Joseph Cillo

A Mesmerizing Blend of Myth and Mystery: Marin Theatre’s Yaga Reimagines the Power of Baba Yaga

At Marin Theatre, the mythical and the mysterious come together in Yaga, a darkly comedic crime thriller that masterfully reimagines the ancient Slavic figure of Baba Yaga. Directed by Tony-nominated Barbara Damashek and written by acclaimed Canadian playwright Kat Sandler, Yaga delivers a fresh, feminist take on the traditional “wicked witch,” reclaiming her as a symbol of female power, wisdom, and transformation. Running through November 3, 2024, this U.S. premiere deftly combines noir detective story elements with folklore, mystery, and a dash of dark humor.

Plot Encapsulation: A Dark Mystery with Folkloric Roots

The play follows a big-city private investigator, Charlie Rapp (Adam KuveNiemann), who is called to a small, isolated town to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a young heir to a yogurt empire. Partnering with local police officer Carson (Rachel Clausen), Rapp uncovers a tangled web of secrets involving a forensic bone expert, Katherine Yazov (Julia McNeal), whose shadowy past hints at her connection to the mythical figure of Baba Yaga. As the investigation deepens, the play veers into the supernatural, revealing that the folklore surrounding Baba Yaga may not be just an old wives’ tale, but something far more real and threatening.

The detective story unfolds as a clever whodunit, but as layers of myth and mystery unravel, the line between the real world and the supernatural begins to blur. Baba Yaga’s ancient magic creeps into the plot, challenging the characters to confront their own inner truths and weaknesses. The play delivers suspense and dark humor as the detectives follow a trail of clues, leading to a surprising and mystical conclusion.

Baba Yaga: A Witch Reclaimed

At the heart of Yaga is Baba Yaga, a figure deeply embedded in Slavic mythology, known for her ambiguous and often fearsome nature. Historically depicted as a crone who devours children and lives in a hut perched on giant chicken legs, Baba Yaga has long represented both the terrifying and the untamable. Yet, as modern reinterpretations show, she is also a figure of immense wisdom, independence, and power. In Yaga, Sandler reclaims Baba Yaga as a complex antihero—both a symbol of ancient justice and a figure of female empowerment.

Baba Yaga’s presence looms over the play as a force that disrupts the mundane world, drawing characters into her orbit as they grapple with their own truths. This production taps into the modern cultural fascination with witches as figures of resistance and transformation, reclaiming them as icons of autonomy and rebellion against societal norms.

Outstanding Performances: A Showcase of Versatility

One of the standout features of this production is the virtuosity of its cast. With just three actors—Rachel Clausen, Adam KuveNiemann, and Julia McNeal—playing a total of 14 characters, the performances are nothing short of extraordinary. The actors shift seamlessly between roles, often within a single scene, keeping the audience engaged and on edge.

Julia McNeal’s portrayal of Baba Yaga is a true highlight. She embodies the ancient witch with a mix of menace, humor, and mystery, capturing Baba Yaga’s complex duality as both a figure of fear and wisdom. McNeal’s performance anchors the play’s exploration of feminine power and transformation. KuveNiemann and Clausen complement her with sharp, witty performances that bring depth to the detective story unfolding around her.

Brilliant Direction and Design: A Perfect Fusion of Genres

Under the direction of Barbara Damashek, Yaga skillfully blends its noir mystery elements with the mystical folklore of Baba Yaga’s world. Known for her Tony-nominated work, Damashek ensures that the play moves seamlessly between humor, suspense, and moments of supernatural wonder. Her direction keeps the pacing tight, allowing the actors’ quick transitions between characters to feel natural and dynamic.

The set design by Carlos Aceves and lighting by Kurt Landisman add to the atmosphere, transforming the stage from a mundane small town to the eerie, otherworldly forest realm of Baba Yaga. The design elements heighten the play’s contrasts between the ordinary and the magical, reinforcing the themes of transformation and duality.

