Fall North Bay Theatre Preview

Fall is usually marked by the local theatre community with a series of ambitious announcements heralding the shows each company plans to produce for their new season. COVID continues to be a factor as companies optimistically make plans while struggling to fill casts and schedule rehearsals. Some companies have reacted to the continued uncertainty surrounding…

KSRO Interview – “Legally Blonde Jr.”

My guests on a second August 4 “Theatre Thursday” segment on The Drive with Steve Jaxon on KSRO were Education Director Aja Gianola-Norris, Co-Assistant Director and Choeographer Peri Zoe Yildirim-Stanley, and lead performer Katie Winkelman from 6th Street Playhouse’s Young Adult production of Legally Blonde Jr. Click below to listen: ********** Click the graphic below…

Review: “The Drowsy Chaperone” in Sonoma

“I hate theatre.” No, that’s not the long-suspected confession of a theatre critic. It’s the opening line from Sonoma Arts Live’s production of The Drowsy Chaperone.  The show runs through July 31.   That line, followed by a litany of complaints about modern theatre (shows are too long, actors shouldn’t interact with the audience, Elton John,…

Preview: “Woody Guthrie’s American Song” in Healdsburg

The Raven Players bring live outdoor entertainment to Healdsburg’s Downtown Plaza with their production of Woody Guthrie’s American Song: A Truly American Musical. Peter Glazer’s adaptation of the writings and songs of “America’s premiere folk poet” runs weekends July 1 through July 10. The show, which premiered in 1988, has Northern California roots as playwright…

Review: “9 to 5, the Musical” in Santa Rosa

It’s been over 40 years since Dolly Parton made her film debut in 9 to 5 and the title tune topped the charts. The film and song (which garnered Parton an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song) became markers in the struggle for parity in the workplace for women. Thank goodness it was achieved…