Category Archives: Reviews

November 4, 2025 · 4:57 pm

THE HEART SELLERS Review

By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds

THE HEART SELLERS presented by Cincinnati in the Park through November 23rd. I attended the Opening Night performance.

The cast of The Heart Sellers presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.

This fall, Playhouse in the Park is bringing audience’s THE HEART SELLERS by Lloyd Suh in its The Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre. (Playhouse produced Mr. Suh’s The Chinese Lady in the same space in 2023. Yes: his writing is that good.) Described as “a funny and moving new comedy about finding direction in the land of opportunity”, we find ourselves in Luna’s apartment where she is determined to celebrate the American holiday of Thanksgiving with her new friend (and fellow Asian immigrant), Jane.

Director Desdemona Chiang (so jealous of this name!) is thoroughly impressive in her vision’s execution. The use of the intimate playing space – a very modest studio apartment – is top notch and pacing of the action is steady. Set Design by Sasha Jin Schwartz is thoughtful with exceptional attention to detail. Costume Designer Christine Tschirgi exceeds expectations with the period-appropriate wardrobe which combines the characters’ wishes to blend into American dress with homage to the culture(s) they have known most of their lives. Special shout-out to Sound Designer Sharath Patel for some of the best executed sound effects I’ve ever heard.

If nothing else convinces you to head to The Shelterhouse, this cast of two ridiculously talented performing artists should. Bursting onto the scene in exuberant fashion we see Luna played marvelously by Angeleia Ordoñez. Her enthusiasm is not only contagious, but so pure you could cry from joy. Luna feels things deeply and while it is clear she has been advised more than once to suppress said feelings, the comfort she feels with Jane allows them to be expressed. Ms. Ordoñez is able to voice so many things Asian immigrants have felt and continue to feel as they try to navigate the minefield of American society with an innate relatability.

As a SoCal daughter of an immigrant mother and many friends from many different places, I instantly felt connected to Jane who reminds me of a dear childhood confidante. This is no doubt thanks to the immaculate portrayal by Bridget Kim. Ms. Kim embodies everything that is the picture of a Korean woman trying to adjust to life in a foreign country. Her entire manner is formal and polite, something expected if not demanded of her at all times. When her politeness is juxtaposed by sternness in moments where she needs to take control, you will take heed. Ms. Kim’s performance feels like home in every way possible.

With an incredibly strong script and talented artists to bring it to life, THE HEART SELLERS is a beautiful show. You will find it hard not to love these women and as much as you will be moved you will also laugh – a lot. This is the perfect show for Thanksgiving: rife with nostalgia, good laughs, some indulgence, and so many warm-and-fuzzy feels. This is a highly recommended show to get you through your November.

Click here for more information about the production.

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November 3, 2025 · 6:41 pm

A STEADY RAIN Review

By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds

A STEADY RAIN presented by Beechmont Players through November 8th. I attended the Opening Saturday performance.

Rick Grant and Dan Cohen. Photo by Kiya Fix.

This fall, Beechmont Players is bringing audiences A Steady Rain by Keith Huff. Described in short as “a gripping psychological drama exploring loyalty, morality, and the thin line between right and wrong”, this two-hander packs quite the emotional punch. Mr. Huff’s talent for writing great dialogue is extraordinary with the ideal mix of humour, suspense, and grit. The tale of two policemen who have been friends since childhood is a testament to the playwright’s skills as a storyteller.

Fortunately for the audience (and his performing artists), Director Ed Cohen is no slouch as a storyteller, either. His veteran leadership only helps to amplify the differences between the characters while staying true to the common bonds they share. The set is brilliantly simple; the characters are and should be the focus without any unnecessary distractions. Lighting Design by Kiya Fix and Michael Yarick (who wears many hats for this production including Technical Director) complements the simplicity of the set and contributes to the feeling of intimacy as we bear witness to the story unfolding before us.

Kudos to Stage Manager and Assistant Director Kate Collins for offering an additional point of view on Ed’s vision – the two come together nicely. (Please note I am not trying to be overly familiar with our director – but there are two Mr. Cohens of which I will be speaking. Besides, I know he wouldn’t mind.)

Under the capable direction of his father (and due to his own talents, of course), Dan Cohen hits his turn as Denny out of the park. His carefully chosen and executed mannerisms correlate seamlessly with his dialogue in telling you exactly who his character is. Yet, we see the vulnerability of a human who really does want to “protect and serve” those for whom he has a soft spot. Mr. Cohen has a command of the stage any actor would envy.

Going toe-to-toe with Mr. Cohen is Rick Grant as Joey. Joey is a character from the same beginnings as Denny and is no saint himself but has made some changes and is keeping an open mind. Mr. Grant’s handle on the complicated emotional journey his character takes is nothing short of excellent, balancing admittance of his flaws with acceptance of the facts as they are. It is a privilege to see how he embodies a character with perceived ease.

