‘Almost, Maine’ Is a Lot of Fun
It's one of regional theater’s most frequent offerings and Next Act production shows us why.
Nov 24th, 2024
Skylight’s ‘Oliver!’ Is Fast Moving Songfest
The acting lacks depth but the fine singing makes for a nice holiday show.
Nov 17th, 2024
Never Mind the Plot in ‘Alcina’
This cut-down chamber version of Handel opera has great voices and great spirit.
Nov 13th, 2024
Roston and Thomas Rock in Latest Rep Show
'Marie and Rosetta' is at the Stiemke Studio through Dec. 15.
Oct 29th, 2024
Renaissance’s ‘The Moors’ Is a ‘Excellent Menagerie’
This is not theater for everyone, but it is good theater that upends theater norms.
Oct 22nd, 2024
Madama Butterfly Delights In Brief Run
Opera is among "best and most thoughtful" Florentine productions.
Oct 21st, 2024
Growing Theater Group Finds New Home in Third Ward
And with it, a bigger platform for 'In The Canyon,' which can discomfort and delight the audience.
Oct 14th, 2024
Skylight’s ‘Waitress’ Has Big Voices, Thin Script
Energetic staging of hit Broadway musical has its moments, but not enough of them.
Oct 7th, 2024
Next Act’s Wrestling Play Is Fun Flashy Romp
'The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity' had the audience booing, cheering and stomping.
Sep 16th, 2024
Rep’s ‘Prelude to a Kiss’ Is Potent Musical
Big production, big voices of talented cast help uneven musical cast a spell.
Sep 15th, 2024
Rep’s ‘Women of Rock’ Is Musical Blast
A tribute to many great women rockers sung by powerful performers, it's great fun.
Sep 11th, 2024
Rep’s ‘The Coast Starlight’ Is An Intriguing Journey
West coast train route is setting for a language play that starts strong but loses its way.
Sep 8th, 2024
‘The Realness’ Captures Hip Hop Scene
Energetic Milwaukee Black Theatre Festival show deserves a bigger audience.
Aug 11th, 2024
New Musical a Life and Death Comedy
World premiere of 'RIP' offers graveyard humor, groaner puns and a forgettable score.
Jul 19th, 2024
‘The Treasurer’ a Darkly Funny Family Play
Next Act production captures complications of caretaker son dealing with controlling mother's dementia.
Apr 29th, 2024
Rep’s Nina Simone Play a Puzzle
'Nina Simone: Four Women' is really not a play at all, but the singing is stunning.
Apr 23rd, 2024
Florentine Offers Bronzeville Boheme
Localizing Puccini's 'La Boheme' in Milwaukee's Bronzeville yielded uneven but affecting production.
Apr 22nd, 2024
Skylight’s ‘Eternity’ Is a Slam Bang Show
But 2013 musical adaptation of 'From Here to Eternity' offers more fireworks than humanity.
Apr 15th, 2024
The Unknown Joan Baez
New documentary about legendary folk singer finds mystery and surprises.
Apr 11th, 2024
‘The Taste of Things’ Is a Jewel
Lovely French film about food and love stands out even compared to Oscar winners.
Apr 9th, 2024
The Life Story of Gene Wilder
New documentary on Milwaukee-born movie star is breezy fun, with delightful clips and interviews.
Apr 8th, 2024
‘Body Politic’ Is a Timely Documentary
Film about Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott is a potent, polished production.
Apr 5th, 2024
‘L’Appartement’ Is a Mind-Bending Comedy
North American premiere of Australian play gets smart RTW production.
Mar 25th, 2024
‘The Mountaintop’ Offers Very Human Martin Luther King Jr.
Uneven MCT production offers commanding performance by Bryant Bentley as King.
Mar 11th, 2024
‘The Chosen’ Is Subtly Powerful Drama
Strong production by The Rep captures the warmth and philosophy of Chaim Potok’s 1967 best selling novel.
Mar 10th, 2024
‘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.
Mar 4th, 2024
‘Scarecrow’ Is All About Wisconsin
Heidi Armbruster's skilled writing and performance of one-woman play offers humor, drama and an uneven ending.
Feb 25th, 2024
Florentine’s ‘Songbird’ Successfully Mixes Opera, Jazz
Show's short but imaginative run concludes Sunday.
Feb 17th, 2024
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'.
Feb 12th, 2024
Skylight Camps Up ‘Xanadu’
Stage version of 1980 film sends up the movie and Broadway musical mannerisms.
Jan 29th, 2024
‘The Wolves’ Is Great Theater
Renaissance offers fast paced yet thoughtful staging of punchy new play by Sarah DeLappe about a girls soccer team.
Jan 25th, 2024
Acting Shines In ‘Moon For Misbegotten’
Chamber Theatre cast makes O'Neill's classic American play come alive.
Jan 23rd, 2024
Rep’s ‘Little Women’ Modernizes Story
Results are uneven, with characters speechifying and Three Stooges-like comic moments.
Jan 22nd, 2024
‘The Mousetrap’ Is Polished and Professional
Famous Agatha Christie mystery gets a fun, smartly directed staging by Next Act.
Nov 27th, 2023
Ryback is Terrific as ‘Liberace’
Bur MCT’s funny, dazzling, one-man show turns too dark and maudlin in second act.
Nov 22nd, 2023
‘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.
Nov 21st, 2023
Rep’s ‘Dial M For Murder’ Adds New Twists
Jeffrey Hatcher’s clever new adaptation gets strong acting and powerful second act.
