Dressed with a Smile: 2025 Musical Annie Review at the Stratford Festival Theatre

       

                           

It was another evening at the Stratford Festival Theatre with our tickets in hand, ready to head to our seats. This time with tickets to see Annie, directed and choreographed by Donna Feore.

Highlights:                                                                                                                                                                                           

👉Harper Rae Asch was fantastic as Annie. Her bright red curly hair, bubbly personality that didn’t miss a beat throughout the whole show and incredible vocals earned a well-deserved standing ovation. 

👉Kids performances (Cast)  were incredible to watch especially during It’s the Hard Knock Life. A specific stand-out was Cydnee Abbott, who plays Pepper. (interesting note, she holds the Guinness World Record for the most full-body revolutions in a backbend in 1 minute!)           

👉Miss Hannigan (Laura Conlin) what a gem. I couldn’t help but feel that she really embodied the spirit of Carol Burnett with impeccable comedic flair. 

👉Mark Uhre and Amanda Lundgren who play Rooster Hannigan and Lily St. Regis were a fun energetic duo and convincing on stage together as swindlers trying to pose as Annie’s biological parents in return for $50,000. 

                 

👉The song “NYC” – The scene set and lighting for this one really set the tone of New York City. Probably one of my favourites. I’m still humming the tune.

A few missteps to address...

👉I didn’t quite feel the connection between Annie and Oliver Warbucks (played by Dan Chameroy) in the second act, even during what would have been considered the emotional moments. I have seen Dan perform in many other productions in Stratford, believing his character to a tee, but this one didn’t convince me of a father figure in the end, way more believable in his role as the billionaire, Oliver Warbucks.

👉Some scenes in the second act felt rushed and the over-enthusiasm of Warbuck’s staff being so thrilled to be not only at his beck and call, but now to Annie felt a little odd as they danced around gleefully– as if they didn’t have any other purpose.  

👎Pet peeve theatre moment:  Despite the announcements to turn off all devices, I don’t think some people got the memo clear enough near where we were seating. Scrolling endlessly (not just a quick check if you absolutely must) on one’s phone during a performance or playing a game (Wordle can wait, trust me) is not just annoying to patrons who have to see your phone light up in the dark, but also just rude to performers on stage!  

Usually there would be quite a few ushers abound to nip this in the bud but there was no one near us and we didn’t want to have to get up to find someone outside and miss parts of the show. Luckily there were some unattended seats away from the unnerving cell scrollers which we grabbed (and noticed another couple doing the same)  so we could enjoy the rest of the show.

Final thoughts:

        

Overall, this musical production of Annie with wonderful singing, incredible energetic dance sequences will no doubt make you smile and feel happy that a small change of heart can make a world of difference through a child’s eyes. 

Some of the themes of desperation and despair are indeed overshadowed by catchy song numbers draped in sheer optimism that many kids in reality will unlikely experience. However, what is very apparent is the idea of one little girl’s strength (Annie), to never give up hope for a brighter tomorrow.

💜 Book now! Tickets for Annie and other performances are available here: Stratford Festival

Returned favourites and some new spots for us to explore in Stratford. 

Nature continues to be quite healing for me especially in dealing with the complexity of grief. 

Dinner at our favourite spot: Fellini's 

A Combination That Works Like a Charm: 2024 La Cage Aux Folles Stratford Review

     

Jerry Herman and Harvey Fierstein’s Tony Award-winning 1983 musical, La Cage Aux Folles gets a dazzling facelift from director, Thom Allison for this year’s performance at Stratford Festival’s, Avon Theatre. 

Adapted from the novel by Jean Poiret, La Cage Aux Folles tells the story of life partners, Georges (Sean Arbuckle), and Albin/Zaza (Steve Ross) who run a drag nightclub in St. Tropez and you know, enjoy their morning cup of coffee and do laundry, like most couples do.  

However, a surprise visit turns their lives get flipped upside down, or rather put temporarily in the closet, when Georges’ son, Jean-Michel (Kevin “Koovy” Mclachlan – for this performance), announces that he’s getting married to the daughter of a conservative politician Edouard Dindon (Juan Chioran). Consequences unfold when playing it “straight” but in the most surprising way.   

Highlights:

👉The dance numbers were incredible to watch from Choreographer, Cameron Carver. Shout-out to the entire Les Cagelles dancers especially how many times they did the splits!

👉Chris Vergara as Jacob, Albin’s butler, was an immediate show-stealer. Full of sparkle and sass = plus brilliant physical comedy!

👉All the costume designs by David Boechler were fantastic, especially the carefully curated assortment of Zaza’s (Ross) glittery gowns with help from drag consultant Justin Miller. Oh and what human could be complete without beautiful touches from makeup designer, Dino Dillo.