The chemistry between Mr. Cohen and Mr. Grant is the thing of which dream casts are made. Each masters the fine line between evoking sympathy for an unsympathetic act and truly hitting home that they are not always good guys. Thus, together these two actors are an untouchable team; they make it easy to believe everything they are telling you even when you know you should not. Bravo to two fine artists!.

I am a sucker for a show which has universal appeal. On the face of it, how many people can relate directly to being a cop in the not-so-hot spots of Chicago? But a good play isn’t just about that: it is about the shared emotions and struggles and even laughs to which anyone can relate. This one is no exception. In short, A Steady Rain is an emotional journey – but it is worth every moment.

A Steady Rain presented by Beechmont Players runs now through November 8th at Gabriel’s Corner in OTR. Run time is approximately 90 mins with no intermission.

For more information about the show, please visit this site.

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October 27, 2025 · 5:43 pm

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW Review

By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW presented by The Carnegie through November 2nd. I attended the Opening Saturday matinee performance. 

Full disclosure: I reviewed this show in 2024 and while I am not going to do a straight-up comparison, I am making a concerted effort to point out things I may not have pointed out the first time around. -Kat

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW with book, music, and lyrics by Richard O’Brien has returned to The Carnegie with excellent timing: having a midnight show on Halloween just feels right, doesn’t it? For those who may not know, it’s a classic boy meets girl story with incredible music and – oh, did we mention aliens and plenty of sexual expression? Director & Choreographer Eric Byrd hits this one out of the park again and – I daresay – even farther this time.

Scenic & Video Designer (as well as Producer) Tyler Gabbard’s vision and execution thereof are different, exciting, and just plain smart. Shout-out to work by both Lighting Designer Julie Cowger and Sound Designer Jason Sebastian for an immersive but never distracting experience. Music Director (and keyboard player) Steve Goers once again brings us a beautiful vocal aesthetic through his very talented cast. And kudos once again to the team who helped make the actors look great: Costume Designer Jeff Shearer and Wig Designer Candace Leyland. Rumour has it Sam Evans (who plays Usherette/Magenta) did several makeup lewks in addition to her own and I think that deserves a mention. I will need to hire her to make me gorgeous one of these days – call me!

Fortunately for the audience, most of the brilliant performing ensemble has returned this year and they are coming in hot! Two of particular note are Caroline Rakestraw as Janet Weiss and Tommy Sanders as Brad Majors. Each has an excellent command of the stage and their character arcs with flawless vocals to boot. If these two artists are an indication of how the future of theatre looks, we should sleep easily.

Back in the corset of Dr. Frank ‘N’ Furter is the superb Dusty Ray Bottoms. They didn’t need to come back even better, but they did and here we are lucky enough to be able to enjoy it. There was not one line, one note, or one expressive turn of the facial muscles needing to be changed. Mx. Bottoms has mastered the delicate art of giving homage to the actor who originated the role 50 years ago and making it their own which is no small task. Bravx to Dusty Ray!

With some of the best artists in the area on stage and behind it, The Carnegie’s The Rocky Horror Show should not be missed. Pacing is smooth and helps a somewhat weaker book – but let’s be honest: Rocky’s primary draw is and always was the music. Given how well the show is selling, I encourage veterans and virgins alike to get their tickets now for one of its final few performances.

Click here for more information about the production.

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September 26, 2025 · 2:42 pm

MYTHIC Review

By Katrina “Kat” Reynold

Mythic presented by Cincinnati in the Park through October 19th. I attended the Opening Night performance. 

The cast of Mythic presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.

For its Moe and Jack’s Place – The Rouse Theatre’s 2025-2026 season opener, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park is bringing audiences Mythic with Book & Lyrics by Marcus Stevens and Music & Orchestrations by Oran Eldor. Cited as “a new pop-rock musical comedy with Broadway ambitions”, Mythic goes old-school with some Greek Mythology and presents a modern take on the tale of Persephone.

Director & Choreographer (and Tony Award-winner!) Kathleen Marshall makes use of every modicum of space in The Rouse Theatre. The action is appropriately-themed; however, the choreography distracts from the central action several times – especially when some dancers decide to put their own extra oomph into the steps. The primary rule of being in an ensemble is to be cohesive and not stand out; with some adjustments, this talented group should be able to master just that.

Mamie Parris as Demeter in Mythic presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.

This reviewer is a sucker for lighting which complements both the action and emotion on stage and Lighting Designer Kenneth Posner knows his vocation. Along with Laser Effects Designer Adam Biscow, the use of both conventional and unconventional lighting is beautifully executed without overuse dampening either’s effect. From a luscious green landscape to the pits of Hades, the audience knows exactly where the story is taking them.

