Dominique Paul Noth

Recent Articles

Theater: ‘L’Appartement’ Is a Mind-Bending Comedy
Theater

‘L’Appartement’ Is a Mind-Bending Comedy

North American premiere of Australian play gets smart RTW production.

Theater: ‘The Mountaintop’ Offers Very Human Martin Luther King Jr.
Theater

‘The Mountaintop’ Offers Very Human Martin Luther King Jr.

Uneven MCT production offers commanding performance by Bryant Bentley as King.

Theater: ‘The Chosen’ Is Subtly Powerful Drama
Theater

‘The Chosen’ Is Subtly Powerful Drama

Strong production by The Rep captures the warmth and philosophy of Chaim Potok’s 1967 best selling novel.

Theater: ‘Spring Awakening’ Is a Powerful Show
Theater

‘Spring Awakening’ Is a Powerful Show

It actually shut down Skylight's electrical system Friday night. It's a must-see musical about teen angst beautifully performed by hearing and deaf actors.

Theater: ‘Scarecrow’ Is All About Wisconsin
Theater

‘Scarecrow’ Is All About Wisconsin

Heidi Armbruster's skilled writing and performance of one-woman play offers humor, drama and an uneven ending.

Theater: Florentine’s ‘Songbird’ Successfully Mixes Opera, Jazz
Theater

Florentine’s ‘Songbird’ Successfully Mixes Opera, Jazz

Show's short but imaginative run concludes Sunday.

Theater: A Funny Feminist Look at U.S. Constitution
Theater

A Funny Feminist Look at U.S. Constitution

Rep offers solid staging of Heidi Schreck's much discussed play, 'What the Constitution Means to Me'.

Theater: Skylight Camps Up ‘Xanadu’
Theater

Skylight Camps Up ‘Xanadu’

Stage version of 1980 film sends up the movie and Broadway musical mannerisms.

Theater: ‘The Wolves’ Is Great Theater
Theater

‘The Wolves’ Is Great Theater

Renaissance offers fast paced yet thoughtful staging of punchy new play by Sarah DeLappe about a girls soccer team.

Theater: Acting Shines In ‘Moon For Misbegotten’
Theater

Acting Shines In ‘Moon For Misbegotten’

Chamber Theatre cast makes O'Neill's classic American play come alive.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Little Women’ Modernizes Story
Theater

Rep’s ‘Little Women’ Modernizes Story

Results are uneven, with characters speechifying and Three Stooges-like comic moments.

Theater: ‘The Mousetrap’ Is Polished and Professional
Theater

‘The Mousetrap’ Is Polished and Professional

Famous Agatha Christie mystery gets a fun, smartly directed staging by Next Act.

Theater: Ryback is Terrific as ‘Liberace’
Theater

Ryback is Terrific as ‘Liberace’

Bur MCT’s funny, dazzling, one-man show turns too dark and maudlin in second act.

Theater: ‘School Of Rock’ Is a Holiday Hit
Theater

‘School Of Rock’ Is a Holiday Hit

Skylight's show is too long, but actor Joey Sanzaro and the ensemble of kids are tons of fun.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Dial M For Murder’ Adds New Twists
Theater

Rep’s ‘Dial M For Murder’ Adds New Twists

Jeffrey Hatcher’s clever new adaptation gets strong acting and powerful second act.

Theater: Milwaukee Rep Tries Adding Nonsense To The Nutcracker
Theater

Milwaukee Rep Tries Adding Nonsense To The Nutcracker

But does it work? Theater critic Dom Noth isn't sold.

Theater: ‘Witch’ Is a Stitch
Theater

‘Witch’ Is a Stitch

Renaissance offers darkly funny, episodic update of 17th century fable pitting the devil against a witch.

Theater: Skylight’s ‘Candide’ Is a Marvel
Theater

Skylight’s ‘Candide’ Is a Marvel

Maybe too much clever staging of Voltaire story, Bernstein music, but great singing, fine acting.

Classical: Florentine’s ‘Elixir of Love’ Is Silly Fun
Classical

Florentine’s ‘Elixir of Love’ Is Silly Fun

Great voices and moments of sincerity gave the show more heft.

Theater: All About Hip-Hop
Theater

All About Hip-Hop

Rep’s ‘Parental Advisory’ is one of a kind show about hip-hop’s place in American culture.

Theater: Next Act’s ‘Splash Hatch’ Is Potent Drama
Theater

Next Act’s ‘Splash Hatch’ Is Potent Drama

Densely layered play with a quirky titie captures the dread and hopes of inner city life.

Theater: ‘Laughs in Spanish’ Rarely Delivers It
Theater

‘Laughs in Spanish’ Rarely Delivers It

Comic whodunit plot with telenovela echoes gets uneven MCT production.

Theater: ‘Run Bambi Run’ Is a Spectacular Production
Theater

‘Run Bambi Run’ Is a Spectacular Production

Rep’s new rock musical about Laurie Bembenek lacks depth, but pulsates with energy and attitude.

Theater: ‘Country Sunshine’ Is Packed With Songs
Theater

‘Country Sunshine’ Is Packed With Songs

Rep's show mostly a concert with anecdotes, but lead songstress Katie Deal is the real deal.

Theater: Skylight Wows With New Rock Musical
Theater

Skylight Wows With New Rock Musical

World premiere heads for broad exposure in fancy production.

Classical: Florentine’s ‘Barber’ Oh-So Familiar
Classical

Florentine’s ‘Barber’ Oh-So Familiar

Final show of season offers not-so-fresh take on Rossini's famed comic opera.

Theater: It’s About This Guy Named Shakespeare
Theater

It’s About This Guy Named Shakespeare

Next Act's rollicking production of "God's Spies" has fun with Shakespeare, "King Lear" and bawdy old England.

Theater: Rep’s ‘God of Carnage’ Has Plenty Of It
Theater

Rep’s ‘God of Carnage’ Has Plenty Of It

Affluent couples arguing about their kids yields heated drama, but production more stagy than subtle.

Theater: Oh, Those Wacky Theater People
Theater

Oh, Those Wacky Theater People

Constructivists' staging of "I'm Gonna Pray For You So Hard" is funny, biting look at a theatrical family starring James Pickering

Theater: ‘Tidy’ Is An Environmental Puzzle
Theater

‘Tidy’ Is An Environmental Puzzle

Audience must figure out what is real in new one-woman play with neat technical effects staged by Renaissance Theaterworks.

Theater: Skylight’s ‘Noises Off’ a Fast-Paced Farce
Theater

Skylight’s ‘Noises Off’ a Fast-Paced Farce

But its first staging ever of non-musical (with musical interludes) less fun than it should be.

Classical: Florentine Really Really Updates Mozart
Classical

Florentine Really Really Updates Mozart

Antic version of 'Cosi Fan Tutte' set in college student union, with updated language and rock music added. What a romp!

Theater: ‘Hoops’ Circles Around Jewelry Black Women Wear
Theater

‘Hoops’ Circles Around Jewelry Black Women Wear

Chamber Theatre presents new play, new voices targeting racism about simple hoops.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Seven Guitars’ Offers Jaunty Characters, Juicy Dialogue
Theater

Rep’s ‘Seven Guitars’ Offers Jaunty Characters, Juicy Dialogue

August Wilson play is uneven, but insightful about 1940's-era Black American lives.

Theater: The Professors Of Desire
Theater

The Professors Of Desire

Next Act’s fascinating show, "There Is a Happiness That Moring Is," is about sex, love, death, poetry and so much more.

Theater: Milwaukeeans Will Create Broadway Show
Theater

Milwaukeeans Will Create Broadway Show

Pulitzer-winning playwright Ayad Akhtar and 'La La Land' composer Justin Hurwitz will collaborate.

Theater: ‘Heart Sellers’ Is Winning World Premiere
Theater

‘Heart Sellers’ Is Winning World Premiere

Rep's comedy about Asian immigrants in 1970s will sneak up on you with its insights.