👉🎶Music... Going in with only knowing one song, the iconic “I Am What I Am” which I fondly recall Respect’s Definitive Mix version, featuring Hanna Jones, from my earlier years, watching the ground-breaking series, Queer as Folk.  

This version of the song had a different feel, as the audience was glued to the stage watching Steve Ross’ vulnerable performance and hearing his outstanding vocals. Another reminder of his range of talents stepping onto the Stratford stage, in every role embraced, high-heels or not. 

👉A close second favourite was Song on the Sand – a musical joy of lyrics and nostalgic emotions that remind us of the simple pleasures of falling and being in love.                                                                                         

La Cage Aux Folles is full of humour (take note, it gets a little naughty!) yet holds pivotal sentimental moments that will make you wonder why we’re still living in a world that is so divided outside the stage.                                    

 I hope we can take a step back and begin to look at things from a different angle.

💜Grab your tickets! Official website: https://www.stratfordfestival.ca/

A few moments with my husband Bill, enjoying our time in Stratford, Ontario.

Break An Egg: Something Rotten! Stratford Festival Review

Something Rotten! is directed and choreographed by Donna Feore and tells the story of the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, two struggling playwrights in Renaissance London, who are looking for their chance at greatness, sadly only finding themselves overshadowed by the one, the only, the crowd-chanting and charismatic, William Shakespeare. In desperate times, comes desperate measures and with the divine (or deceptive?) help of a soothsayer, a musical is born.

               

Highlights:                      

👉Jeff Lillico was hilarious as The Bard (aka Shakespeare) with his show-stopping rocker confidence on stage and expertise timing of hair-flips.

👉Dan Chameroy as Thomas Nostradamus was just pure gold in his role and every moment on stage gave  you a full belly-laugh.

👉The rapid fire musical theatre references included some costuming brilliance in its execution that I won’t be spoiling. It felt like a nostalgic trip back in time with such fond memories (ps. our first visit together to the Festival Theatre was Fiddler on the Roof)  

👉The hilarious tap-dancing dance-off duel was endlessly funny from start to finish between quick-wittted Shakespeare, played by Jeff Lillico  and the beating heart of the musical, Nick Bottom, played by Mark Uhre.

👉Starr Domingue as Bea hit all the right notes with a hefty dose of sassy female empowerment and the beauty of true partnership in the song "Right Hand Man".

👉The genuine love affair to secretly long for between Nigel played by the whimsical, Henry Firmston and Portia, played by Olivia Sinclair-Brisbane. Both of their performances were so genuine and together, they are about as sweet as the sugar in one’s tea cup on a mid-summer’s night. 

👉Steve Ross as Shylock, a Jewish money-lender, was a sure-fit for this role, keeping us laughing with plenty of Yiddish references along the way.   

With over 14 production numbers in the show (music and lyrics by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick), included are some egg-cellent dance routines that got its well-deserved standing ova-tion. 

👉I cannot forget to mention the ensemble cast. This musical reached a new height as they gave their heart and soul into every note, twirl and leg thrust. Sitting there in the audience, you could feel it.

Book your tickets because if you’ve been stuck in the camp of  “God I Hate Shakespeare!” trust me, you’re gonna love it.

💜Official website: https://www.stratfordfestival.ca/

Moments in Stratford

To my followers: On a personal note, I recently lost my brother and so I've been deep in the grieving woods and trying to make my way through it.   I want to thank my husband, Bill, for taking me to Stratford to enjoy this fantastic musical and experience a few hours of laughter and smiles. 

Start Spreading The News: ACT Presents Newsies Jr. at the Capitol Theatre

 

Photo credit: John Chan Photography

Directed and choreograped by Becca Miinch, with the always creative flare of Artistic Director – Chris Rabideau, it was a wonderful opportunity to see the emerging talents of so many students across Windsor-Essex County come together for Arts Collective Theatre's (ACT) Youth Creative production of Newsies Jr. at the Capitol Theatre.

Set in the hustle bustle of New York City, this musical adaptation features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman, and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein.   

Newsies Jr. tells the story of Jack Kelly,  a rebellious soul on the outside, but a soft-hearted dreamer on the inside, who sells newspapers on the streets of New York with his friends to make a mere living. After yet another price increase from the bosses, Jack has had enough and rallies all the newsies to ban together and stand strong. Unexpected revelations happen along the way, as they prepare for the fight of their lives.  

Highlights:

👉Malia Afonso’s role as Katherine was unforgettable. Her sheer presence lights up a room, or in this case, an entire theatre.  Her solo of “Watch What Happens” was so emotionally compelling. When you think of star quality, she’s it.  

👉Evangeline Scott as Crutchie was at the heart of Newsies and portrays the character with dignity, showing resilience and adding a little wise-cracking humour.       

