Amy Freed Adapts Shakespeare for Modern Times by Robert M. Gardner At the opening of African American Shakespeare Company’s “Taming of the Shrew,” I expected a retelling of Shakespeare’s famous battle of the sexes comedy. But I got a blast from the past, based in San Francisco’s 1967 Summer of Love. Shakespeare’s words still…
Algiin Ford’s Solo Show Embraces Resilience & Hope by Robert M. Gardner I went to the Marsh looking for insights and inspiration from veteran actor and writer Algiin Ford. I left with a profound, therapeutic experience. Ford’s fit and energetic figure belies the fact he has turned seventy. He offers a brutally honest story…
Elaine Magree Shares Brilliant Native Recollections by Robert M. Gardner A trip to The Marsh in Berkeley is always an exciting experience and Saturday, April 13 was no exception with the opening of Elaine Magree’s solo show called “Other.” As a veteran producer and superb actor, Magree exercises her wicked wit, as she tries…
Gary Graves Slams Gilded Age Excesses by Robert M. Gardner As Boss McGreedy, Michael Ray Wisely takes Berkeley by storm in Gary Graves’ modern morality play. Playing a Gilded Age Boss, Wisely masterfully depicts Trumpian politics and style. He’s boisterous, arrogant, and cruel—sporting flamboyant hair and ostentatious fashions. Boss McGreedy reminds us of the…