Theater: ‘Evita’ Boasts Strong Singing, Dancing
Theater

‘Evita’ Boasts Strong Singing, Dancing

Skylight's staging may lack enough quieter moments, but has plenty of vocal power.

Theater: ‘Dino’ With Songs and Stereotypes
Theater

‘Dino’ With Songs and Stereotypes

Milwaukee Rep's cabaret show bio of Dean Martin offers cornball jokes and irrelevant songs.

Theater: Renaissance Tackles Potent Pulitzer Winner
Theater

Renaissance Tackles Potent Pulitzer Winner

'Cost of Living' is strong drama about disabled characters performed by disabled actors.

Theater: Chamber Theatre Not Afraid of Virginia Woolf
Theater

Chamber Theatre Not Afraid of Virginia Woolf

Revival of Albee’s caustic classic is well acted, powerful and intriguing.

Theater: Rep Updates Shakespeare in ‘Much Ado About Nothing’
Theater

Rep Updates Shakespeare in ‘Much Ado About Nothing’

But it's the original lines that carry a fun show with grunge rock and costumes added.

Theater: ‘The Tin Woman’ Offers Heartache, Humor
Theater

‘The Tin Woman’ Offers Heartache, Humor

Next Act's slightly surreal dramedy about a heart transplant has strong scenes but weak ending.

Theater: Skylight Goes All Disney For Holidays
Theater

Skylight Goes All Disney For Holidays

Is it possible to have too many good tunes? Perhaps, but the performers have pizzaz.

Theater: Chamber Theatre’s ‘Misery’ Is Intense
Theater

Chamber Theatre’s ‘Misery’ Is Intense

Production more intimate than famous movie but dramatically spotty.

Theater: Way Away In a Manger
Theater

Way Away In a Manger

Rep's new play, 'The Nativity Variations' spoofs Joseph and Mary in a manger and much more, with uneven results.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Beehive’ Revives 60’s Teen Ballads
Theater

Rep’s ‘Beehive’ Revives 60’s Teen Ballads

But who knew these girl pop groups were supposed to be proto-feminist?

Theater: Everything You Wanted to Ask About Sex
Theater

Everything You Wanted to Ask About Sex

Renaissance staging of 'The How and the Way' pits two scientists in a dense, smart, punchy discussion that surprises.

Theater: Florentine Opens Season With Roméo et Juliette Opera
Theater

Florentine Opens Season With Roméo et Juliette Opera

Dom Noth reviews the highs and lows of Florentine's latest opera.

Theater: “Where Did We Sit On The Bus?” Aims To Address Segregation
Theater

“Where Did We Sit On The Bus?” Aims To Address Segregation

But Milwaukee Chamber Theatre stumbles into banalities.

Theater: Wife Confronts Mistress In Spin Off of Classic Play
Theater

Wife Confronts Mistress In Spin Off of Classic Play

Female characters from Arthur Miller's 'Death of a Salesman' given new words in Milwaukee Rep play.

Theater: A New Name In Wisconsin Theater
Theater

A New Name In Wisconsin Theater

Director Jacob Janssen moved from Manhattan to lead Sturgeon Bay’s Third Street Playhouse.

Theater: Why Black Men Die Young
Theater

Why Black Men Die Young

Next Act’s ‘Kill Move Paradise’ is beautifully directed and acted though the dialogue can get preachy.

Theater: Skylight’s ‘Mamma Mia’ All About the Songs
Theater

Skylight’s ‘Mamma Mia’ All About the Songs

So hummable and beloved by audiences. But a little more grounding in plot wouldn’t hurt.

Theater: The Return of The Titanic
Theater

The Return of The Titanic

Acclaimed Rep production of musical shut down last May by pandemic will return.

Theater: Rep Remembers Nat King Cole
Theater

Rep Remembers Nat King Cole

‘Unforgettable’ is more about music than theater, but the expert musicians make it an enjoyable tribute.

Books: Getting To Know Sondheim
Books

Getting To Know Sondheim

Milwaukeean Paul Salsini edited a journal devoted to the legendary composer lyricist and his new book, 'Sondheim & Me' offers a unique view.

Theater: Tony Crivello Returns In ‘McGuire’
Theater

Tony Crivello Returns In ‘McGuire’

Tony-winning Milwaukee native stars in fresh staging of one-man show about legendary Marquette basketball coach.

Theater: Whodunit? Who Cares
Theater

Whodunit? Who Cares

Rep derails ‘Orient Express’ with ham acting, exaggerated accents and technical gimmicky.

Theater: Rose Kennedy As She Never Quite Was
Theater

Rose Kennedy As She Never Quite Was

Renaissance one-woman show is a wonderful production of a play that will surprise you.

Theater: Skylight Soars With ‘Hunchback of Notre Dame’
Theater

Skylight Soars With ‘Hunchback of Notre Dame’

Potent music by Dennis DeYoung of Styx, big cast, great voices and period atmosphere.

Theater: Rep’s Titanic Will Return This Fall
Theater

Rep’s Titanic Will Return This Fall

Show canceled, some 10,000 tickets refunded, after many in the large cast caught COVID-19.

Theater: To Be Or Not To Be Hamlet
Theater

To Be Or Not To Be Hamlet

Next Act’s fun staging of ‘The Last White Man’ imagines three actors competing for role under guidance of Black female director.

Theater: Skylight Stages 1970s Musical ‘Raisin’
Theater

Skylight Stages 1970s Musical ‘Raisin’

But the musical version often loses power of watershed play ‘Raisin in the Sun.’

Theater: Rep’s ‘Titanic’ Is a Triumph
Theater

Rep’s ‘Titanic’ Is a Triumph

A massive undertaking with terrific performers that never misses the show’s humanity or intimacy.

Theater: Rach Meets Rachmaninoff
Theater

Rach Meets Rachmaninoff

Milwaukee Opera Theatre’s "Preludes" is a unique yet disappointing musical theater work about the composer.

Theater: Rep’s ‘New Age’ Is Not So New
Theater

Rep’s ‘New Age’ Is Not So New

Show celebrating the power of women covers familiar territory, but hits home.

Theater: “Babel” Offers Disturbing View of Future
Theater

“Babel” Offers Disturbing View of Future

Uneven production by The Constructivists imagines society with genetic laws that decide who lives and dies.

Oscar Films: The Surprise Pick for Best Picture
Oscar Films

The Surprise Pick for Best Picture

‘Drive My Car’ is an intriguing mystery, both as a film and an Oscar pick.

Theater: What I Hear You Saying Is…
Theater

What I Hear You Saying Is…

Renaissance production of ‘Actually’ looks at sex and consent for university students with thought-provoking play.

Theater: ‘Indecent’ Offers Tangy Slice of Theater History
Theater

‘Indecent’ Offers Tangy Slice of Theater History

But Paula Vogel’s play about playwright Sholem Asch’s travails bogs down in over busy Chamber Theatre staging.

Classical: Florentine’s Smaller Show Is Charming
Classical

Florentine’s Smaller Show Is Charming

Two early 20th century mini-operas, 'Cinderella,' and a Ravel work about a naughty child, are well performed.

Oscar Films: ‘The Lost Daughter’ Is a Slow Burner
Oscar Films

‘The Lost Daughter’ Is a Slow Burner

Well crafted and thoughtfully naturalistic, but too slow, despite its nominations.

Oscar Film: The Academy Awards’ Hateful Eight
Oscar Film

The Academy Awards’ Hateful Eight

To trim the show’s length, eight awards won’t be presented in prime time. That’s a mistake.

Oscar Films: ‘Tragedy of Macbeth’ Robbed Of Nominations
Oscar Films

‘Tragedy of Macbeth’ Robbed Of Nominations

Should have gotten best picture, best actress nods. And what a performance by Denzel Washington.

Theater: Rep’s Beatles’ Flavored Bard a Blast
Theater

Rep’s Beatles’ Flavored Bard a Blast

Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ with Beatles songs creates funny frothy fun.

