Ryan Lisman

Hedda Gabler

ryan lisman · June 07, 2023 certified reviewer
I give much respect to the courage that it takes for this cast and crew to take on such a deeply nuanced classic play and finding a way to harness the bravery and vulnerability in a compelling way for a modern audience. This team clearly has an excellent understanding of the text, the entire cast demonstrates a clear mastery of the language. I feel that this production took some time to reach the point of captivation, but it certainly achieved this in its final 30 minutes, creating some brilliant... full review

Deathless and Taxless: A Corporate Exorcism

ryan lisman · August 22, 2021 certified reviewer
Ben Nicholson again proves his creativity and innovative nature with this show. I deeply enjoyed the way that the integral themes were highlighted using the great power that the performing arts can offer by taking on the central problem of capitalism through character. I highly recommend this show, it will leave you with a ton of incredible thoughts to ponder on while keeping you entertained and inspired to make a change in our society... full review

Tommy's Room

ryan lisman · June 17, 2019 certified reviewer
This was extremely intense and fascinating. I really appreciate that this play is fully willing to go some incredibly dark places. The last 15 minutes of the play was filled with the utmost of tension and had everyone on the edge of their seats. If you're looking for a thrilling play this fringe festival, Tommy's Room is the play for you!... full review

SON OF A BITCH

ryan lisman · June 17, 2019 certified reviewer
This play was a beautiful and intense ride through the fascinating story of Lee Atwater. Ben Hethcoat was really wonderful, his charisma lights up the stage and it's so clear that he knows Lee Atwater inside and out, he fully commits to his role. There are some interesting thematic elements to Son of a Bitch that makes it very relevant today, and I think this play does an excellent job of portraying the true historical events in a theatrically engaging way. This is one of the best shows I've seen... full review

The Mayor's Debate of Tranquility, Nebraska

ryan lisman · June 17, 2019 certified reviewer
I really enjoyed this show. Above all else, I think that the political message in it is extremely clever, and I love the fact that it's subtle and not beaten over the head like most political shows often are. The dialogue is very witty, snappy, and will leave you on the edge of this seat. I think that this play will provide a wonderful experience for anyone who has the privilege to see it. ... full review

All Our Pretty Songs

ryan lisman · June 17, 2019 certified reviewer
There's some really nice thematic elements and unique choices made in All Our Pretty Songs. Being that most people who will see this show are likely artists in some way, I think this show does a great job of creating a relatable story that can provide a wonderful sense of catharsis. Everyone has a dream, and it's really interesting to see the conflicting ideas of what a "dream" is in this show. ... full review

Dear Jeff: A Musical Comedy About Suicide & Domestic Abuse

ryan lisman · June 17, 2019 certified reviewer
I'm really moved by Callie's amazing vulnerability. This story is so powerful and inspiring, I can promise you that you will be uplifted in a profound way after seeing this show. There are so many positive messages from this show that anyone can take from, regardless of who you are. We all will have to deal with pain and grief at some point in our lives, and this is the kind of show that makes you feel comforted in knowing you aren't alone and that can always be a better future on the horizon. ... full review

Supportive White Parents

ryan lisman · June 10, 2019 certified reviewer
I was very pleasantly surprised with Supportive White Parents. This show had a perfect blend of comedy with very clever social commentary on cultural differences amongst family. This show had such a positive message and I strongly believe that it will leave you with a big smile on your face. ... full review

The Ruffian on the Stair

ryan lisman · June 10, 2019 certified reviewer
I loved this play, I'm a huge Joe Orton fan, and have always enjoyed reading this play, but this was my first time seeing it performed and it was spectacular. The actors did a fantastic job at capturing the duality of tension and dark comedy perfectly. I was engaged the entire time and was very happy with The Ruffian on the Stair.... full review

blackboxing

ryan lisman · June 10, 2019 certified reviewer
I really enjoyed this. I personally have never been a big fan of one-man shows, so I love that Blackboxing expertly parodies it. Matt Ritchey has always been a terrific Director and Writer, but I was so surprised to see how talented a performer he was. The debates with the Stage Manager were deliciously clever. I don't want to spoil the end section of the show, but it was very powerful. I love the entire message of the show, "Why are you doing this show", it's a beautiful question that every sing... full review