Jim's Theatre Review Archives

"Raisin" is a Good Show with a Great Message (posted 8-8-08)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

Right now at Riverwalk Theatre in downtown Lansing, the players are bringing us "A Raisin in the Sun." Lorraine Hansberry's landmark drama is the story a working-class black family who are trying to decide how to spend a $10,000 insurance check. Mama’s is played dream is to make a down payment on a house in a white neighborhood, while her son Walter Lee dreams to invest in a liquor store. A Raisin in the Sun debuted in 1959. It was the first play written by a black woman to be produced on Broadway, as well as the first play with a black director. (Lloyd Richards). I t was nominated for four Tony awards in 1960 and was made into a film in 1961. That is a huge amount of entertainment history to be up against in this revival, but the cast does it well. Carolyn Thornton holds this show together. She is a delight as Mama. Guy Stockard is Walter Lee and plays it perfectly as he captures the anger, the frustration and the love his character shares with his family and the audience. Angela Davis is good as his wife Ruth and young Gavin Hoskins makes his local stage debut as their son, Travis. You can tell this young man worked hard to get his lines and character just right. I hope to see him in future shows. There were a few flubbed llines and some akward scene changes, but under the direction of Wanda Wright Gilkey, you get a very good show that gets three out of Fordyce

.A Raisin in the Sun" runs Aug 7-10 & 14-17
For show times and tickets, go to the Riverwalk Theatre web site

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Romeo and Juliet is Good Shakespeare in the Park

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

Romeo and Juliet opened Friday night and although I had seen some rehearsals I saw the whole show Sunday night in Hunter Park in Lansing. I am very glad the company decided to do the traditional version of the show set it's original time period. A simple set in the park and costumes from the era gathered with the help of the Michigan Shakespeare Festival took us back to Verona where it's time to start the family feud between the Capulets and the Montagues. You all know the story, Romeo M. falls madly in love with Ms. Juliet and the survey says "trouble". The supporting cast in this show is very good. Matt Land brings Benvolio to life. Ben Hancock (pictured left) nails Friar Laurence and Lindsay Palinsky is great as Tybalt. The standouts in the cast are Toby Hemker is as the bold and brash Mercutio, and Erin Cline as Petra, a character with few lines, which means Cline must bring the servant character to live with body language and facial expressions. I will give a most improved award to newcomer Colin Ragan. I saw him audition and watched him in a rehearsal and what I saw on "stage" showed just how far he has come. Shout outs to Justin Lippi who played the violin for the show. I wish there had been more musical interludes from him. I liked the dance scenes, really enjoyed the drunken party and was impressed that in this open setting the actors remained in character as they were walking around the audience to get to the back stage area. Unfortunately, I was not impressed with the title characters. Logan Emlet is Romeo and Seneca Shaffer was Juliet. Emlet was the better of the two, but he needs to slow down his delivery and savor his role. Ms. Shaffer had trouble delivering her lines and the lines she remembered were for the most part mumbled without feeling. She needs to concentrate on her delivery and DICTION . All in all this a pleasant evening in the park from a theater company that hopes you love Billy Shakespeare as much as they do. For those Shakespeare lovers who want the real thing in its traditional form, I will give this one a good 3 out of Fordyce. The rest of you may not like it as much, but like I said it is a pleasant night in the park.

You have 2 more weekends to see R & J. August 8, 9,10, 15, & 16 with a rain date scheduled for August 17. The production takes place in Hunter Park, and will begin promptly at 6:30 each night of the production. Audience members are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and picnics. The production is rated PG-13 for violence and implied sexual content and sexuality. The show will be free, but donations will be accepted

See exclusive MIentertainment.biz rehearsal pictures and
an interview with the Cast & Director of R & J by clicking here.

Joseph Not as Amazing as it Could Be (posted:8/1/08)

Rating: 2 out of Fordyce

The Holt and Dimondale Community Players is now presenting Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. I caught the musical retelling of the “coat of many colors” bible story about Joseph, son of Jacob, his eleven brothers, and his rise to fame and fortune on opening night at Holt High School.

This is a fun show with lots of lively music. But as much as this show is this group may have bitten off a little more than they could chew with this one. Most of the problems were technical. The biggest one was not being able to hear. The microphones on the narrators sounded like an old transistor radio and made their crucial part of the performance almost impossible to understand. A comment I heard several times at intermission. One characters mic didn't work at all, and there was lots of buzz about that. The problem was while we talked about it during the break, someone should have done something about it BEFORE the show resumed. There were also several other mic problems and several missed lighting cues. But on to the good and very good. The musical numbers and the dances were high energy and a lot of fun and the costumes were perfect. The set was kept simple, a plus in this small theater. The "very good" was the choice of recent CMU graduate Eric Rohman as Joseph. This fine young performer held this show together with his acting and his singing. And fortunately, his mic worked. I hope the gang can fix their technical glitches and make this a much better show for the rest of its run. As it stands now it only gets 2 out of Fordyce

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is on the Holt High School Margaret Livensparger Theater stage on Thursday, July 31 at 7 pm , and Friday, August 1 and Saturday, August 2, at 7 pm. Shows continue the following weekend, Thursday-Saturday, August 7-9, at 7 pm with a matinee on Saturday, August 9 at 2 pm. Tickets are $10, $5 for students and seniors, and are available at the Holt High School Community Education Box Office, 5885 Holt Rd., Holt, 694-3411, or at the door. See HDCPTheater.com for more details.

"Alice" is a Fun Frolic and it's Free

Rating: 4 out of Fordyce (posted:7/23/08)

Grab your lawn chair and head to the amphitheater right out side the Dart Auditorium this weekend and enjoy "Alice in Wonderland" This story that kids of all ages love is the latest offering in Lansing Community College's "Summer under the Stars" series. Alice (Courtney Raunch) is there to take us to Wonderland. Once we arrive we are treated to a large cast of characters who come to life right from the pages of the storybook. The cast is all good, but Andrew Bailiff is the standout as the Cheshire cat. He helps narrate the tale often from his perch above the action. He grasps the essence of the character and makes him so believable you will want to pet him. Even when he is just waiting for his line, he stays in character and enjoys the action with you. David Brown and Brian deVries are perfect as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, and you are going to just love Matt Brickner as the Mad Hatter. The show is done on a simple set that works incredibly well and the whole thing hinges on the perfect costumes made under the supervision of Charlotte Deardorff. Grab the kids, your friends and anyone you know who likes to smile or need to smile and bring them to this show which gets the perfect four out of Fordyce. But don't be late for this very important date. The show only runs through Sunday night July 29. It begins at 8 pm and it is FREE, but they do pass the hat for the LCC Scholarship fund, so please be generous. I know several young people who would not be attending class if it was not for the generosity of our community.

