SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY THEATRE

by Rob Levy - April 15, 2024

Based on the 1980 film starring Olivia Newton-John and, before that, the Rita Hayworth film, Down To Earth, this lively adaptation never takes itself too seriously. From start to finish the ensemble prances, preens, and mugs it up, giving audiences a sugary sweet over the top show filled with kineti...

by James Lindhorst - April 14, 2024

This well-directed and remarkably acted version of HAMLET illustrates how entertaining and engaging Shakespeare’s works can be. Siler and his cast created a production that would meet the highest standards of a finicky bardolator while entertaining a casual theater goer who may wonder if Shakespeare...

by Steve Callahan - April 15, 2024

The remarkable Upstream Theater is approaching its twentieth season.  This unfailingly excellent little company was founded by Philip Boehm as a vehicle for bringing to America plays from around the world—plays that, for the most part, make their very first American appearance at Upstream.  We so ne...

by James Lindhorst - April 13, 2024

Boehm’s translation and direction tells a melancholic tale about life, choices, relationships, and death. His trio of actors create stylized characters to challenge beliefs and self-morality. DON’T WAIT FOR THE MORLBORO MAN uses different conventions to tell a somber story that penetrates your consc...

by James Lindhorst - April 11, 2024

THE CHER SHOW is an eye-popping traipse down memory lane but suffers from drive-by storytelling. While far from perfect as a full-fledged Broadway musical, there are plenty of wildly entertaining moments that make this show more enjoyable than it should be. It is the casting, strong vocal performanc...

by James Lindhorst - April 08, 2024

Garner, Peters, and Richie’s performances all elevate a passable script that doesn’t quite reach the level of a disquieting and chilling story. Pierce’s directorial choice makes the production worth recommending, however go with the expectations that the aliens never materialize to create a chilling...

by James Lindhorst - April 07, 2024

The entertaining 8th Annual Aphra Bren Festival successfully gave fresh female, transgender, and non-binary voices the medium to have their works professionally produced and be heard. Four playwrights presented new works as part of the Festival. Anne Valentino’s play THE THE stood out amount the pro...

by James Lindhorst - April 06, 2024

This is an excellent production of a story that is difficult to watch. The direction is sharp, the acting is flawless, and the technical theatre quality is first rate. The artists at St. Louis Actors’ studio have milked every bit of emotion they can wring from a strong script with, what was for me, ...

by James Lindhorst - April 05, 2024

Mason’s entrancing show is a love letter to the legendary songwriting team. Her warm memories of Kander and Ebb left the audience feeling as if they were also acquainted with the celebrated composer and lyricist.  ...

by Rob Levy - March 29, 2024

The Rep’s August Osage County is a rough and tumble roller-coaster ride of anxiety, anger, and alienation that reflects on familial dysfunction with hostility and viciousness....