Oscar Films: ‘West Side Story’ Deserves Bigger Audience
Oscar Films

‘West Side Story’ Deserves Bigger Audience

It’s a great film, with seven Oscar nods but should have gotten eight.

Theater: Even the Program Notes Are Funny
Theater

Even the Program Notes Are Funny

Next Act’s ‘Pipeline’ is witty, insightful look at dilemmas posed for Black students, families at upscale school.

Oscar Films: Poor Poor Princess Diana
Oscar Films

Poor Poor Princess Diana

The film ‘Spencer’ is beautiful but silly. And Kristen Stewart is a weak choice for best actress.

Oscar Films: So Many Choices for Supporting Actress
Oscar Films

So Many Choices for Supporting Actress

Even getting down to top five picks isn’t easy.

Oscar Films: Nightmare Alley Is Over Hyped
Oscar Films

Nightmare Alley Is Over Hyped

A disappointment for a fine director, but might still get some Oscar nods.

Theater: MCT’s ‘Mala’ Is Good Family Drama
Theater

MCT’s ‘Mala’ Is Good Family Drama

Rána Roman shines in one-person show, but staging is uneven.

Theater: Black, Latino and Poor in America
Theater

Black, Latino and Poor in America

Rep’s one man show, ‘Antonio’s Song,’ is a powerful memoir play that includes audience discussion.

Oscar Films: ‘Being the Ricardos’ Is Intriguing, But…
Oscar Films

‘Being the Ricardos’ Is Intriguing, But…

A plot-heavy mishmash, with strong performances by Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem.

Theater: Skylight’s ‘Shackleton’ Is a Wild One
Theater

Skylight’s ‘Shackleton’ Is a Wild One

Elusive, fascinating, hypnotic musical with terrific performances. It will linger in your mind.

Oscar Films: ‘King Richard’ Had Blockbuster Potential
Oscar Films

‘King Richard’ Had Blockbuster Potential

Pandemic hurt its box office, yet it’s a fine film that may get Oscar nods.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Toni Stone’ Is a Winner
Theater

Rep’s ‘Toni Stone’ Is a Winner

Play deftly dramatizes life of first woman to play in Negro Baseball League.

Oscar Films: ‘The Power of the Dog’ Bites Deep
Oscar Films

‘The Power of the Dog’ Bites Deep

Jane Campion’s film demands close attention and deserves awards.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Piano Men’ Is Never The Same
Theater

Rep’s ‘Piano Men’ Is Never The Same

Audiences help decide songs in each performance. Sounds chaotic but works nicely.

Theater: Cold War Comedy For Christmas
Theater

Cold War Comedy For Christmas

Next Act’s ‘Red Herring’ is stuffed with Soviet spies, FBI agents and love affairs, but not enough laughs.

Theater: ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ Is Big Fun
Theater

‘Little Shop of Horrors’ Is Big Fun

Skylight’s revival of 1980s musical is over the top and perfectly pitched.

Theater: ‘Steel Magnolias’ Turns Back The Clock
Theater

‘Steel Magnolias’ Turns Back The Clock

Rep’s season opener is a 1980s comic drama with plenty of the former and not enough of the latter.

Theater: Rep’s Comedy Aims At Packer Fans
Theater

Rep’s Comedy Aims At Packer Fans

And ‘Dad’s Season Tickets’ hits the mark. Musical is funny, homey and too long.

Theater: Renaissance Offers Well-Baked Treat
Theater

Renaissance Offers Well-Baked Treat

‘The Cake’ is a sweet comedy about a southern baker pushed to change her traditional ways.

Theater: Chamber Theatre Offers Home Cooking
Theater

Chamber Theatre Offers Home Cooking

‘Stew’ mixes a Black family’s conflicts and musings on Shakespeare, with uneven results.

Theater: Florentine Stages ‘Rigoletto,’ A Warhorse of Grand Opera
Theater

Florentine Stages ‘Rigoletto,’ A Warhorse of Grand Opera

Verdi's "Rigoletto" played for two days at the Marcus Performing Arts Center.

Theater: Big Voices Power ‘The Full Monty’
Theater

Big Voices Power ‘The Full Monty’

Its thin plot and serviceable music get an energetic Skylight production that punches it home.

Theater: Strong Acting Powers ‘Three Viewings’
Theater

Strong Acting Powers ‘Three Viewings’

Live theater is back and Next Act show offers laughs, surprises and sorrow.

Theater: Brief Encounters On Water Street
Theater

Brief Encounters On Water Street

Renaissance Theaterworks offers uneven evening of five short plays by Midwestern writers.

Theater: A Thousand Natural Shocks, In a Basement
Theater

A Thousand Natural Shocks, In a Basement

The one-woman play, set in a basement, that manages to cover a a lot of ground.

Theater: Ella With All the Scat Singing
Theater

Ella With All the Scat Singing

Alexis Roston performs Ella Fitzgerald songs in fine Milwaukee Rep production — and first live show in 13 months!

Theater: A Songful Satire of Thanksgiving
Theater

A Songful Satire of Thanksgiving

Milwaukee Chamber Theatre presents ‘The Thanksgiving Play’ by MacArthur Fellow, playwright Larissa FastHorse.

Theater: A Stunner About a Sociopath
Theater

A Stunner About a Sociopath

Next Act’s “9 Circles” offers psychological interrogation of young killer with a powerful performance by Casey Hoekstra.

Theater: Around the World in 90 Minutes
Theater

Around the World in 90 Minutes

MCT’s ‘Underneath the Lintel’ is a crazed, complex one-woman show that is unforgettable. Alas.

Theater: Gobel Is Powerful in ‘Neat’
Theater

Gobel Is Powerful in ‘Neat’

Playing multiple characters, Marti Gobel powers engaging tale of growing up Black in the South.

Theater: Where the Bones Are Buried
Theater

Where the Bones Are Buried

MCT production dramatizes a tragic story along the Mexican border.

Theater: ‘The Island’ Still Packs a Punch
Theater

‘The Island’ Still Packs a Punch

MCT presents apartheid-era play by Athol Fugard. It’s a powerful production.

Music: Unique ‘Zoiree’ Features SistaStrings
Music

Unique ‘Zoiree’ Features SistaStrings

Plus puppets, a musical choir and a theme of internet imposters and called ‘The Sound.’

Theater: Lessons From an Inner City School
Theater

Lessons From an Inner City School

Next Act Theater’s ‘Principal Principle’ is an edgy look at a new teacher trying to make good.

Theater: Let Us Now Sing About the Pandemic
Theater

Let Us Now Sing About the Pandemic

Milwaukee Opera Theatre ‘zoirèe’ premieres a new musical, 'In the Clouds'. It’s fun.

Theater: The Skylight Sings of Christmas
Theater

The Skylight Sings of Christmas

The best parts of streamed holiday show are the less traditional numbers.

Theater: Mankind Was My Business
Theater

Mankind Was My Business

The Rep offers ‘Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol.’ It’s Dickens with a twist.

Theater: Short Plays That Stretch Your Mind
Theater

Short Plays That Stretch Your Mind

Renaissance Theaterworks offers three works by playwrights of color. It’s an adventure.

Theater: APT Offers Two Holiday Tales
Theater

APT Offers Two Holiday Tales

Both streamed. One based on ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ is a true delight.

Theater: Next Act’s ‘The Christians’ Is Compelling
Theater

Next Act’s ‘The Christians’ Is Compelling

It feels like live theater being streamed, in a smart play about a mega-church facing a sudden challenge.

Theater: Theaters Offer Holiday Shows
Theater

Theaters Offer Holiday Shows

Including different versions of Dickens and ‘It’s a Wonderful Life.’

Theater: Local Companies Are Innovating Amid Pandemic
Theater

Local Companies Are Innovating Amid Pandemic

Renaissance, Next Act and Milwaukee Rep all are finding creative ways to do theater.