Themes: A Feminist Reclamation of the Witch Archetype

At its core, Yaga is about power—particularly, the power of women and how that power has been misunderstood, vilified, and ultimately reclaimed. Baba Yaga serves as a symbol of female autonomy, embodying the idea that strength can be both feared and respected. The play’s feminist undertones challenge the audience to reconsider their views on witches and powerful women, drawing parallels between Baba Yaga’s myth and contemporary struggles for gender equality.

By reclaiming the figure of Baba Yaga, Sandler turns the traditional “wicked witch” on its head, transforming her into a powerful antihero who represents the untamable spirit of women who live by their own rules. Yaga explores how society treats such women—whether they are revered or demonized—and invites the audience to embrace the complexities of these archetypes.

The Horn and the Phoenix: Symbols of Power and Transformation

As the play builds toward its conclusion, two powerful symbols emerge in Yaga: the Horn and the Phoenix. These motifs enrich the play’s exploration of power and change, aligning closely with Baba Yaga’s role in the story.

The Horn, often associated with summoning and authority, represents the call to uncover hidden truths and confront deeper mysteries. In Yaga, it symbolizes the awakening of characters to the ancient forces at work beneath the surface, as they delve into the disappearance of a yogurt empire heir. Just as the horn calls attention to something urgent, it echoes Baba Yaga’s role in awakening the hidden, untamed power within.

The Phoenix, a legendary bird that rises from its own ashes, represents renewal, transformation, and the cycle of life and death. Baba Yaga’s myth aligns with this symbolism—she is both a destroyer and a guide toward new beginnings. The Phoenix mirrors the characters’ journeys in the play, as they undergo their own transformations, emerging with new understanding and self-awareness. As the play reaches its final moments, these symbols tie together the themes of destruction, rebirth, and the characters’ evolution.

Conclusion: A Must-See Theatrical Experience

Marin Theatre’s Yaga is a mesmerizing blend of folklore, mystery, and feminist commentary that will leave audiences thinking long after the final curtain. With its sharp performances, brilliant direction, and thematic depth, Yaga offers a fresh take on the myth of Baba Yaga and the power of transformation. Whether you are drawn to the mystery, the symbolism, or the exploration of female empowerment, Yaga is a theatrical experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Lizzie Borden: A Dark Chapter in American History and a Great Musical

Lizzie Borden is a name that has become synonymous with one of the most infamous murder cases in American history. In 1892, Lizzie was accused of brutally murdering her father, Andrew Borden, and her stepmother, Abby, in Fall River, Massachusetts. Though she was ultimately acquitted, the legend of Lizzie Borden has continued to capture public fascination, leaving lingering questions about her innocence or guilt. Did she commit these gruesome acts, or was she wrongfully accused?

LIZZIE: The Musical at 6th Street Playhouse brings this mystery to life with a fresh, gothic rock twist, adding new layers to the well-known tale.

A Great Rock Band and Outstanding, Creative Visuals: Velvet Grass Cast Delivers

The Velvet Grass cast at 6th Street Playhouse opened their run of LIZZIE: The Musical on October 5th with a show that rocked the stage in every sense. With its hard-hitting music and bold performances, the production breathes new life into the story of Lizzie Borden, transforming the courtroom drama into a high-energy rock opera. The live band is phenomenal—delivering powerful riffs and deep rhythms that perfectly underscore the emotional intensity of the story.

From the very first note, the audience is pulled into a gothic world where dark history meets modern rock. The visuals are nothing short of outstanding and creative. Director Patrick Nims skillfully blends the eerie feel of a 19th-century parlor with the raw energy of a rock concert. Lighting, set design, and costume choices work together seamlessly to immerse the audience in a space that feels both haunted and rebellious.

Velvet Grass: A Wicked New Twist

In this version of the story, Lizzie discovers a more discreet and sinister weapon—poison. When she stumbles upon Emma’s “Book of Household Poisons,” she learns about the deadly properties of velvet grass and shattercane. This leads to a suspense-filled scene where Lizzie considers using prussic acid to eliminate her enemies, adding an extra layer of danger and intrigue to the plot. This brilliant twist injects a fresh sense of unpredictability into the well-known tale.

