2016 Next Stage Theatre Festival Review: From Judy to Bette (Rebecca Perry Productions)

From Judy to Bette

Rebecca Perry’s From Judy to Bette: The Stars of Old Hollywood is a loving tribute to Bette Davis, Betty Hutton, Judy Garland, and Lucille Ball, four strong female stars. It’s part of this year’s Next Stage Theatre Festival.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the 30 minute piece – not a bad thing. I get to wonder in advance how Perry will approach it and then get to spend 30 enjoyable minutes watching a combination of storytelling and singing. Continue reading 2016 Next Stage Theatre Festival Review: From Judy to Bette (Rebecca Perry Productions)

2016 Next Stage Theatre Festival Review: Stuck (Take Your Mark Productions)

Photo of Natasha Boomer in Stuck by Tanja Tiziana.Stuck, playing at the Factory Theatre Ante-chamber as a part of the Next Stage Theatre Festival, is a 30-minute improvised play starring Natasha Boomer and a roster of guest comedians and improvisers. Each night will feature a new guest star but every show starts off with the premise of being stuck in a setting suggested by the audience.

The opening night performance I attended featured Boomer and guest star Rob Baker as a couple of dysfunctional but charming parents stuck in a wardrobe (admittedly at my suggestion). As they wait for their son to come home and let them out, Boomer and Baker argue their way through a list of oft-broached middle class, middle age topics including sex, parenting, technology, and the popularity of Drake.

Continue reading 2016 Next Stage Theatre Festival Review: Stuck (Take Your Mark Productions)