👉If you haven’t smiled in a while, when Reya Porter steps on stage, that will absolutely put the biggest one on your face, playing Les - a “pint-size” charming Newsie.    

👉The ensemble cast for “Seize The Day” was amazing especially with the added toe-tapping sequence.

👉Another great moment was the fight scene, coordinated by Tiffany Chan and assistant Peter Corio.

👉Newsie, Jack Kelly played by Rowan Alice took the reigns of really showing his character come to life and pulling off a pretty convincing New Yorker accent.

👉A perfect array of costumes for the cast really set the mood to reflect the time period and social classes, along with the icon Newsies caps, all envisioned from Costume Manager - Moya McAlister and Costume Designer – Valentine Yaghoubzadeh

This inspiring production of Newsies Jr. reminds us of the power of change and reflects on some of today's social disparities. Watching these diverse young generational performers are a beacon of hope for a brighter future. When we stand together in unity, we create a ripple effect and ACT ensures in every performance this message is loud and clear.

💜Get your tickets for this weekend only! Newsies Jr.

💜Arts Collective Theatre

💜Capitol Theatre Windsor

Feline Good: CATS The Musical

Photo Credit: SCC

Director and Choreographer, Kristyn Wiklanski set the stage for a purr-fect evening to go out to the Chrysler Theatre and see the St Clair College Performing Arts students in a modern day creation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Broadway musical Cats, adapted from T.S. Eliot’s whimsical poetry collection titled Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats.

In a nutshell, the story revolves around The Jellicle Ball, a celebration held once a year for all the Cats and an opportunity to share tales of their lives to Old Deuteronomy, their wisdom-filled and highly-respected leader, who will choose only one of them to journey to the Heaviside layer and be reborn into a new life.

With a beautifully haunting set design, the junkyard alley where the tribe of cats live and play, every inch of the stage had its own little tale to tell. The entire cast did an excellent job personifying their chosen character cat and exhibiting kitty-like body language and gestures with submissive and dominant poses.

There was so much thoughtful consideration into the movement on stage, mixed with heightened operatic solos and ensembles, and of course jaw-dropping dance sequences that kept up momentum in energy from start to finish.

Highlights:

👉Alex Wyant gave an outstanding performance as Rum Tum Tugger, a wildly energetic and uninhibited cat.

👉It was amazing to experience the zest of the fashionable lit-up ensemble and electrifying solo performance of the lovable magical black and white cat, Mr. Mistoffelees – Paige Moore. 

👉Another show-stopping vocal and dance performance was from Skimbleshanks, the Railway Cat - Josie Bianchi. 

👉Grizabella played by Gracienne Swarbrick blew the audience away with her ballad of “Memory”.

👉Joanna Empey as Old Deuteronomy spoke to our hearts with every note sung in “The Ad-Dressing of Cats”.

As an audience, getting to experience the full emotional spectrum of a mystical world that highlights the connective fabrics that are within ourselves and shown to others is something to always hold dear in our memories.

 

💜For any animal lovers out there, this show had an paw-some initiative to support the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society. Any donations are always appreciated to help our furry friends.

💜 Chrysler Theatre    

💜 SCCPA Facebook Page

You Can Be My Friend: Junie B. Jones - The Musical

Photo credit: Bloomsbury House Stage Production

After what has seemed like endless days of grey skies from morning till night, Sunday turned out to be a beautiful blue sky and sunny day.  It was a perfect way to spend the afternoon at the Chrysler Theatre seeing Bloomsbury House Stage Production of Junie B. Jones – The Musical! 

Starting off, Director, Martin Ouellette was able to bring to life many of the characters from the beloved Junie B. Jones book series from author, Barbara Park. The show had impressive choreographed dance scenes, meticulously derived from Julia Pastorius that were set to heartfelt and fun musical numbers. Having an all-adult cast playing multiple roles, including adorable first graders, elevated this experience making it truly an all-ages family show to enjoy. 

It was a packed theatre with kids excitedly in their seats, holding onto their Junie B. Books and awaiting the moment when the very first song “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax” would start off this high energy production. 

👉Junie B. Jones (played by Charlotte Salisbury) was just like the character from the book, emulating Junie’s exuberant personality, mature wisdom and quick-witted antics on stage. She was a joy to watch, all complete in her brightly striped leggings and tutu – vision of Costume designer, Carly Morrison Hart.

👉Herb (played by Gianluca Ieraci) gave another stand-out performance, especially with his mannerisms and adorable connection to Junie B in the bus scene, where we get to see best friends in the making.      

👉Sheldon (played by Bill Dileva) – a first grader allergic to fake meat, cheese and dairy, who is often pushed out of his comfort zone and highly accident-prone, dove straight into this role and really had perfect comedic timing throughout the show. Bill's unique talents as a performer shone as he took centre stage with sheer confidence doing a solo of Sheldon’s anthemic “Half Time Show” performance. 

