Reviews of productions based in Toronto – theatre includes traditional definitions of theatre, as well as dance, opera, comedy, performance art, spoken word performances, and more. Productions may be in-person, or remote productions streamed online on the Internet.
Assassins is the kind of musical that attracts people that aren’t generally fans of musicals. There are guns! There are killers! There are pop-culture references! And it doesn’t hurt that in Birdland Theatre’s production at the Theatre Centre, the music is tight and the performances are strong.
The show gives a behind-the-scenes look at the people who assassinated (or attempted to assassinate) various presidents of the United States. They’re all here. From the assassinations of Lincoln and Kennedy to the lesser known attempts on FDR and Gerald Ford. Did you know that there’s a connection between Charles Manson and the assassination of Gerald Ford? I didn’t.
Caryl Churchill’s play Cloud 9, playing at the Panasonic Theatre, is often billed as a “gender-bending comedy.” In fact, I think that may be selling it a little short.
Gender isn’t the only thing at play here. Women play men, adults play children, white actors play black characters and vice versa, and two people play one person. On paper, it would seem like audience-goers would need a map to follow along, but Churchill’s wit is sharp and clear, and director Alisa Palmer skillfully interprets the script.
Let’s face it. When it comes to sketch comedy, Second City has always been one of the safest bets you can go with. Still, I couldn’t help but wonder if their newest show Shut-up and Show Us Your Tweets would meet this high standard. Well, if I was to judge by the amount of tears streaming down my face in laughter, I’d say they achieved that task and then some. Continue reading Shut-up and Show Us Your Tweets- Second City→
You have three more chances to check out Contrary Company’sYou Fancy Yourself at Theatre Passe Muraille. You might want to consider changing whatever plans you already have so that you can fit this one in. If for no other reason, than to revel in Maja Ardal’s virtuoso performance.
Caryl Churchill