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Jun 09 2024
Love0

Seeing Stars

By Joseph Cillo

Steve Budd at The Marsh Berkeley

I had the delight of attending Steve Budd’s latest solo performance, “Seeing Stars,” at The Marsh Berkeley, and it was an exceptional experience that I wholeheartedly recommend. Running from June 1 to July 13, 2024, this 60-minute show airs every Saturday at 5 pm and engages the audience from start to finish.

Heartfelt and Hilarious

From the moment Steve Budd stepped onto the stage, I was drawn into the world of his 31-year-old self, who finds himself moving back in with his parents. The story takes an unexpected turn as Steve’s gruff and distant father undergoes a surprising transformation, leading to a rollercoaster of emotions and unexpected twists. The performance starts slowly but comes alive with this telling. Budd’s impeccable storytelling and comedic timing made the exploration of such serious themes both heartfelt and hilarious.

Masterful Performance

Budd’s performance was nothing short of masterful. His ability to switch between characters seamlessly and his authentic portrayal of complex emotions kept me engaged and deeply invested in the story. It’s clear that his background as an award-winning solo performer shines through in “Seeing Stars,” a true testament to his talent and dedication to the craft.

Directed by Mark Kenward

The direction by Mark Kenward ensured a smooth and captivating narrative flow. Kenward’s experience and insight into solo performances were evident in the way he guided Budd, allowing his natural charisma and storytelling prowess to take center stage. I also appreciated the work of stage manager Aaron Aguilar, who ensured every aspect of the performance ran flawlessly.

About Steve Budd

For those unfamiliar with Steve Budd, he is an actor, writer, and storyteller based in Oakland, California. With a rich training background from The Marsh and The Groundlings in L.A., Budd brings a wealth of experience to the stage. His previous solo show, “What They Said About Love,” was a huge success, running for three months at The Marsh in 2018 and earning a spot as one of Theatre Bay Area’s Top 5 Solo Shows.

Engage with The Marsh

If you’re looking to engage more with The Marsh Berkeley and Steve Budd’s work, follow them on social media:

For more information and tickets, visit The Marsh’s website.

Conclusion

“Seeing Stars” is a must-see show that combines humor, heart, and a deep exploration of familial relationships. Steve Budd’s performance is a masterclass in solo storytelling, making this a standout production at The Marsh Berkeley. Don’t miss your chance to experience this remarkable ride through the highs and lows of family life.

Jun 03 2024
Love0

Ella, First Lady of Song at Meadow Brook Theatre, Rochester Hills MI

By Greg & Suzanne Angeo

 

Reviewed by Suzanne Angeo (Member, American Theatre Critics Association)

and Greg Angeo (Member Emeritus, San Francisco Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle)

Photos courtesy of Sean Carter Photography

 

Freda Payne

 

One Sparkling Gem of a Show

 

You’ll probably want to see this twice, just because it feels so good to immerse yourself in the great old jazz songs of the 1930s, 40s and beyond. But you will also learn the life story of an amazing woman and singer, and the rich history behind her success.

The original idea for “Ella, First Lady of Song” was crafted by Maurice Hines (brother of tap legend Gregory Hines) to celebrate the great music icon Ella Fitzgerald. It was designed around the formidable talents of Grammy-nominated recording artist Freda Payne, to bring Ella to life. Hines asked noted American composer and librettist Lee Summers (“From My Hometown”) to write and direct. Its world premiere was at the Crossroads Theater in New Brunswick NJ in December 2004. It has gone on to numerous regional productions and was awarded the 2022 New York AUDELCO Award for Best Musical.

But this is not a biographical play so much as a musical revue spiced with dramatic moments from Ella’s eventful life, and from history. The story begins, and ends, with Fitzgerald’s 1966 Cote D’Azur concert on the French Riviera with the Duke Ellington orchestra (released as a live album the following year). Her life story is then told in flashback, from her beginnings as a fledgling singer, using a series of projected images of historic photos. Young Ella faces incredible obstacles: poverty, racism, sexual abuse and scorn at her shabby clothes and hair. Obstacles she surmounts with the help of her devoted cousin Georgianna, sheer will, intelligence and astonishing talent.

