Category Archives: Reviews

December 5, 2023 · 12:34 pm

FIONA: The Musical Review

By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds

FIONA: The Musical presented by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati through Dec. 29th. I attended the Opening Night performance. 

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Elexis Selmon as Yellow Oxpecker, Erin McCamley as Fiona & Darnell Pierre Benjamin as Giraffe. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

As the daughter of an Irish woman, I grew up very familiar with the Gaelic name Fiona. A lot more people became familiar with that name when a wee film named Shrek was released in 2001. And still even more became familiar with it when an even more wee hippopotamus was born several weeks too early in the grand old town of Cincinnati, OH only to eventually become a world-wide sensation.

This December, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati is bringing us the family-friendly, world premiere production of Fiona: The Musical with book by Cincinnati playwright Zina Camblin and music & lyrics by ETC’s very own composer, David Kisor. Coupled with the talent of the Camblin-Kisor partnership and input from Cincinnati Zoo’s staff, Fiona tells us the story of the little hippo who could and reminds us that underdogs should never be dismissed.

To say this production is star-studded is almost an understatement – Director D. Lynn Meyers doesn’t mess around. The production boasts a powerhouse cast and crew of both veteran and novice players alike. (I will never be able to mention everyone’s names, but please know: you are all BRILL!) Set design by Brian c. Mehring is creative and colourful, two great qualities when a show takes place in a zoo. Costume Designer Maria Fernanda Ortiz Lopez deserves a standing “o” for her very smart and innovative costumes. Ms. Ortiz Lopez masterfully combines clothing which fits a human body while allowing the actors to convince us even further they are part of the animal kingdom without hinderance from accessories and the like. Brava to Maria – let’s see more of her work in this area!

With such an illustrious cast, it is difficult to choose a few to mention by name. However, Sara Mackie as Bibi is everything you can imagine you’d want to see in the role of Fiona’s mother. Few others could give us the pure spirit of a hippo while also breaking our heart in some of the more challenging moments of Fiona’s journey. Fortunately, Ms. Mackie was the perfect choice and we are so lucky to have her! From her expressive facial and physical gestures to her commanding vocals to her all-around affability, Ms. Mackie is a freaking treasure and everyone should take note.

Serving as both a performing artist and Choreographer on this project is another absolute treasure: Darnell Pierre Benjamin. Mr. Benjamin’s showing in Fiona may final solidify the answer: no, there is nothing he can not do. Exuberant to just the right degree and as refined as he is powerful, he will have you cheering (and booing) him all in great fun.

Finally, in the titular role we have new to the ETC stage (but not new to stages in general) Erin McCamley. With an impressive resume under her belt and the ability to transform herself into just about any character, Ms. McCamley was the ideal choice to play Fiona. From her first sounds as the premature baby hippo, you will be hooked. (I’ll admit it: I audibly squeed.) She is endearing and you will find yourself wanting to be one of Fiona’s biggest cheerleaders.

All in all, this truly is an experience for all ages. While the show clocks in at just under 2 hours including an intermission, the songs are short and sweet and perfect for any attention level and the story will keep you cheering for the “good guys” to prevail. And yes: there is a happy ending, something we can all use every now and again.

Click here for more information on the production.

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November 29, 2023 · 1:47 pm

TWO POINT OH Review

Two Point OH presented by Falcon Theatre through December 2nd. For this addition to my original LCT review, I attended the second Friday performance (aka Rachel Mock’s opening night).

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Rachel Mock as Melanie Leeds and Daniel Fenton Anderson as Ben Robbins. Photo by Claudia Herschner.

Do you know how rare it is that a reviewer gets to see a show more than once in order to contribute to their write-up? We’re talking nearly as rare as white peacocks or a corpse flower. (Google them, kids – the latter was on display at the Cincinnati Zoo just last summer.) Fortunately, I was offered the opportunity recently to see Falcon Theatre’s Two Point OH one more time so I could see Rachel Mock step into her role as Melanie Leeds after having the privilege of seeing her understudy opening weekend.

One of the things I am not sure I mentioned enough in my original review [for the League of Cincinnati Theatres] is just how smart and engaging Jefferey Jackson’s script is. Coupled with talented actors and creative direction by Steve Phelan, I had no problem seeing the show a second time.

Everyone in the cast was just as good if not better the second time around – so I won’t bore them with additional praise. But they are really brilliant! However, this viewing had a specific purpose and it was to see the artist originally cast as Melanie step into the role after having to step out due to illness. Rachel Mock impresses from the get-go in portraying the complicated feelings of Elliot Leeds’ wife and then widow. Without spoiling specific plot points, Ms. Mock’s build into her feelings of grief and loss is heart-breaking and very relatable. She has seemingly mastered this role’s rollercoaster of emotions and reactions and the audience truly goes on that ride with her. Further, I was impressed with Ms. Mock’s poise in showing both verbal and physical changes as her emotional status fluctuated. Brava to Ms. Mock and to everyone involved!

