Mexico Emerges from the White Box by Susan Dunn Theater-goers know Black Box Theater: a simple, unadorned performance space, usually a large square room with black walls and a flat floor. “Into the Beautiful North” by Karen Zacarias took me to Mexico in the White Box Theater that is the Berkeley City Club. I know…
The Scottish Play Makes News in the Mission by Susan Dunn What’s most important in a “Macbeth” production? The words. The immortal words! Do we need a full cast, period costumes, detailed set? Witches in rags? Armor? Not necessarily. The Arabian Shakespeare Festival’s “Macbeth” proves that a stripped down version can be thrilling and…
Theresa Rebeck Wins Michelin Stars for Fine Feast by Susan Dunn “Seared” puts everyone who likes food in their comfort zone, immediately. Cook pots hang from the ceiling; stew pots simmer and smoke. The chef’s tools rest on the butcher block in the massive kitchen, at the ready for prep. The stage set…
Close Encounters of the Indian Kind at Cubberley Theater by Susan Dunn Beautiful voices burst forth suddenly, a brilliant clarion call. Exotic instruments twang out a beat. And brightly costumed Indian dancers charm, tease, and mimic characters who, one by one, take the stage in Naatak Theatre’s “Mr. India,” performed at the Cubberley Theater…