Shoutouts also due to Costume Designer Linda Cho for an aesthetically pleasing and functional wardrobe and Set Designer David Korins for successfully creating both vast and intimate spaces in the world of Greek Mythology.

It goes without saying that Mamie Parris is already a sort of goddess – so it is only fitting for her to play Demeter, the earth mother. Not only is Ms. Parris’ vocal prowess one of the best in the business, but she possesses a natural quality of likability. A true talent of her craft.

Analise Scarpaci as Persephone in Mythic presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.

In the role of Persephone is the effervescent Analise Scarpaci. With a voice any singer and non-singer alike would envy along with what can only be described as an aura ideal to play the role, Ms. Scarpaci is simply exquisite. She gives us equal parts delicate flower and hurricane which is not an easy feat. I could listen to her sing the phonebook.

Rounding out the “main character” energy is Savy Jackson as Aphrodite (she is a powerhouse and gorgeous to boot); Michael Park as Zeus (his delivery is untouchable); and Julius Thomas III as Hades (what I wouldn’t give to have seen his turn as Alexander Hamilton – he is fire!).

While the music is catchy and impactful, the book could use more proverbial bite. The take of likening Greek Gods to modern-day celebrities is a smart one; but I do feel the play itself should be less superficial than its characters. There are hints of profound lessons and it would be just that much more memorable if the audience was witness to a deeper dive. However, Mythic is good fun with some excellent talent and worth a trip to the theatre.

Click here for more information about the production.

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September 19, 2025 · 12:49 pm

NEXT TO NORMAL Review

By Katrina “Kat” Reynold

NEXT TO NORMAL presented by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati through October 11th (extended). I attended the Opening Night performance. 

In celebration of its 40th Season (way to go, ETC!), Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati presents a re-mount of one of its most popular productions: NEXT TO NORMAL with music by Tom Kitt and book & lyrics by Brian Yorkey. The 2010 Pulitzer Prize winner for Drama is the story of a family and how they navigate everyday – and not-so-everyday – troubles. Director D. Lynn Meyers (along with Assistant Directors Emily England and Becca Schall) give us a rock opera about mental health and its casualties at its finest.

Ms. Meyers truly encompasses everything a director should be: her vision goes above and beyond what most of us civilians could comprehend. In a show of this magnitude, it is safe to say that the production elements themselves are also important characters. It should come as no surprise that ETC delivers on all fronts. (I’m waiting for my partner in crime to tire of the fact that I will not shut up about an ETC set every single time I enter their theatre.) Scenic Designer Brian c. Mehring clearly understood the assignment with his appropriately stark and sleek blueprint of a set. Its design is solid (thanks to Carpenters Jeremiah Plessinger and Nathan Neorr) and its aesthetics (thanks to Scenic Charge Artist Rae Mack Kuhn) complement the lighting effects (executed flawlessly by Light Board Operator Allyson van Haaren and Spot Light Operators Krishangi Allin and Maximus Winski).

The set (and cast!) of NEXT TO NORMAL. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

Music Director Steve Goers wields his magic once more in this strong ensemble piece. Mr. Goers has an enviable musicality and has been able to produce a simply stunning cacophony of emotionally-driven voices. (Particular shout-out to a seamless harmonic symphony in Act II’s “Song of Forgetting”.) His keyboard is supported by the following adept musicians: Aaron Almashy on guitar, William Mullen on drums, and Matt Wiles on bass.

This cast of six performing artists is an embarrassment of riches for lucky audiences. At the helm is Jessica Hendy as Diana, a woman struggling with a bi-polar diagnosis and the challenges of life as a wife and mother. Ms. Hendy has a clear, effortless voice rife with a deep emotional understanding of the material she is performing. Taking on the role of Diana’s husband Dan is Charlie Clark. Mr. Clark tackles probably the toughest character arc in the show and does so with incredible instincts and flawless portrayal.

My personal pick for stand-out performance is Julianne Ferguson in the role of Natalie. This talented CCM student commands the stage as the overachieving daughter who is just trying to find her place in life. Ms. Ferguson’s vocal talent is beyond her years: excellent control and filled with thoughtfulness. This will no doubt be one of many professional appearances for this up-and-coming artist.

Julianne Ferguson as Natalie and Charlie Clark as Dan. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

Rounding out the ensemble are Carter Minor with an endearing turn as Henry; Jameson Zoller whose performance as Gabe is energetic and emphatic; and Rory Sheridan coming in like a hurricane as both Dr. Madden and Dr. Fine (and he is fine). Cheers to a superb ensemble!

Everyone can find something or someone in this story with whom they can empathize. Whether you’ve seen it before or this would be your first time, NEXT TO NORMAL is absolutely one of those shows you should make a priority. You will cry your heart out and then you will thank the performers for making it happen.

Click here for more information about the production.

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