Simon Stephens Invokes Delicacy in Harsh Times by Jennifer Ann Charron It’s hard these days not to view everything through the lens of 2020—global warming, worldwide pandemic, systemic racial injustice, millions sick or dead, 100-degree temperatures in Siberia. Everything seems so big, so overwhelming, so “HUGE.” I’ve grown exhausted using words like dystopian, monumental,…
Eric Ting, Philippa Kelly & Friends Deliver Laugh Riot by Jennifer Ann Charron Lots of things pass for entertainment these days. I have dipped low during this COVID era, but I’ve been taking a pass on watching and reviewing streamed live theater. Thankfully, our friends at Cal Shakes have updated “Mystery Science Theater 3000”…
Karen Zacarías Plants Race & Class in Privileged Garden by Jennifer Ann Charron Arguments between next door neighbors spiral wildly. In “Native Gardens,” Karen Zacarías gives us a slightly political and faintly amusing dispute pitting privileged against aspiring neighbors. The Del Valles are young, Latin, and moving up. The Butleys are older, white, and…
Shakespeare & Maog Deliver a Brutal Visual Feast by Jennifer Ann Charron Director Victor Malana Maog creates a unique visual experience as we watch Macbeth sacrifice his honor and scruples for unbridled ambition. Scenic Designer Adam Rigg has built an erector set of shiny chrome scaffolding with reflecting plexiglass panels and flashing lights, an…