Stellar Cast Performances with Rock and Edge

The Velvet Grass cast—Malia, Nicole, Andee, and Megan—are nothing short of spectacular. Each brings intensity, grit, and emotion to their roles, with vocal performances that soar alongside the incredible rock score. Their chemistry on stage adds to the energy, creating a dynamic that is as explosive as it is haunting.

The music, composed by Steven Cheslik-DeMeyer, Tim Maner, and Alan Stevens Hewitt, gives the story a pulse-pounding rhythm, blending rock and gothic tones that complement Lizzie’s descent into madness. This is more than just a play—it’s a full-on rock concert with theatrical edge, and the band’s performance makes the show feel alive, raw, and unforgettable.

A Visually Stunning Production

Visually, this production is a feast for the eyes. With its combination of haunting Victorian aesthetics and rebellious rock visuals, the design transports the audience into a world where history, myth, and modern attitude collide. Whether it’s the eerie glow of candlelit rooms or the high-energy lighting of a rock stage, each scene is crafted with care, making every moment a visual delight.

Don’t Miss This Must-See Show

For lovers of true crime, gothic stories, and rock music, LIZZIE: The Musical is a show that hits all the right notes. With a great rock band, outstanding and creative visuals, and a killer cast, it’s an immersive experience that redefines the Lizzie Borden legend. Be sure to secure your tickets for this thrilling, high-energy production at 6th Street Playhouse!

An Uproarious Night with Nunsense at Novato Theater Company

The Novato Theater Company kicks off its 104th season with a bang, bringing the hilarious musical comedy Nunsense to life in a delightful and laugh-filled production. Directed by Lisa Morse, this show is a comedic gem that masterfully blends quick wit, slapstick humor, and heartfelt performances. From start to finish, Nunsense delivers the perfect mix of laughter and lightheartedness, making it a must-see for local theater enthusiasts.

The plot follows 5 nuns who are left to organize a fundraiser after a botulism outbreak—caused by none other than Sister Julia, Child of God, a humorous nod to the famous TV chef Julia Child. Sister Julia accidentally poisons 52 of her fellow sisters with her tainted vichyssoise, and it’s up to the remaining nuns to raise enough money to cover the burial costs. Although Sister Julia is only mentioned in the story, her culinary mishap sets the stage for the comedic chaos that follows.

Kristine Ann Lowry shines as Sister Mary Hubert, the second-in-command with a love for gospel music. Lowry’s powerful stage presence and comedic timing make her moments unforgettable, particularly in her musical numbers that brim with energy and joy. Tina Smith’s Sister Robert Anne, the streetwise nun with a penchant for the spotlight, also delivers a standout performance, bringing her character’s ambition and humor to the forefront. Her song “I Just Want to Be a Star” is one of the evening’s highlights.

Nicole Thordsen plays Sister Mary Amnesia, the nun who lost her memory due to a falling crucifix. Thordsen’s portrayal is both endearing and hilarious, as she navigates her character’s childlike innocence with impeccable comedic timing. Her interactions with the audience, combined with her musical talents, offer some of the most uproarious moments of the night.

Lauren Sutton-Beattie as Sister Leo, the novice with dreams of becoming a ballerina, rounds out the cast beautifully. Her dance numbers bring an additional layer of humor and charm, and Sutton-Beattie’s youthful exuberance lights up the stage.

The production’s choreography, by Marilyn Izdebski, is one of the true highlights of the show. Izdebski’s movements are playful and perfectly in tune with the show’s comedic tone, ensuring that every dance number is both entertaining and laugh-inducing. The musical direction by Nick Brown is equally impressive, with the cast’s vocal performances adding richness and depth to the score. Each song is brought to life with humor and heart, perfectly complementing the story’s zany plot.

