Annabella

We are not affiliated with anyone in the show. This review is being done by just a theater goer. 1) Excellent voices. 2) Original songs and play. 3) Started and finished on time. Great job! 4) Family friendly--no profanity. Thank you. Would encourage everyone to see this. It is an excellent piece of theater/opera. Would give it 4.5 stars out of 5. ... full review

I was very impressed with the show and look forward to the future work these two writers will produce.... full review

Annabella is a mystical Grimm-style fairy-tale operetta, which begins beautifully, journeys to emotional highs and lows, explores darkness true to its stylistic roots and then ends in the only way it could. Glorious vocal performances by the entire cast (I hesitate to single anyone out) supported by truly wonderful orchestrations played by co-creator Sam Johnides are enough reason to see this show. But layered onto this musical foundation are the wonderfully creepy Marionette Trio and the story within a story structure, all of which combine to create a compelling experience that must not be missed. Bring tissues!... full review

I enjoyed some of the songs but overall I did not enjoy the story. I do appreciate the effort of the creators though.... full review

Annabella - was Amazing!!! The music was so beautiful written and the story was something I could see in a movie ! The lead "Lorenzo" played by Tony Gonzalas was crazy wonderful - his voice is timeless and he will definitely get picked up for some Broadway shows in the future . Sam and Tony ( the writers ) are so talented and will be working on big things in the future without a doubt - don't wait too long to pick up the talent on this project or you will for sure miss out . Five stars . A must see . Don't miss the beginning of two very talented careers!!... full review

A real gem of a piece, a dark romantic folktale that feels huge despite the intimate staging. The story of a puppeteer falling for a tragically captive young witch moves along effortlessly thanks to a gorgeous score that's at once contemporary and neo-romantic. A talented cast makes a historical/mythological libretto feel sincere, and the leads in particular fill the room with their gorgeous voices - which are given real opportunity to shine with soaring vocal lines. The story may bear the weight of a few digressions, and the score may have one or two too many ballads. But these are small quibbles, and on the whole you'll feel the ninety minutes race by. ... full review

Sam and Tony have written an amazing show. The music is beyond beautiful and powerful performances bring it to life. Some of the best singing I've heard in Los Angeles. If you are going to see one show at the fringe it should be ANNABELLA!... full review

You MUST see this show! I've not been moved like this by a piece of musical theater since I saw 'Wicked'. This is not an exaggeration. The Sam & Tony Show have created something truly magical here. The music is breathtaking and the story will captivate your heart. Don't miss this one!... full review

This piece is a must see! Tony Gonzalez and Sam Johnides are a masterful team who's music and lyrics are beyond beautiful. Their enchanting songs are unforgettable. The beautiful love story at the center of it all is sad and sweet and leaves you wanting more. The expression of this show is realized by a captivating cast who can tell a story with conviction and honesty through song as well as speech. I was very impressed with this piece and I can't wait to see what's next from The Sam and Tony Show! Congrats gentleman! ... full review

The story is interesting, original and engaging. The music is very good to sublime at times. The performances are all top notch - very professional. Kim Hessler has a strong, classically-trained voice equal to the demands of the leading role. Melinda Erlich is a seductively beautiful Valentina. Among the marionettes, baritone John Haukoos is especially strong, both vocally and dramatically. And Tony Gonzalez will tear your heart out. This young man acts with his voice and is the heart and soul of the musical. Pianist/composer Sam Johnides does the heavy lifting of playing the entire musical score on the keyboard. He does so with confidence, musicality and authority. I went to this musical twice and found it even more hauntingly beautif... full review