Nicole Powell, Debra Walton

In a touching performance, Debra Walton inhabits her role as the vivacious young Ella with outstanding vocals and charm, and in a second role as Ella’s sister Frances. Nicole Powell offers a vibrant portrait of Cousin Georgianna. Eric Coles rounds out the small supporting cast with his strong performances as Ella’s manager and producer Norman Granz, who led history-making efforts to abolish the “whites only” policies of nightclubs in the 1940s and 50s, and as her abusive stepfather Joe DaSilva.

The real star of the show is, of course, the dazzling Detroit native Freda Payne as Ella in all her glory. Payne’s voice convincingly recalls Ella’s own vocal style and phrasing, including scatting and be-bop, and really hits those high notes.

Direction by Summers, staging and sets by Kirk Domer, and lighting by Eric Van Tassell are some of the best seen at Meadow Brook. The projections by Jeromy Hopgood help tell the story in an intimate way, drawing you in to relive moments in history. Platforms on casters, serving as floors, slide back and forth to move players and furniture as the scenes demand. One area of criticism: the sliding set pieces were a little noisy on a recent matinee, and a distraction, but this hopefully will be fixed for future shows.

Debra Walton, Nicole Powell, Freda Payne, Eric Coles

Each song in the show hangs, like a pearl, upon the fabulous six-piece jazz band, smoothly led by pianist and Duke Ellington stand-in Dionne Hendricks. Other band members serve as characters in the story – bass player Gregory Jones as Ella’s husband Ray Brown, and drummer Greg Bufford as band leader Chick Webb. One memorable number, “The Nearness of You”, has Payne dreamily singing and holding a rolled-up blanket, like the baby she could never have. A showstopper is “Any Place I Hang My Hat is Home”, belted with joyful gusto by Payne, Walton and Powell. But in truth, each song is a treasure, from beginning to end, all 30 of them, as is the pleasure of hearing Ms Payne sing them, and the band play them. It’s a most enjoyable way to pass the time.

 

 

When: Now through June 23, 2024

Tickets $37 to $46

Where: Meadow Brook Theatre at Wilson Hall

Oakland University

378 Meadow Brook Rd

Rochester Hills, MI 48309

(248) 377-3300

www.mbtheatre.com

 

Special Note: As COVID-19 is a constantly changing situation, MBT will be monitoring and adhering to the guidance given by the CDC, the State of Michigan, the Actor’s Equity Association, and Oakland University. Check the Meadow Brook Theatre website for the latest information on efforts to keep everyone safe.

This production is made possible through the generous support of the Michigan Arts and Cultural Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation, the Shubert Foundation and the Meadow Brook Theatre Guild.

Meadow Brook Theatre is a professional theatre located on the campus of Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. MBT is a nonprofit cultural institution serving southeast Michigan for more than 56 years.

May 30 2024
Love0

Torch Song at MTC

By Flora Lynn Isaacson

Marin Theatre Company presents Harvey Fierstein’s Torch Song May 9-June 2 in Mill Valley. This production is thoroughly enjoyable thanks to the extraordinary talent of the cast and creative team led by Director Evren Odcikin.

In 2017 Fierstein revised his1983 Tony Award winning play, Torch Song Trilogy, into a shorter, two-act version called Torch Song.The plot still centers on Arnold Beckhoff, a lonely Jewish man (and drag queen) looking for real love in New York City in the late 1970’s (before AIDS). As the story develops, the characters all struggle to find love despite the betrayal, confusion, judgment and unrequited feelings that often accompany it.

Dean Linnard’s range is incredible playing the role of Arnold. His performance is full of energy, touches your heart, makes you laugh and relate to his character’s yearning for love and understanding.

Patrick Andrew Jones (playing Arnold’s bi-sexual friend Ed) captures the essence of his character’s ambivalence and difficulty confronting his sexuality.

Kina Kantor is spot on as Laurel (Ed’s female lover) and Nancy Carlin (Arnold’s mother) is excellent showing the complexity of her character–a woman who loves her son but finds his “choices” difficult to accept.

Equally exceptional in their roles are Joe Ayers as David (a gay teen that Arnold takes in as a foster kid) and Edric Young who plays Alan, a sweet young man who gives up “hustling,” after Arnold saves him from a violent confrontation, falls in love with Arnold and becomes his lover.