👉Daddy (also played by Bill Dileva) showcased his unbelievable juggling skills on stage, as the audience cheered wildly.  His scene with Mother (Alysia Therrien) who sang beautifully in the song “When Life Gives you Lemons” was also another really special moment together, encouraging Junie B to not give up when times get a little rough in life.

👉May (played by Krystal Laframboise) gave a highly gratifying performance as Junie B’s antagonist in the show.

👉Mr. Scary (played by Craig Gloster) was anything but scary! He was the kind and encouraging teacher figure that makes you want to come to school every day and who can forget Mrs. Gutzman, played by Laura K. Bird, the nurturing head cook, baking your favourite cookies and sending you off to math class relaxed.

👉Other actors rounded out the production, playing multiple characters including Lucille, Camille and Chenille – played respectfully by Alysia Therrien, Julia Pastorius and Krystal Laframboise, who were really fun to watch on stage and gave sassy performances. Alex Hristoff, was convincing in her child-like portrayal of José, Junie B.’s bilingual friend.

👉The final song, “Writing Down the Story of My Life” mixed in comedic elements and sweet sentiments of how to trudge through the hard parts of life and was the encouraging message that we all need to hear sometimes.

                            

💜What's playing next? Visit Bloomsbury House

💜Upcoming shows at the Chrysler Theatre

A Sure Bet: Guys & Dolls Musical Review at the Capitol Theatre

Photo courtesy of John Chan

No luck has been needed as Arts Collective Theatre’s (ACT) production of Guys and Dolls showing at the iconic Capitol Theatre in Windsor, Ontario, truly dazzled theatre patrons once again. 

With the creative vision of Artistic Director, Chris Rabideau and Assistant Director, Cristina Orlando,  Musical Direction by local and internationally renowned composer Ian Smith, and dance choreography by Tiffany Chan, made for an incredible afternoon of sights and sounds.  

Set in Depression-era Time Square, Guys and Dolls is filled with many colourful characters and tells the stories of sinners, like big shot Nathan Detroit (played by Michael Rice), who runs a notorious floating crap game and is looking for his next spot to earn some quick money. Getting not so subtle hints from his sweetheart of 14 years, Miss Adelaide (Avonlea Smith), a headliner at the sizzling Hot Box Club, he needs to curb his gambling ways to take the plunge and marry her already. 

We also have the suave doll-magnet, Sky Masterson (Gianluca Ieraci) who unexpectedly falls head over heels in love with mission worker, Sarah Brown (Jamie Brown-Hart). Their love is put to the test when Sarah believes he has set up an illegal game at the mission.                                                                                  

Highlights:

👉First and foremost, my husband, Bill – Total bias here to include a review of his magical performance, but honestly, even if I didn’t know him, he really knocked my socks off. As a professional magician in his every day life, he had a few tricks up his sleeve to delight audiences.  He was part of the terrific ensemble cast, singing, dancing, and had a fun role of acting a little tipsy (intentionally!). I had no idea he could move and groove on stage like this.                           

👉Gambler, Nicely Nicely Johnson - Kyle Cloutier was just a joy to watch on stage – quick-talking and such an exuberant personality. Being one of the sinners, he’d still probably whistle a cab for you on the hustling and bustling streets of New York.

👉Big Julie -  Leave it to ACT to switch things up and take “Big Jule” from the original musical and give us a treat with “Big Julie” played so confidently by Florine Ndimubandi.  She was a powerhouse in the song “Sit Down, You're Rockin' The Boat.”

👉Adelaide - Avonlea Smith dominated the stage in the song “Adelaide’s Lament”. It was performed so well, highlighting her incredible vocals and ability to engage in a role so vivaciously that obviously she was destined to play.  

👉Nathan Detroit - Adelaide’s beau in the show, Micheal Rice, sang straight from the heart and was rather convincing that he could change his ways, with his declaration of love to Adelaide, in the song, “Sue Me.”  His comedic timing was perfect in so many scenes.         

👉Sky and Sarah – Gianluca and Jamie Brown-Hart have such chemistry that steamed up the stage -holy moly. Apart, Jamie holds the gift of innocence on stage that never wavers from her character, which is remarkable to watch.  Gianluca’s thick tousled hair and New York-ish quirks of a sleazy sinner is spot on, and his vocals would truly make Frank Sinatra proud. 

👉Arvide Abernathy – Jim Walls is the ultimate endearing grand-father figure of Sarah. Honestly, can we just give him a big hug? Just a genuine performance all around.

👉“Sit Down, You're Rockin' The Boat” wait for it, hallelujah! Heidi Richards, as General Cartwright really shone in this scene with her energetic gospel stylings. You have to experience this whole scene for yourself.

