Category: Reviews

Reviews of music albums, singles or videos.

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 day 9 – see it or skip it

Friday was a night of big, powerful shows that showed us further proof that this tenth year of the Hollywood Fringe Festival is turning out to be one of our favorite years.  Here are our reviews for Day 9.

TITLE OF SHOW:  The Last Croissant

VENUE:  The Broadwater (Main Stage)

REVIEW:  If there was an award for the most elaborate and complex show at Fringe, then this one would win hands down.  The cast treated us to a pre-show outside the venue, which spilled over to the venue until it was time for the show to begin.  The cast is uber-talented and were surprisingly great vocalists, not to mention the incredible musicianship of Luke Medina, who accompanied every song on his guitar.  This is a true ensemble piece, and we salute every member of the cast – Julia Finch as Frederick, Medina as Imogen, Meg Cashel as Mumbo, Tyler Bremer as Jumbo, Veronica Tjioe as October/February, and Conor Murphy as Ranger Dave.  Brandon Blum (Bear), Kat DeVoe-Peterson (Teabag) and Taylor Bennett (The Postal Service) provided excellent support to the main characters.  There were even foley artists involved with the show.  Tjioe’s playwriting was spot-on and beautifully realized by director Rosie Glen-Lambert, making this a truly fun way to spend a couple of hours at Fringe.

RECOMMENDATION:  Don’t miss this amazing show.  There is only one remaining performance on June 27 at 8:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Lincoln 2020

VENUE:  The Broadwater (Second Stage)

REVIEW:  This year we have seen a plethora of political shows as we head into the 2020 elections, but this one take an unusual stance on the entire election process.  Have we truly reached the point where it doesn’t matter what the candidates believe but only how well they are known?  This show examines that question with an irreverent look at Presidential elections, and features an all-star ensemble cast to achieve that vision.  With an incredible script by Holiday Kinard and brilliant direction from Colleen Labella, the cast truly had the freedom to deliver a strong contender for some type of award recognition and is most worthy of an Encore performance.  Allie Leonard as Tess and Tim Kopacz as Lincoln turn in especially savory performances, while receiving amazing support from Monique Getineau (April), Amadia Bearden (Hunter), Rebecca Knowles (Kenzie),  and Janet Chamberlin (Mallory).  Patrick Censopiano, Kristen Cook, Eric Delgado, Adam Gentzler and Dan Torson all provide outstanding support in multiple roles as part of the ensemble.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is definitely worth checking out.  Remaining performances are June 23 at 5 p.m., June 26 at 8 p.m. and June 29 at 7 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Hamilkong

VENUE:  The Complex (OMR Theater)

REVIEW:  The Fringe has always had a few outrageous mashups in its previous nine years, but this year’s tribute to the story of King Kong as told through the music of Hamilton is truly a work of art.   Adam Korenman has written truly hilarious and powerful lyrics that transform those Hamilton musical numbers into a well staged musical that is worthy of being on Broadway.  But the brilliant lyrics would be worthless without a cast that can deliver them, and this cast is outstanding in every way.  Hats of to the amazing Geri Courtney-Austein as Hamilkong as well as Asia Ring as Ann Darrow, Sashaaa as Carl Denham and Olga Desyatnik as Jack Driscoll.  Korenman also leads the incredible supporting cast, along with Francesca Reggio, Nate Leykam, Jeanne Lau, Genna Weinstein, Jeremy Klein and Kyle Reese Klein.  Stand up and cheer for the Eighth Wonder of the World, MF’ing Alexander Hamilkong!

RECOMMENDATION:  Don’t miss this incredibly creative mashup.  Even though it’s sold out, get on the wait list for their final performance on June 29 at 10:30 p.m.

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 Day 8 – see it or skip it

Yesterday was an experiment.  The previous two times I have done my solo show, I blocked out several hours before the performance to prepare.  Yesterday, I went to the show before my performance, and the show after it as well, and my performance went much better.  Here are the reviews for yesterday.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Squeeze my Cans

VENUE:  The Broadwater (Main Stage)

REVIEW:  This show first appeared at the Hollywood Fringe in 2016, and was an instant hit.  I was unable to get tickets that year, but made sure to get in for this updated show.  Cathy Schenkelberg is a true treasure, a gifted voice over and stage actress with something to say.  There have been quite a few high profile defections from Scientology, but no one has given us as many details as Schenkelberg does.  She is brilliant, funny, and high energy as she takes us on this compelling journey to ultimate freedom.  As she quotes, “I’m broke, but not broken.”  Come be inspired by this amazing true story.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is definitely worth checking out.  Remaining performances are June 21 at 7 p.m., June 22 at 8 p.m., June 23 at 12:30 p.m.  and June 26 at 6:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  The Circle Table