Theater: The Importance of Skylight’s ‘Being Earnest’
Theater

The Importance of Skylight’s ‘Being Earnest’

It’s a fun smart performance and also a model for how to go virtual yet stay theatrical.

Opera: Florentine Presents Its ‘Carmen’ Digitally
Opera

Florentine Presents Its ‘Carmen’ Digitally

And it's a success. Plus: backstage photos of the full stage production that was cancelled.

Milwaukee Arts Groups Suspending Shows

Milwaukee Arts Groups Suspending Shows

Milwaukee Rep closed till April 5, Florentine Opera going digital, others cancelling.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Eclipsed’ Is Harrowing Yet Funny
Theater

Rep’s ‘Eclipsed’ Is Harrowing Yet Funny

A brutal look at Liberian War from women’s viewpoint is unique and often powerful.

Theater: Gentle Drama Gets a World Premiere
Theater

Gentle Drama Gets a World Premiere

Wisconsin playwright Erica Berman’s ‘No Wake’ is sweet but flawed, as is the production.

Theater: Skylight’s Spelling Bee Musical a Hard Sell
Theater

Skylight’s Spelling Bee Musical a Hard Sell

‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ should have been more fun.

Oscar Films: Who Should Win the Oscars?
Oscar Films

Who Should Win the Oscars?

And a documentary film, American Factory, that deserves to be singled out.

Oscar Films: Tom Hanks Is Memorable as Mr. Rogers
Oscar Films

Tom Hanks Is Memorable as Mr. Rogers

Why he deserves an Oscar for A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.

Theater: Next Act Play Punches Above Its Weight
Theater

Next Act Play Punches Above Its Weight

‘A Small Fire’ is classic ensemble production about family facing a parent’s sudden decline.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Hedwig’ Is Crazy Rock-Fueled Fun
Theater

Rep’s ‘Hedwig’ Is Crazy Rock-Fueled Fun

Gender-bender musical is a kind of carnival mixing comedy, drama and a bizarre love story.

Oscar Films: ‘The Irishman’ Is Not the Best Scorsese
Oscar Films

‘The Irishman’ Is Not the Best Scorsese

And doesn’t deserve best film Oscar. And yet it's powerful, and meaningful on many levels.

Theater: ‘Happy Days’ Is Superb, Funny and Sad
Theater

‘Happy Days’ Is Superb, Funny and Sad

Gordon’s acting, Kohler’s direction capture Beckett’s humanity in Renaissance Theaterworks show.

Oscar Films: Oscars Underrate ’Ford v Ferrari’
Oscar Films

Oscars Underrate ’Ford v Ferrari’

Wonderful performance by Christian Bales anchors strong film that deserved more nominations.

Oscar Films: A Small Film About The Great War
Oscar Films

A Small Film About The Great War

‘1917’ is nominated for best film of the year. It’s not even close.

Theater: ‘Chasin’ Dem Blues’ Is Joyous Fun
Theater

‘Chasin’ Dem Blues’ Is Joyous Fun

Four great performers relive the era when a Grafton WI company was a leader in blues music.

Theater: Skylight’s “Gospel at Colonus” Soars Musically
Theater

Skylight’s “Gospel at Colonus” Soars Musically

Unique mix of Greek theater, gospel music and blues is powered by great voices.

Theater: Rep’s Comic Drag Show Is Fun
Theater

Rep’s Comic Drag Show Is Fun

‘Legend of Georgia McBride’ is cliched, but sizzling performances make it a fun romp.

Oscar Films: ‘The Joker’ Is a New Low for Oscars
Oscar Films

‘The Joker’ Is a New Low for Oscars

This disgraceful film doesn’t deserve nominations for best picture or best actor.

Oscar Films: Mischievous “Two Popes” Packs a Punch
Oscar Films

Mischievous “Two Popes” Packs a Punch

And Jonathan Pryce deserves the best actor Oscar for his portrayal of Pope Francis.

Oscar Films: ‘Little Women’ a Minor Movie
Oscar Films

‘Little Women’ a Minor Movie

Greta Gerwig’s screenplay and direction not a major improvement on past film versions.

Theater: A ‘Ruddigore’ For the Ages
Theater

A ‘Ruddigore’ For the Ages

Skylight production of less-known Gilbert & Sullivan operetta is clever, funny and smartly sung.

Theater: So Many Jokes, So Little Time
Theater

So Many Jokes, So Little Time

Next Act has fun with Neil Simon’s ‘Laughter on the 23rd Floor.’

Theater: ‘The Nerd’ Is Still a Laugh Riot
Theater

‘The Nerd’ Is Still a Laugh Riot

The Rep’s revival of Larry Shue play it originated is fresh, funny and fast moving.

Theater: ‘Hamilton’ Was Worth the Wait
Theater

‘Hamilton’ Was Worth the Wait

Touring show that’s arrived in Milwaukee is a fantastic production of a must-see show.

Theater: ‘The Roommate’ Is Funny, Serious, Fast-Paced
Theater

‘The Roommate’ Is Funny, Serious, Fast-Paced

Renaissance Theaterworks show has weaknesses but good acting, directing make it all work.

Milwaukee Film Festival: Five Films That Surprise
Milwaukee Film Festival

Five Films That Surprise

Review of mostly documentaries covering powerful topics.

Milwaukee Film Festival: Film Fest Bigger Than Ever
Milwaukee Film Festival

Film Fest Bigger Than Ever

So many choices you may have trouble picking which to see. But what a lovely problem.

Classical: An Awkward Marriage
Classical

An Awkward Marriage

Music soars, comedy doesn’t in Florentine’s ‘Marriage of Figaro’.

Theater: Joking Around A Revolution
Theater

Joking Around A Revolution

Playwright brings her own guillotine to Next Act production

Theater: Doing Fine ‘Oklahoma!’
Theater

Doing Fine ‘Oklahoma!’

Skylight’s stripped down approach brings freshness to 76 year old musical

Theater: ‘The Niceties’ Turns Nasty
Theater

‘The Niceties’ Turns Nasty

Feminism, race and white privilege shatter academia at Rep’s Stiemke theater

Theater: Reflections Within a Riot
Theater

Reflections Within a Riot

‘Fires in the Mirror’ propels power of documentary theater

Theater: A Tony To Die For
Theater

A Tony To Die For

He leads Milwaukee Rep’s most incisive musical to date, ‘West Side Story’

Theater: ‘2 Pianos, 4 Hands’, Some Laughs
Theater

‘2 Pianos, 4 Hands’, Some Laughs

Milwaukee Rep’s cabaret comedy offers piano virtuosity, many gags and slight plot.

Movies: ‘Give Me Liberty’ Is All Milwaukee
Movies

‘Give Me Liberty’ Is All Milwaukee

Milwaukee director’s acclaimed film is unique: funny, sad and filled with humanity.

Theater: Chamber Theatre Sets Farce in Sheboygan
Theater

Chamber Theatre Sets Farce in Sheboygan

‘Unnecessary Farce’ is yes, a farce that’s uneven, but fast moving fun.

Theater: Skylight Hires New Artistic Director
Theater

Skylight Hires New Artistic Director

New York-based director Michael Unger hired. Ponasik will continue as artistic advisor.

Theater: ‘Kiss Me, Kate’ Has Hits, Misses
Theater

‘Kiss Me, Kate’ Has Hits, Misses

Skylight production has two strong leads and provides lots of (sometimes corny) fun.

Classical: The Florentine’s ‘Night at the Opera’ Bows
Classical

The Florentine’s ‘Night at the Opera’ Bows

Not a remake of the 1930s comedy film, but maybe the Bucks caused the sparse turnout.

Theater: So There Was This Barbershop Quartet
Theater

So There Was This Barbershop Quartet

Whose lead singer died, provoking jokes and songs in In Tandem’s ‘The Fabulous Lipitones’.