Nov 20th, 2023
Milwaukee Rep Tries Adding Nonsense To The Nutcracker
But does it work? Theater critic Dom Noth isn't sold.
Nov 7th, 2023
‘Witch’ Is a Stitch
Renaissance offers darkly funny, episodic update of 17th century fable pitting the devil against a witch.
Oct 23rd, 2023
Skylight’s ‘Candide’ Is a Marvel
Maybe too much clever staging of Voltaire story, Bernstein music, but great singing, fine acting.
Oct 17th, 2023
Florentine’s ‘Elixir of Love’ Is Silly Fun
Great voices and moments of sincerity gave the show more heft.
Oct 16th, 2023
All About Hip-Hop
Rep’s ‘Parental Advisory’ is one of a kind show about hip-hop’s place in American culture.
Oct 2nd, 2023
Next Act’s ‘Splash Hatch’ Is Potent Drama
Densely layered play with a quirky titie captures the dread and hopes of inner city life.
Sep 27th, 2023
‘Laughs in Spanish’ Rarely Delivers It
Comic whodunit plot with telenovela echoes gets uneven MCT production.
Sep 26th, 2023
‘Run Bambi Run’ Is a Spectacular Production
Rep’s new rock musical about Laurie Bembenek lacks depth, but pulsates with energy and attitude.
Sep 25th, 2023
‘Country Sunshine’ Is Packed With Songs
Rep's show mostly a concert with anecdotes, but lead songstress Katie Deal is the real deal.
Sep 12th, 2023
Skylight Wows With New Rock Musical
World premiere heads for broad exposure in fancy production.
Jun 1st, 2023
Florentine’s ‘Barber’ Oh-So Familiar
Final show of season offers not-so-fresh take on Rossini's famed comic opera.
May 23rd, 2023
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.
May 1st, 2023
Rep’s ‘God of Carnage’ Has Plenty Of It
Affluent couples arguing about their kids yields heated drama, but production more stagy than subtle.
Apr 24th, 2023
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
Apr 18th, 2023
‘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.
Mar 27th, 2023
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.
Mar 21st, 2023
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!
Mar 20th, 2023
‘Hoops’ Circles Around Jewelry Black Women Wear
Chamber Theatre presents new play, new voices targeting racism about simple hoops.
Mar 15th, 2023
Rep’s ‘Seven Guitars’ Offers Jaunty Characters, Juicy Dialogue
August Wilson play is uneven, but insightful about 1940's-era Black American lives.
Mar 15th, 2023
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.
Feb 28th, 2023
Milwaukeeans Will Create Broadway Show
Pulitzer-winning playwright Ayad Akhtar and 'La La Land' composer Justin Hurwitz will collaborate.
Feb 16th, 2023
‘Heart Sellers’ Is Winning World Premiere
Rep's comedy about Asian immigrants in 1970s will sneak up on you with its insights.
Feb 13th, 2023
‘Evita’ Boasts Strong Singing, Dancing
Skylight's staging may lack enough quieter moments, but has plenty of vocal power.
Feb 6th, 2023
‘Dino’ With Songs and Stereotypes
Milwaukee Rep's cabaret show bio of Dean Martin offers cornball jokes and irrelevant songs.
Jan 26th, 2023
Renaissance Tackles Potent Pulitzer Winner
'Cost of Living' is strong drama about disabled characters performed by disabled actors.
Jan 25th, 2023
Chamber Theatre Not Afraid of Virginia Woolf
Revival of Albee’s caustic classic is well acted, powerful and intriguing.
Jan 23rd, 2023
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.
Jan 17th, 2023
‘The Tin Woman’ Offers Heartache, Humor
Next Act's slightly surreal dramedy about a heart transplant has strong scenes but weak ending.
Nov 28th, 2022
Skylight Goes All Disney For Holidays
Is it possible to have too many good tunes? Perhaps, but the performers have pizzaz.
Nov 23rd, 2022
Chamber Theatre’s ‘Misery’ Is Intense
Production more intimate than famous movie but dramatically spotty.
Nov 22nd, 2022
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.
Nov 21st, 2022
Rep’s ‘Beehive’ Revives 60’s Teen Ballads
But who knew these girl pop groups were supposed to be proto-feminist?
Nov 15th, 2022
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.
Oct 24th, 2022
Florentine Opens Season With Roméo et Juliette Opera
Dom Noth reviews the highs and lows of Florentine's latest opera.
Oct 17th, 2022
“Where Did We Sit On The Bus?” Aims To Address Segregation
But Milwaukee Chamber Theatre stumbles into banalities.
Oct 4th, 2022
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.
Oct 3rd, 2022
A New Name In Wisconsin Theater
Director Jacob Janssen moved from Manhattan to lead Sturgeon Bay’s Third Street Playhouse.
Sep 28th, 2022
Why Black Men Die Young
Next Act’s ‘Kill Move Paradise’ is beautifully directed and acted though the dialogue can get preachy.
Sep 27th, 2022
Skylight’s ‘Mamma Mia’ All About the Songs
So hummable and beloved by audiences. But a little more grounding in plot wouldn’t hurt.
Sep 26th, 2022
The Return of The Titanic
Acclaimed Rep production of musical shut down last May by pandemic will return.
Sep 15th, 2022
Rep Remembers Nat King Cole
‘Unforgettable’ is more about music than theater, but the expert musicians make it an enjoyable tribute.