I took some pictures and a snippet of video. Click here to enjoy them.

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Into the Woods a good effort, but too much for its young cast. (posted:7/23/08)

Rating: 2 out of Fordyce

The show currently on stage at the Ruhala Center is "Into the Woods." The students there are performing the Tony award winning musical that weaves the tales of Jack and the beanstalk , Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, and Rapunzel, into a one giant and somewhat confusing story. The adults at Ruhala brought the show in an original modern setting complete with cell phones and computers that works OK. The show features some catchy music by Steven Sondheim that I have listened to before sung by the adult cast. That is a significant problem here. Much of the complicated songs and dialog are lost in spite of the inexperienced actors valiant efforts. The numbers were they sing together in a chorus are strong and wonderful, but some of the solos were strained and hard to hear over the orchestra. There were many nice moments in the show, Anna Radway is outstanding as Little Red Riding Hood. Ruhala veteran Jena Rachelle Kelly makes a fine ugly, then sexy witch and Tess van Egeran is great as the cow! When you see the show, watch for her facial expressions. On the male side of the cast is young Jordan Ruhala. He is the narrator and excels using talent that I suspect is inherited. He reminds me of Ricky Schroeder in his "Silver Spoons" days. Jackson Taylor is the Giant, I think he was trying to imitate "The Terminator" but it didn't work. Another Ruhala regular, Jordon Walling, is good as the Prince and Eddy Lee, who I have never seen on stage before is great in his supporting role . I guess he must be new at Ruhala. If so, I look forward to seeing him again. Another problem with this show is a lack of men meant the woman had to play male roles. Painting on sideburns and a moustache doesn't do the trick. A couple of scenes made me wonder if I had stumbled on to an old I Love Lucy episode. This was especially obvious with Lexi Moeller playing the Mysterious Man. I will now turn that comment into a platform for change. HEY GUYS!! Ruhala Center is not just a place for girls. Acting and Singing and Dancing is Fun. Take my word for it and give it a try. I can only give this show 2 out of Fordyce, but I always give young people who work hard to learn their craft and have the guts to try something new a perfect four out of Fordyce. There are only a few tickets left to this show which runs through the weekend. Call 337 0464 to see if you can still get a seat.

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Wicked is A Wonderful Story,
This Cast Not as Good Last Years (July 17,2008)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

Wicked is back at Wharton Center.
One year after its sell out run last July, the show about what happened before Dorothy arrived in Oz has returned for an extended run through August 14. Many people missed it last year and If you did, I highly recommend this show. The story is clever and you will enjoy as the tale unfolds in front of you with song, dance and great dialog.  But those coming this year will not get the perfect show that we saw last year. This cast was just not as good as the one we loved during the summer of 07.  The audience on media night was witness to a wardrobe malfunction. That was such a rare occurrence it was almost a treat and you probably will not see it again if you see the show a thousand times. The actress playing Glenda  (Katie Rose Clarke) rolled with the event made a small joke and the show went on.  Sometimes those things can’t be helped. What can be helped is the fact that some dancers were not together and missed steps  and Ms. Clarke overplayed the Glenda character. It was almost like she was playing the lead in “Legally Blonde’ She should dial it back a notch or two and it will be a better performance. So this one is not perfect, but it does get a good three out of Fordyce. If you haven’t seen this show, treat yourself. Those of you who saw it last year, you may be a little disappointed, but if you are one of those among the huge legion of “Wicked” fans like my pal Jack Ebling, go have some fun.  Wharton Center did what we all asked and brought the show back. Let’s thank them with a sellout.

To hear Jim & Jack talk about the Wicked Wardrobe Malfunction Click Here

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IMPROV-ABLE LIVES is Fun in the Park (July 19,2008)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

Do yourself a favor and head for Fitzgerald Park in Grand Ledge next weekend for one of the two remaining shows of IMPROV-ABLE LIVES. This is a unique sketch comedy show from the offbeat gang at the Ledges Playhouse. They start with a few premises and let the show go where it ends up. How does it all work? The audience helps!
I got to go on stage and make some suggestions for skits and trust me it is great fun.
 Director Kevin Burnham is the Master of Ceremonies as he steers a cast that includes his lovely wife Tanya, Mark Bethea, Melanie Cherry, Luke Elder, Michael Hays, Ben Holzhausen, and Julie Linderleaf. This talented ensemble rolls with everything that is thrown at them during improv time and does some really clever prepared sketches.  If you go, get ready to let loose in a performance that is for mature audiences who aren’t easily offended by some adult stuff. And don’t be afraid to participate when called on. That’s how you can make sure this show continues to get a fun three out of Fordyce. The last two shows are Friday (7/25) and Saturday (7/26) at 8 pm

The Ledges Playhouse is located in Fitzgerald Park, in Grand Ledge
Tell them at the entrance that you are coming to the playhouse and you park free
For more information call: 944-0221

"Full Monty" is Fresh and Delightful Again!

Rating: 4 out of Fordyce (July 10,2008)

Back by popular demand with your five favorite stripper hunks from last fall and a new one is "the Full Monty" at Riverwalk Theatre! And they are delightful again. I caught the show opening and being a theater critic, I was looking for any hint that this cast had any of the tell tale signs of lack of enthusiasm of doing the same show again. NOPE!
If anything this show has a little more drive and excitement. I loved it as much if not more than last September's version, and that makes my job easy. Just read the review from last fall below because it all still holds true, except that I hope Jace Mc Cloy is now in the sixth grade There is only one major cast change from last year's production Sineh Wurie plays Horse Simmons and he does it so well. There were a few other minor cast changes including one new wife, cause last year's was expecting. The new cast members blend so well with the actors who were onstage for the second time around, this one gets another perfect four out of Fordyce. If you missed this show last fall, don't make that same mistake. Call Mike at 482-5700 and tell him I said he has to squeeze you in of the remaining performances. But do not wait. The show only runs through July 20 and it is almost a sell out.