VENUE:  Studio/Stage

REVIEW:  Watching this show was like watching my kids and grandkids, all of whom have grown up and are growing up in a digital age where so much communication is carried out on Facebook, Facetime and Instagram.  The series of vignettes introduced us to a group of amazing characters who had grown up together but gone on different paths.  There is lots of comedy and dramedy, and we bet you can find at least one of these characters to relate to.  Hats off to Flat Tire Theatre for a brilliant production.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is definitely worth checking out.  Their final performance on June 23 at 7:30 p.m. is sold out, but come down and get on the wait list so you don’t miss it.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Pho Girl

VENUE:  Studio/Stage

REVIEW:  Once again, Chambers Stevens has written a brilliant play that is truly brought to life by the cast, in this case Orange County native Brigitte Ngo-Trinh.  Although it is a work of fiction, it feels like the truth, and the audience is the recipient of a feel good story, and some amazing food as well.  We loved the way he weaved the story and the way that Ngo-Trinh was able to capture it on stage, revealing her amazing food preparation skills.  Make sure you come on an empty stomach to get the full effect of this amazing performance.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is definitely worth checking out.  Remaining performances are June 22 at 7:30 p.m. and June 27 at 7 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 day 7 – see it or skip it

We took Tuesday off from the Fringe for our third annual LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase at The Mint LA, and it was OFF THE HOOK! Thank you to all the artists that performed – Emily Zuzik, Dree Mon, Jordan Siwek, Constanza Herrero, Brigitte Rios Purdy, Amilia K Spicer, Manda Mosher and The Spider Accomplice. Thanks also to Brie Darling, June Millington and Jean Millington aka Fanny Walked the Earth, as well as Cherie Currie, for reminding us of our rock and roll history. It was such an honor to be able to recognize Fanny with the 2019 Icon Award.  Special thanks to Kirk and the gang from Blue Élan Records for all of your support, and to the amazing staff at The Mint LA for providing excellent service. We can’t wait for next year.

It was so great to come back to the Fringe last night for some very interesting shows.  Here are our reviews.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Start Swimming

VENUE:  The Broadwater (Main Stage)

REVIEW:  This show was different than anything else we have seen this year.  The show comes to us from the Edinburgh Fringe, where it received rave reviews.  Truthfully, this is the kind of play that you either love or hate, as it espouses strong feelings and passions.  It raises a lot of issues as it questions authority and raises the question – can I as an individual change the world.  There is no question that the cast believed they could, as they truly left it all on the stage with their passionate performances.  Definitely come to this one with an open mind, and be prepared to be wowed by the concept and construction of this play.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is definitely worth checking out.  Remaining performances are June 23 at 10 p.m., June 27 at 5 p.m.  and June 29 at 1 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  The Same Room

VENUE:  The Broadway (Studio)

REVIEW:  Kelly Pierre has written one of the most compelling shows of HFF19.  Scott Golden has captured her intent and directed a show that is worthy of attention, praise and awards.  Not only did Pierre write the play, but she appears with the amazing Fringe virgin Sam Sheeks in this outstanding two-hander.  The play begs the question – what does it take for us to heal, forgive and have compassion on those with whom we interact?  It needs to be experienced, as reviews cannot capture the power and ultimate beauty of this play.  Trust us when we tell you that this is truly life-changing theater.  Thanks for sharing it with us.

RECOMMENDATION:  The Same Room is truly a MUST-SEE at HFF19, and definitely worth checking out.  Remaining performances are June 22 at 8 p.m. and June 26 at 10:30 p.m.  Although it is sold out, we strongly advise you to get on the waiting list.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Meg Jo Beth Amy & Louisa

VENUE:  The Broadwater (Blackbox)

REVIEW:  Louisa May Alcott is an American literary treasure, and I’m sure she would have loved this interpretation of her book, which is told from the POV of Alcott as she wrote the stories.  Tier5 has created a masterpiece of theater that should appeal to just about every living, breathing human, and director Ariel Francoeur captures every nuance of the story, giving his amazing cast everything they need to bring it to life.  Musical director Michelle Walker, who also plays Beth, truly adds to the process with original and borrowed music, leading the rest of the cast to bring their all to their performances.  Hats off to Hilary Kelman as Louisa, Maya Bhagwat Bassuk as Meg, Nicole Orabona as Jo, Margaret Gorrell as Amy and Walker as Beth are the quintessential Little Women, and they get amazing support from James Cougar Canfield as Niles the Publisher, Pilar Adara as Marmee, Benjamin Cardona as John F. Brooke, and Mel Gonzales as Laurie.  Brandon Thomas Martin and Dana Placentra were also brilliant in their myriad of supporting roles.

