Barrett & Stevens Turn Renaissance Rome into Punk-Rock London by Rachel Norby Amazingly, “It’s True, It’s True, It’s True” takes its dialogue from a 1612 rape trial in Renaissance Rome. Apart from torture by thumbscrews, the young woman’s accusation that she has been raped could be a dramatization of a trial for rape in…
Gunderson & Melcon Craft Delightful Sequel to Jane Austen by Rachel Norby “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley,” a clever comedy, exposes how social class limits women’s rights. The chasm between the classes and the blooming of women’s talents creates an intriguing comedy of manners. A wonderfully crafted, elegant drawing room forms the perfect backdrop…
Millennial Notes Edmond Rostand’s Classic Still Touches Hearts by Rachel Norby Director Josh Costello’s distilled version of “Cyrano de Bergerac” carefully unfolds surprising transformations in the lovers and their friends. Costello’s adaptation of Edmund Rostand’s poetic “Cyrano” begins with the romantic hero using witty and shocking jokes to compensate for his famous large…
Millennial Notes Dana Anderson Imbues Psychopathy with Chilling Charm by Rachel Norby “Ruthless! The Musical” tells the story of eight-year-old Tina Denmark, a disturbed little girl who is intent on getting the lead role in “Pippi,” the school play. The innocence of her sailor dress, the cheery songs, and the 50s suburban setting hide…