Jim Martyka

Healing: After the Tragedy

jim martyka · June 17, 2018 uncertified reviewer
A solid solo show that not only sheds light on the shocking statistics of what happens to kids after they lose a parent in a tragedy, but also shows what it takes to overcome it and that's its possible to beat the odds. Nesha Wonderland is a powerful presence with a wide range, playing multiple characters (and ages) with passion and conviction. If you like solo shows, this one's for you!... full review

BlackBalled

jim martyka · June 16, 2018 certified reviewer
Enlightening look at a piece of our national pastime's history that isn't often talked about. Wonderful performances by the actors, who dive into their characters and the time period. If you're a baseball fan, check it out!... full review

Jake & The Angel

jim martyka · June 16, 2018 uncertified reviewer
In the midst of this short and effective comedy is a great bit of morality and almost a pleading to look at this wonderful gift called life. Two fantastic actors who truly gel with each other and present an eye-opening look at what really matter and more important, why. Loved it!... full review

Final Preparations

jim martyka · June 16, 2018 uncertified reviewer
Short, sweet and deliciously creepy. Has you on edge for the duration and that half hour feels a lot longer for all the right reasons. Well done!... full review

THE HIGH CAPTAIN

jim martyka · June 16, 2018 uncertified reviewer
This is one of my favorites of Fringe. It's sooooo bizarre but in a truly delightful way. Interesting script and director Eric Cire and his merry band of twisted actors bring it to life with huffing gusto. In between laughs, you start to realize just how much this mirrors the insanity of today and somehow, that makes the ride even better!... full review

The Reverend JEAU's Revival

jim martyka · June 09, 2018 uncertified reviewer
My God, this show is brilliant! Beyond being a slick and sick hip hop artist, Josh Raff is a comedic genius! I was dying during this whole show. He preaches the truth with insane gusto, energy and fast-paced precision in this hour-long hip hop comedy with some amazing songs, stories and perspective. The only shame is he's only here for a week so SEE THIS NOW!!!!... full review

Nephew of the Universe

jim martyka · June 09, 2018 certified reviewer
To say Rob has had an interesting life would be an understatement! Here he gives us a comedic, poignant and rather enlightening glimpse of what it was like growing up in a cult. A solid, confident and charismatic performer, Rob is at ease in his storytelling and invites you in for a very entertaining perspective. Great solo show!... full review

Sam Shaber: Life, Death & Duran Duran

jim martyka · June 09, 2018 uncertified reviewer
There is a reason Sam Shaber has earned both national and international accolades over her career: she's a force! This hauntingly beautiful, poignant and (sometimes) sweetly silly look at both her childhood obsession with Duran and Duran and key moments of loss and love in her life is so sincere and heartfelt, we are right there with her, in the good times and the bad. An absolutely amazing musician with an angelic voice (and just enough of an indie rock edge!), Sam's show plays like a deeply per... full review

Moose & Darlene's Cosmic Do-Over

jim martyka · June 09, 2018 uncertified reviewer
A light and fun approach to some heavy "thinker" issues. Very well-written piece that is presented with truth and sweet and snarky conviction by the cast. Great use of video projections on studio/stage's awesome back wall! A very fun sci-fi short! ... full review

The Women of Lockerbie by Deborah Brevoort

jim martyka · June 05, 2018 certified reviewer
A solid piece of theatre that resonates with its audience, bringing a sense of catharsis to anyone who has dealt with loss and grief (and who hasn't?). Director Jim Blanchette takes a script that could easily be heavy-handed and presents it with a perfect balance of subtlety and power in all the right moments. He's helped by a cast of insanely talented stage and screen professionals, who breathe soulful life into these characters and share not just their pain, but also their journey through it. I... full review