Sep 13th, 2022
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.
Sep 1st, 2022
Tony Crivello Returns In ‘McGuire’
Tony-winning Milwaukee native stars in fresh staging of one-man show about legendary Marquette basketball coach.
Jul 12th, 2022
Whodunit? Who Cares
Rep derails ‘Orient Express’ with ham acting, exaggerated accents and technical gimmicky.
Jun 7th, 2022
Rose Kennedy As She Never Quite Was
Renaissance one-woman show is a wonderful production of a play that will surprise you.
May 24th, 2022
Skylight Soars With ‘Hunchback of Notre Dame’
Potent music by Dennis DeYoung of Styx, big cast, great voices and period atmosphere.
May 23rd, 2022
Rep’s Titanic Will Return This Fall
Show canceled, some 10,000 tickets refunded, after many in the large cast caught COVID-19.
May 18th, 2022
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.
Apr 18th, 2022
Skylight Stages 1970s Musical ‘Raisin’
But the musical version often loses power of watershed play ‘Raisin in the Sun.’
Apr 13th, 2022
Rep’s ‘Titanic’ Is a Triumph
A massive undertaking with terrific performers that never misses the show’s humanity or intimacy.
Apr 12th, 2022
Rach Meets Rachmaninoff
Milwaukee Opera Theatre’s "Preludes" is a unique yet disappointing musical theater work about the composer.
Apr 5th, 2022
Rep’s ‘New Age’ Is Not So New
Show celebrating the power of women covers familiar territory, but hits home.
Mar 29th, 2022
“Babel” Offers Disturbing View of Future
Uneven production by The Constructivists imagines society with genetic laws that decide who lives and dies.
Mar 28th, 2022
The Surprise Pick for Best Picture
‘Drive My Car’ is an intriguing mystery, both as a film and an Oscar pick.
Mar 22nd, 2022
What I Hear You Saying Is…
Renaissance production of ‘Actually’ looks at sex and consent for university students with thought-provoking play.
Mar 16th, 2022
‘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.
Mar 15th, 2022
Florentine’s Smaller Show Is Charming
Two early 20th century mini-operas, 'Cinderella,' and a Ravel work about a naughty child, are well performed.
Mar 14th, 2022
‘The Lost Daughter’ Is a Slow Burner
Well crafted and thoughtfully naturalistic, but too slow, despite its nominations.
Mar 9th, 2022
The Academy Awards’ Hateful Eight
To trim the show’s length, eight awards won’t be presented in prime time. That’s a mistake.
Mar 2nd, 2022
‘Tragedy of Macbeth’ Robbed Of Nominations
Should have gotten best picture, best actress nods. And what a performance by Denzel Washington.
Feb 24th, 2022
Rep’s Beatles’ Flavored Bard a Blast
Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ with Beatles songs creates funny frothy fun.
Feb 21st, 2022
‘West Side Story’ Deserves Bigger Audience
It’s a great film, with seven Oscar nods but should have gotten eight.
Feb 16th, 2022
Even the Program Notes Are Funny
Next Act’s ‘Pipeline’ is witty, insightful look at dilemmas posed for Black students, families at upscale school.
Feb 15th, 2022
Poor Poor Princess Diana
The film ‘Spencer’ is beautiful but silly. And Kristen Stewart is a weak choice for best actress.
Feb 9th, 2022
So Many Choices for Supporting Actress
Even getting down to top five picks isn’t easy.
Feb 8th, 2022
Nightmare Alley Is Over Hyped
A disappointment for a fine director, but might still get some Oscar nods.
Feb 4th, 2022
MCT’s ‘Mala’ Is Good Family Drama
Rána Roman shines in one-person show, but staging is uneven.
Feb 1st, 2022
Black, Latino and Poor in America
Rep’s one man show, ‘Antonio’s Song,’ is a powerful memoir play that includes audience discussion.
Jan 31st, 2022
‘Being the Ricardos’ Is Intriguing, But…
A plot-heavy mishmash, with strong performances by Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem.
Jan 28th, 2022
Skylight’s ‘Shackleton’ Is a Wild One
Elusive, fascinating, hypnotic musical with terrific performances. It will linger in your mind.
Jan 25th, 2022
‘King Richard’ Had Blockbuster Potential
Pandemic hurt its box office, yet it’s a fine film that may get Oscar nods.
Jan 19th, 2022
Rep’s ‘Toni Stone’ Is a Winner
Play deftly dramatizes life of first woman to play in Negro Baseball League.
Jan 18th, 2022
‘The Power of the Dog’ Bites Deep
Jane Campion’s film demands close attention and deserves awards.
Jan 14th, 2022
Rep’s ‘Piano Men’ Is Never The Same
Audiences help decide songs in each performance. Sounds chaotic but works nicely.
Jan 10th, 2022
Cold War Comedy For Christmas
Next Act’s ‘Red Herring’ is stuffed with Soviet spies, FBI agents and love affairs, but not enough laughs.
Nov 29th, 2021
‘Little Shop of Horrors’ Is Big Fun
Skylight’s revival of 1980s musical is over the top and perfectly pitched.
Nov 23rd, 2021
‘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.
Nov 16th, 2021
Rep’s Comedy Aims At Packer Fans
And ‘Dad’s Season Tickets’ hits the mark. Musical is funny, homey and too long.