RECOMMENDATION:  If you love modern interpretations of literary classics, or just love great theater, then this show should be at the top of  your list.  There are only three remaining performances before they head to the Capital Fringe Festival in Washington, DC – June 20 at 5 p.m., June 22 at noon and June 23 at 4:30.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Reviews See it or Skip it Women in Entertainment

HFF19 day 5 – see it or skip it

No fringing tonight – it’s our Third Annual LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase, honoring Women in Entertainment.  Doors at The Mint open at 6 p.m. and the show kicks off at 6:30, with Emily Zuzik, Dree Mon, Jordan Siwek, Constanza Herrero, Brigitte Rios Purdy, Amilia K. Spicer, Manda Mosher and The Spider Accomplice set to perform.  We will also be honoring Fanny Walked the Earth with our 2019 Icon Award.  Tickets are available at the door for $13, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Please join us.  In the meantime, here are our reviews from Monday night.

TITLE OF SHOW:  All our Pretty Songs

VENUE:  Asylum Studio C

REVIEW:  This show should be required viewing for all millennials and others seeking guidance on whether to follow their dream or settle for the security of a real job.  The staging of the show was brilliant.  Hats off to playwright John Brahan, who also performed on the drums, director Dan Schultz, who likewise took the role of the artist seeking his dream, and Shanlie Phillips as the semi-spoiled but gifted daughter of music industry parents.  To sound like an artist who doesn’t have any talent takes a lot of skill, and Schultz pulled it off.  But this wasn’t supposed to be a true display of their musical talents, rather a biting look at coming of age, and in that they succeeded.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is definitely worth checking out.  Remaining performances are June 22 at 10 p.m. and June 29 at 8 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Raised by Wolves

VENUE:  Stephanie Fuery Studio Theatre

REVIEW:  Once again a brave solo artist has given us an absolute gem that is easily one of the best, if not the best, show at HFF19.  All the way from Canada comes the compelling and emotionally draining story of Marla Black, and I was proud to be crying by the end of the show.  I learned so much about the pack structure of wolves and sled dogs, and how it applies to every day living.  This was a Ted Talk/Seminar disguised as a Fringe show, and would be a bargain at ten times the price.  Don’t miss this priceless and thought-provoking show.

RECOMMENDATION:  Don’t miss this show.  The only remaining performance is June 22 at 5:30 p.m., so get your tickets before it sells out.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

 

 

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 day 4 – see it or skip it

We hope everyone had a great Father’s Day.  It was another interesting day of Fringe.  We were able to take in one show before our performance and two shows afterward.  Thanks to everyone who came out for our show.  Here are our reviews of the three shows we saw.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Out of the Blue

VENUE:  LGBT Centre (Davidson Valentini Theater)

REVIEW:  This show was a pleasant surprise, thanks to the years of life experience Peter Massey brings to the stage.  While I’m not a huge believer in astrology, there was no doubt of its importance to Massey, as evidenced by the passion of his performance.  His storytelling was spot-on and he kept the audience entranced and engaged throughout.  We also appreciate his support of our show through the workshop he held immediately following the performance.  This show is one of the hidden gems of HFF19.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is definitely worth your time, regardless of how you feel about astrology.  Remaining performances are June 21 at 8:30 p.m., June 23 at 6 p.m., June 27 at 8:30 p.m and June 29 at 4 p.m.  Tickets are available on his Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  How I Became a Superhero

VENUE:  The Broadwater (Second Stage)

REVIEW:  John Patrick Daly has been stalking me this entire Fringe – we have seen quite a few shows together, and it was an honor to check out his show.  It paid homage to the MCU, complete with cartoon intros to each scene and a post-credits final scene.  The  show is hilarious in that it does not take itself too seriously.  Every cast member turned in amazing performances, making this one of the “must see” shows of HFF19, especially if you are a Marvel fan.  Not only that, it has what we think is the best flyer and poster.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is truly must see, and will most definitely sell out.  Remaining performances are June 21 at 5 p.m. and June 29 at 10:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Acid Wash Love

