Courtney Bell

The Navigator

courtney bell · June 17, 2014 uncertified reviewer
By far one of the best things I've seen at Fringe this year. Very funny with impeccable comedic timing, but poignant as well. The most striking part about the show, and what sets it apart from most other shows at Fringe, is how amazingly clean it was--from the sound design to the understated miming to the simple but effective set and staging, and of course, the acting and concept in general... Just stellar. A must-see.... full review

Star-Cross'd

courtney bell · June 17, 2014 certified reviewer
One of the best things I've seen at Fringe this year. Such clear storytelling, even down to the jokes! I loved how raw it felt, and Jocelyn Sanchez as Juliet is a FORCE. I felt joy when she felt joy, and pain when she felt pain. This is a must-see.... full review

Cecily by Gillian Plowman

courtney bell · June 17, 2014 certified reviewer
Some very strong performances, particularly by the two sisters. Really engaging and heartbreaking story. And I bumped this review up to AMAZING because they offered some very tasty scones with a gluten free option! I'm all for audience bribery :) In seriousness, though, I found this show to be quite thought provoking.... full review

Baby

courtney bell · June 18, 2013 uncertified reviewer
While I think the premise of this show could have been quite interesting (examining a relationship between a young woman and a much older man), it did not hit the mark for me. He came off as irritable and abusive, and she seemed like a wet blanket, leaving me wondering why she was not only taking his verbal abuse, but not even seeming to mind. Perhaps it's because I'm a young(ish) woman myself--I absolutely couldn't relate and found myself frustrated. The acting styles did not match--they migh... full review

It's Important to Leave, as well (Feed Your Fringe)

courtney bell · June 18, 2013 uncertified reviewer
THIS IS A MUST SEE FOR ANY LOS ANGELES THEATER ACTOR! This show simultaneously pokes fun at some of the more ridiculous actor/theater stereotypes, while also giving us some beautifully acted dramatic stuff. The acting is top notch, and it looks like we've got a new power duo with director Scott Marden and writer Josh Morrison. This is especially impressive given the nature of the show's process (conceived only after signing up to be a part of Fringe). Color me impressed! In fact... I'm sti... full review

Marshall's Law

courtney bell · June 18, 2013 uncertified reviewer
This is, so far, my favorite thing I've seen at Fringe. Magnificently written and beautifully acted. I was gripped the entire time, where often (with LA theater) I find myself wondering what time it is. This is also one of the few shows I've seen at Fringe that feels like theater, as opposed to acting for camera. I am an admittedly over critical tough sell, and Marshall's Law blew me away. I may try to see it again! This is a definite must see!... full review

The Third Date

courtney bell · June 11, 2013 uncertified reviewer
"The Third Date" is like the rom-com I'm thrilled to watch on an airplane, but wouldn't necessarily buy a ticket to see. It was definitely an enjoyable show--very cute concept, easy to relate to, and Deborah Gross' writing is adorable! But with the exception of Chris Wylde's 'Helmer', I didn't feel the actors were quite filling the space--I felt like I was watching a TV sitcom taping instead of a play. But if you have a spare 40 minutes in your Fringe schedule, this is a fun one!... full review