this riveting play from Daniel MacIvor, one of Canada’s most respected playwrights, three women – a mother, a daughter and a therapist – are on the brink of change. We see Leda in her therapist’s office, desperately alternating between wringing her hands, crushing her handbag and crossing and uncrossing her legs. Clearly something is on her mind.
Il Trovatore- Opera Hamilton ends this critic’s blight Reply
Review by Danny Gaisin
Verdi’s tragic 1853 opera IL TROVATORE is all about curses. This particular writer suffered his own curse vis-à-viswitnessing it. Three different companies went’ bust’ just before staging the masterwork. Finally, my own jinx is lifted… last evening we saw & heard a spectacularly sung rendering by Opera Hamilton. More…
Creative two-fer @ SHERIDAN Reply
Review by Terry Gaisin
The Theatre Arts Faculty of Sheridan College has always incorporated the concept of creativity as part of its curriculum. Actors are not automatons; they must integrate something of themselves into every portrayal. This is certainly a manifestation of creativity. “CENTRAL PARK TANGO” and “COME FROM AWAY” are two innovative original works that are being staged until April 24that the College’s Trafalgar campus. More…
“SWEENEY TODD”- a razor-sharp version by Sheridan Reply
Review by Danny Gaisin
Admission: – my favorite revenge tales are Dumas’ “Monte Cristo”; Boorman’s ’67 flic “Point Blank”, & Shakespeare’s “Titus Andronicus”. Sondheim’s SWEENEY TODD with its repetitious lyrics and melodies seems uninspired by comparison. Last night, I witnessed a preview of young director Adam Brazier’s take and my opinion did a180◦.
Lovett (Rexhepi) & her rolling pin …Todd (Haidar) & his razor!