Nov 2nd, 2021
Renaissance Offers Well-Baked Treat
‘The Cake’ is a sweet comedy about a southern baker pushed to change her traditional ways.
Oct 27th, 2021
Chamber Theatre Offers Home Cooking
‘Stew’ mixes a Black family’s conflicts and musings on Shakespeare, with uneven results.
Oct 25th, 2021
Florentine Stages ‘Rigoletto,’ A Warhorse of Grand Opera
Verdi's "Rigoletto" played for two days at the Marcus Performing Arts Center.
Oct 11th, 2021
Big Voices Power ‘The Full Monty’
Its thin plot and serviceable music get an energetic Skylight production that punches it home.
Sep 28th, 2021
Strong Acting Powers ‘Three Viewings’
Live theater is back and Next Act show offers laughs, surprises and sorrow.
Sep 27th, 2021
Brief Encounters On Water Street
Renaissance Theaterworks offers uneven evening of five short plays by Midwestern writers.
Jun 7th, 2021
A Thousand Natural Shocks, In a Basement
The one-woman play, set in a basement, that manages to cover a a lot of ground.
May 24th, 2021
Ella With All the Scat Singing
Alexis Roston performs Ella Fitzgerald songs in fine Milwaukee Rep production — and first live show in 13 months!
May 3rd, 2021
A Songful Satire of Thanksgiving
Milwaukee Chamber Theatre presents ‘The Thanksgiving Play’ by MacArthur Fellow, playwright Larissa FastHorse.
Apr 28th, 2021
A Stunner About a Sociopath
Next Act’s “9 Circles” offers psychological interrogation of young killer with a powerful performance by Casey Hoekstra.
Apr 26th, 2021
Around the World in 90 Minutes
MCT’s ‘Underneath the Lintel’ is a crazed, complex one-woman show that is unforgettable. Alas.
Apr 12th, 2021
Gobel Is Powerful in ‘Neat’
Playing multiple characters, Marti Gobel powers engaging tale of growing up Black in the South.
Mar 22nd, 2021
Where the Bones Are Buried
MCT production dramatizes a tragic story along the Mexican border.
Mar 18th, 2021
‘The Island’ Still Packs a Punch
MCT presents apartheid-era play by Athol Fugard. It’s a powerful production.
Mar 2nd, 2021
Unique ‘Zoiree’ Features SistaStrings
Plus puppets, a musical choir and a theme of internet imposters and called ‘The Sound.’
Feb 18th, 2021
Lessons From an Inner City School
Next Act Theater’s ‘Principal Principle’ is an edgy look at a new teacher trying to make good.
Feb 17th, 2021
Let Us Now Sing About the Pandemic
Milwaukee Opera Theatre ‘zoirèe’ premieres a new musical, 'In the Clouds'. It’s fun.
Jan 25th, 2021
The Skylight Sings of Christmas
The best parts of streamed holiday show are the less traditional numbers.
Dec 15th, 2020
Mankind Was My Business
The Rep offers ‘Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol.’ It’s Dickens with a twist.
Dec 13th, 2020
Short Plays That Stretch Your Mind
Renaissance Theaterworks offers three works by playwrights of color. It’s an adventure.
Dec 11th, 2020
APT Offers Two Holiday Tales
Both streamed. One based on ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ is a true delight.
Dec 4th, 2020
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.
Nov 25th, 2020
Theaters Offer Holiday Shows
Including different versions of Dickens and ‘It’s a Wonderful Life.’
Nov 24th, 2020
Local Companies Are Innovating Amid Pandemic
Renaissance, Next Act and Milwaukee Rep all are finding creative ways to do theater.
Nov 16th, 2020
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.
Oct 19th, 2020
Florentine Presents Its ‘Carmen’ Digitally
And it's a success. Plus: backstage photos of the full stage production that was cancelled.
Mar 19th, 2020
Milwaukee Arts Groups Suspending Shows
Milwaukee Rep closed till April 5, Florentine Opera going digital, others cancelling.
Mar 13th, 2020
Rep’s ‘Eclipsed’ Is Harrowing Yet Funny
A brutal look at Liberian War from women’s viewpoint is unique and often powerful.
Mar 11th, 2020
Gentle Drama Gets a World Premiere
Wisconsin playwright Erica Berman’s ‘No Wake’ is sweet but flawed, as is the production.
Feb 24th, 2020
Skylight’s Spelling Bee Musical a Hard Sell
‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ should have been more fun.
Feb 10th, 2020
Who Should Win the Oscars?
And a documentary film, American Factory, that deserves to be singled out.
Feb 8th, 2020
Tom Hanks Is Memorable as Mr. Rogers
Why he deserves an Oscar for A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.
Feb 7th, 2020
Next Act Play Punches Above Its Weight
‘A Small Fire’ is classic ensemble production about family facing a parent’s sudden decline.
Feb 4th, 2020
Rep’s ‘Hedwig’ Is Crazy Rock-Fueled Fun
Gender-bender musical is a kind of carnival mixing comedy, drama and a bizarre love story.
Feb 3rd, 2020
‘The Irishman’ Is Not the Best Scorsese
And doesn’t deserve best film Oscar. And yet it's powerful, and meaningful on many levels.
Jan 29th, 2020
‘Happy Days’ Is Superb, Funny and Sad
Gordon’s acting, Kohler’s direction capture Beckett’s humanity in Renaissance Theaterworks show.