Tickets On Line
Warning: Adult Language & Nudity

The Full Monty is Full of Fun (September 2007)

On stage right now at the Riverwalk Theatre in downtown Lansing is  “The Full Monty”.  This is a musical that features steelworkers who lost their jobs and decide that since the Chippendales make money stripping, they can too. The problem is they don’t look like the typical male dancer, but set out on a mission to glorify the working man. This endearing story from Terrence McNally takes us into the lives of these men who are proud and strong, but show us they can be sensitive too.  With Music and Lyrics by David Yazbewk, this show is a treat from one of our great local community theaters. A lot of hard work went into it and it shows.
There is a large cast of guys and gals and they all work well together, so this is one of those reviews where I hate single out anyone, since they all make this show a success Those who go will enjoy Ethan Link and Anthony Sump. They are paired perfectly as Jerry and Dave, the two guys who come up with the idea to perform. Director Veronica Wing Quick did a wonderful job and she was smart to grab talented local actors Joe Quick and Keith Gracia Wing as Malcolm and Ethan. OK, she is married to one and the other is her brother but she made the right choice keeping it in the family.   Keith, who played in Godspell a few months back is one of my favorite local actors and Joe is a talented young man who overplays the Malcolm character just the way he is supposed to.  Kerry Waters is perfect as Jeanette, the hard driving show biz matron who helps the guys. Jace McCloy is Nathan. This 5th grader from St. Gerard School charms the pants off all of us. 
Up until this production, I had only scene “The Full Monty” on large Broadway type stages.  The intimate RWT setting added a dimension to this show I had not scene before. The audience couldn’t help becoming part of the finale.  Most of us were hooting and hollering right along with the “on stage audience” . I know I had fun and that means this show gets a perfect four out of Fordyce. It has something for everyone except the kids, this one is recommended for adults only..

"Monty" Guest Reviews

from Jane Zussman:

I was kind of afraid MONTY couldn't "survive its legend" being revived after last fall's success -- but it has survived and THRIVED -- a wonderful show with heart and humanity that goes beyond the bare-all gimmick. The previous wonderful "Georgie" (Kari Surbrook) and "Horse" (Jesse Glenn) were not available due to pregnancy and a new job, respectively -- but their replacements, Kelly Stuible and Sineh Wurie ably stepped in and kicked it up a notch. (Let's just say, "Big Black Man" was a show stopper.) The voices are great; the orchestra is great; the choreography is great; the scene changes are smooth and quick. Tony brought an understated sincerity all of us "body-challenged" folks could identify with; Joe was both pathetic and powerful; Keith was a bundle of energy; Jeff and Jennifer were both funny and touching; Kerry was hilarious (a new wig for each scene) and Jace was once again adorable (the little potty mouth! haha) And of course, the estranged and convincing Kat Kooper and Ethan Link -- and the ever-lovely Ryan Fuller... (Oh, I tell myself I'm not going to mention individuals because I'm afraid to not be "fair" and leave someone out. But they are ALL excellent... not a weak link in this bunch.) Kudos to director Veronica

from Tom Rico:

"The Full Monty" Puts the Cool in a Cool City
A bustling crowd criss-crossed past the front window of The Nuthouse tonight while I ate dinner with some co-workers and their spouses. Some people were heading to Common Ground Music Festival. Some were obviously heading to Oldsmobile Park for a ball game. And others, like us, were heading to Riverwalk Theatre to catch the opening night of “The Full Monty.” It almost seemed for a moment that Lansing was a cool city.

We paid our dinner tab and scampered down the street – it was 10 minutes to curtain.

I had never seen the musical “The Full Monty” and sitting in the audience waiting for the show to begin I could not recall seeing the film, though Ruth claims we had. I’ve always liked the Riverwalk Theatre as an intimate venue and I generally knew what the play was about, but I didn’t have any preconceived notions about the production. As it turned out, the cast of “The Full Monty” gave an energetic performance and, for this night, put the cool in a cool city. The weekend production will be high quality alternative to Common Ground or baseball – I highly recommend this show. The show runs next weekend, as well, July 17th - 20th. Don’t miss it.

Talley's Folley a Delightful Play (posted:7/5/08)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

Now through August 3, you can head to The Williamston Theatre as the gang there ends the 2007-2008 season with the Pulitzer Prize winning play, Talley’s Folly by Lanford Wilson. 

I caught the show the other night and I have to say was tired after along day and thought about catching the show some other night, but I had my seat reserved and the folks in Williamston ALWAYS make me feel so welcome with their hellos and smiles, so that perked me up as I walked in to see the most elaborate set I have ever seen in that small theater. I was told by director John Lepard, it was built off site, tucked in and assembled there.   That set is the old boathouse on the Talley property where the action takes place. It is 1944 in Missouri.  First we meet Wayne David Parker as Matt Friedman. He sets the stage for a little while and then his is joined on stage by the only other member of the cast Sally Talley played by Kate Peckham.  We follow the tale of this unlikely pair who deal with all kinds of obstacles that block their happiness. Their different religious backgrounds, her odd family and a secret that comes out in the final moments. The two actors are engaging for this 90 something minute play. You really like them both are interested in what they have to say to each other and us as the audience. It has a few slow moments, but it is well worth your time and gets a good three out of Fordyce. Hats off to Bartley Bauer for the set and Jeremy Winchester for the the lighting that worked so well with that set

The show runs through Sunday, August 3. Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday night at eight o’clock, Saturday matinees are at three o’clock Sunday matinees are at two o’clock. 

The Williamston Theatre is a not-for-profit, professional live theatre company, located in downtown Williamston (exit 117 off of I-96) just south of Grand River.  Additional information about the company, current season and founding members is available online at www.williamstontheatre.org or by calling (517) 655-SHOW

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Wonder of the World is Wonderful (posted:6/26/08)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

Catch it quick.. The first summer under the starts show from the Theater Department at Lansing Community College only runs through Sunday only.  Opening night moved indoors after a rain shower, but weather permitting, the other performances should take place right outside. “Wonder of The World” is an odd comedy about Cass, a woman  who learns she is married to a man with a sexual deviation and leaves him. She takes off for Niagara Falls, meets a drunk woman named Lois who brings her own barrel to take the plunge, has an affair with the captain of the “Maid of the Mist” boat and then runs into the unusual couple her husband hires to find her. Then, he shows up.  The show is funny, but honestly the end is dumb. It is like the author ran out of stuff to do. But the cast does a great job, especially since opening night got forced inside and I am sure they were geeked and rehearsed to be out of doors. Kellie Stonebrook  is a delight as Cass,  while Alec Nagy comes off a little whiny as her husband. I am not sure if the show was written that way or that’s they way he and/or the director interpreted the role, but he could have had a little more energy. Tod Humphrey is good as the captain, and Samantha Seybert is amazing as Lois the drunk. But the stand out in this show is Marianne Chan. She plays 6 parts and is great in all of them. You always know it is one talented actress, but you are also astonished as she changes characters. You will laugh out loud as she plays three waitresses in the same scene.  It is worth a trip to LCC just to see her and to watch “The Newlywed Game” scene.  I give this one a good 3 out of a Fordyce. Head for downtown Lansing and revel in this free show. It is for Adults only, so leave the kids home.

