Although based on a novel written in 1605, a musical drama about a fervent idealist facing a stubbornly vindictive government can seem surprisingly timely today. The musical in question is Man of La Mancha, based on Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote, which opened on Broadway in 1965, an era of Vietnam War protests. But such are the show’s sweeping themes of compassion, good … [Read more...]
Archives for September 2019
‘When She Had Wings’ is attractive whimsy for the whole family
For the two seasons that Matt Stabile has taken the artistic helm of Florida Atlantic University’s Theatre Lab, he has begun with a Heckscher Theatre for Families production. In addition to introducing youngsters to live stage shows, these plays strive to appeal to adults as well, which is a tricky juggling act. Bridging that gap with whimsical skill and more than a … [Read more...]
Appreciation: Harper was so much more than Rhoda
Say the name Valerie Harper to most people and the response you invariably get is “Rhoda.” After all, she did win four Emmy Awards playing the unlucky-in-love, self-deprecating sitcom character in the 1970s, first as sidekick on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and later on her own starring vehicle spinoff. While she remained appreciative of her success with the role of her … [Read more...]