Week of June 11, 2023
1. “One Jewish Boy” at Theater J
“…thoroughly satisfying. Gruenhut delivers an emotional rollercoaster disguised as a psychological mystery, wrapped in the cloak of romance. She pulls off a delightfully entertaining theatrical coup.” – Anne Valentino
READ review.
Synopsis: In this bittersweet, sophisticated and quick-fire new British comedy about antisemitism, Jesse, a nice Jewish boy, falls in love with Alex, a nice mixed-race girl. The love between them is pure and absolute, but Jesse has never been able to shake off the vicious attack that changed him forever. Navigating any relationship is difficult enough, but what happens when you factor in politics and rising prejudice? Don’t miss the US premiere of this urgent and unflinching comedy, which pits the impact of hatred against the power of love.
Danny Gavigan and Alanna Saunders in Theater J’s production of “One Jewish Boy.” Photo by Ryan Maxwell Photography.
2. August Wilson’s “Radio Golf” at Round House Theatre
“…impressive production…all its elements are masterfully placed to tell a timely story. – Camron Wright
READ review.
Synopsis: Following Two Trains Running (2014) and Gem of the Ocean (2018), Round House returns to Pittsburgh’s Hill District, where Harmond Wilks is redeveloping the struggling neighborhood with business partner (and golf enthusiast) Roosevelt Hicks while running to become the city’s first Black mayor. With a shiny new high-rise planned and Whole Foods set to move in, one house stands in the way: 1839 Wylie Avenue, home of Wilson’s renowned Aunt Ester. As Roosevelt aims to win the game that has been set against him all his life, Harmond reaches a crossroads as history and progress collide. “Surprising, suspenseful, and crowd-rousing” (New York Times), Radio Golf concludes this stunning cycle of plays portraying 20th-century Black life by one of America’s most influential playwrights.
Craig Wallace (Elder Joseph Barlow), Ro Boddie (Roosevelt Hicks), and JaBen Early (Harmond Wilks) in August Wilson’s Radio Golf at Round House Theatre. Photo by Margot Schulman Photography.
3. “Macbeth” by Chesapeake Shakespeare Company’s Black Classical Acting Ensemble
“…acted by the Black Classical Acting Ensemble, and directed by Lauren Davis, this “Macbeth” is a hearty and energetic interpretation that yields many surprises.” – Sue Tilberry
READ review.
Synopsis: Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening under the stars, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the PFI Historic Park. CSC’s Black Classical Acting Ensemble presents Shakespeare’s spellbinding Macbeth. In this supernatural tale of ambition, fate collides with free will as a powerful hero descends into darkness. A wicked evening that will send shivers down your spine and leave you on the edge of your seat.
Dawn Thomas Reidy (Lady Macbeth) and DeJeanette Horne (Macbeth) in “Macbeth.” Photo by Kiirstn Pagan.
4. “The Laramie Project’ presented by The Montgomery Playhouse in partnership with the Gaithersburg Arts Barn
“…somberly spectacular, with careful attention paid to the smaller details and the intimate moments…the cast delivers as memorably as I’ve seen just about any ensemble perform. ” – Anne Valentino
READ review.
Synopsis: In October 1998, 21-year-old Matthew Shepard, an openly gay college student, was brutally beaten & left to die on the plains outside Laramie, Wyoming. Hailed as one of the most captivating & encompassing pieces of contemporary theater, The Laramie Project is a breathtaking collage that explores the depths to which humanity can sink & the heights of compassion of which we are capable.
L to R: Erica Smith, Ron Ward (Blue arm), Katrina Jackson, William Darden Jr., David Dieudonne, Maureen Betz, Laura Helbling, Naomi Kieval, Michael Angeloni, and Meghan Williams Elkins. Photo by Credit Cassandra Redding.
5. “John Lyly’s “Gallathea” at Baltimore Shakespeare Factory
…so darn fun and, under Abigail Funke’s direction, this production sparkles. – Emily Hofstaedter
READ review.
Synopsis: A queer comedy romp about love and sacrifice. The BSF is proud to be producing a queer-led performance during Pride Month.
Kayla Schultz as Phillida and Adanya Elizabeth as Gallathea. Photo by EG Photography.