You still have three more chances to catch this show before the hardware becomes obsolete: Thursday November 30th, Friday December 1st, and Saturday December 2nd. For more information about the show – including how to purchase tickets – please visit Falcon’s site here.

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October 24, 2023 · 5:56 am

CLYDE’S Review

Review by Katrina “Kat” Reynolds. CLYDE’S presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park through November 5th. I attended the opening night performance.

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The cast of Clyde’s presented by Playhouse in the Park. Photo credit to Mikki Schaffner.

I’ll tell you something: in the last couple of years, Pulitzer Prize-winner Lynn Nottage has quickly become one of my favourite playwrights. So when I got wind that her latest play, Clyde’s, would be going up at Moe and Jack’s Place (The Rouse Theatre) at Playhouse in the Park, needless to say I was enthusiastic.

Clyde’s, directed by Timothy Douglas, tells the story of a truck-stop known for its sandwiches. Not-so-publicly known is that the kitchen crew are ex-cons who eagerly take the bait of a real job when finding such a thing after prison can be incredibly difficult. But owner and fellow ex-con Clyde’s manner can be enough to make them regret jumping at the chance at a so-called “honest living”.

Set Designer Se Hyun Oh deserve a standing “Oh” (oof, even I cringed at that one) for his incredible work. Word on the street is that Mr. Oh consulted with a professional chef for the kitchen model and it shows. The layout as well as the attention to detail throughout are absolutely brilliant. Plus I’m a sucker for a set that contains a sink with running water.

Casting Director Stephanie Klapper has put together one of the most harmonious ensembles of actors I’ve ever seen. Strong, committed, and talented, they all deserve a mention by name (in speaking order): Michael Cornelius Chenevert, Jr. as Montrellous; Maiesha McQueen as Clyde; Shannon Dorsey as Letitia; Juan Arturo as Rafael; and Austin Kirk as Jason. These accomplished artists will make you feel like you are the proverbial “fly on the wall” witnessing all the happenings in this gritty and all too real tale.

While I am a big fan of the way Ms. Nottage incorporates music into her scene changes, the number of changes in this particular script seems to be excessive.

Some are rather lengthy for very little payoff. But as I often say, if we get that nit-picky, they are doing something right. There is another plot point that seemed inconsistent regarding the character Rafael, but since I don’t do spoilers, I won’t get into it here. Ask me when you see me and we can chat about it.

In short, this allegory of people just trying to survive their mistakes without becoming them is an enjoyable time at the theatre*. Running approximately 95 mins with no intermission, be sure you eat directly before or directly after Clyde’s because you are definitely going to need a sandwich.

For tickets, please visit the Playhouse site here.

*Important note about content advisory: very strong adult language and discussing mature topics, including sex, substance abuse and illegal activities.

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September 13, 2023 · 3:46 pm

THIS IS TOM JONES! Review

Review by Katrina “Kat” Reynolds. THIS IS TOM JONES! presented by Human Race Theatre Company through September 24th. I attended the opening Sunday matinee.

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The cast of THIS IS TOM JONES! (along with playwright Mark Brown).

I often find myself telling Cincinnati-area theatre lovers that the trip up to Dayton to see a show by The Human Race Theatre Company is well worth it. And after this past weekend, I will continue to insist upon it. (Bonus: The Loft Theatre where they perform is directly next to a Pizzeria Uno. Do what you will with that information.)

This month, HRTC is giving us a world premiere musical: This is Tom Jones! with book, lyrics, and music by Mark Brown as well as music by Paul Mirkovich. As much as I do not wish to provide spoilers, there is one important thing to know right off the bat: Nope, it’s not about THAT Tom Jones. The show can be described in brief as “Henry Fielding’s heart-throbbing masterpiece meets the frenzied, mop-top sounds of the 1960s” – aka the British Invasion. Add in Music Direction by Cincinnati’s own Steve Goers (who also leads the incredibly talented band) and you have yourself a rollicking good time.

Director Emily N. Wells does an excellent job giving the audience an energetic, fast-paced run through the story of our titular character with lightning-fast costume (and accent) changes. Isabella Meyers is listed as the Run Crew, but the word from inside sources is that three amazing people are backstage to assist the artists in making the character changes seamless (and they are indeed seamless). Bravx to these backstage helpers!

Scenic Designer Tamara L. Honesty and Costume Designer Janet G. Powell both have their work cut out for them and, fortunately, they both slayed their assignments. Keep an eye on the set: there are surprises which should not be ruined by a review. In addition, costumes are cleverly buildable and just plain old fantastic.