Theater: ‘Two Trains Running’ Is a Powerful Ride
Theater

‘Two Trains Running’ Is a Powerful Ride

Rep production captures August Wilson’s great characters and social poetry.

Theater: Chamber Theatre’s Comic War on Slavery
Theater

Chamber Theatre’s Comic War on Slavery

‘Ben Butler’ is set in Civil War with lessons for today, but the message and buffoonery are over-played.

Theater: In Tandem Readies Its Final Play
Theater

In Tandem Readies Its Final Play

Two-decade-old theater’s last show ‘The Fabulous Lipitones’ opens April 25.

Theater: Suicide, Depression and… Comedy
Theater

Suicide, Depression and… Comedy

Rep’s ‘Every Brilliant Thing’ engages and amuses audience on some dark subjects.

Theater: “The King And I,” 68 Years Later
Theater

“The King And I,” 68 Years Later

Touring show is strong, smart revival, but still raises issues about changing cultural attitudes.

Theater: “Annie Jump” Is a Technical Triumph
Theater

“Annie Jump” Is a Technical Triumph

New play premiered by Renaissance has great atmosphere, but mawkish scenarios.

Classical: Sex in the Roman Empire, Well Sung
Classical

Sex in the Roman Empire, Well Sung

Florentine’s ‘Poppea’ offers lust and neuroses, well staged with big juicy voices.

Theater: Skylight’s ‘Carmina Burana’ Will Wow You
Theater

Skylight’s ‘Carmina Burana’ Will Wow You

The most original and mesmerizing production I’ve seen this season.

Theater: Mother Knows Best
Theater

Mother Knows Best

Rep’s family play ‘Things I Know to Be True’ is uneven, but audience seems captivated.

Theater: In Tandem’s Two Hander A Treat
Theater

In Tandem’s Two Hander A Treat

In 'Velocity', aging mother and estranged son fight over her independence, with dramatic, witty results.

Theater: ‘Strange Snow’ Probes Vietnam War Wounds
Theater

‘Strange Snow’ Probes Vietnam War Wounds

Chamber Theatre production is uneven but packs a punch.

Oscar Films: ‘Cold War’ Could Cause Oscar Confusion
Oscar Films

‘Cold War’ Could Cause Oscar Confusion

But black-and-white Polish film about romance amid Cold War is beautiful, bewitching.

Oscar Films: ‘Buster Scruggs’ Is Not To Be Missed
Oscar Films

‘Buster Scruggs’ Is Not To Be Missed

Yet many haven’t seen this wonderfully creepy Coen Brothers cowboy movie homage.

Oscar Films: ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ Is a Sonic Spectacle
Oscar Films

‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ Is a Sonic Spectacle

Nominee Rami Malek soars as Freddie Mercury. And the sound effects, wow!

Oscar Films: Should ‘Black Panther’ Win Best Picture?
Oscar Films

Should ‘Black Panther’ Win Best Picture?

A watershed for black inclusion that’s grossed $1.4 billion — but not a great film.

Oscar Films: Two RBG Films, One Good, One Bad
Oscar Films

Two RBG Films, One Good, One Bad

She’s so omnipresent maybe they could hire justice Ginsburg as Oscar host.

Theater: See the Exotic Chinese Lady!
Theater

See the Exotic Chinese Lady!

Rep’s 'The Chinese Lady' probes a 19th century carny show and white attitudes about immigrants.

Oscar Films: ‘The Wife’ and the Best Actresses
Oscar Films

‘The Wife’ and the Best Actresses

Several strong nominees but Glenn Close’s performance in 'The Wife' stands out.

Oscar Films: ‘Roma’ Is a Masterpiece
Oscar Films

‘Roma’ Is a Masterpiece

But will its origin via Netflix doom its chances of winning Academy’s favor?

Oscar Films: Despite Naysayers, ‘Green Book’ Is a Treat
Oscar Films

Despite Naysayers, ‘Green Book’ Is a Treat

Two great acting performances and the story’s often subtle about black-white divisions.

Oscar Films: My ‘Favourite’ Royal Costume Drama
Oscar Films

My ‘Favourite’ Royal Costume Drama

'Mary, Queen of Scots' is far less satisfying than 'The Favourite’. The reasons are many.

Oscar Films: ‘Vice’ Is Short on Virtues
Oscar Films

‘Vice’ Is Short on Virtues

Great makeup artistry, but not comic enough to be comedy or deep enough for drama.

Theater: The Tangled Roots of Racism
Theater

The Tangled Roots of Racism

Next Act’s “Blood at the Root” hits hard, but lacks subtlety and shading.

Theater: Going Crazy for Louis Jordan
Theater

Going Crazy for Louis Jordan

Skylight’s ‘Five Guys Named Moe’ is a dance party that’s more about music than story.

Theater: Up a Lazy River
Theater

Up a Lazy River

Rep’s cabaret show “Mark Twain’s River of Song” meanders too easily into cliches.

Theater: Science, Sexism and the Nobel Prize
Theater

Science, Sexism and the Nobel Prize

Renaissance staging of Photograph 51 champions double helix discoverer Rosalind Franklin.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Junk’ Is Fast-Paced Thriller
Theater

Rep’s ‘Junk’ Is Fast-Paced Thriller

Big cast of juicy characters and dark, witty look at Wall Street junk bond deals of 1980s.

Theater: Black Nativity Explodes With Song
Theater

Black Nativity Explodes With Song

Bronzeville Arts Ensemble brings us the old story with modern musical trappings.

Theater: ‘Babylon’ Is Funny As Hell
Theater

‘Babylon’ Is Funny As Hell

Though second act flags a bit, Chamber Theatre’s new Christmas play is a theatrical triumph.

Theater: Skylight’s ‘Hairspray’ Offers Non-Stop Energy
Theater

Skylight’s ‘Hairspray’ Offers Non-Stop Energy

Production has show stopping numbers, but lacks heart and humanity.

Theater: The Return of Jane Austen
Theater

The Return of Jane Austen

Rep’s new play updates Austen’s characters, but with far too much cuteness and cavorting.

Theater: Rep Skillfully Struts Its Stuff
Theater

Rep Skillfully Struts Its Stuff

Cabaret show, ‘The All Night Strut!” has great cast and staging, but pushes a tad hard for your love.

Theater: Tale of the Woodcarver
Theater

Tale of the Woodcarver

Unique theater-dance piece explores the life of Wisconsin artist Levi Fisher Ames.

Theater: Don’t You Be My Neighbor
Theater

Don’t You Be My Neighbor

Renaissance staging of ‘Native Gardens’ pits a white couple against the Hispanic couple next door.

Classical: “Prince of Players” Is Musically Thin
Classical

“Prince of Players” Is Musically Thin

Florentine production a visual treat, but Carlisle Floyd’s opera puts little meat on bones of gender-bender story.

Theater: Humor and Horror at the Taj Mahal
Theater

Humor and Horror at the Taj Mahal

Milwaukee Rep’s ‘Guards at the Taj’ is a gripping mix of fantasy, history, comedy and tragedy.

Theater: Next Act Wins Irish Sweepstakes
Theater

Next Act Wins Irish Sweepstakes

Staging of John Patrick’s Shanley’s Irish-y comic drama has great acting by four of town’s top actors.

Theater: Skylight’s ‘Pippin’ Is a Puzzle
Theater

Skylight’s ‘Pippin’ Is a Puzzle

All that energy and pizzaz for musical set in Middle Ages, but what does it all mean?

Theater: Dogs, Cats and Humans Who Love Them
Theater

Dogs, Cats and Humans Who Love Them

MCT production of Irish play, "Chapatti" is a triumph of terrific acting.

Theater: Rep’s New Stackner Cabaret a Hit
Theater

Rep’s New Stackner Cabaret a Hit

Opening show, "Songs for Nobodies," is showcase for singer-actress Bethany Thomas.

Theater: Story Of a Great American Actor
Theater

Story Of a Great American Actor

Theater Red and Angela Iannone give us a new play about legendary 19th century actor Edwin Booth.