Jan 27th, 2020
Oscars Underrate ’Ford v Ferrari’
Wonderful performance by Christian Bales anchors strong film that deserved more nominations.
Jan 24th, 2020
A Small Film About The Great War
‘1917’ is nominated for best film of the year. It’s not even close.
Jan 22nd, 2020
‘Chasin’ Dem Blues’ Is Joyous Fun
Four great performers relive the era when a Grafton WI company was a leader in blues music.
Jan 22nd, 2020
Skylight’s “Gospel at Colonus” Soars Musically
Unique mix of Greek theater, gospel music and blues is powered by great voices.
Jan 21st, 2020
Rep’s Comic Drag Show Is Fun
‘Legend of Georgia McBride’ is cliched, but sizzling performances make it a fun romp.
Jan 20th, 2020
‘The Joker’ Is a New Low for Oscars
This disgraceful film doesn’t deserve nominations for best picture or best actor.
Jan 16th, 2020
Mischievous “Two Popes” Packs a Punch
And Jonathan Pryce deserves the best actor Oscar for his portrayal of Pope Francis.
Jan 15th, 2020
‘Little Women’ a Minor Movie
Greta Gerwig’s screenplay and direction not a major improvement on past film versions.
Jan 14th, 2020
A ‘Ruddigore’ For the Ages
Skylight production of less-known Gilbert & Sullivan operetta is clever, funny and smartly sung.
Jan 6th, 2020
So Many Jokes, So Little Time
Next Act has fun with Neil Simon’s ‘Laughter on the 23rd Floor.’
Nov 26th, 2019
‘The Nerd’ Is Still a Laugh Riot
The Rep’s revival of Larry Shue play it originated is fresh, funny and fast moving.
Nov 18th, 2019
‘Hamilton’ Was Worth the Wait
Touring show that’s arrived in Milwaukee is a fantastic production of a must-see show.
Oct 24th, 2019
‘The Roommate’ Is Funny, Serious, Fast-Paced
Renaissance Theaterworks show has weaknesses but good acting, directing make it all work.
Oct 21st, 2019
Five Films That Surprise
Review of mostly documentaries covering powerful topics.
Oct 17th, 2019
Film Fest Bigger Than Ever
So many choices you may have trouble picking which to see. But what a lovely problem.
Oct 16th, 2019
An Awkward Marriage
Music soars, comedy doesn’t in Florentine’s ‘Marriage of Figaro’.
Oct 14th, 2019
Joking Around A Revolution
Playwright brings her own guillotine to Next Act production
Oct 1st, 2019
Doing Fine ‘Oklahoma!’
Skylight’s stripped down approach brings freshness to 76 year old musical
Sep 30th, 2019
‘The Niceties’ Turns Nasty
Feminism, race and white privilege shatter academia at Rep’s Stiemke theater
Sep 30th, 2019
Reflections Within a Riot
‘Fires in the Mirror’ propels power of documentary theater
Sep 23rd, 2019
A Tony To Die For
He leads Milwaukee Rep’s most incisive musical to date, ‘West Side Story’
Sep 23rd, 2019
‘2 Pianos, 4 Hands’, Some Laughs
Milwaukee Rep’s cabaret comedy offers piano virtuosity, many gags and slight plot.
Sep 10th, 2019
‘Give Me Liberty’ Is All Milwaukee
Milwaukee director’s acclaimed film is unique: funny, sad and filled with humanity.
Aug 26th, 2019
Chamber Theatre Sets Farce in Sheboygan
‘Unnecessary Farce’ is yes, a farce that’s uneven, but fast moving fun.
Aug 12th, 2019
Skylight Hires New Artistic Director
New York-based director Michael Unger hired. Ponasik will continue as artistic advisor.
Jul 17th, 2019
‘Kiss Me, Kate’ Has Hits, Misses
Skylight production has two strong leads and provides lots of (sometimes corny) fun.
May 21st, 2019
The Florentine’s ‘Night at the Opera’ Bows
Not a remake of the 1930s comedy film, but maybe the Bucks caused the sparse turnout.
May 20th, 2019
So There Was This Barbershop Quartet
Whose lead singer died, provoking jokes and songs in In Tandem’s ‘The Fabulous Lipitones’.
May 1st, 2019
‘Two Trains Running’ Is a Powerful Ride
Rep production captures August Wilson’s great characters and social poetry.
Apr 22nd, 2019
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.
Apr 16th, 2019
In Tandem Readies Its Final Play
Two-decade-old theater’s last show ‘The Fabulous Lipitones’ opens April 25.
Apr 16th, 2019
Suicide, Depression and… Comedy
Rep’s ‘Every Brilliant Thing’ engages and amuses audience on some dark subjects.
Apr 15th, 2019
“The King And I,” 68 Years Later
Touring show is strong, smart revival, but still raises issues about changing cultural attitudes.
Apr 10th, 2019
“Annie Jump” Is a Technical Triumph
New play premiered by Renaissance has great atmosphere, but mawkish scenarios.
Apr 1st, 2019
Sex in the Roman Empire, Well Sung
Florentine’s ‘Poppea’ offers lust and neuroses, well staged with big juicy voices.
Mar 25th, 2019
Skylight’s ‘Carmina Burana’ Will Wow You
The most original and mesmerizing production I’ve seen this season.
Mar 18th, 2019
Mother Knows Best
Rep’s family play ‘Things I Know to Be True’ is uneven, but audience seems captivated.