👉The choreography from the dance scenes were amazing and kudos to Tiffany Chan as well as technical dance instructor Leslie McCurdy for being able to create routines that evoked a lot of energy and passion with every step. 

👉Costume Manager, Moya McAlister and designer Valentine Yaghobzadeh brought a new level of New York chic fashion with bright, bold and sparkly outfits that made a statement and to reminiscence the time period with hints of modern flair.                                                       

Having a slight inside scoop of the dedication that everyone gave to perform in Guys and Dolls, along with the many hours of laundry that had to be done after these passionate performers left the stage every night, I am so happy that I was able to see this musical, which is one of my all-time favourites, in such a refreshing new way. 

As well, I applaud the diversity for casting individuals of all walks of life, and true community spirit that Arts Collective Theatre (ACT) brings to Windsor, Ontario. 

As the curtains close next week for this production, excitement continues on for what they’ll have in store for 2024.

💜Arts Collective Theatre

💜Capitol Theatre Windsor

Find Your Grail: Stratford’s Spamalot Review

The ridiculous and pun-filled humour in Stratford Festival’s 2023 production of Monty Python’s Spamalot is a hilarious musical comedy from Eric Idle and John Du Prez that is directed by Lezlie Wade and Choreographed by Jesse Robb.  With elements from the 1975 motion picture “Monty Python and the Holy Grail”, this one has a whole new flavour of obscurity that is combined with incredible performances, toe-tapping dance numbers, intricate stage elements, and vibrant costuming that is fit for royalty or maybe a dominatrix.  

The story revolves around King Arthur and his eccentric bunch of Knights of the Round Table who go in search of the elusive Holy Grail. It is completely bonkers, as we all know that nothing always goes to plan in life. Nonetheless, we are here for the laughs and all the mishaps!

Jonathan Goad leads this impressive production, playing King Arthur, with Eddie Glen as his submissive squire, Patsy. Included are: Aaron Krohn (Sir Lancelot), Trevor Patt (Sir Robin) and Liam Tobin as Sir Dennis Galahad.  Also to note, many of the actors played multiple roles, which was most impressive.

You'll be in for plenty of surprises that will literally and figuratively moo-ve you (yes a terrible pun inserted intentionally, you’ll know why after seeing Spamalot). There are also catchy musical numbers that will have you singing along with the multitude of talent that graces the stage from many of Stratford’s finest performers. 

Highlights:

👉All and I mean ALL the groan-worthy puns!

👉The French Taunter whose insults you could slice with a baguette.

👉Knights Who Say "Ni" (couldn’t stop laughing!) 

👉“He Is Not Dead Yet” was performed so brilliantly.

👉The spicy, sultry and spunky “Lady of the Lake” played by Kimberly-Ann Truong

👉Eddie Glen who played Patsy felt like he was meant to be born on stage, as his comedic timing was perfect. 

And more (but I’m not spoiling anything else!)  

The level of mockery that you’ll hear and see on the stage is done in the usual Monty Python style and so there are no shortage of laughs that may seem a little uncomfortable if you’re not familiar with the dry British humour. 

There are plenty of ideological themes throughout that may offend as well, but like many musicals from Stratford, this performance gets some tweaks with clear messages of love and humanity tossed in for good measure, something that is definitely rattled in today’s world.                      

And so my friends, with that gentle warning, I would encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and see Spamalot at the Stratford Festival’s lovely Avon Theatre.  

On a personal note, this was a great way to spend our upcoming 15th anniversary together, as my husband and I are big Monty Python fans and love finding any reason to go and see performances in Stratford! It’s really our home away from home. 

By audience demand, more shows have been added. Truly another production that deserves much praise and multiple viewings!  

Go in with an open mind and heart and always look on the bright side of life.

💜Official website for more info and tickets: https://www.stratfordfestival.ca/

ACT Presents: Guys & Dolls At The Capitol Theatre

My husband Bill will be joining the wonderful cast in this year's musical production of Guys & Dolls here in Windsor, Ontario!

He'll be singing, dancing and so much more.

If you're in the area, please come out and support!

💜On sale NOW, Grab your tickets: Capitol Theatre

💜Check out all the updates at: ACT Windsor

Seasons Of Love At Stratford Festival: Rent Musical Review

In honour of yet another brilliant mind gone too soon, Jonathan Larson (creator of smash sensation Rent) it was a very emotional 2023 trip to the Stratford Festival. We got to experience an artistic masterpiece of musical theatre from director Thom Allison, and music director, Franklin Brasz that holds such a passionate and sentimental value. With an outstanding Rent cast, thanks to the brilliant casting from Beth Russel, we can raise from our seats and proudly shout from the rooftops that love IS love.