VENUE:  The Complex (Dorie Theater)

REVIEW:  Chambers Stevens has done it again with this amazing story that would fit perfectly into the fall line-up of The CW.  Perfectly directed by Victoria Hoffman, this hilarious three-hander features the amazing talents of future Oscar winner Maitlyn Pezzo, along with Laurent Sayer and Bethany Nava.  It is a true ensemble piece, as the talents of all three were needed to pull it off.  The show even has its own Rocky Horror element, with cookies handed out to the audience that are eaten when the cast tells you to.  It was the perfect ending to the first weekend of Fringe.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is definitely worth your time, and the treats were to die for.  Remaining performances are June 19 at 8:30 p.m., June 23 at 6:30 p.m. and June 28 at 8:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

 

 

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 day 3 (part 2) – see it or skip it

We’re back for the second half of our day of shows on Saturday.  You can find part 1 here.

TITLE OF SHOW:  How to be a Rock Star

VENUE:  The Complex (OMR Theater)

REVIEW:  As a music critic for the past 30 years, I went to this show expecting a musical, as advertised on his Fringe page.  Instead, the audience was “treated” to one of the most bizarre shows I have ever encountered at the Fringe.  While the public stands up and praises the Emperor’s new clothes, even though he is naked, this critic will call this show what it truly is – an absurdist vanity project that needs to be labelled as such,  If you like this kind of comedy, then have at it.  If you are looking for a serious musical show, then avoid this one like the plague.  Next to this turkey, Night of the Root Beer looks like a Tony-worthy Broadway hit.

RECOMMENDATION:  Most definitely SKIP this one, unless you like absurdist vanity projects.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Pockets

VENUE:  The Broadwater (Main Stage)

REVIEW:  Thank God for Robot Teammate.  Not only do they consistently present amazing musicals, but they were there to take the stink of “Rock Star” out of my mouth.  After creating the amazing musicals Turbulence and Thug Tunnel, they have truly knocked it out of the park with a walk off, two-out grand slam in the bottom of the ninth.  They still rely on their “core” crew, but this time around have added an entire company of worthy performers to the mix.  Hats off to Kat Primeau (Duchess), Chris Bramante (Veegan), Molly Dworsky (Bellamina “Pockets”)  and Dave Reynolds (Rob Cryer/ Barkley St. Piggins/Jim Val Jim) for their incredible work on this show.  We also congratulate and thank the rest of the cast for their great support and breathtaking  performances.  Last but not least, three cheers to Branson NeJame and the rest of his amazing band for their incredible live accompaniment.  If you love great musicals, this one is a definite contender for this year’s Best Musical.

RECOMMENDATION:  This is definitely a don’t miss show, so get your tickets before it sells out.  Remaining performances are June 18 at 10 p.m., June 22 at 1 p.m, June 26 at 5 p.m, June 28 at 8 p.m. and June 29 at 3 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Hell’s Finest

VENUE:  The Complex (Ruby Theater)

REVIEW:  Normally I shy away from immersive theater, and didn’t really know that this show was immersive.  I came based on the recommendation of Chambers Stevens.  The show is well written by Ashlynn Judy, with an amazing cast of characters, including my favorite, “S,” played by the effervescent Melissa Cindric.  It felt like a mash-up of Riverdale and Sabrina, and was a huge hit for the millennials in the audience.  Hats off to the entire cast for putting forth an extremely fun and immersive way to end my day.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is definitely worth your time, especially if you love the supernatural and the immersive experience.  Remaining performances are June 22 and 28 at 30 minutes past midnight.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

 

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 day 3 (part 1) – see it or skip it

Saturday was a FULL day of fringing, beginning with my first show at noon and ending with my final show at 12:30 a.m.  It was a hodge-podge day of hits, misses and in-betweens, so let’s get to the reviews.

TITLE OF SHOW:  An yet Another Evening with the Sistahs – Unsung Sheroes

VENUE:  The Hudson Theatres (Guild)

REVIEW:  One of my all-time favorite Fringe shows was “I Never met a Jerk I Didn’t Like,” which introduced me to the brilliance of Tiffany Phillips.  She’s back this year, along with Fredericka Meek and Erika Cohen, to bring us a lesson in black history that will break your heart.  We learn about the history of three prominent black women – slaves Anarcha Westcott and Ellen Craft and Congresswoman Shirley Chisolm.  This show will move you like few Fringe shows have, and is the perfect way to start your Fringe Saturdays.  This one is definitely one of the best shows of HFF19.