Mar 11th, 2019
In Tandem’s Two Hander A Treat
In 'Velocity', aging mother and estranged son fight over her independence, with dramatic, witty results.
Feb 27th, 2019
‘Strange Snow’ Probes Vietnam War Wounds
Chamber Theatre production is uneven but packs a punch.
Feb 26th, 2019
‘Cold War’ Could Cause Oscar Confusion
But black-and-white Polish film about romance amid Cold War is beautiful, bewitching.
Feb 22nd, 2019
‘Buster Scruggs’ Is Not To Be Missed
Yet many haven’t seen this wonderfully creepy Coen Brothers cowboy movie homage.
Feb 22nd, 2019
‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ Is a Sonic Spectacle
Nominee Rami Malek soars as Freddie Mercury. And the sound effects, wow!
Feb 22nd, 2019
Should ‘Black Panther’ Win Best Picture?
A watershed for black inclusion that’s grossed $1.4 billion — but not a great film.
Feb 20th, 2019
Two RBG Films, One Good, One Bad
She’s so omnipresent maybe they could hire justice Ginsburg as Oscar host.
Feb 19th, 2019
See the Exotic Chinese Lady!
Rep’s 'The Chinese Lady' probes a 19th century carny show and white attitudes about immigrants.
Feb 18th, 2019
‘The Wife’ and the Best Actresses
Several strong nominees but Glenn Close’s performance in 'The Wife' stands out.
Feb 15th, 2019
‘Roma’ Is a Masterpiece
But will its origin via Netflix doom its chances of winning Academy’s favor?
Feb 15th, 2019
Despite Naysayers, ‘Green Book’ Is a Treat
Two great acting performances and the story’s often subtle about black-white divisions.
Feb 12th, 2019
My ‘Favourite’ Royal Costume Drama
'Mary, Queen of Scots' is far less satisfying than 'The Favourite’. The reasons are many.
Feb 12th, 2019
‘Vice’ Is Short on Virtues
Great makeup artistry, but not comic enough to be comedy or deep enough for drama.
Feb 11th, 2019
The Tangled Roots of Racism
Next Act’s “Blood at the Root” hits hard, but lacks subtlety and shading.
Feb 4th, 2019
Going Crazy for Louis Jordan
Skylight’s ‘Five Guys Named Moe’ is a dance party that’s more about music than story.
Jan 28th, 2019
Up a Lazy River
Rep’s cabaret show “Mark Twain’s River of Song” meanders too easily into cliches.
Jan 22nd, 2019
Science, Sexism and the Nobel Prize
Renaissance staging of Photograph 51 champions double helix discoverer Rosalind Franklin.
Jan 21st, 2019
Rep’s ‘Junk’ Is Fast-Paced Thriller
Big cast of juicy characters and dark, witty look at Wall Street junk bond deals of 1980s.
Jan 21st, 2019
Black Nativity Explodes With Song
Bronzeville Arts Ensemble brings us the old story with modern musical trappings.
Dec 11th, 2018
‘Babylon’ Is Funny As Hell
Though second act flags a bit, Chamber Theatre’s new Christmas play is a theatrical triumph.
Nov 26th, 2018
Skylight’s ‘Hairspray’ Offers Non-Stop Energy
Production has show stopping numbers, but lacks heart and humanity.
Nov 20th, 2018
The Return of Jane Austen
Rep’s new play updates Austen’s characters, but with far too much cuteness and cavorting.
Nov 19th, 2018
Rep Skillfully Struts Its Stuff
Cabaret show, ‘The All Night Strut!” has great cast and staging, but pushes a tad hard for your love.
Nov 12th, 2018
Tale of the Woodcarver
Unique theater-dance piece explores the life of Wisconsin artist Levi Fisher Ames.
Oct 24th, 2018
Don’t You Be My Neighbor
Renaissance staging of ‘Native Gardens’ pits a white couple against the Hispanic couple next door.
Oct 23rd, 2018
“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.
Oct 15th, 2018
Humor and Horror at the Taj Mahal
Milwaukee Rep’s ‘Guards at the Taj’ is a gripping mix of fantasy, history, comedy and tragedy.
Oct 2nd, 2018
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.
Oct 1st, 2018
Skylight’s ‘Pippin’ Is a Puzzle
All that energy and pizzaz for musical set in Middle Ages, but what does it all mean?
Sep 25th, 2018
Dogs, Cats and Humans Who Love Them
MCT production of Irish play, "Chapatti" is a triumph of terrific acting.
Sep 24th, 2018
Rep’s New Stackner Cabaret a Hit
Opening show, "Songs for Nobodies," is showcase for singer-actress Bethany Thomas.
Sep 11th, 2018
Story Of a Great American Actor
Theater Red and Angela Iannone give us a new play about legendary 19th century actor Edwin Booth.
Aug 28th, 2018
Tragedy and Laughter at APT
Exit the King and enter Billie Dawn, in two wildly different plays and production styles.
Jul 20th, 2018
The Miracle of American Players Theatre
Actors, critics and audiences gather in Spring Green for classical theater.
Jul 18th, 2018
Skylight’s Urinetown Is Fast-Paced Fun
But the musical itself feels less subversive that it once did.
May 21st, 2018
‘Magic Flute’ Boasted Strong Cast
But Florentine’s staging sometimes seemed at odds with its singers.
May 14th, 2018
‘The Fantasticks’ Is… Fantastic
Strong cast, good voices, fresh take on an old classic by In Tandem Theatre.