Theater: Tragedy and Laughter at APT
Theater

Tragedy and Laughter at APT

Exit the King and enter Billie Dawn, in two wildly different plays and production styles.

Theater: The Miracle of American Players Theatre
Theater

The Miracle of American Players Theatre

Actors, critics and audiences gather in Spring Green for classical theater.

Theater: Skylight’s Urinetown Is Fast-Paced Fun
Theater

Skylight’s Urinetown Is Fast-Paced Fun

But the musical itself feels less subversive that it once did.

Classical: ‘Magic Flute’ Boasted Strong Cast
Classical

‘Magic Flute’ Boasted Strong Cast

But Florentine’s staging sometimes seemed at odds with its singers.

Theater: ‘The Fantasticks’ Is… Fantastic
Theater

‘The Fantasticks’ Is… Fantastic

Strong cast, good voices, fresh take on an old classic by In Tandem Theatre.

Theater: A National Conversation About Guns
Theater

A National Conversation About Guns

On Friday, theaters across the U.S. will do readings of “Natural Shocks’, a new humorous play about guns.

Theater: Is “Our Town” Still Relevant Today?
Theater

Is “Our Town” Still Relevant Today?

Milwaukee Rep’s solid production suggests the answer is (mostly) yes.

Op Ed: Abele’s $1 Million Power Play
Op Ed

Abele’s $1 Million Power Play

His LeadershipMKE group muddies the waters for April election.

Classical: “Tales of Hoffman” Is Inventive, Enchanting
Classical

“Tales of Hoffman” Is Inventive, Enchanting

Skylight and Milwaukee Opera collaboration finds more than great music in Offenbach’s romantic tale.

Classical: Florentine Offers Opera’s Greatest Hits
Classical

Florentine Offers Opera’s Greatest Hits

And the result is a lovely showcase of great songs and great performers.

Theater: Rep’s World Premiere A Letdown
Theater

Rep’s World Premiere A Letdown

“One House Over” is noble effort, but both play and production lack depth.

Movies: Who Will Win the Oscars?
Movies

Who Will Win the Oscars?

A rundown with reviews of top movies.

Theater: The Man Who Almost Lost His Mind
Theater

The Man Who Almost Lost His Mind

In Tandem’s production of a play about Alzheimer’s misfires, but Jim Pickering is fun.

Theater: ‘The Brothers Size’ Upsets Expectations
Theater

‘The Brothers Size’ Upsets Expectations

Play by rising black playwright mixes dance, music and more in potent MCT production.

Movies: ‘Wonder’ Is Not So Wondrous
Movies

‘Wonder’ Is Not So Wondrous

Story about child with deformed face depends on stereotypes — and Julia Roberts.

Movies: Could Horror Film Grab Oscars?
Movies

Could Horror Film Grab Oscars?

Jordan Peele’s 'Get Out’ is a horror thriller with sly commentary on racial relations.

Movies: The Western That Wanted Oscars
Movies

The Western That Wanted Oscars

‘Hostiles” was touted as “best western since ‘Unforgiven.’” Dead wrong.

Movies: ‘Molly’s Game’ Is a Fast-Paced Romp
Movies

‘Molly’s Game’ Is a Fast-Paced Romp

Director-writer Aaron Sorkin, actress Jessica Chastain propel high-stakes poker world.

Movies: Day-Lewis Haunting in ‘Phantom Thread’
Movies

Day-Lewis Haunting in ‘Phantom Thread’

And writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson is his brilliantly perverse accomplice.

Theater: Skylight’s Sci-Fi Musical Is a Blast
Theater

Skylight’s Sci-Fi Musical Is a Blast

‘Zombies From the Beyond’ sends up B movies of ‘50s and much more.

Movies: An Art Film for Today’s Generation
Movies

An Art Film for Today’s Generation

‘Call Me By Your Name’ is slow, idyllic, humane, and Oscar-nominated.

Classical: Small Is Beautiful for Florentine
Classical

Small Is Beautiful for Florentine

Intimate production of two Baroque operas is a charming change of pace.

Movies: The Newspaper Publisher As Heroine
Movies

The Newspaper Publisher As Heroine

Spielberg’s 'The Post’ is timed to today, and Meryl Streep’s Katherine Graham sells it.

Theater: A Russian Comic Mystery Drama
Theater

A Russian Comic Mystery Drama

Renaissance production of ‘Russian Transport’ covers all the bases powerfully.

Movies: McDormand Oscar-Worthy in ‘Three Billboards’
Movies

McDormand Oscar-Worthy in ‘Three Billboards’

Role of ferocious mother dominates grim, funny film by Irish playwright.

Movies: ‘The Shape Of Water’ Is Stunning
Movies

‘The Shape Of Water’ Is Stunning

Director’s distinctive style creates a beauty-and-beast romance in a dark fascist world.

Movies: Is ‘Lady Bird’ Overrated?
Movies

Is ‘Lady Bird’ Overrated?

A fine coming-of-age film, yes, but surely oversold by critics.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Animal Farm’ Is Heavy Hoofing
Theater

Rep’s ‘Animal Farm’ Is Heavy Hoofing

Adaptation of Orwell’s allegorical novel has strong visuals, but plodding pace.

Movies: Refighting World War II
Movies

Refighting World War II

‘Dunkirk' and 'Darkest Hour' bring back Churchill, Fortress Britain and big movie themes.

Movies: No, I Didn’t Kneecap Nancy
Movies

No, I Didn’t Kneecap Nancy

“I Tonya” is a gripping, blackly comic bio of infamous ice skater Tonya Harding.

Theater: An Old Milwaukee Christmas
Theater

An Old Milwaukee Christmas

Chamber Theatre’s “Miracle on South Division Street” feels very Milwaukee, despite creaky script.

Theater: Next Act Offers an Acting Clinic
Theater

Next Act Offers an Acting Clinic

Comic drama “The Secret Mask” is uneven, but well-directed actors give it power.

Theater: Oh, How New ‘Annie” Seems
Theater

Oh, How New ‘Annie” Seems

‘70s musical seems to comment on today’s politics, in a Skylight show that shines.

Theater: Searching For the Real Sherlock
Theater

Searching For the Real Sherlock

Rep’s ‘Holmes and Watson’ puzzle play has second half sparks after a talky first half.

Theater: ‘Sex With Strangers’ Scores
Theater

‘Sex With Strangers’ Scores

Play by ‘House of Cards” writer is a witty, gritty and erotic battle of the sexes.

Classical: The Not Always ‘Merry Widow’
Classical

The Not Always ‘Merry Widow’

Florentine production has low and high points, as third act delivers the fun.

Theater: They Aimed At The Stars
Theater

They Aimed At The Stars

Next Act’s ‘Silent Sky’ is artful theater about women scientists who helped explore the universe.

Theater: Rep Scores Again with Akhtar Play
Theater

Rep Scores Again with Akhtar Play

Another play by Brookfield-raised, Pulitzer-winning writer, another potent production.

Theater: “Guys and Dolls” Smacked Too Hard
Theater

“Guys and Dolls” Smacked Too Hard

Rep production overplays a worthy musical.

Theater: Truly a Singular Sensation
Theater

Truly a Singular Sensation

Milwaukee Opera’s radical production of A Chorus Line inverts the ages of performers.

Remembering Barbara Cook

Remembering Barbara Cook

The late great singer was in Tony Bennett’s class as a live performer.

Theater: ‘Sweeney Todd’ Is Grisly Fun
Theater

‘Sweeney Todd’ Is Grisly Fun

Skylight’s take on Sondheim musical has inventive staging and strong voices.

Classical: A Most Happy “Barber of Seville”
Classical

A Most Happy “Barber of Seville”

Musically great, but the staging missed the mark.

Theater: Rep’s Jane Eyre Will Surprise You
Theater

Rep’s Jane Eyre Will Surprise You

More cool than romantic, it’s a psychologically gripping production.