Kudos to Sarah Phykitt for her incredible Scenic Design—especially the giant bed, Jessie Amoroso for the lovely Costume Design, Lana Palmer (Sound Design), and Nick Carvalho (Stage Manager). Their creativity and talent add much to this a memorable show!

Coming up next at Marin Theatre Company is Yaga by Kat Sandler, October 10-November 3.

 

May 26 2024
Love0

Head Over Heels

By Joseph Cillo

The Berkeley Playhouse continues to dazzle with its latest production, “Head Over Heels,” a rollicking musical that marries the 16th-century pastoral romance with the infectious pop rock sound of The Go-Go’s. This high-energy show, running from May 24 to June 30, 2024, is a must-see for anyone seeking a fun, heartwarming theater experience.

“Head Over Heels” tells the story of a royal family on a quest to restore their kingdom’s lost “beat,” exploring themes of love, friendship, gender, and sexuality along the way. The original book by Jeff Whitty and adaptation by James Magruder offer a witty, modern twist on the classic narrative, while the music and lyrics by The Go-Go’s infuse the show with an 80s flair that is both nostalgic and invigorating.

Under the masterful direction of Mel Martinez, the cast brings this vibrant world to life with remarkable talent and infectious enthusiasm. Jessica Coker shines as Queen Gynecia, delivering a performance that is both regal and deeply human. DC Scarpelli’s portrayal of King Basilius is equally compelling, balancing humor and pathos with ease. Jacqueline Dennis as Philoclea and Jas Cook as Pamela bring depth and charm to their roles as the royal daughters, each on their own journey of self-discovery.

The standout performances don’t stop there. Milo Boland as Musidorus and Melinda Campero as Mopsa are captivating in their roles, bringing both comedic timing and emotional resonance to their characters. B Noel Thomas as Pythio, the oracle, adds a mystical and dynamic presence that ties the story together.

Choreographer Kevin Gruwell and Music Director Michael Patrick Wiles deserve special mention for their work. Gruwell’s choreography is lively and inventive, perfectly capturing the spirit of The Go-Go’s music, while Wiles ensures that the musical numbers are both polished and heartfelt. Songs like “We Got the Beat,” “Our Lips Are Sealed,” and “Vacation” are cleverly woven into the narrative, enhancing the story without overshadowing it.

The set and costume design further elevate the production, transporting the audience to a whimsical, yet relatable, world where old meets new. The creative team’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the colorful costumes to the imaginative set pieces.

“Head Over Heels” is more than just a fun night out at the theater; it’s a celebration of self-acceptance and the courage to be true to oneself. As Director Mel Martinez aptly puts it, “To speak your truth is scary, but when you are truly yourself, everything looks better—even tastes better! It’s like being in love.”

Performances run Friday through Sunday, with select weekday evenings. For tickets or more information, visit berkeleyplayhouse.org. Don’t miss this chance to experience a show that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. “Head Over Heels” at Berkeley Playhouse is a triumph that will leave you tapping your feet and reflecting on the journey of self-discovery long after the final curtain falls.

 

May 21 2024
Love0

Day 1

By Joseph Cillo
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6 pm arrive Marina del Rey
Driving steadily non-stop (and fast) to meet our schedule, we make good time with our long ride down I5 and arrive with a little time to spare. So we drive around the marina, just getting acquainted.

6:30 pm check in Jamaica Bay Inn
Terrific room on top floor with balcony looking out on Mothers Beach. Drop luggage and rush over to Fisherman’s Village.

7:30 pm dinner cruise Hornblower Cruises & Events
At the fantasy Fisherman’s Village, near the Light House, several Hornblower party boats and their harbor shuttle are anchored. Boarding groups chat expectantly. Many celebrating, dressed to party. Gonna be a good time! Several sea lions slipping in and out the water entertain as we line-up to board. Checked-in, we’re directed to our table. All on board, a whistle blows, the vessel moves out into the harbor where it sails most evenings. Our Hornblower Yacht glides smoothly through the marina while we wine, dine, dance, enjoy the sea sunset.

The ambiance, low key nautical, feels wide and open but snug. Tables set around a dance floor. DJ prepares the evening’s program and takes requests. Before dinner people visit the outdoor decks, on this level and up top, to check out views. Although champagne (included in the ticket price) is served, many order more bottles of champagne for their celebrations…..birthdays, showers, anniversaries. With no kitchen on board the remarkably efficient servers manage to deliver temperature appropriate foods. 3 courses, well prepared and presented, are delicious. Music encourages groups of friends to dance together. Eventually groups mix, everyone dancing with whoever, having a lot of fun. Locals and tourists, like us, enjoying the party.