For More Pictures of This Show, Go to the Photo Album

Summer Circle Season Ender Sizzles (posted:6/26/08)

Rating: 4 out of Fordyce

It is you last chance this weekend to catch the third and final show of the Summer Circle Theater at MSU. The current play on the banks of the Red Cedar just outside the Michigan State University Auditorium is “Number the Stars”  

The story takes place during the German occupation of Denmark in World War II, the Nazis closed down Jewish-owned businesses and began the round up of the Jews for relocation to concentration camps. Danish freedom fighters of all ages risked everything in daring, hurried rescue attempts of the entire Jewish population.
Young Annemarie (Kristen Barrett) and Kirstie Johansen (Ania Piecuch) face soldiers, interrogation, fierce dogs, personal danger, the loss of loved ones and their own fears as they try to help their friend Ellen Rosen (Caitlin Inman)  escape across the ocean to Sweden and safety.
Of the three “Summer Circle” plays, this is the most serious and unlike the light hearted comedies we have watched over the last two weeks,  I think this was the most challenging for the actors and the crew.  My hat is off to director Bill Gordon for getting these young people ready for this one. The whole cast kept the energy up for week three and performed flawlessly. Barett is the stand out in this one as she portrays the young woman who doesn’t understand all about the Nazi take over, but realizes how dangerous the Third Reich is how she must do what she can.  I will say now that Ms. Barrett gets a special “4 out of Fordyce” for her performances over the last three weeks. She has played  three totally different characters in three great shows and did not miss a beat. I know we will be seeing more of her.  My kudos to her do not take anything away from the other performers. Michelle Meredith was amazing as Mrs. Johansen and David Wendelberger was sincere and moving as Mr. Johansen. Hazen Natzmer was serious yet compassionate as the resistance fighter and Phil Ashbrook played his best role of this series as he brought Uncle Henrik to life. The Nazi soldiers were also very believable, but there was some very intellectual, non judgmental discussion in the audience at intermission about having an African American actor (Alex B. West). Mr. West was perfect, but many asked if there were blacks in Hitler’s army. I am not sure but this will lead me and maybe others in the audience to research that one. Hitler was not known for his acceptance of any one different. It is well documented that he hated Jews, and wasn’t found of homosexuals and the gypsies who roamed Europe, so maybe this casting choice was a well placed irony, not lost by the sophisticated crowd that turned out.  This one gets a perfect 4 out of Fordyce. Do not miss one of the two remaining performances.  It is a great way to end this fabulous annual MSU Theater tradition.

Girls in 509 Fun but not Perfect (posted:6/19/08)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

Summer Circle Theater began week number 2 with "The Girls in 509" Most of the students we saw last week are back again to take their stage, sets, props and incredible talents outside for another evening of fun.

"The Girls in 509" is the story Aunt Hettie, a wacky, wealthy Republican, has been holed up for 26 years in a once fashionable hotel in New York City with her young niece. They have been there since 1932 when Herbert Hoover lost the election to “That Man”, also known as FDR, and they have vowed to remain secluded until a Republican is elected. But the old hotel is being demolished and the women must be removed.

The press gets wind of the situation and so do the politicians, the city welfare department and the lawyers. As everyone tries to get to the them, we learn their story in a plot line that takes pot shots at they system and makes you realize things don't change that much. Michelle Meredith is the stand out in this cast as Aunt Hettie. She plays the aging socialite with grace, charm and humor. Caitlin Inman is great as the niece and Phil Ashbrook is charming as "Old Jim" the desk clerk. Alex B. West plays dual roles as the party bosses, but does little to change as he goes from republican to democrat, the subtle change from red tie and hankie to blue is amusing. And Hazen Natzmer who was so wonderful last week in several parts in "Red Herring" over does it just a little in this show as he plays the affected attorney.

While this show is not quite as good as "Red Herring", it is an enjoyable 2 hours and well worth your time. It gets a very good 3 out of Fordyce. Don't forget these shows only run through Saturday night. More info is below in coming attractions.

Red Herring is a Colorful Hit (posted:6/11/08)

Rating: 4 out of Fordyce

This one takes place at the height of the McCarthy communist witch hunts as spies were everywhere and everyone was concerned about commies under the bed. The story is fast moving and clever and has some very funny lines along with some great physical comedy all taking place on a simple yet well designed set. The cast includes six actors playing many characters. All manage to change persona's easily as they go back and forth between scenes. While all were good, the standout in changing characters was Hazen Nastier. In addition to playing the male lead, he also plays several other characters including the absolutely strange Coroner. Kristen Barrett was a delight as Maggie, the hard working lady detective . And It is worth the price of admission just to see the confession scene. But wait. There is no admission. The shows are free, but you might want to put a few bucks in the donation box. When you have a great story, good actors, and a flawless free performance, I am legally required to give this show the perfect four out of Fordyce. Don't miss it. It only runs through saturday. And hang around after the show for some more fun as the Improv gang gives you more for your money. Oh that's right it is all free. One suggestion. Bring your lawn chair. I forgot the big blue stadium chair and had to sit in the bleachers. That won't happen again. I just put it in the van for next week..

Parallell Lives Funny but Uneven! (posted:5/23/08)

Rating: 3 Out of Fordyce

The gang at Icarus falling is now bringing us "Parallel Lives" .
Laura Croff and Sara Frank play 18 different roles in fifteen scenes in this whirlwind comedy.

Billed as "an open-minded sketch comedy" the skits range from clueless frat boys and catholic girls at confession to angels engineering the creation and seniors visiting a Vegan, Womyn's restaurant.

Croff and Frank are excellent as the move seamlessly from character to character and skit to skit. Croff has a Gilda Radner like quality that shines through in all the skits, but is especially evident in a skit depicting a woman's morning routine set to classical music. Frank reminded me of a cross between Louise Lasser and Kathy Griffin. She also glides easily from scene to scene and meshes with Croff to become one funny team

One of the skits I enjoyed was as exploration of whether the taboo of "that time of month" would disappear if men had to endure it. Other very funny skits were the girls at Christian camp and the Disney mothers support group. I had no idea the trauma Bambi's mother went through. We also met Betty White (Snow's Mother) and Ethel Mermaid (and you thought the little mermaid was an orphan). A few problems with this show. There are a few skits that drag on and I found the abortion sketch disturbing, and VERY out of place with he rest of this light hearted show. Icarus falling has had a problem finding a home. This show is in an empty storefront with a low stage that was hard to see from the 7th row where I was sitting, and the audience sits on the most uncomfortable metal folding chairs I have ever sat on. I was envious of the man who was sitting on a cushion. This show gets a good three out of Fordyce. Be warned it is for adults only

"Parallel Lives" are continues tonight (May 24) and next weekend (May 30 & 31). Shows are at 8 p.m. in the future Michigan Brewing Co. store front, 402 S. Washington Square Lansing. Tickets are $10 per person or $5 for IF Virgins. Reservations are encouraged for this critically acclaimed show. Tickets can be reserved by calling 517.290.4375 or emailing tickets@icarusfalling.com.