The group of nine actors (who end up playing a total of…hell, I lost count) is a true ensemble in every sense of the word. It is nearly impossible to choose a standout as every single one of them has fun moments to offer. The cast, including some more Cincinnati favourites, features Patrick Earl Phillips as Man 1; Sara Mackie as Woman 1; Edwin Large as Man 2; Kelly Mengelkoch as Woman 2; Eb Madson is Man 3; Aleah Vassell is Woman 3; Kyle Mangold as Man 4; Melinda Porto as Woman 4; and Jamie Cordes as Man 5. Comedic timing and strong vocals are a must for this show and each artist in this cast has such gifts and then some. One special note: I was particularly impressed by the beautiful way the voices of Ms. Mengelkoch and Ms. Porto sounded when they sang together – smooth as silk and sweet as molasses. Well done!

Per the HRTC site, this show is recommended if you like Austin Powers, The Full Monty, and Avenue Q. These are good guidelines as the humour is strong and bawdy while remaining smart. In addition, the music is well-written and the vocalists emit chills. While the band can run a wee bit hot, the sound balance seems to get corrected relatively quickly.

In summary, a ridiculously enjoyable musical (there IS such a thing!) with strong comedic chops that will have you smiling the entire way through. This is Tom Jones! can be enjoyed at The Loft Theatre through September 24th. Please click here for more information and plan your trip to Dayton now!

*Special thanks to Kappy Kilburn for allowing us at Behind the Curtain Cincinnati to enjoy this soon-to-be classic.*

Click here for more information on the production.

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August 5, 2023 · 2:39 pm

UTOPIA, OHIO A New Musical Review

By Katrina Reynolds

UTOPIA, OHIO A New Musical presented by Hugo West Theatricals through August 13th. I attended the opening night performance. 

Oh, hello there! Not who you were expecting? Allow me to introduce myself: my name is Katrina (Kat) Reynolds and I am a local theatre artist. I was asked to step in as a guest reviewer for Behind The Curtain Cincinnati and I could not be more excited about that! (And if you like this, maybe I’ll be asked again, wink wink.) Now back to the business at hand…

Hugo West Theatricals does it again with its uncanny ability to bring us local history in theatrical form. Their current offering? Utopia, Ohio, a new musical written and produced by the incomparable Joshua Steele.

For those who may not know (yours truly included), the musical follows the real history of three little-known utopian experiments as told by the voices of individuals whose lives led them there: a widowed shoemaker, a Black man who escapes enslavement with his family, and a Jewish immigrant fleeing persecution. This place they called Utopia is a mere 30 miles from Cincinnati which in itself is an intriguing fact.

Under the helm of director Zach Steele (who also performs in the piece), Utopia, Ohio is a sort of folksy opera where most of the story is told through song. The styles of music throughout touch on several different genres and the vast majority of the performers play multiple instruments.

The staging of the show is rather creative: characters come in and out of the main playing area whilst adding an accessory to their costume to remind you that they are a different person. Projections by graphic designer Greg Glevick show us photos of the actual people who these actors are portraying. That in addition to strong acting choices assist with these character transitions. Costume Designer Jim Stump has made some smart choices which both clearly convey the time period and do not hinder the actors’ performances.

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Ensemble of UTOPIA, OHIO by Hugo West Theatricals. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

Serving as both Assistant Director and Dramaturg, Deondra Kamau Means had his work cut out for him. It is not easy to tell this tale in two acts, especially since the majority of the audience may be ignorant of the story origins. However, as per usual, Mr. Means succeeds.

While for the most part the ensemble is truly an unbreakable one, there are indeed stand-out performances. First artist of note (in not particular order) is Linsey Rogers as multiple leading characters. In addition to her undeniable acting talent, Ms. Rogers’ violin playing is exquisite. Another extraordinarily strong contender is Zack Steele as Moishe and several ensemble members. Mr. Steele has an intoxicating energy that is sure to draw any audience member in.

It is difficult to see things opening night as there might be a hiccup or two along the way. For example, there is no doubt Jeremiah Savon Jackson (as Samuel and Ensemble) is a talented vocalist; however, troubles navigating the microphone led to moments where he was not intelligible. When the story is told through song, it is very important to hear every word.

Josh Steele has written a fantastic piece which should come as no surprise to those of us who have been graced with his talent in past. My only critique would be that certain songs could be shortened as it can be easy to “tune out” if they go on for too long. It might be best to add more dialogue in order for songs not to be inordinately lengthy. However, it is obvious what Mr. Steele is trying to accomplish and I would say he should consider this production a success.

In summary, a thoroughly enjoyable (and educational!) show with strong acting, musicality, and vocals. Utopia, Ohio can be enjoyed at The Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum (a former Carnegie library).

Please click here for more information.

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