Outside, darkness has descended. Lights on shore reflect in the water – very beautiful. The yacht’s outdoor lights, strung from mast to decks – must look very smart from on shore. The cruise ends – happy guests, still chatting, holding hands, snuggling, hugging, air kissing goodbyes.

stay Jamaica Bay Inn
Balcony view at night: street lights trace the curving shoreline, beach lights reflect in the water, palm tree shadows cross the sand, twinkles of buildings and hotels. Lovely feeling, this room and its views, day and night.

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May 21 2024
Love0

About

By Joseph Cillo

Marina del Rey

An affluent unincorporated seaside community in Los Angeles County. A Westside locale, the population was 8,866 at the 2010 census. Fisherman’s Village offers a view of Marina del Rey’s dominant feature, the Marina, the world’s largest man-made small craft harbor: 19 marinas with capacity for 5,300 boats and home port to approximately 6,500 boats. The harbor, the Los Angeles Times said, is “perhaps the county’s most valuable resource”.

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History

Originally, Marina del Rey was part of a salt-marsh fed by fresh water from Ballona Creek, frequented by duck hunters and few others. The area was referred to as mud flats (today we say wetlands).

In the mid-19th century, entrepreneurs wanted to turn this Playa del Rey estuary into a commercial port. Ballona Development Company was formed in 1888 to develop the area, but 3 years later the company went bankrupt. Port Ballona was then sold to an individual who purchased 1,000 acres of land around Ballona lagoon and Port Ballona in 1902 under the name “Beach Land Company”. The land was renamed “Del Rey”; Port Ballona was renamed “Playa Del Rey”.

In 1916, the Army Corps of Engineers investigated the idea of a commercial harbor, but declared it economically impractical. In 1936, Congress ordered another re-evaluation, and the Corps of Engineers came back positive. However, the Marina del Rey harbor concept lost out to San Pedro as a commercial harbor and development funding went to the Port of Los Angeles instead.

In 1953, the L.A. County Board of Supervisors authorized a $2 million loan to fund construction of the marina. Since the loan only covered about half the cost, Congress passed and President Eisenhower signed Public Law 780, making construction possible. Ground breaking began shortly after.

After 75 years and various starts and stops, the dredging of Marina del Rey — at that time the largest man-made small craft harbor in the country — was completed in May 1962. Winter, however, brought disaster. Violent storms Feb. 9 and 10, 1963, sent 9-foot swells into the channel, destroying boats and docks. The storm caused millions of dollars in damage to both the marina and the few small boats anchored there.

The solution was to create a breakwater at the marina mouth, and the L.A. Supervisors appropriated $2.1 million to build it. In October 1963, breakwater construction began, with rocks from a Catalina Island quarry shipped to the marina’s entrance. The marina breakwater was completed January 1965.

On April 10, 1965 Marina del Rey was formally dedicated. Total cost of the marina was $36.25 million for land, construction, and initial operation.

Marina del Rey celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2015.

May 16 2024
Love0

Don’t Miss The Book Club Play at RVP!

By Flora Lynn Isaacson

Don’t miss The Book Club Play, presented by Ross Valley Players now through June 9 at the Barn Theater in Ross.

Written by Karen Zacarias and directed by Mary Ann Rodgers, the show will make you laugh and smile. It’s entertaining from start to finish thanks the extraordinary talent of the ensemble cast and creative team.

The stage (Ron Krempetz/Dhyanis) is set perfectly for a book club.  Ana’s comfortable living room has a well stocked bar, cozy couches, chairs, plenty of bookshelves and warm lighting (Ellen Brooks).

As the play begins, the members of the club introduce themselves one by one. First is Ana (Elena Wright), a journalist who holds the book club in her home. She has agreed to let a documentary filmmaker set up a camera to record the club’s meetings. Next is Lily (Chiyako Delores) who works with Ana at the local newspaper. Lily joins the club to meet people since she’s new in town.  Rob (Mark Vashro) is Ana’s husband. He admits he’s “not a big reader,” but likes the food and company at book club. Jen (Jannely Calmell) is a paralegal. She says books are her “best friends.”  Will (Matthew Travisano) works at a history museum—he’s well read, well dressed and dated Ana before she met her husband Rob.

