‘Always… Patsy Cline’: A toe-tapping, good time at the Grand Ole San Jose Stage Company

This musical is about a slice of Patsy Cline's life as seen through the eyes of Louise Seger, a flamboyant and humorous fan of all things Patsy Cline. The band of five and a cast of two, Judith Miller and Marie Shell, took full advantage of the intimate setting of...

Theater review: ‘FAT PIG’ a captivating take on self-image in America

Near the end of Fat Pig, a no-holds barred look at how we think about ourselves and others, plus-size Helen says, "I would change for you." But the real question is whether Tom, her peer-pressure laden lover, will do the same. Written by American playwright and filmmaker Neil LaBute, the...

Film Review: ‘Raspberry Magic’

As a guy it pains me sometimes to use adjectives such as cute, charming, delightful. But these are entirely appropriate for the latest Cinequest screener I watched called Raspberry Magic. Of a strong group of films so far, it may be the best yet. The story is centered around a...
Daniel (Michael Santo), Jen (Tiffany Ellen Solano), Sonia (Ivonne Coll), Zak (Miles Gaston Villanueva) and Sam (Julian López-Morillas) enjoy pasteles and coffee in San Jose Repertory Theatre’s production of Sonia Flew. Photo: Kevin Berne

Theater Review: ‘Sonia Flew’ an emotional powerhouse

Sonia Flew adds an emotional exclamation mark to the end of the San Jose Rep's 2009/2010 season, and does so with such riveting performances and heartfelt drama, that it's impossible not to be moved. Set alternatively against the backdrop of post-9/11 America and the Cuban Revolution, it elevates our consciousness. What does it mean to...
Disney's Aladdin at Berkeley Playhouse

Theater Review: Magic of Disney’s ‘Aladdin’ irrepressible

Loni told me later that if parents don't take their children to see it, then they are: bad parents.
Stark Insider - All Things West Coast

Insider Weekly: Bay Area theater guide

"Theater is, of course, a reflection of life. Maybe we have to improve life before we can hope to improve theater."

Theater Review: ‘The Color Purple’

An American classic in shades of purple.
Daughter (Monique Hafen) and Harper (Susi Damilano) bond.

Theater Review: ‘Harper Regan’ at SF Playhouse

The set, yet again, is another standout by artistic director Bill English.
Tom Woosnam and Pennell Chapin in Coastal Rep's production of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

Review: Coastal Rep’s ‘Woolf’ an elegant production of a milestone in American theatre

A trip to the beautiful seaside town of Half Moon Bay could not be more worthwhile!
Blithe Spirit

Review: Noël Coward meets Benny Hill

Scenic designer Patrick Klein must have worked over time creating a lush, well-appointed set.