Laura Carson

Devon's Diary: The True Account of a Fictional Life

laura carson · June 30, 2015 certified reviewer
The hallway prior to entering the stage is a visual arts exhibit. Pages ripped from a diary, the hospitalization records assessing the patient's capacity to harm herself, a jagged, pixelated video shot during a drug-fogged car trip. Contextual crumbs that lead us down the road to meeting "Devon" and hearing her painful, searching drug-driven New York lifestyle where she eventually implodes. Jennifer Howd is riveting to watch as she reads from "Devon's" diary. Her self-designed soundscape takes yo... full review

NELL GWYNNE: A DRAMATICK ESSAYE ON ACTING AND PROSTITUTION

laura carson · June 24, 2015 certified reviewer
I was simply captivated by Bella Merlin! She is so fun to watch embody the force of nature that was Nell Gwynne. Her performance of the 17th century actress is fierce, funny, assured, clever, naughty - a triumph. Just amazing. NOT TO BE MISSED!!... full review

Sin, A Pop Opera

laura carson · June 24, 2015 certified reviewer
"Sin" was delightful! The dark and seedy setting of Three of Clubs is perfect for the cabaret style show and lends that right amount of atmosphere. As usual, the Devil is up to her usual tricks - this time manipulating Devlin to secure the soul of Faith or lose his own to her dark desires. The singing talent, especially the women, is so strong. Saudia Yasmein is brilliant as "Santana" with the vocal skill to bring out all the highlights of Scott Claus' fantastic score. Sarah Kennedy as "Faith" is... full review

Sincerely,

laura carson · June 22, 2015 uncertified reviewer
I really enjoyed Leslie's show. I understand the "sads" so hearing her talk about her experience with life's unexpected series of sh#t storms was really relatable. Her relaxed energy just draws you into a series of stories that speak of yearning for connection (letters from a stranger...), bad luck and hitting bottom. She is such an engaging and comfortable performer, fearless in her honesty. She just envelops you in this story and literally weaves you into her world. Lovely, delicate storytellin... full review

The Women of The Hat...a duet for one

laura carson · June 22, 2015 certified reviewer
I really enjoyed watching Melissa's strong and beautiful dancer's body tell the story of Rose and Ruth. She's so articulate, precise and fluid, subtle and bold as she tells the tale of reaching her Chorus Line dream only to be heartbroken with loss. Her staging is creative and dynamic. Onstage costume changes, miniature tea sets, a chair that sees a lot of "action," red, red cloth and of course, that hat. Lovely show!!! Go see it!! ... full review

Susan Tierney

laura carson · June 22, 2015 certified reviewer
This show was amazing! Susan is riveting to watch. She gently weaves you down these paths toward each story's jolting yet weirdly beautiful and horrible conclusion. Where you start and where you "land" are so far apart and yet of course you had to end up there. The images she describes are haunting and beautiful. The situations stark and surprising. Really a lovely, special show. Bravo Susan!!... full review

The Oy of Sex

laura carson · June 17, 2015 certified reviewer
Alicia Dattner is that girlfriend you want to go out for cocktails with knowing that something really crazy is going to happen before the end of the night. Her sexual exploits and what they ultimately help her come to realize are the basis of this funny, honest show. Her energy is relentless and her smile infectious. ... full review

The Backpack

laura carson · June 10, 2015 certified reviewer
This quiet little story packs a punch. Geordie Kieffer's portrayal is quiet, assured and lures you in. I won't say more - don't want to give anything away. I'd recommend seeing it.... full review

Coffee Tea or Me

laura carson · June 10, 2015 certified reviewer
I really enjoyed the interplay between Les and Marlene as they shared their separate stories that really complemented each other. Journeys of the soul. Les is an immediate, energetic and engaging performer and Marlene's storytelling is really riveting. It was funny, insightful and surprising. Definitely check it out!!... full review

Snack

laura carson · June 08, 2015 uncertified reviewer
Megan Dolan is captivating, funny, clever. I didn't know what to expect exactly... I mean... I like snacks. I was surprised and moved to hear about an childhood spent navigating the world of divorce, new step moms, cult-like experiential weekends and sibling bond tested by it all. Really funny and insightful.... full review