RECOMMENDATION:  This is definitely a don’t miss show, so get your tickets before it sells out.  Remaining performances are June 22 and 29 at noon.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Son of a Bitch

VENUE:  The Broadwater (Second Stage)

REVIEW:  Son of a Bitch is a brilliant piece of historical fiction that captures the spirit of the intriguing story of Lee Atwater and his role in the 1988 Presidential elections that resulted in George Bush‘s victory over the more popular Michael Dukakis.  Director Billy Ray Brewton has perfectly captured the intelligent writing of Lucy Gillespie, with amazing performances from Ben Hethcoat as Atwater, Dennis Gersten as Vice-President Bush,  Luke Forbes as “Jr.,” and David McElwee as the Vice-President’s Chief of Staff Jim.  Chloe Dworkin (Cass) and Corsica Wilson (Gladys) turned in excellent supporting performances.  If you care about politics, then this is a must see.

RECOMMENDATION:  This is definitely a don’t miss show, so get your tickets before it sells out.  Remaining performances are June 21 at 8 p.m., June 22 at 11 p.m., June 26 at 5 p.m. and June 29 at 6:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Mormon Playgirl

VENUE:  The Complex (OMR Theatre)

REVIEW:  It seems more and more actresses are coming forward with their #MeToo stories, and CC Sheffield is one of the more prominent ones.  This could have been a powerful show, but instead was shallow and disjointed.  Sheffield does a good job of telling it through her portrayal of a number of characters, but the central one was relegated to a too-short segment at the very end of her show.  There is a lot of potential for this story, but unfortunately it was not used.  This one is definitely a work in progress.

RECOMMENDATION:  It might be wise to sit this one out until she has the chance to better define her story.  If you’re brave, give it a chance.  Remaining performances are June 20 and 28 at 6:30 p.m., and June 30 at 2 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

 

 

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 day 2 (part 2) – see it or skip it

Back for part 2 of our day 2 reviews.  You can find part 1 here.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Silver Bullet

VENUE:  Underground Annex

REVIEW:  We love the film noir, so this play sounded like a perfect fit.  It is a well written show.  Unfortunately, it suffered from one flaw that is easily correctable – pacing, or more specifically, the lack thereof.  The majority of the cast were witty with their delivery, and their efforts to pick up the pace were appreciated, especially Katherine Kimball, who was brilliant in her role as Lila Caine. and Taylor Mack, who portrayed police captain Beverly McKennon.  The other issue was the lack of focus demonstrated by actors bringing their props in after the lights went up, or leaving them on set when their scenes were done, forcing the next actor to have to remove them before they could go on with their scene.  This show is still worthy of your attention, if corrective action is taken.

RECOMMENDATION:  Give it a shot.  Remaining performances are June 22 at 2 p.m., June 23  at 8 p.m. and June 28 at 7:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  The Death of Sam Mobean

VENUE:  The Broadwater (Studio)

REVIEW:  Besides Kimleigh Smith, the person most responsible for me becoming a Fringe fixture is Michael Shaw Fisher and his Orgasmico Theatre Company.  After spending the last couple of years producing amazing art with Cherry Poppins productions, he has returned with an amazing show that channels his inner David Lynch, and gives us the “fringiest” show of HFF19.  He has assembled a stellar cast that includes his wife Alli Miller, Shoen Hodges, Eric Curtis Johnson and Heather Schmidt.  We will leave the mysteries of this show intact to encourage you to check it out before it sells out.  This intimate space is perfect for this show, so be prepared to be part of the action.

RECOMMENDATION:  This is definitely a don’t miss show, so get your tickets before it sells out.  Remaining performances are June 16 at 8:30 p.m., June 22  at 3 p.m., and June 26 at 8:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

 

 

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 day 2 (part 1) – see it or skip it

Day 2 of HFF19 was an interesting day that started off very promising before taking me on a roller coaster of an evening.  At least it ended up in the company of friends for a truly inspiring show.  Here are our reviews for Day 2.

TITLE OF SHOW:  The Mayor’s Debate of Tranquility, Nebraska

VENUE:  The Complex (Flight Theatre)

REVIEW:  If you’ve spent much time at the Fringe, then you’ve probably seen Jim Hanna in at least one show.  If you haven’t, then this is the show to see.  Not only is he part of the amazing cast, but he also wrote this masterpiece that mixes politics with the supernatural.  The magical cast of Hanna, Emily Dorsett, Kate Hellen and Lucie Beeby will whisk you away and provide a thought-provoking look at small town politics.  There is so much great humor in this show, and the chemistry of these four is palpable.  Suffice it to say that it stands as one of the best comedies at this year’s Fringe, and definitely worthy of your time and money.