If you’ve seen the film Rent, or even Larson’s, Tick, Tick... Boom! be prepared for something completely out of the box with this musical that is provocative, progressive and full of energy. The stories share many common themes, such as: struggle, identity and belonging. 

Choreographer, Marc Kimelman, has the ability to transform moments on stage into memories that will live on far beyond when the curtains close.

                                                                

A few highlights for me:

                                                                                                         

👉Gabriel Antonacci’s touching version of "One Song Glory".

👉Nestor Lozano Jr.'s portrayal as drag queen and life-giving Angel, who is appropriately named with an angelic vocal range and stunning presence on stage.

👉Lee Siegel’s emotional “I’ll Cover You” (reprise). The flood gates opened and there wasn't a dry eye around.

I can go on and on,  but I won’t because reading about this experience is just one layer, you need to be there, watching the vulnerability unfold on stage.  While it might shock some audiences with a handful of provocative scenes and language that could offend, we’re getting past the surface here and digging deep into the emotional rawness of these characters lives told through performance and song. 

Maybe you’re not an addict,  confused about your identity, hiv+ or even on the verge of a mental breakdown,  but you know what? If you are, that's alright. You still deserve to live a life of dignity. Why? Because as echoed in the musical, life can be really fu**ing weird!

While going through a lot of struggles right now, Rent couldn’t have come out at a better time to teach me some valuable lessons that can often be forgotten in moments that we cannot change and cause great amounts of despair.  

For anyone out there trying to navigate the darkness, forget regret or life is yours to miss.

Don't let time run out, book your tickets for the 2023 season!

💜Official website: https://www.stratfordfestival.ca/

Just Keep Going: June Movie Reviews

Hello my readers! I've been making some changes to my daily routines here and figuring out how to best navigate this topsy-turvy world. I am welcoming June with fresh gratitude and new insights. I'm journaling through many continued unknowns, but appreciate all the continued support.

Let's move onto the movies now!

Tick, Tick, Boom! Andrew Garfield stars as "Rent" creator Jonathan Larson in this musical directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda.  Before the world ever got a peak at the sensational musical, Rent, we’re going back to New York City, during the 90’s, where the theatre kids like to play. In the movie, we meet Jon, who has put immense pressure on himself to finish his musical “Suburbia” before his 30th birthday, which comes at a price, risking love and friendship along the way.

Andrew Garfield is outstanding. His singing chops are unreal and I don’t think I ever knew he could even sing before seeing this movie.  The songs are wonderful and reminiscent of the hustle culture that existed to just get your foot in the Broadway door. You’ll be bopping to the beat of Boho Days, an ode to friendship and connection in its purest form.  

With a pedal to the medal feel, every second of the film is a rush. It’s uplifting and highly emotional. We watch the heartbreak of Jon losing his dearest friends to the growing epidemic of HIV/AIDS, yet still pushing through all the sadness to make his dream come true.  Robin de Jesus who plays his best friend, Michael  (who is in the throws of dealing with life-changing news and uncertainty) also gives an incredible performance.

Honouring the life of Larson, Tick, Tick Boom! is the beating heart of what musical theatre lovers will cherish forever.    

                           

Swish after swish, Michael Jordan has dominated the court, leading his team to victory.  Air is directed by Ben Affleck and written by Alex Convery Air is the story of Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), a basketball guru and a major promoter who spear-headed the deal to sign Michael Jordan to a multi-million dollar contract with a shoe that would eventually be on everyone’s wishlist; the infamous “Air” Jordan’s.

Although the movie starts out a bit slow, it picks up speed to highlight the intensity of signing Michael, while beating out their competition. Part of that was having to persuade Jordan’s mother in the movie, Delores (played by Viola Davis) who gives a great performance, and won’t settle for just any contract and knows what her son is worth. 

It’s an enjoyable film, and as formulaic as it is, you don’t need to jump thru hoops to get to the heart of it. 

                  

Billy Elliot The Musical was based on the hit film Billy Elliot directed by Stephen Daldry and is an absolute delight.  Ready to hang up his boxing gloves in exchange for ballet shoes, Billy (played by Jamie Bell) starts to secretly take lessons from his ballet teacher with much disdain from his father and brother. Escaping his mundane life, dancing takes all the sadness away and Billy’s really good at it, not at first of course. He does have a natural raw talent and with the mentorship and motherly love (although tough love) all the practicing is paying off and Billy could be headed for a scholarship. 

This coming of age movie is uplifting and sweet. It’s emotionally satisfying with a terrific soundtrack and beautiful choreography with every step. It challenges gender stereotypes and allows us to feel the excitement for Billy as he gets the chance to breakaway and not feel afraid anymore.