The set design also deserves special mention, providing a playful and colorful backdrop that enhances the story’s whimsical nature. From the convent setting to the props used in the various skits and musical numbers, the design elements work seamlessly with the direction and performances to create a fun and immersive experience.

In the hands of director Lisa Morse, Nunsense becomes more than just a musical comedy—it’s an experience that audiences will cherish long after the curtain falls. The production’s balance of sharp humor, heartwarming moments, and infectious energy make it a standout in the Novato Theater Company’s lineup this season.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of community theater or new to the scene, Nunsense promises a night of entertainment that will leave you smiling and laughing from start to finish. Be sure to catch this delightful production, running from September 13 through October 13, 2024, at the Novato Theater Company.

Monstrously Good Fun at Sonoma Arts Live

If you’re in the mood for a hilarious and energetic night at the theater, look no further than Sonoma Arts Live’s production of Young Frankenstein. Directed by the talented Larry Williams, this production has it all: sharp humor, fantastic performances, and a thoroughly entertaining storyline that pays homage to the original Mel Brooks film.

While Young Frankenstein might not be to everyone’s taste, it’s a should-see for fans of quirky humor, classic film adaptations, or Mel Brooks’ signature style. The musical brings plenty of laughs and clever moments, and the range of musical numbers enhances the experience. Here are the songs you’ll enjoy during the performance:

Act I:

1. The Happiest Town in Town – Villagers
2. The Brain – Frederick Frankenstein
3. Please Don’t Touch Me – Elizabeth Benning
4. Together Again – Frederick and Igor
5. Roll in the Hay – Inga, Frederick, and Igor
6. He Vas My Boyfriend – Frau Blücher (This number brought the show alive with its humor and eccentricity, delighting the audience.)
7. It’s Alive – Frederick and Company
8. Transylvania Mania – Igor, Inga, Frederick, Monster, and Company

Act II:

1. He’s Loose – Villagers
2. Listen to Your Heart – Inga and Frederick
3. Surprise – Inspector Kemp and Villagers
4. Please Send Me Someone – The Hermit
5. Man About Town – Monster and Company
6. Puttin’ on the Ritz – Frederick, Monster, Igor, Inga, Elizabeth, and Company
7. Deep Love – Elizabeth and Monster
8. Finale Ultimo – Company

The standout numbers “Transylvania Mania” and “Puttin’ on the Ritz” bring the house down, while “He Vas My Boyfriend” brought the show alive with its humor and character, truly capturing the essence of the quirky fun that runs through the production.

Ensemble Performance:

The ensemble was truly outstanding, giving the production its high energy and comedic charm. Special kudos to:

• Kim Williams as Frau Blücher, whose eccentricity and comedic timing made “He Vas My Boyfriend” one of the evening’s highlights.
• Joanna Lynn Bert as Elizabeth Benning, with her humorous portrayal and strong vocal performance, particularly in “Deep Love.”
• Kevin Allen as The Hermit, who brought warmth and comedic depth to his performance, especially in the touching number “Please Send Me Someone.”

Be sure to check out the fantastic cast in action! The dynamic performances truly brought this production to life.

Sonoma Arts Live continues to prove itself as one of the premier theater companies in the Bay Area, and with this production, they’ve truly outdone themselves. The set design, costumes, and lighting all add to the immersive experience, and it’s clear that a lot of love and care went into making this show a success.

If you haven’t grabbed your tickets yet, now’s the time. Whether you’re a fan of the original film or just looking for a fun night out, Young Frankenstein is a delightful experience that will have you laughing all the way through. Highly recommended!

A Delightful Evening with Charlie Brown and Friends at Spreckels Performing Arts Center

I had the pleasure of attending the opening night of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Revised) on Friday, August 30, at the Bette Condiotti Theatre, Spreckels Performing Arts Center. This vibrant and joyful production truly captured the essence of Charles M. Schulz’s beloved Peanuts comic strip, making it a heartwarming experience perfect for the entire family.