RECOMMENDATION:  This is definitely a don’t miss show, so get your tickets before it sells out.  Remaining performances are June 22 at 8:30 p.m., June 23  at 12:30 p.m., June 26 at 6:30 p.m. and June 29 at 4 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Temple Tantrum

VENUE:  The Broadway (Second Stage)

REVIEW:  If you’ve seen my solo show Livin’ the Dream (a journalistic journey) or have spent much time with me at Fringe, then you know that Kimleigh Smith has been my inspiration and muse since 2010.  She has directed a very interesting story of survival from a cult that led to freedom for Nicole Steinwedell.  The show felt like Steinwedell was the poster child for ADHD, as she told her story in short bursts of non-stop energy.  Thank goodness she summarized it all during the final 10 minutes, because it was hard to keep up as she hopped from event to event in a truly non-linear approach.  She definitely kept her sold-out house intrigued and engaged, and for that alone she should be praised.  See it for  yourself and you’ll know what we mean.  Thanks for shedding light on this important story of triumph over emotional abuse.

RECOMMENDATION:  This one is truly worthy of your time.   Remaining performances are June 16 at 4 p.m., June 19  at 6:30 p.m., and June 22 at 1 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

 

 

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 day 1 – see it or skip it

HFF19 is officially underway – previews are over, Fringe Central is open, and the Hollywood Fringe Festival has taken over Theatre Row.

We took in three shows, visited Fringe Central twice, and managed to collect five of the seven Matt the Gathering cards, leaving just two more to secure.  What a fun opening day.  Here are our reviews.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Shiva for Anne Frank

VENUE:  The Complex (Flight Theatre)

REVIEW:  Like many of you, I read The Diary of Anne Frank in school, and never knew there was so much more to the story.   Comedian Rachel McKay Steele delivers a moving and emotional tribute to the legacy of Anne Frank, and teaches us Goy a thing or two about the Jewish faith.  This show will make you laugh (a lot), but it will also break your heart, and (hopefully) leave you with a desire to do a better job at being less judgmental.  She also taught us the importance of noshing.  Come early and enjoy the treats.

RECOMMENDATION:  If history is your thing, or if you like to laugh and snack, then definite check out this show.  Remaining performances are June 20 at 8:30 p.m., June 22 at 10:30 p.m. and June 30 at 4 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Straight White Men #trying to woke

VENUE:  The Blank (Second Stage)

REVIEW:  Chris Valente has been a part of the Fringe for many years but I have never been able to make any of his previous shows.  Luckily, I was able to squeeze this one in, and very glad I did.  He has written five five hilarious vignettes that are presented by an amazing cast that included Brian Lally, Steve Brewster, and Victoria Ippolito on “Fandom,” William Gabriel Grier and Valenti on “Polite Racism,” Jim Nieb, Ian Gray and Anna Luiza on “Suicide Pact,” Jeff Elam, Ippolito and Christine Ditillio on “Brittle Trombone,” and Gray, Valenti, Nieb, Brewster, Lally, Luiza and Grier on “Fantasy Football.”  It was a humorous way to address these serious issues, and was well received.  Come on out and laugh at these white man “mistakes.”

RECOMMENDATION:  Definitely worth checking out this show.  Remaining performances are June 14 at 10 p.m., June 15 at noon, June 16 at 3 p.m., June 19 at 8 p.m. and June 21 at 8 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Squeeze my Cabaret

VENUE:  The Lounge Theatres

REVIEW:  Back in 2017, Cathy Schenkelberg created the incredibly popular Fringe show Squeeze my Cans.  She’s back with a musical version that is naughty, funny and so much fun, and once again pokes fun at the cult to which she gave 20 years of her life and nearly $1 million.  This lady has an incredible voice, and a wicked sense of humor, and it all comes out during this show.  If you aren’t worried about retribution, go and enjoy this “take no prisoners” musical cabaret.

RECOMMENDATION:  If you enjoy laughter and great musical performances, then don’t miss this show.  Remaining performances are June 16 at 10 p.m., June 21 at 11:55 p.m. and June 23 at 10 p.m.  Tickets are available on her Fringe project page.