STEPHEN BLACKBURN

Sex! Theater! History! Bella Merlin (Actor/Writer) does a wonderful job of entertaining as "pretty, witty Nell," a mostly forgotten (or never known) female star of the English stage and mistress (and jester!) of the king a century after Shakespeare, when women were finally allowed by law to perform on stage. What a fascinating character! Can a movie version be far behind? Award-winning actor Miles Anderson directs for maximum audience pleasure, and the costumes by Jason Estala & design by Allison... full review

I laughed out loud a lot during Amy Tofte's BROKEN PANDA. The play examines the issue of mixed race couples like Groucho Marx would play doctor with an otoscope. Doc Farrow and Mandy Dunlap click--they volley like they've been working comedy together for years. Tofte provides some great dialogue gags that are delivered with precise timing, thanks to director Leigh Kennicott and the exceptional cast. Hui Ying Wen as the sullen counselor wields deadpan and one-word deliveries like a slapstick. Dunl... full review

Well-observed story about the choices people feel obligated to make when both people in a relationship have demanding professional careers. Harrison doesn't go for easy or expected answers. Crisp direction. Loved the treadmill. Kudos to Laura Emanuel for avoiding a "woe is me" take on the character (and for her stamina!), and to Andrew Boyle for his multiple characterizations.... full review

For comedy to work, the performers must be totally committed to their characters. In the Fierce Backbone seduction burlesque MARIA CONCHITA ALFONSO ALFONSO ALFONSO, brisquely directed by Richard Pierce, Marina Palmier in the sexy title role portrays with zest the aging diva on the prowl, while Ramon Camacho completely inhabits the part of her star-struck prey, a waiter who may just turn the table...Check it out!... full review