Annie Get Your Gun Hits the Target
Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

The Broadway Classic, "Annie Get Your Gun" is the season ender now being presented by the Lansing Civic Players.  I admit I love this show. The Irving Berlin songfest is a light fun story based on people who really existed. It is the tale of Buffalo Bill's Wild West show.  
It all starts when Annie Oakley, played by LeAnn Dethlefsen beats sharp shooter Frank Butler played by Martin Underhill). Like most musicals of the era, the fall in love, split up, and then reunite. Along the way they sing those wonderful songs and the audience hums along and taps its toes amid some great laughs. 

This show a lot of fun, thanks in part to strong direction from Erin Bennett and the great talent of Dethlefsen and Underhill. She IS Annie Oakley and belts out her lines and tunes as well as anyone ever has. Underhill is the perfect partner for her  and sings his solos like there is no tomorrow. And when the two pair up for duets, it is magic. Among these treats is a perfect rendition of "An Old fashioned wedding" and a knock out version of "anything You can do I can do Better"  Adding to the cast is  Mark Boyd as a fabulous Buffalo Bill, Bruce Bennett as Pawnee Bill, and Kate Tykocki as a funny, yet scheming Dolly Tate. The there is gary Mitchell in two roles. He is good in the beginning of  the show as the hotel owner, then changes costumes and comes back for a wonderful performance as the legendary Indian Chief Sitting Bull.  With a good cast and two strong leads, the flaws in this show are easy to over look.  There were a few technical glitches, a couple of missed lines and I was disappointed in the show's signature song "There's No Business Like Show Business". It was performed in lack luster fashion in front of the curtain with a disco light show flashing the stage that was quite annoying. This should be a show stopper that makes the audience applaud wildly, but in this version it is performed like and after thought.  This one gets three out of Fordyce and is well worth the price of admission. You will smile and have a nice evening.  The show dates are May 9-11 and 16-18 at the Hannah Community Center in East Lansing.  For curtain times and ticket price information call the Lansing Civic Players box office at 484-9191 or go to the Lansing Civic Players website at  www.lansingcivicplayers.org.
Now would be a good time to remind you this is community theater from one of the many groups of dedicate people in mid michigan who volunteer their time and work hard to bring you the show. Their pay comes from your loyalty, smiles and applause. I hope when you go to this show or other local theaters you give them all a generous salary.

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“Maidens, Mothers and Crones” Not For Women Only

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

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A Fun Trip to the Soady Camp, Takes us Back (posted:5/3/08 1:30am)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

While this show lacks some of the charm and novelty of "Moonlight" it is very funny and this cast does a great job and is obviously having a good time doing the show. The show also boasts the original set which was brought to Lansing from Jeff Daniels Theater in Chelsea in what I am told wa

"Leading Ladies" Leads to Laughs (posted:4/27/08 2:10 am)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

Regulars know I like silly farces, but only if they are done right.. Well the latest offering from the Starlight DInner Theater is done just right. "Leading Ladies" is about two down on their luck actors, who learn about  A dying wealthy old matron  searching for her two long-lost nieces to inherit her fortune.  Leo and Jack decide to pass themselves off as her nieces and then the fun starts. Director Linda Granger assembled a great cast for this one and did a wonderful job staging this show and working on the all important timing, which is what makes a good farce work. Chris Claver and Jonathan Stewart are marvelous as Leo and Jack who become Maxine and Stephanie. Bob Murell was the gold digging minister you love to hate, while Kat Cooper and Angela Dill played the real female leading ladies very well.  I must mention the two "senior" members of the cast. Lansing are stage veteran Althea Phillips was perfect as the the dying aunt who who keeps coming back to life and George Duncan is hysterical as her old Doctor. Also in this show is a newcomer.Reid Schmidt is an LCC student who did a great job as the somewhat confused Butch. Great costumes also add a lot to this show, and only a few minor set problems detracted from my enjoyment. Add it all up and this one gets a very good Three out of Fordyce. The show runs again next weekend, and you all know Starlight sells out, so call for your reservations now.

"Stuff Happens" Long and Slow (posted:4/25/08 12:10 am)

Rating: 1 out of Fordyce

The new show from Peppermint Creek is called "Stuff Happens" The title comes from a response Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld made about to the looting of Baghdad. The play starts at that now famous news conference in 2003, goes back in time and then moves forward. The problem here is, none of it works. Some of the area's finest actors were disappointing in this one. Doak Bloss, who I loved as John Adams in 1776, again plays a president, President George W. Bush. He sounds more like Ross Perot and plays him like a character from Hee Haw. Rashida Morris is unconvincing as Condeleeza Rice and Jeff Borger slips in and out of his British accent as he plays Tony Blair. Accents are a problem in this play, as the cast of extras portray characters from around the world. Most sound like bad cartoon characters and several are hard to understand. There were several people in the cast who flubbed lines, others moved out of the light, and whatever was going on back stage was heard loud and clear on stage. With the seating configuration to stage this one, my very uncomfortable tightly wedged chair had a post right in the way of the action to my left. It did allow me a perfect view of two audience members across from me falling asleep and others looking at their watches. I was checking the time too. This show runs almost three hours. It was like sitting at the railroad crossing waiting for a slow freight train to pass. Mercifully, the last car passed, the gates went up and I was free to be on my way. Does this play have a good side? Yes. It is a fairly true account of what went on in our government after we were attacked, and if you want to hear this account, or really like political plays, then grab a ticket. This one only gets One out of Fordyce.

Stuff Happens runs April 24 – 27 & May 1- 3, 2008.  All shows will be performed at Perspective2, located at 319 E. Grand River in Old Town Lansing.  All shows begin at 8pm, except the first Sunday at 2pm. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students/seniors).  For more information and to order tickets call 517-927-3016.