After the introductions, Ana explains the camera is pre-set to record the group every two weeks when they meet. The food and wine flows as they discuss the first book selected, Moby Dick.

Later in Act One, a new character, Alex (Gabriel Ross)  joins the group for the first time. He’s a friend of Jen’s and a comparative literature professor. He doesn’t enjoy books anymore and claims his “connection” to books and people is “broken.”

Throughout the play, a separate character called “the pundit” (Marsha van Broek) appears between scenes offering wit and wisdom on various aspects of books and the book business. She is hilarious playing multiple roles (both male and female) including a retired librarian, secret service agent, Wal-Mart book stocker, prison bookseller and literary agent.

As the story develops and the group discusses Age of Innocence, Twilight, The Da Vinci Code, Harry Potter and other familiar titles, the characters recognize the powerful effect that books have on themselves and each other.

Special thanks to Steve Price (Producer) for bringing this touching comedy to the Ross Valley Player’s stage.

Coming up next at Ross Valley Players is Crossing Delanceyby Susan Sandler and directed by Adrian Elfenbaum, September 12-October 13.

May 15 2024
Love0

Eureka Springs

By Joseph Cillo

Step back in time

Tucked into the heart of the Ozarks (northwest corner of Arkansas), about an hour (50 miles down country roads through a couple of hollows) from the lights and electronic music of Branson lies Eureka Springs. The only entire downtown on the US National Register of Historic Places, it is listed in “1000 places to see before you die”, and for the second time has been chosen as one of The Great Towns in America. Called the “gem of the Ozarks”, it is also known affectionately as “Little Switzerland of the Ozarks”.

           

Native people settled here for the waters, believing the mineral springs had healing properties. When that notion reached settlers moving west, they too came. Trains, making the area even more accessible, created growth resembling San Francisco 1850s boom times.

The Eureka Springs Historic District is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Arkansas. Victorian era homes hug cliffsides along streets that rise and fall in a series of whirlpool-like circles within the curvy, hilly topography in a 5-mile long loop. Very scenic but drive slowly.

It’s the “Wedding Capitol” of the mid-south, with more than 4,000 weddings performed each year. No blood tests or waiting period – marriage licenses may be purchased at the local Court House.

Many reasons to visit: Thorncrown Chapel (4th best architectural achievement of the 20th Century), White River trout fishing, spa treatments, fine restaurants, picturesque one-of-a-kind shops, boutiques, galleries, craft shops, wonderful Ozark mountain and lake scenery. Filled with creative types – artists, writers, musicians, intellectually curious – Eureka Springs describes itself as a “college town without a college”.

Totally charming – perfect for a long weekend or 2-week extended vacation. Here’s what we saw/did in 2 1/2 jam-packed days.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

day 1 photos

fly into new Branson airport go then drive to Eureka Springs
Newly opened May 2009. Built at some $155 million on land formerly owned by Tennessee Ernie Ford, and said to be the largest privately-owned commercial airport in the U.S. Construction involved flattening the tops of nearby Ozark Mountains and carving roads through them – thought to be the largest earth moving project in Missouri history. Closest commercial airport is Springfield-Branson National Airport, 50 miles northwest of Branson, owned by the City of Springfield.

4 pm arrive Eureka Springs
check into 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go
Sitting on top of Crescent Mountain like a European chateau overlooking the town, this “Grand Old Lady of the Ozarks” opened in 1886 to be the finest hotel west of the Mississippi. In the late 1800’s, when a new railroad brought thousands of tourists to Eureka Springs for the recuperative health treatments of the mineral rich hot springs, the hotel flourished along with the town. Has a rich and colorful history – having served as a luxury hotel, all girls school and cancer hospital run by Dr. Baker, a snake oil salesman. Fell into disrepair over the years, but has been restored to its former Victorian glory. Now a National Historic Hotel – and also considered by many to be the most haunted hotel in America!