Apr 30th, 2018
A National Conversation About Guns
On Friday, theaters across the U.S. will do readings of “Natural Shocks’, a new humorous play about guns.
Apr 17th, 2018
Is “Our Town” Still Relevant Today?
Milwaukee Rep’s solid production suggests the answer is (mostly) yes.
Apr 16th, 2018
Abele’s $1 Million Power Play
His LeadershipMKE group muddies the waters for April election.
Mar 29th, 2018
“Tales of Hoffman” Is Inventive, Enchanting
Skylight and Milwaukee Opera collaboration finds more than great music in Offenbach’s romantic tale.
Mar 20th, 2018
Florentine Offers Opera’s Greatest Hits
And the result is a lovely showcase of great songs and great performers.
Mar 19th, 2018
Rep’s World Premiere A Letdown
“One House Over” is noble effort, but both play and production lack depth.
Mar 5th, 2018
The Man Who Almost Lost His Mind
In Tandem’s production of a play about Alzheimer’s misfires, but Jim Pickering is fun.
Feb 27th, 2018
‘The Brothers Size’ Upsets Expectations
Play by rising black playwright mixes dance, music and more in potent MCT production.
Feb 26th, 2018
‘Wonder’ Is Not So Wondrous
Story about child with deformed face depends on stereotypes — and Julia Roberts.
Feb 20th, 2018
Could Horror Film Grab Oscars?
Jordan Peele’s 'Get Out’ is a horror thriller with sly commentary on racial relations.
Feb 16th, 2018
The Western That Wanted Oscars
‘Hostiles” was touted as “best western since ‘Unforgiven.’” Dead wrong.
Feb 15th, 2018
‘Molly’s Game’ Is a Fast-Paced Romp
Director-writer Aaron Sorkin, actress Jessica Chastain propel high-stakes poker world.
Feb 8th, 2018
Day-Lewis Haunting in ‘Phantom Thread’
And writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson is his brilliantly perverse accomplice.
Feb 6th, 2018
Skylight’s Sci-Fi Musical Is a Blast
‘Zombies From the Beyond’ sends up B movies of ‘50s and much more.
Feb 5th, 2018
An Art Film for Today’s Generation
‘Call Me By Your Name’ is slow, idyllic, humane, and Oscar-nominated.
Feb 1st, 2018
Small Is Beautiful for Florentine
Intimate production of two Baroque operas is a charming change of pace.
Jan 29th, 2018
The Newspaper Publisher As Heroine
Spielberg’s 'The Post’ is timed to today, and Meryl Streep’s Katherine Graham sells it.
Jan 25th, 2018
A Russian Comic Mystery Drama
Renaissance production of ‘Russian Transport’ covers all the bases powerfully.
Jan 22nd, 2018
McDormand Oscar-Worthy in ‘Three Billboards’
Role of ferocious mother dominates grim, funny film by Irish playwright.
Jan 19th, 2018
‘The Shape Of Water’ Is Stunning
Director’s distinctive style creates a beauty-and-beast romance in a dark fascist world.
Jan 18th, 2018
Is ‘Lady Bird’ Overrated?
A fine coming-of-age film, yes, but surely oversold by critics.
Jan 16th, 2018
Rep’s ‘Animal Farm’ Is Heavy Hoofing
Adaptation of Orwell’s allegorical novel has strong visuals, but plodding pace.
Jan 15th, 2018
Refighting World War II
‘Dunkirk' and 'Darkest Hour' bring back Churchill, Fortress Britain and big movie themes.
Jan 12th, 2018
No, I Didn’t Kneecap Nancy
“I Tonya” is a gripping, blackly comic bio of infamous ice skater Tonya Harding.
Jan 11th, 2018
An Old Milwaukee Christmas
Chamber Theatre’s “Miracle on South Division Street” feels very Milwaukee, despite creaky script.
Nov 27th, 2017
Next Act Offers an Acting Clinic
Comic drama “The Secret Mask” is uneven, but well-directed actors give it power.
Nov 21st, 2017
Oh, How New ‘Annie” Seems
‘70s musical seems to comment on today’s politics, in a Skylight show that shines.
Nov 20th, 2017
Searching For the Real Sherlock
Rep’s ‘Holmes and Watson’ puzzle play has second half sparks after a talky first half.
Nov 20th, 2017
‘Sex With Strangers’ Scores
Play by ‘House of Cards” writer is a witty, gritty and erotic battle of the sexes.
Oct 24th, 2017
The Not Always ‘Merry Widow’
Florentine production has low and high points, as third act delivers the fun.
Oct 23rd, 2017
They Aimed At The Stars
Next Act’s ‘Silent Sky’ is artful theater about women scientists who helped explore the universe.
Oct 3rd, 2017
Rep Scores Again with Akhtar Play
Another play by Brookfield-raised, Pulitzer-winning writer, another potent production.
Oct 2nd, 2017
Truly a Singular Sensation
Milwaukee Opera’s radical production of A Chorus Line inverts the ages of performers.
Aug 28th, 2017
Remembering Barbara Cook
The late great singer was in Tony Bennett’s class as a live performer.
Aug 9th, 2017
‘Sweeney Todd’ Is Grisly Fun
Skylight’s take on Sondheim musical has inventive staging and strong voices.
May 22nd, 2017
A Most Happy “Barber of Seville”
Musically great, but the staging missed the mark.
