Jay Bedwani’s Brilliant Docu-Pic Unfolds San Francisco Story by Robert M. Gardner Director Jay Bedwani’s new documentary, Donna, subtly follows the growing self-acceptance of Donna Personna, San Francisco trans cabaret singer. The story centers on Donna’s involvement in a play about the 1966 Compton Cafeteria drag uprising, an event that brings up unsettling memories…
Caridad Svich Pens Fantastical Romp Amid Amazon Boxes by Robert M. Gardner Arriving at the beautiful Lesher Center, we admire the modern lines of this stately, elegant theater, looking forward to a play by prolific playwright Caridad Svich. “Red Bike,” billed as a day in the life of an eleven-year-old, does not forewarn us…
Adrienne Price Rocks & Shocks with No Apologies by Robert M. Gardner When will we realize that difference is not dangerous, but rather enhances and strengthens US. In “The Red Shades: A Trans Superhero Rock Opera,” Adrienne Price celebrates the trans and queer superheroes who fought San Francisco Police at the 1966 Compton Cafeteria…
Cayman Ilika Channels Patsy Cline’s Genius by Robert M. Gardner At Lesher Center in Walnut Creek, I enjoyed Center REP’s retrospective of the short but brilliant career of country folk singer Patsy Cline. Cayman Ilika does a superb job of interpreting 27 of Patsy’s iconic songs. The songs range from the traditional “How Great…