No, not football. The (my) theater season. I went to two shows this week, and will average at least one a week until May.
I love theater. I am blessed to be able to make my living working as a general manager in an academic theater company, and to work with the next generation of theater artists. While I have strong opinions, this blog will be more to apprise you of what I’ve seen, and less as a critic.
On Thursday I saw THE 25TH ANNUAL SPELLING BEE at the Lyric Stage Company. It was directed by my Emerson colleague (and friend) Stephen Terrell. Four of the cast members were Emerson alum. And I knew I loved the show already. So I was tilting towards loving the show, but that can be dangerous (because of disappointment). But it was a wonderful way to start the season. Good production.
On Saturday I saw ALICE V WONDERLAND at the ART. The cast was comprised of Institute students, and it was new work. The design elements were excellent. The show itself was good. I believe we saw one of the first performances, so it didn’t feel settled in yet. The show was visually stunning. I would happily have brought my nieces in the future, but I have an odd complaint of sorts. There were a couple of f&!% bombs in songs, and a few “shitty” moments. Not sure if they were necessary, but they do remove potential audience. Believe me when I say I’m not a prude, but I don’t need my sister to blame me for bad habits. I’ve already got them singing show tunes.