LCC Dance Show Great Entertainment (posted:4/19/08 11:30am)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

If you did not head for the Dart Auditorium at at Lansing Community College t for the Dance Kaleidoscope this weekend you missed a treat. I thoroughly enjoyed LCC’s annual spring dance concert. These kids kicked up as storm on stage in a show that ranges from modern, to ballet and jazz to funky withc just about everything in between. And it all ended with that a spectacular finale that got your toes tapping. Among the cast, Andrew Amos. He not only dances, but I am told he helped choreograph the show. This man will be a star. CLICK HERE FOR PICTURES & VIDEO OF: DANCE KALEIDOSCOPE'S OPENING NIGHT

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You Will Want to Take a Stroll Down the Avenue Q (posted:4/15/08 11:30pm)

Rating: 4 out of Fordyce

Yes you heard right, "Avenue Q" is now just a right turn off of Shaw Lane. The Broadway comedy is now playing at Wharton Center and I joined the opening night audience to laugh out loud and have a good time. This show is basically "Sesame Street" for adults. The set, the puppets, and the human actors remind you of the venerable children's show, but do not bring the kids. With songs like Everyone's A Little Bit Racist, The Internet Is For Porn, If You Were Gay and You Can Be as Loud as the Hell You Want, When You're Makin' Love, this is just for us grown ups. There is foul language, obscene gestures and puppet sex. This show is a blast, it is irreverent, while being warm and funny and amazingly clever. The puppets, the set, the lighting, and the use of "educational" videos, all mix perfectly with the live actors for two hours of pure magic. That magic includes an amazing dream sequence that "rockets" this show right up to a perfect 4 out of Fordyce. Do yourself a favor, grab some friends, and pick up some of the few remaining tickets for your stroll down Avenue Q.

	I got to talk to one of the Avenue Q Stars. Click on the pic to watch the MIentertainmentTV interview.

The Dresser" a Good Show from Riverwalk (posted:4/17/08 11:30pm)

Rating: 3 out of Fordyce

It is a special weekend at Riverwalk Theatre in Downtown Lansing. Now through Sunday only, the troupe is presenting "The Dresser" The Dresser tells the story of a great actor facing the end of his career as his loyal dresser struggles to serve him Lansing theater legend Ken Beachler stars as the aging Thespian and does his usual amazing job. I am always amazed by how good he is, (except for those YMCA ads) and he does a great job here. Eve Davidson is wonderful as Her Ladyship and Kasie Flaherty is a delight As Irene. But James Houska, who portrays the title character, holds this show together. As Norman he is very believable as a man with mixed feeling about his boss and his co workers. He does this with a perfect balance of drama and comedy. Technically, this show is excellent as the stage is easily changed from the dressing room to the backstage area. Hats off Bob Gras and Joe Dickson for the set and the lighting. The only problem I had with this show is I didn't particularly care for the story. I found it kind of dry and a little slow. This is just my opinion and from what I heard in the lobby and the parking lot leaving the theatre, I am in the minority. This show gets a good 3 out of Fordyce.

"Babes" is a Great Reason to visit MSU (posted:4/10/08 11:30pm)

Rating:3 out of Fordyce

“Babes in Arms” An old fashioned musical with an update is on stage now at the Wharton Center.  Unlike the Broadway Series with professional paid actors on the main stage, this show is next door at the Passant Theater and is produced the talented MSU students. While not as lavish and polished as we might expect at Wharton, this show is a pleasant two hours with a talented cast of young people.  In a case of art imitating life, the plot of this 1937 musical has a bunch of depression era young people wanting to put on a show. This common story line from the era is still fun and amusing and this cast does just what they are supposed to do with it: have fun! James Broughton and Stephanie Koenig are our stars and of course we all know what happens when boy meets girl in a musical.  Enter the wonderful Annie Moss as Baby Rose, the child star who need to grow up and Lela Ivey as Mabel the older and wiser chorus girl who helps the kids, and hats off to Martin Underhill as the Sheriff who has a change of heart.
 This show had to be a lot of work to bring to the stage. There is dancing, singing and dialog. The dancing is the strong suit in this show. The whole cast works together in unison and does not miss a step. Will Slanger Grant is a stand out with his dance duties, and in a show stopping number his dance partner Britttane Rowe-Rhodes easily keeps up with him  The cast did a wonderful job  with the classic songs Rogers and Hart  wrote for this show like  “My Funny valentine” “The Lady is a Tramp” and “Blue Moon” although “Blue Moon” was hard to hear, one of a few very noticeable audio problems. Aside from a few small errors, the mostly student cast excelled on opening night.  This show gets a good three out of Fordyce. Enjoy it this weekend or next.

Don't Miss "The Mating Game" this weekend at LCC (posted:4/4/08 10:30pm)

Rating:4 out of Fordyce

I just got home from a musical treat. I saw the first show of "The Mating Game" The students enrolled in the Lansing Community College Performing Arts Department and some talented high schoolers brought this musical revue to the stage.
Directed by Janine Novenske Smith, this production from LCC’s annual musical theatre scenes class is a look at love, Broadway Style. You will hear songs from Company, Jekyll & Hyde, Hairspray, The Color Purple, Starlight Express, The All Night Strut, Wicked, Smokey Joe’s Café, Legally Blonde, and Sweet Charity.    The 17-member cast just amazed me with their talent, enthusiasm and energy. And hats off to music director John Dale Smith and the Band! Go see why I give this gang a perfect 4 out of Fordyce.
Here is the thing, there are olnly 2 more shows left. So I urge you to enjoy one of them. Catch the show at 8 pm Saturday, (April 5), or Sunday, (April 6) at 3 pm in the Dart Auditorium, 500 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing . (There is a rumor you may see Jack Ebling in the audience Sunday)
The show is Free, but they will ask for a $5 donation to benefit LCC Music Scholarship Fund. Dig deep and help. For more info, call the LCC Performing Arts Production Office at 517-483-1488.

If you are reading this Monday, you are too late. But let this be a learning experience.
First, you should check in to this web site more often than you do.
Second, the schools should run their shows more than one weekend.
Third, when you do miss a show, count on the MIentertainment.biz cameras to bring you sonme great photos, videos and audio interviews. JUST CLICK HERE

You Gotta Love the "Sugar Bean Sisters"(posted:3/28/08)

Rating:4 out of Fordyce

Right now at The Riverwalk Theatre in downtown Lansing, you can have lots of fun by paying a visit to the Sugar Bean sisters who live in the swamps of Florida. This show, directed by Tom Ferris, is Mamma's Family meets the National Enquirer. Sadonna White, Carol Ferris and Jane Zussman play the trio of off beat siblings who look at the world through their own unique view of reality. Ferris plays the naive, religious sister, White is the sibling who ran away after everyone thought she died and Zussman is the stand out in this cast as the woman who is waiting for the return of the space aliens who landed in the swamp some 2 decades earlier. In addition to the family, Bishop Crumley and the angel drop by, both played by Mark Boyd and Mary K. Hodges-Nees is the Reptile Woman, a lady with a special relationship with the snakes and gators of the Everglades. This show was heading for a good three out of Fordyce, until the end. It was so amazing, it got the immediate upgrade to the perfect 4 out of Fordyce. It has more to do with the Criag Smith's set than the very funny actors. Go to the Riverwalk and see what I mean. The show runs through April 6th. Check out the details below, while you enjoy the wild picture of Jane. And if you click on the poster you be taken by the aliens to the RWT website.