6 pm dinner Local Flavor go
Clean, cozy, candlelit, semi-fine dining, color-print tablecloth restaurant. Excellent, inventive cuisine and professional friendly waitstaff. Wine list mostly Napa/Sonoma greats with notable European varietals also featured. Good location at the start of Main Street. Highly recommended by hotel concierge and others – a local favorite. Great dining way to begin a visit!

8 pm Ghost Tour Crescent Hotel go
Quirky, rambling, tiny bit freaky – and a lot of fun. Hotel investigated by TV show “Ghost Busters” which found paranormal phenomena all over the place. We take some unusual pictures that we’re still puzzling over. Room 419 hosts a ghost dubbed Theodora, believed to be one of Baker’s cancer patients, who sometimes introduces herself to surprised guests and housekeepers. We happen to be staying in 419!

stay 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go

                        

 

 

 

 

 

day 2 photos

breakfast 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go
Full buffet breakfast available in the large dining room with view of the gardens and porches. Leisurely and luxurious way to start the day.

10 am shopping and sightseeing downtown
Much to see here – allow more time or come back for several visits.

11:30 am lunch The Oasis go
You get here by going down a little wooden staircase leading down to 53C (between 53 and 51 Spring St.) and then it gets interesting. 2 SMALL rooms we ate in the back (only 2 tiny tables) ordering off the handwritten wall menu (over the water heater). One cheffette, one sassy waitress prepare and serve great Ark-Mex food with many vegetarian options. Retro funky. They don’t advertise or have a website — don’t miss the cultural experience.

1 pm Great Passion Play go and Christ of the Ozarks statue go
First performed in 1968, The Play (styled after that of Oberammergau, Germany) has been seen by over 7.5 million people making it the largest attended outdoor drama in America. The outdoor performance is staged 4 or 5 nights a week from May through October in the 4,100-seat amphitheater. Too early for the first show, we had a backstage site tour. Also nearby on the grounds is the Christ of the Ozarks statue the largest Christ statue in North America a popular place for weddings.

2 pm Queen Anne Mansion House Museum go
Built in 1892, this first new major attraction to open in Eureka Springs in over a decade is an immersion into the rich culture and history of the 19th century. In a pre-opening tour of the entire museum we saw fine artisanship, architecture with balconies and wrap around porches, beautiful carved woodwork, original stained glass, musemum quality furniture and a collection of fine 19th century decorative arts. Buffalo Bill and Harold Bell Wright visited this home. An addition to the house includes art gallery space and public rooms. Memorable, must-see experience.

3 pm Keels Creek Winery Wine Tasting go
Wine in Arkansas? Well, yes sort of. Not exactly Napa/Sonoma but Arkansas’s newest winery is located in Eureka Springs. The vineyards, in the hills of Keels Creek, about 3 miles from the city limits are not yet mature enough to supply all of the grapes needed for the winery. But the winery has begun producing wines, many of them somewhat exotic hybrids which we sampled. Wine production is small, mostly sold out. A valiant effort stay tuned!

4 pm Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge go
This largest lifelong refuge (USDA licensed) for abused, abandoned and neglected big cats in the world is home to over 100 lions, tigers, cougars and leopards, and other animals. Tanya Jackson Smith, founder and president of the Refuge, whose family sold everything they owned in order to buy the land and set up the Refuge, gave us a guided tour. Without the Refuge, 90% of the animals would now be dead. Perched on a hilltop with extensive acreage and great views, their Zulu Safari Lodge comfortable canvas structures with private baths, individually decorated offers big cat lovers a place to stay in total comfort nearby the magnificant animals and contribute to the mission. Very well designed.

6 pm dinner Ermilio’s go
Eureka Springs’ number one recommended restaurant for many years is located on the Historic Trail in a Victorian cottage surrounded with blooming gardens. Excellent Italian food prepared using grandmother’s recipes: quick, attentive service. Casual, comfortable, nice experience. Order Tiramisu for dessert if calories are not important. Delicious!