Directed by Elly Lichenstein, with music direction by Janis Wilson, the show skillfully blends nostalgia with timeless life lessons and joyful melodies, offering something for audiences of all ages. The talented cast brought the iconic characters to life with energy and heart, ensuring that both children and adults found plenty to enjoy.

Anderson Templeton shone as the ever-hopeful Charlie Brown, capturing his lovable and relatable nature.

Kaela Mariano delivered a standout performance as Lucy Van Pelt, perfectly embodying Lucy’s sassy and headstrong personality

Tyler Ono charmed the audience as Linus Van Pelt, while

Nicole Stanley brought youthful exuberance to the role of Sally Brown.

Chase Thompson played the piano prodigy Schroeder with conviction, and

Brady Voss was a delightful scene-stealer as the whimsical Snoopy, especially during the musical number “Suppertime.”

The musical numbers were entertaining and well-executed, including memorable songs like “Happiness Is…” and “The Baseball Game.” The set design and costumes effectively evoked the familiar Peanuts world, enhancing the charm and relatability of the production.

This production is truly family-friendly, providing a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to enjoy theater together. You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Revised) at the Spreckels Performing Arts Center is a delightful tribute to the simple joys of being yourself, making it a perfect evening of entertainment for everyone.

For more information and to purchase tickets for upcoming performances, visit spreckelsonline.com.

A High Energy Summer Celebration with Sparkling Performances

Transcendence Theatre Company’s Dancing in the Street offers a vibrant mix of classic hits, lighting up Sonoma’s Field of Dreams from August 15-18, 2024. This show, set against the backdrop of summer in Sonoma, is a celebration of music that spans generations, bringing together beloved tunes from Motown, Elton John, Whitney Houston, and more.

A Talented Cast That Delivers

The cast is a strong ensemble of performers from Broadway and beyond. Becca Andrews makes a noteworthy debut, bringing energy and enthusiasm to her performance. Ginger Bess, with her experience in vintage jazz, anchors the show with a solid presence. Melanie Fernandez, recently seen in Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812, continues to impress with her vocal talents, adding depth to the ensemble. Patrick Garr, a veteran of Mean Girls and Hamilton, brings his characteristic charisma, and Elliott Litherland displays a commendable range in his roles.

Erin Maya’s powerful rendition of Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” is a standout moment, showcasing her vocal strength and stage presence. Vasthy Mompoint, last seen in Hooray for Hollywood, adds a vibrant and dynamic touch to the production. David L. Murray Jr. and Devin L. Roberts contribute solid performances, while Valerie Salgado shines both as a performer and in her role as associate choreographer, helping to craft the show’s fluid and engaging choreography.

Music and Choreography that Captivates

Directed and choreographed by Eric Jackson, the show moves effortlessly from one iconic hit to the next. The creative team, including music director Nicolas Perez and lighting designer Paul Hudson, enhances the overall experience, creating a polished production that doesn’t overshadow the performers but instead complements them. Mark Zuckerman’s sound design ensures that the music and vocals resonate clearly with the audience.

The choreography is lively and well-suited to the music, capturing the essence of each era while keeping the audience engaged. The ensemble works together seamlessly, creating a cohesive and energetic performance that carries the audience along with it.

A Nostalgic Musical Journey

The musical selections in Dancing in the Street are carefully chosen to appeal to a wide audience. The Motown medley is a particular highlight, offering a nostalgic journey through some of the most beloved songs of the era. Elton John’s classics are given a fresh interpretation, and Whitney Houston’s hits, especially “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” bring the house down.

Final Thoughts – Act Now!

Dancing in the Street is a delightful summer event, offering a mix of nostalgia and high-energy performances that are sure to entertain. While the show may not break new ground, it provides a thoroughly enjoyable evening that will resonate with fans of classic music. With only a few performances left from August 15-18, this is a show worth catching if you’re in Sonoma. It’s a spirited celebration of music that brings the community together.

For tickets and more information, visit Transcendence Theatre Company.