 

Directed by Jalmari Helander, Sisu is one hell of a wild ride.  We follow Aatami (Jorma Tommila)  a gold prospector and fearless ex-solider who is left to his own devices after experiencing tragic losses of his family. Finally striking gold, the inevitable happens and the Nazi’s find him and try to steal it all away. To their surprise, Aatami is not going down without a fight.

The film has a strong narrative, showcasing the power of the Finnish word - Sisu – also the titled film. It is a concept of being brave, resilient and unstoppable, all of which are characteristics that Jorma is able to showcase skillfully in his performance. Although Aatami barely speaks, as the saying goes, actions speak louder than words. 

Limbs are flying left and right and the amount of gore can be overwhelming - but if you're okay with that, then carry on  watching. Aatami is a blast to watch and some of the battle scenes are just ridiculously out of this world. It has some visual cinematic style of a John Wick film with high energy and incredible effects, yet with the unique touchings of European flare. 

Overall, it’s a bloody good time. 

Ready for a Holiday Zom-Com

Anna and the Apocalypse directed by John McPhail, and written by Alan McDonald and Ryan McHenry, takes a group of soon-to-be graduating high schoolers and opens up their inner-diaries to share the woes of teenage life in the small town of Little Haven. 

This zombie-comedy, affectionately coined as a “zom-com”  is full of surprises and if being a teenager wasn’t hard enough, we add in a zombie infestation to shake things up a bit and get to know the characters a little more as they have to fight together to survive.  

With nods to Buffy The Vampire Slayer, The Breakfast Club, Shaun of the Dead and many others, it was really creatively done.

You can’t have a good musical with sub-par choreography, and so Steph (Sarah Swire) who also stars in the movie, did an amazing job juggling both roles. 

Anna, played by Ella Hunt, was perfect for her role. She was able to break away from the stereotypical female needing to be saved,  while showing bravery and kicking some zombie brains.  

Socially awkward best friend, John (Malcolm Cumming) is another good character. We feel his pain through song, as he deals with unrequited love for Anna but we also see him grow separate from the anguish, just like any best friend would.

Another stand out performance was the eccentric Headmaster,  Arthur Savage (Paul Kaye). He took that creepiness level and cranked it all the way up in the best way possible.

There are so many wonderful songs too, written by Roddy Hart in collaboration with Tommy Reilly.

🎶Break Away had my eyes wide open because I wasn’t expecting something so emotional right off the bat. With its poignant lyrics, I was just awe-struck. 

🎶Hollywood Ending. Believe me when I tell you that you will be singing this song in the shower, in the car and in your sleep! It is so ridiculously catchy. The song tells us what we already know, but are sometimes too afraid to face. While we deal with the harsh realities of life, we will still be okay without perfection. 

🎶Turning My Life Around is another great song with upbeat music and some fun dance sequences. It also holds a special nod in a way to a certain Shaun of the Dead scene where we are oblivious to the chaos that is going on around us. It has a comedic yet disturbing undertone.

Overall, I think this movie is really fun to watch and holds a lot of meaning beyond what is on the surface. Sure, it’s a little gross at times (okay... a lot) but this is definitely an infectious one to add to your holiday list!

💜Anna and the Apocalypse Trailer 

Fantasy is Alive In Stratford’s The Neverending Story

Photo by Emily Cooper

Stratford is known for its world-class theatre and every year the lineup is different, so there is something for all ages to enjoy. Going on our honeymoon after celebrating an 80’s inspired wedding was perfect because of two very special shows at the theatre this year; The Neverending Story (1984 release) and Little Shop of Horrors (1986 release). Let’s look at The Neverending Story in this review.

If you were born in the 80’s, The Neverending Story probably holds a special place in your heart. Maybe it was your connection to Artax the Horse or the sweetness of Falcor the Luck Dragon. Perhaps it was even the empathy felt for Bastian losing his mother at a very young age and only left with fleeting memories.

It was quite interesting to see this production and to learn about the lengthy time it took to bring a tale like this to life on stage. The story highlights the innocence, bravery and imagination that lies in each one of us. There was a fantastical feel from the set design, especially with the creative puppetry undertaken by so many talented people.  Also the music was incredible and fit the whole mood and style that I think Franklin Brasz, the Director of Music was trying to convey from the original music by Hawksley Workman.

The gnomes Urgl and Engywook surprisingly stood out for me the most. They reminded me in a lot of ways of Miracle Max and his wife, Valerie, from The Princess Bride.  Maybe it was the banter back and forth or just that underlying love they had for each other.  I also thought the scene of Bastian running from his school bullies was thrilling, from the lighting to the puppetry of car lights in action.

My criticisms are few, but I would have liked a bit more from The Childlike Empress played by Mamie Zwettler. I felt she was a bit of an afterthought.  Also there is a lot of times where the emotion doesn’t quite capture the moment and then it is rushed off to a completely different scene. I think the pacing could have been focused on more.