Theater: A Dickens of a Staging
Theater

A Dickens of a Staging

Chamber Theatre’s ‘Great Expectations’ is cleverly staged, great fun.

Theater: The Weight of Words
Theater

The Weight of Words

Renaissance staging of ‘The Violet Hour’ dramatizes the golden days of American publishing.

Theater: Regrets, They Have a Few
Theater

Regrets, They Have a Few

Four actors deftly stretch time and memory in “Bloomsday.”

Classical: Strong Cast Powers ‘Don Giovanni’
Classical

Strong Cast Powers ‘Don Giovanni’

Great singers and deftly added modern touches stand out in Florentine production.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Glass Menagerie’ Sparkles
Theater

Rep’s ‘Glass Menagerie’ Sparkles

Williams’ masterwork has good cast, pacing, but might have more weight.

Theater: Love and Pain and Journalism
Theater

Love and Pain and Journalism

Milwaukee Chamber Theatre’s “The Few” is uneven, but mysterious.

Theater: Loneliness Of The Long-Distance Pilot
Theater

Loneliness Of The Long-Distance Pilot

Rep’s ‘Grounded’ is haunting drama about U.S. pilot doing drone warfare.

Movies: Who Will Win The Oscars?
Movies

Who Will Win The Oscars?

Our reviews may help you choose which nominees should win.

Movies: The Silence Surrounding “Silence”
Movies

The Silence Surrounding “Silence”

No one is talking about Martin Scorsese’s ambitious film. Should they be?

Movies: Why Oscar Overlooked ‘Loving’
Movies

Why Oscar Overlooked ‘Loving’

And why the total snub for 'Love & Friendship’?

Movies: Two Films With Emotional Power
Movies

Two Films With Emotional Power

‘Lion’ and ‘Moonlight’ are two of year’s best films.

Movies: The Oscars and Women
Movies

The Oscars and Women

Three movies with strong women roles were mostly overlooked. Why?

Movies: “Manchester” Is a Director’s Triumph
Movies

“Manchester” Is a Director’s Triumph

Despite Best Actor nod for Affleck, “Manchester By the Sea” is director Kenneth Lonergan’s movie.

Movies: ‘Fences’ Offers Powerhouse Performances
Movies

‘Fences’ Offers Powerhouse Performances

As good as Denzel Washington is, Viola Davis is even better.

Movies: ‘Hidden Figures’ Simplifies Racial Realities
Movies

‘Hidden Figures’ Simplifies Racial Realities

But the feel-good, smash hit about black women NASA specialists has strong moments.

Movies: Meryl’s Metaphor For Our Times
Movies

Meryl’s Metaphor For Our Times

Oscar nominated turn in ‘Florence Foster Jenkins' a funny echo of Trump's rise.

Theater: Crivello Makes Al McGuire Come Alive
Theater

Crivello Makes Al McGuire Come Alive

Milwaukee native and Broadway actor returns for Rep’s ‘McGuire’ and nails it.

Theater: Rep’s ‘Disgraced’ Is Powerful, Provocative
Theater

Rep’s ‘Disgraced’ Is Powerful, Provocative

Play by Pulitzer-winner Ayad Akhtar, Brookfield Central grad, is wowing audiences.

Art: The Wisconsin That Was
Art

The Wisconsin That Was

Artist Terese Agnew’s powerful exhibit celebrates, laments state’s progressive past.

Movies: ‘La La Land’ Is Audacious, Adorable
Movies

‘La La Land’ Is Audacious, Adorable

And will probably win every award in sight. But maybe it shouldn’t.

Movies: Jackie Kennedy As a Neurotic
Movies

Jackie Kennedy As a Neurotic

The film “Jackie" offers a fresh, powerful take on the grieving widow, but gets overdone.

Theater: Next Act’s Christmas Play Is Uneven
Theater

Next Act’s Christmas Play Is Uneven

1950s Milwaukee radio setting is grabby, but acting is a tad flat.

Theater: We Need ‘La Cage’ More Than Ever
Theater

We Need ‘La Cage’ More Than Ever

Skylight production of musical shows it’s still relevant -- and tons of fun.

Theater: ‘Drowning Girls’ Is Dry-Eyed Drama
Theater

‘Drowning Girls’ Is Dry-Eyed Drama

Three brides victimized by serial killer tell their stories. It isn’t pretty.

Classical: Florentine’s ‘Sister Carrie’ Is a Triumph
Classical

Florentine’s ‘Sister Carrie’ Is a Triumph

World premiere boasts strong score, great cast, uneven drama.

Theater: Thoroughly Modern Musical
Theater

Thoroughly Modern Musical

Skylight’s ‘Violet’ is energetic version of Broadway show with all the modern music idioms.

Theater: Rep Stages Knockout Drama
Theater

Rep Stages Knockout Drama

‘The Royale’, loosely based on life of Jack Johnson, punches home the perils of black success.

Theater: <em>Lovely Sunday,</em> What a Farce
Theater

Lovely Sunday, What a Farce

Big laughs and big voices, not enough humanity.

Theater: Actresses Amuse in Chamber Theater Opener
Theater

Actresses Amuse in Chamber Theater Opener

Wanasek and Hitchcock anchor uneven staging of “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.”

Theater: Skylight’s “Pirates” A Boatful of Laughs
Theater

Skylight’s “Pirates” A Boatful of Laughs

Buoyed by nifty staging, fine singing, gags aplenty, it’s a huge hit with audiences.

Theater: ‘Ernest in Love’ Is a Delight
Theater

‘Ernest in Love’ Is a Delight

Musical version of classic Wilde comedy is a revelation. Don’t miss it.

Theater: A Masters Class in Period Posturing
Theater

A Masters Class in Period Posturing

Chamber Theatre’s “Fallen Angels” gets Coward’s comedy but not the more serious observations.

Theater: Let’s All Talk About Guns
Theater

Let’s All Talk About Guns

Rep’s “American Song” offers strong one-man show on the topic followed by second act of community discussion.

Theater: Creating Thunder From Small Forces
Theater

Creating Thunder From Small Forces

Skylight’s ‘Crowns’ blends powerfully-sung spirituals with a gender gap tale set in the South.

Theater: Growing Up Irish In Milwaukee
Theater

Growing Up Irish In Milwaukee

In Tandem offers solid staging of local playwright Mike Neville's bittersweet memory play.

Theater: A Nation at Urban War With Itself
Theater

A Nation at Urban War With Itself

Next Act offers powerful production of ‘Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992’

Theater: ‘Mice and Men’ Still Moving
Theater

‘Mice and Men’ Still Moving

Milwaukee Rep production boasts strong lead actors and powerful scenic elements.

Theater: Hey Gang, We’re Putting on a Show!
Theater

Hey Gang, We’re Putting on a Show!

Chamber Theatre’s ‘Love Stories’ offers easy-going approach to interconnect three one acts.

Theater: Moses Scales the Mountain
Theater

Moses Scales the Mountain

Skylight’s sparkling staging of ‘My Fair Lady” paced by Norman Moses’ unforgettable Henry Higgins.

Theater: The Rep Tries Agatha Christie
Theater

The Rep Tries Agatha Christie

Its production of ‘The Mousetrap’ is fun but long on melodramatics.

Theater: The Short Happy Life of Emmett Till
Theater

The Short Happy Life of Emmett Till

Renaissance production captures the joys and tragic end of the teen whose death inspired civil rights activists.

Theater: The Arab Among Us
Theater

The Arab Among Us

Next Act’s ‘Back of the Throat’ offers angry, absurdist look at post 9/11 fears.

Theater: Love (Sort Of) Between Poets
Theater

Love (Sort Of) Between Poets

Chamber Theatre production captures a mystic romance between poets Robert Lowell and Elizabeth Bishop.

Theater: <i>Dear Elizabeth</i> is a Love Story
Theater

Dear Elizabeth is a Love Story

Milwaukee Chamber Theatre takes everyone, cast included, on a journey into a special romance.