"Souvenir" Bright and Fun (posted:3/23/08)

Rating:3 out of Fordyce

Right now BoarsHead Theater in downtown Lansing is presenting  "Souvenir.” The Stephen Temperley comedy is a co-production with Performance Network of Ann Arbor.  It stars Naz Edwards as the eccentric Florence Foster Jenkins and Fred Love as her loyal accompanist Cosme McMoon.  The play is loosely based on the career of the eccentric New York socialite who became a cultural legend for singing badly!  I caught the show Friday night, and became part of the audience that braved the spring snowstorm.  Edwards and Love are wonderful in their roles. Ms. Edwards excels in her part that she plays with a comedic offbeat style reminiscent of the great Carol Burnett.  Mr. Love charms us as the reluctant partner, who steps in and out of the play to narrate it.  His talent for singing and playing the piano adds to the delight of this play. This lighthearted show gets a good three out of Fordyce. Head for the theater for an enjoyable evening.
The production runs through April 13. 
Tickets may be purchased by calling the BoarsHead Box Office at (517) 484-7805 or by logging on to www.boarshead.org

Updated Easter Story a Powerful Drama (posted:3/15/08)

Rating:3 out of Fordyce

"Thunder at Dawn" is the current offering from the Riverwalk Theatre's Black Box Series. On stage through March 22, this is a powerful story of the crucifixion and resurrection. The biblical tale is told through the eyes of modern soldiers using present day weapons and terms.  Although some may find this play controversial, the cast, under the direction of Bill Helder present the script well as they invite you in to the bar where most of the emotional charged action takes place. Three popular local actors play the main parts. Rick Dethlefsen plays the aging captain and Ben Holzhausen plays the sergeant with the hair trigger temper, and while they are both great in their roles, Joe Quick is the stand out in this show as the young naive private ordered to guard the tomb. This show gets a very good three out of Fordyce and is well worth an Easter weekend trip to the Creole Gallery in Old Town  this Thursday, Friday or Saturday night. Call 517 482 5700 for your reservation.

"Algernon" Star Shines Bright Amid a Dull Cast (posted:3/7/08I

Rating:2 out of Fordyce

"Flowers For Algernon" is the current show from Lansing Civic Players. It centers on Charlie Gordon a 32-year-old mentally challenged man who takes part in an experimental intelligence-enhancing treatment. The experiment seems to be a great success at first, as Charlie rapidly develops into a genius, only to realize for himself that the experiment was fatally flawed, and he will just as rapidly lose his newfound intelligence. Adam Bright plays Charlie and is amazing as the man who goes from mentally challenged to gen ious and back again. He makes this character someone the audience can love and respect. He also makes the show. The rest of the cast is just plain dull. The doctors played by Lenny Wilson and Terry Hunt sounded like they were reading off cue cards. The lab assistant (Adam Carlson) over acted and I had trouble hearing Sarah Hauckas she played Alice. I think the land lady was supposed to have an Irish accent but it was hard to tell what she was mumbling and the scene changes in this show were awkward and forced the audience to wait. This one only gets 2 out of Fordyce and only because of Bright's fine acting, which by the way is enough reason to go see this show

	"Flowers for Algernon" runs March 7-9 & 14-16, 2008 Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Sunday at 2 p.m. 517-484-9191 for reservations ______________ (L) The cast of "Flowers for Algernon" Sarah Hauck, Lenny Wilson, Adam Bright, Adam Carlson, Terry Hunt (Photo by Rick Dethlefsen)

Williamston Theatre Full of “Hate Mail”(posted:3/6/08I

Rating:3 out of Fordyce

I caught the first preview of "Hate Mail" tonight (3-6-08) at Williamston Theatre, (122 S. Putnam in downtown Williamston.) This is a cute show about a photographer working at a gift shop in New York who receives a complaint letter from spoiled rich kid from the Minnesota,That letter launches us into the unusual; odyssey between Dahlia and Preston as they fall in and out of love. The tale is told by the two actors reading their letters and notes to each other. This could have been incredibly dull, but the actions, emotions and laughs are read into the missives, while to recipient reacts. Hallie Bee Bard and Aral Gribble handle those duties well and both are very believable in their roles and endear themselves to the audience. I am not sure if it was the paywrights' intention, but the show starts off a little slow, bur picks up quickly. Director Tony Caselli stages the action to fit the unique design of the theater This one gets a very good 3 out of Fordyce.

Opening Night is March 14 with the show scheduled to run through Sunday, March 30.  But don't wait, catch one of preview shows between now and next next Friday. The tickets are discounted and the talk back with the director after the show is just plain fun.

Don't wait, the Williamston Theater is small and tends to sell out so click on the logo below to head to the WT website, pick a show, and get your tickets now. But leave the kids home. "Hate Mail" contains adult language and situations.

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"Rabbit Hole" An Interesting Trip (posted:3/2/08I

Rating:3 out of Fordyce

 The Peppermint Creek Theatre Company is now presenting    show of their     Rabbit Hole!   This award winning play  is the story of Becca and Howie Corbett, a couple who have everything a family could want, until a young driver  hits and kills their 4 year old son and leaves the couple drifting   apart. The play stars two of my favorite local actresses, Laura Croff as Beeca and Addian Hinds as her mother. Once again both show us they can take a character and make them theirs.  Brian de Vries is the stand out in this cast. He plays the grieving father with a the proper amount of restraint and emotion, that left you feeling his pain. Pain  not only over the death of his boy, but for his wife’s suffering as well. Angela Mishler is good as Izzy,  Becca’s wild sister and young Adam Schatler is perfectly cast as the guilt ridden teen who was driving the car. Peppermint Creek continues to perform at the perspective2 gallery in Old Town Lansing. In this case the troupe used the existing kitchen in the facility as part of the set, and built the rest of the Corbett’s home around it. It was a good idea that falls short. When action takes place in living room set people beyond the third row had trouble seeing, a comment I heard more than once at intermission. For that reason alone, this show gets a good (but not perfect) three out of Fordyce. It runs again next weekend (March 6,7 & 8) For more information call 517-927-3016.

Guest Review of Rabbit Hole

Jane Zussman says: the Peppermint Creek show is Excellent -- a wonderful script (David Lindsay-Abaire -- 2007 Pulitzer Prize) wonderfully done.
It's surprisingly funny and entertaining considering the topic is "grief" -- but do bring kleenex if you have children, or grandchildren, or any kind of a heart, really...