Overall, the visual nature of the play was wonderful.  The details that weren’t present in the movie version (like the talking, wisdom-filled Artax the horse) added another level to the fantastical experience that I believe will continue to evolve for generations to come and the beauty of knowing that our imagination is limitless when we tell our own Neverending Story.

The Neverending Story runs in The Stratford Festival’s Avon Theatre until Nov. 3. For more visit: www.stratfordfestival.ca

You can also check out my review at 519 Windsor

A Botanical Nightmare of Joy in Stratford Festival’s Little Shop of Horrors

Photo by: Cylla von Tiedemann

Stratford is known for its world-class theatre and every year the lineup is different, so there is something for all ages to enjoy. Going on our honeymoon after celebrating an 80’s inspired wedding was perfect because of two very special shows at the theatre this year; The Neverending Story (1984 release) and Little Shop of Horrors (1986 release). Let’s look at Little Shop of Horrors in this review.

When you grow up with nothing and people treat you like nothing, how can you thrive, especially when you’re downtown on skid row? For Seymour, an orphan taken in by a demanding and demeaning shop owner, you get that lucky break, a fortunate opportunity lands in your lap where you are the talk of the town and everyone suddenly loves you because you have something that they want.  In this case, a rather “strange and unusual” looking plant named Audrey II pops up. It’s sweet and inviting at first, but an evil lurks that you can’t quite put your finger on.

Desperation, abandonment, greed, hope and of course, the need to be loved are are themes that are explored in this musical-style performance.  A side note, you can really feel like the heart-ache from Audrey, played by Gabi Epstein. It’s subtle at times, but for anyone who has battled with breaking away from cycle of domestic violence, tears may shed when she sings “Somewhere that’s Green.” Do not despair though, knowing that wholesome and loving men like Seymour exist in the world can bring a smile to your face.

There were so many stellar performances all around in this production, like Seymour, played by Andre Morin. Then there is the sadistic dentist, played by Dan Chameroy. He was absolutely brilliant and exhausting to watch on stage with his boundless energy! You may remember him last year at Stratford, as the eccentric Dr Franken-Furter in Rocky Horror Picture Show. This man is multi-talented! A special nod to the incredible singers; Vanessa Sears, Starr Domingue and Camille Eanga-Selenge, who put the extra harmonizing doo-wop shoo-bop in the musical.  Also, who could forget the grocer, played by Jordan Mah. What a hoot, he really added a ton of comic relief. Lastly, the toothy, green-leafed star, Audrey II, voiced by Matthew G. Brown! The intricate details were incredible, growing from a tiny plant to a massive one before your eyes. The multiple puppeteers on each one were great.

If you have seen the film, you’ll notice some differences in this live version, which I think were well thought-out and really heightened the dramatic feel of the musical in itself. Also, it’s a heads or tails on the ending, but the message from the moment the curtain rises up until the final scene is crystal clear, don’t feed the plant!

Little Shop of Horrors has been extended to Nov. 9, 2019 at The Stratford Festival’s Avon Theatre. For more information, visit www.stratfordfestival.ca

You can also check out my review at 519 Windsor

The Greatest Showman Movie Review: No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else

Bill and I went to see The Greatest Showman yesterday at Cineplex. I needed to write this review so I wouldn't forget about it and perhaps I can convince my readers to grab a loved one and take a night out and see this amazing piece of work, directed by Michael Gracey.

From the very first scene, I looked over at Bill and noticed that tears were welling up in his eyes.  A moment later, it just got more emotional for the both of us. Every time I wiped a tear away, another one would start to fall. I was just so overwhelmed with emotion and when Jenny Lind (played by Rebecca Ferguson) started to sing, I think I heard the whole audience in the theatre sobbing.

WOW, what a spectacular movie! Every song is a breath of fresh air and just filled with so much passion. Hugh Jackman's performance is incredible, along with Michelle Williams, Zac Efron, Ellis Rubin, Keala Settle, Rebecca Ferguson, and pretty much everyone in the film.

Don't go into the theatre looking for a historically accurate story of P.T. Barnum because you will disappoint yourself. Go into the movie thinking of imagination, hope, happiness. friendship, and love. Celebrate who you are and not what others expect you to be. Bring joy and smiles to the world and appreciate those you love and who love you right back.

Was there anything wrong with the film? My only issue was that some of the CGI moments with the animals felt a little off at times.

It is definitely a movie that I want to add to our DVD collection once it is available to buy.

Although The Greatest Showman came out at the end of 2017, what a magical way to start off our movie viewing adventures in 2018!

Reading up a little bit, the film took 7 years to make. Now that is dedication and shows the true craft of wanting to get it just right. This trailer doesn't do the movie justice, but enjoy anyhow!