8 pm Pine Mountain Music and Comedy Theater go
For some local regional entertainment, we take in an evening of classic country music and comedy theater. The 7 performers sing, play and comedy their hearts out for over 2 hours (with an intermission). We even get to talk with the performers at intermission and after the show. The show has been playing in various incarnations for over 36 years and has the distinction of being “Arkansas’ first and most attended family show”. We come away smiling and fully popcorned. Very Ozarkian and worth experiencing.

stay 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go

                                

 

 

 

 

 

day 3 photos

breakfast 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa go

10 am Fire Om Earth Studio go
The full name of this collaborative creativity studio is Fire Om Earth Retreat Center & Working Studio of Artists Lorna & Craig Trigg Hirsch. These folks do it all: hand crafted musical instruments (drums. flutes, ocarinas), ongoing classes in Yoga, Tai Chi and Belly Dance plus creative workshops, house concerts, and private and group retreats, massage, Sweat Lodge, Watercolor class, custom retreat Classes & Workshops. We come by to view true artists/entrepreneurs in action.

noon lunch Mud Street Café go
From Main Street you go down a number of stairs to enter (apparently the bulding was street level at one time but they later raised the road). They’ve won a number of food awards through the years, including: Best Breakfast, Best Coffee, Best Dessert and Best Family Restaurant. A “must” for breakfast or lunch — see for yourself.

2 pm narrated Tram Tour go
Very nice 50-minute narrated tours start at and return to the Eureka Springs Transit Center, just off Main Street. Great way to get a sense of the town. Our narrator is an ex-dam (not damn) superintendent, educational and witty. Recommend starting with this, rather than doing it at the tail-end as we did.

4 pm depart Eureka Springs for Branson
drive to Branson for Silver Dollar City 50th Anniversary Celebration                          

 

 

 

Thanks to all who helped create this fine experience

Eureka Springs
CAPC (City Advertising and Promotion Commission) go

   Ken Rundel Eureka Springs CAPC Publicist
organized the visit and acted as guide/facilitator

Fun of Travel

   Joseph Cillo Publisher & Editor in Chief
design and text
   Mary Buttaro Creative & Photo Editor
photographs and narrative
who together created this story and photo journal

 

                    

 

 

May 15 2024
Love0

“Torch Song” at Marin Theatre

By Joseph Cillo

A Heartfelt Production with Humor and Depth

The Marin Theatre rendition of Harvey Fierstein’s “Torch Song” is a well-crafted and engaging production. Directed by Evren Odcikin, this adaptation of the “Torch Song Trilogy” captures the spirit of the original while offering a fresh take that feels both current and resonant.

Dean Linnard’s performance as Arnold Beckoff is truly exceptional. Linnard embodies the character with remarkable depth and authenticity, seamlessly transitioning between moments of biting humor and profound vulnerability. His portrayal captures the multifaceted nature of Arnold, making him both relatable and deeply compelling. Linnard’s nuanced performance anchors the production, drawing the audience into Arnold’s journey with a captivating blend of charisma and emotional resonance. He is also very funny at times, delivering lines with impeccable timing and a sharp wit that keeps the audience laughing.

The supporting cast enhances the production with strong performances. Nancy Carlin, as Arnold’s mother, skillfully portrays the complex mix of disapproval and deep affection that defines their relationship. Her interactions with Linnard are particularly compelling, adding depth to the story’s exploration of familial bonds.

Patrick Andrew Jones and Kina Kantor, playing Ed and Laurel, provide solid support with authentic portrayals of their characters’ relationships with Arnold. Edric Young’s role as Alan injects a sense of hope and optimism, while Joe Ayers, as David, brings an intensity that highlights the more serious themes of the play.

Odcikin’s direction ensures a well-paced performance, blending comedic and dramatic moments effectively. The production design, including contributions from Sarah Phykitt (set design), Ray Oppenheimer (lighting design), Lana Palmer (sound design), and Jessie Amoroso (costume design), creates a visually appealing and immersive experience that captures the essence of 1970s and 80s New York.

The strength of this production lies in its ability to balance lighthearted humor with heartfelt moments. The dialogue is sharp and often funny, while the play’s more serious themes are handled with care and sensitivity. The exploration of love, identity, and acceptance feels as relevant today as ever.

In its condensed format, “Torch Song” retains the emotional impact of the original trilogy. This Marin Theatre Company production respects Fierstein’s work while bringing a fresh perspective that speaks to contemporary audiences. It is a compelling show that will appeal to both longtime fans and those new to the story.

In summary, Marin Theatre’s “Torch Song” is a strong production with excellent performances, thoughtful direction, and a well-executed blend of humor and depth. It offers a powerful reminder of the enduring need for acceptance and the timeless quest for love. This production is well worth seeing.