Laura Croff's real-mother sensibilities bring a demanding role to life.
The whole cast is great; I particularly liked sister "Izzy" (Angela
Mishler) and Adam Schalter is a great newcomer (new to me, anyway.) Brian de Vries and Addiann Hinds — also great. Kudos to director Louis Balestra. Wonderful, home-like set utilizing the real-life kitchen in this Perspective2 location.

Miss Evers' Boys Superb! (posted:2/24/08I

Rating:4 out of Fordyce

You may have already heard that Miss Evers' Boys is the show to see in town right now. The production at the Riverwalk Theatre in downtown lansing is in a word, superb. This is fictionalized account of the Tuskegee Experiment . The play explores social and ethical issues at the heart of the infamous 40-year governmental Tuskegee Study of Untreated Blacks With Syphilis. Doctors hid the true nature of their research and treated the men with placebos. Writer David Feldshuh's script takes a dark time in our history and makes it is warm and very human.

Monica Sanders is wonderful as Nurse Evers. She arrives on stage first as a narrator, then as a character. She holds this play together as we are taken on a journey from 1932 to 1972. She plays a warm caring character as she deals with the issues of the government's actions. Her "boys" are played by Markitwia Jackson, Guy Stockard, Bruce Wade, and Ralph Sims. While Jackson was my personal favorite as Wille, they all shined as they became characters you just love and respect for their humanity and dignity as they deal with their situation.
Keith Williams and J.D. De La Ossa play the doctors. One black and one white and both trying to rationalize why it became acceptable to neglect the health care of four negroes.
Director Ken Beachler put this amazing show together and is to be commended on many levels. First, the cast he assembled is the perfect mix. All are fine actors. After the show I asked him if any of them had worked together before.They had not, but you would never know it. The cast, especially"The Boys" were a team to be admired. Another reason for this shows successes was the director's simple yet effective staging. Those who see me often at shows, ask me why I sometimes change seats at intermission. My reason is simple. I want to get a different perspective from another angle. A few rows can make a big difference in lighting, sound and of course, the view.
The Riverwalk Theatre has seating in front and on the sides and in this show Beachler was obviously careful to make sure the show was staged to make sure the entire audience was treated to a view that was worthy of this masterpiece. If you haven't figured it out yet, this play gets the perfect four out of Fordyce. Last weekend was a sellout and The show only runs one more weekend (Feb. 28-Mar. 2, 2008) go to the Riverwalk website for tickets or call Mike at the box office and tell him I sent you.

To hear Director Ken Beachler talk with Jim about this play, Click here

Dearly Beloved Lots of Fun at Starlight (posted:2/9/08)

Rating:3 out of Fordyce

Evenings at the Starlight Dinner continue to be a treat here in mid Michigan. This time the troupe is bringing us "Dearly Beloved" one of those bittersweet southern comedy in the tradition of "Steel Magnolias" and "Fried Green Tomatoes". In this story, the three Futrelle sisters, Honey Raye, Frankie and Twink reunite for the wedding of one of Frankie's twin daughter. Twink (Emily English) is on a matrimonial mission.

Honey Raye (played wonderfully by Linda Granger) is the black sheep of the family and arrives home after a long absence with some secrets, while youngest sister Frankie (Jane Goebel) has a home grown secret of her own. These three women accomplish what they needed to do to make this play a success. They became the sisters. There was no point in this production where I doubted they were family. Their warmth and timing makes for a pleasant show with some great dialog and very funny lines. The supporting cast supplements this amusing show as the drama of the wedding unfolds. I loved Justin Waverly as the young seminarian who is about to perform his first wedding and Cathy Hansel-Edgerton as Patsy Price, the future mother in law you love to hate. There are a few minor problems with this show. It has a a few slow moments and some awkward abrupt scene changes but those should not be enough to stop you from getting one of the few remaining seats. I give this one a good three out of Fordyce.
For tickets call 243-6040, email starlightdinnertheatre@yahoo.com  For further information see the web site www.starlightdinnertheatre.info

Murderers Bring Laughs to Boarshead(posted:2/3/08)

Rating:3 out of Fordyce

BoarsHead Theater is now presenting Jeffrey Hatcher’s play Murderers. This is three one act plays rolled into one clever script as three murderers who are all connected to a Senior Retirement Home in Florida

BoarsHead co-founder John Peakes returned home to direct this show which has each of three actors on stage alone telling his or her story. Now while no one should find murderers funny. These tales are so far fetched and clever that you can't help it. and these players introduce themselves, and launch into a monologue that twists and turns and sets you up for the zinger ending in each tale.
Tobin Hissong starts it off as the man who plots against his Mother in Law. He does well in the role. Laura Merlington is lovely as the third character who bumps off those who are mean to the old people. Sandwiched in between these two talented actors is the first lady of Lansing Theater. Carmen Decker. The legend of the local stage is wonderful at Lucy Stickler, the woman who finds an unusual way to get even with her cheating hubby. All three actors are on stage by themselves and excel in their roles.

There are a couple of slow moments in this very long show, but that still rates it high on my list with a very good 3 out of Fordyce. So do yourself a favor and drop by the theater this month for a warm smile on a cold night from three killers.

The production runs through Feb 24. Ticket prices range from $10 to $25. Call the theater for tickets or click on www.Boarshead.org and click here to see pictures from opening night

"ART" at Williamston Theater Well Done but.. (posted:1/27/08)

Rating:3 out of Fordyce

"ART" is the new show at Williamston Theater. This comedy by Yasmina Reza, won the 1998 Tony Award for Best Play Is the story of three friends. Serge, has just bought a very expensive painting. It's about five feet by four feet, all white with white diagonal lines. To his pal Marc, the painting is a joke. A third friend, the very meek Ivan is pulled into this disagreement. The play features a trio of the ffinest actors Michigan has to offer,John Lepard, Paul Hooper and Bruce Bennet. Under the excellent direction of Tony Caselli, these three actors do a fine job in the simple set that serves as three apartments. The set is another fine example of how this theater'screative people wisely use the limited space they have available in the intimate theater. The show moves along and the cast is very believable as the trio of guys who share each others lives on a regular basis. Their timing is good and the combination of funny and dramatic lines are all well delivered. My only problem with this show is I found the story line a little far fetched. Maybe I am missing some deeper meaning but I can't see where anyone would buy the painting and I can't see guys acting like these guys do. I give this one a good three out of Fordyce. Go see for yourself. . Head to the Williamston theater before Feb 17 and enjoy. Then let me knowwhat you think. Call (517) 655-7469 for tickets

Sideman at RiverWalk is Bittersweet (posted:1/27/08)
Rating:3 out of Fordyce

The Riverwalk Theatre in downtown Lansing has "SIde Man" is on s