May 8th, 2017
Rep’s Jane Eyre Will Surprise You
More cool than romantic, it’s a psychologically gripping production.
May 1st, 2017
A Dickens of a Staging
Chamber Theatre’s ‘Great Expectations’ is cleverly staged, great fun.
Apr 17th, 2017
The Weight of Words
Renaissance staging of ‘The Violet Hour’ dramatizes the golden days of American publishing.
Apr 11th, 2017
Regrets, They Have a Few
Four actors deftly stretch time and memory in “Bloomsday.”
Apr 10th, 2017
Strong Cast Powers ‘Don Giovanni’
Great singers and deftly added modern touches stand out in Florentine production.
Mar 20th, 2017
Rep’s ‘Glass Menagerie’ Sparkles
Williams’ masterwork has good cast, pacing, but might have more weight.
Mar 13th, 2017
Love and Pain and Journalism
Milwaukee Chamber Theatre’s “The Few” is uneven, but mysterious.
Feb 28th, 2017
Loneliness Of The Long-Distance Pilot
Rep’s ‘Grounded’ is haunting drama about U.S. pilot doing drone warfare.
Feb 27th, 2017
Who Will Win The Oscars?
Our reviews may help you choose which nominees should win.
Feb 24th, 2017
The Silence Surrounding “Silence”
No one is talking about Martin Scorsese’s ambitious film. Should they be?
Feb 23rd, 2017
Two Films With Emotional Power
‘Lion’ and ‘Moonlight’ are two of year’s best films.
Feb 13th, 2017
The Oscars and Women
Three movies with strong women roles were mostly overlooked. Why?
Feb 9th, 2017
“Manchester” Is a Director’s Triumph
Despite Best Actor nod for Affleck, “Manchester By the Sea” is director Kenneth Lonergan’s movie.
Feb 2nd, 2017
‘Fences’ Offers Powerhouse Performances
As good as Denzel Washington is, Viola Davis is even better.
Feb 1st, 2017
‘Hidden Figures’ Simplifies Racial Realities
But the feel-good, smash hit about black women NASA specialists has strong moments.
Jan 31st, 2017
Meryl’s Metaphor For Our Times
Oscar nominated turn in ‘Florence Foster Jenkins' a funny echo of Trump's rise.
Jan 25th, 2017
Crivello Makes Al McGuire Come Alive
Milwaukee native and Broadway actor returns for Rep’s ‘McGuire’ and nails it.
Jan 24th, 2017
Rep’s ‘Disgraced’ Is Powerful, Provocative
Play by Pulitzer-winner Ayad Akhtar, Brookfield Central grad, is wowing audiences.
Jan 23rd, 2017
The Wisconsin That Was
Artist Terese Agnew’s powerful exhibit celebrates, laments state’s progressive past.
Jan 20th, 2017
‘La La Land’ Is Audacious, Adorable
And will probably win every award in sight. But maybe it shouldn’t.
Jan 19th, 2017
Jackie Kennedy As a Neurotic
The film “Jackie" offers a fresh, powerful take on the grieving widow, but gets overdone.
Jan 18th, 2017
Next Act’s Christmas Play Is Uneven
1950s Milwaukee radio setting is grabby, but acting is a tad flat.
Nov 22nd, 2016
We Need ‘La Cage’ More Than Ever
Skylight production of musical shows it’s still relevant -- and tons of fun.
Nov 21st, 2016
‘Drowning Girls’ Is Dry-Eyed Drama
Three brides victimized by serial killer tell their stories. It isn’t pretty.
Oct 24th, 2016
Florentine’s ‘Sister Carrie’ Is a Triumph
World premiere boasts strong score, great cast, uneven drama.
Oct 10th, 2016
Thoroughly Modern Musical
Skylight’s ‘Violet’ is energetic version of Broadway show with all the modern music idioms.
Oct 4th, 2016
Rep Stages Knockout Drama
‘The Royale’, loosely based on life of Jack Johnson, punches home the perils of black success.
Oct 3rd, 2016
Actresses Amuse in Chamber Theater Opener
Wanasek and Hitchcock anchor uneven staging of “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.”
Aug 16th, 2016
Skylight’s “Pirates” A Boatful of Laughs
Buoyed by nifty staging, fine singing, gags aplenty, it’s a huge hit with audiences.
May 23rd, 2016
‘Ernest in Love’ Is a Delight
Musical version of classic Wilde comedy is a revelation. Don’t miss it.
Apr 25th, 2016
A Masters Class in Period Posturing
Chamber Theatre’s “Fallen Angels” gets Coward’s comedy but not the more serious observations.
Apr 18th, 2016
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.
Mar 21st, 2016
Creating Thunder From Small Forces
Skylight’s ‘Crowns’ blends powerfully-sung spirituals with a gender gap tale set in the South.
Mar 7th, 2016
Growing Up Irish In Milwaukee
In Tandem offers solid staging of local playwright Mike Neville's bittersweet memory play.
Feb 23rd, 2016
A Nation at Urban War With Itself
Next Act offers powerful production of ‘Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992’
Feb 1st, 2016
‘Mice and Men’ Still Moving
Milwaukee Rep production boasts strong lead actors and powerful scenic elements.
Jan 25th, 2016
Hey Gang, We’re Putting on a Show!
Chamber Theatre’s ‘Love Stories’ offers easy-going approach to interconnect three one acts.
Nov 30th, 2015
Moses Scales the Mountain
Skylight’s sparkling staging of ