This week, WGBH Arts Editor Jared Bowen reviews "The Prince of Providence" at Trinity Rep, “Sunset Boulevard” at North Shore Music Theatre and “Choir Boy” at SpeakEasy Stage Company. He also speaks with the performers in ArtsEmerson’s “Passengers.”
“The Prince of Providence," presented by Trinity Rep through October 27th
“The Prince of Providence” is right at home at Trinity Rep in Providence. Written by George Brant, the play charts the rise and fall of Buddy Cianci as mayor of Providence, Rhode Island. A Shakespearean figure of our time, he brought industry and tourism to his city while grappling with his own impulses for corruption and violence. The show stars Scott Aiello as Buddy Cianci and Rebecca Gibel as Sheila Cianci.
"Ferocious, delicious, and infinitely captivating,” says Jared, “Scott Aiello as Cianci delivers a career-defining performance, all in a show that jolts for its exquisite perceptiveness.”
“Sunset Boulevard," presented at North Shore Music Theatre through October 6.
Director Kevin Hill brings a cruel Hollywood tale to the North Shore in “Sunset Boulevard.” The musical stars Tony Award-winner Alice Ripley as Norma Desmond, a fading silent film actress desperate to climb back to her perch atop the Hollywood heap. Hiring a young screenwriter to create her comeback role, the two are at odds about who controls whom, leading to a lethal showdown. Based on the film by Billy Wilder, “Sunset Boulevard” features music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and a book and lyrics by Don Black and Christopher Hampton.
“Alice Ripley ensures that Norma Desmond is still big,” says Jared, “with a voice and performance reaching grand heights.”
“Choir Boy," Four-time Tony nominated “Choir Boy” has been extended by SpeakEasy Stage Company through October 19.
Get taken to church in SpeakEasy Stage Company’s presentation of the 2019 Tony Award nominee for best play “Choir Boy.” The play tells the story of Pharus Young (played by Isaiah Reynolds) and the elite Charles R. Drew Prep School choir, which he leads. Written by Tarell Alvin McCraney, “Choir Boy” is a tale of an unapologetically gay gospel singer finding his place in a world that would rather repress him. The show, directed by Maurice Emmanuel Parent, has been extended by SpeakEasy Stage Company through October 19.
“This is a case in which the production outshines its material,” says Jared. “A superb cast, high octane dance and gorgeously rendered spirituals. Indeed, it’s the spirit that long stays with you."
What theater are you most excited for this Fall? Tell Jared about it on Facebook or Twitter!