Theater: The Rep Goes Back Home Again
Theater

The Rep Goes Back Home Again

Remarkable musicality keeps the audience engaged, despite the piece's shaky dramatic underpinnings.

Review: Lives of the Radium Girls
Review

Lives of the Radium Girls

Umbrella Group’s staging of true story about 1920s women working at the Radium Dial Company becomes a harrowing, human tragedy.

Review: In Tandem’s Musical Sneaks Up on Audiences
Review

In Tandem’s Musical Sneaks Up on Audiences

Little by Little is a smart and smartly staged musical about three romantically-entangled friends coming of age.

Review: <i>Inherit the Wind</i> Again?
Review

Inherit the Wind Again?

Next Act Theatre’s fine staging of Ten Questions revisits the issue of evolution vs. religion (and creationism). Who wins?

Theater: Rep’s <i>Five Presidents</i> Is Blandly Bipartisan
Theater

Rep’s Five Presidents Is Blandly Bipartisan

New play by “West Wing” writer is flat fare, but production is solid.

Theater: Local Boy Makes Good?
Theater

Local Boy Makes Good?

In Tandem struggles with Milwaukee playwright Neil Haven’s comic drama, Come Back.

Theater: <i>The Train Driver</i> Offers Magnetic Acting
Theater

The Train Driver Offers Magnetic Acting

MCT staging of Fugard play is packed with moral and theatrical lessons.

Review: Great Storytelling in <i>The Amish Project</i>
Review

Great Storytelling in The Amish Project

Deborah Staples shines, playing multiple characters, in riveting Rep show.

Review: Every Child Left Behind
Review

Every Child Left Behind

A powerful one-woman show at Next Act probes the problems -- and drama -- of urban schools.

Review: <i>The Kreutzer Sonata</i> Is Elegant, Powerful
Review

The Kreutzer Sonata Is Elegant, Powerful

Renaissance staging imaginatively merges music and drama in captivating adaptation of Tolstoy story.

Review: Laura Gordon Is a Show Stopper
Review

Laura Gordon Is a Show Stopper

Her terrific performance anchors Milwaukee Rep’s probing comic drama, Good People.

Theater: MCT Shakespeare Spoof is a Nonstop Riot
Theater

MCT Shakespeare Spoof is a Nonstop Riot

Milwaukee Chamber Theatre show is fast--paced, hilarious parody and celebration of the Bard’s many plays.

Theater: The All-Too Invisible Six Foot Rabbit
Theater

The All-Too Invisible Six Foot Rabbit

Rep’s Harvey has comic touches, but lacks subtlety and depth.

Theater: Next Act Commits <i>Heresy</i>
Theater

Next Act Commits Heresy

A. R. Gurney’s futuristic parable offers strong views and weak drama, but a stellar cast does its best.

Theater: Lion King Is Still a Winner
Theater

Lion King Is Still a Winner

Even if you’ve seen it before, it can still surprise with its power and creativity.

Comedy: A Sudden Attack of Laughs
Comedy

A Sudden Attack of Laughs

Four wildly different comedy shows are coming to Milwaukee.

Theater: So This Gay Man Walks Into a Bookstore
Theater

So This Gay Man Walks Into a Bookstore

Rep’s production of after all the terrible things I do is strong, but play’s edgy encounter of book store owner and writer is uneven.

Theater: A Great <i>Glass Menagerie</i>
Theater

A Great Glass Menagerie

In Tandem Theatre production is smart, subtle and so true to Tennessee Williams.

Theater: Color Purple Offers a Really Good Cry
Theater

Color Purple Offers a Really Good Cry

Rep’s version of musical is splashy, flashy audience pleaser, but lacks depth.

Theater: ‘Rey’ Returns to the Midwest with Mystery and Magic
Theater

‘Rey’ Returns to the Midwest with Mystery and Magic

The Rep hosts an experimental two-person drama from an unpredictable young playwright

Review: In “The Good Father,” Artful Mastery of On-Stage Chemistry
Review

In “The Good Father,” Artful Mastery of On-Stage Chemistry

At the Milwaukee Chamber Theater, an unexpected pregnancy bridges the class divide in Ireland.

Theater: Marsha Norman on “The Color Purple”
Theater

Marsha Norman on “The Color Purple”

While not involved in The Rep’s production of the “The Color Purple," she fashioned the dramatic spine the company is exploring.

Theater: The Glass Menagerie Is No Antique
Theater

The Glass Menagerie Is No Antique

In Tandem prepares to stage a fresh interpretation of the Tennessee Williams classic.

Theater: Capitol Steps Fever Hits the Pabst Theater
Theater

Capitol Steps Fever Hits the Pabst Theater

The comedy troupe, including former D.C. staffers, skewers farcical Washington.

Theater: Local Theater Companies Invest in the Unknown
Theater

Local Theater Companies Invest in the Unknown

Established Milwaukee theaters will present playwrights whose work may be unfamiliar to the local audience.

Theater: Big Changes At American Players Theatre
Theater

Big Changes At American Players Theatre

New leadership and still lots to see at APT; and the Milwaukee Rep offers a country music cabaret show.

Theater: Iannone’s Own “Master Class”
Theater

Iannone’s Own “Master Class”

Local talent reprises her acclaimed role as a diva in the Milwaukee Chamber Theatre’s celebrated production.

Theater: APT’s <i>Earnest</i> A Bit Too Wilde
Theater

APT’s Earnest A Bit Too Wilde

The cast handles witty language impeccably, but staging is overdone at times.

Theater: “Magical Thinking” Packs Power
Theater

“Magical Thinking” Packs Power

APT’s staging of Joan Didion book-turned-play is intimate, uneven yet powerful.

Theater: Romeo, Wherefore Art Thou?
Theater

Romeo, Wherefore Art Thou?

APT’s Romeo and Juliet is strong on action and pacing, and weak on the tragic meaning of it all.

Review: Going Crazy in Cleveland
Review

Going Crazy in Cleveland

Chamber Theatre deftly handles the antic farce, Lend Me a Tenor.

Review: Not Going Gently Into That Good Night
Review

Not Going Gently Into That Good Night

Next Act’s Three Views offers funny, insulting, despairing, poignant look at old age.

Theater: The Heart of the Matter
Theater

The Heart of the Matter

Longtime First Stage director Rob Goodman returns to direct a new play starring children at Acacia Theatre.

Theater: I Sing a Song of Sadness
Theater

I Sing a Song of Sadness

Actor James DeVita turns An Iliad into an epic tale of war and woe.

Theater: After the Fire is Over
Theater

After the Fire is Over

A family awaits news of a loved one’s fate at a chemical plant explosion. The Chamber Theatre offers an intense production.

Theater: A Twisted Tale of Slavery
Theater

A Twisted Tale of Slavery

Rep’s The Whipping Man offers intense look at a master and his freed slaves.

Theater: Rhythm of the Streets
Theater

Rhythm of the Streets

In the Heights floods the stage with the music of the barrio, but leaves the Skylight searching for more drama.

Theater: Not Easy to Talk About Race
Theater

Not Easy to Talk About Race

Mamet’s play pushes all the hot buttons, and Next Act and audience struggle with the results.

Theater: The Ghost of Judy Garland
Theater

The Ghost of Judy Garland

“End of the Rainbow” replays Garland’s last days in a backstage play that’s better musically than dramatically.

Theater: Still Radical After All These Years
Theater

Still Radical After All These Years

The Rep’s “Woody Sez” mixes Guthrie’s great music and still provocative politics.

Op-Ed: Why Kimberly Walker Was Fired
Op-Ed

Why Kimberly Walker Was Fired

The county board had ample grounds for dismissing the Corporation Counsel.

The Story Behind the Strike

The Story Behind the Strike

Thin reporting and overheated commentary have obscured the real story of why workers are striking against Palermo’s.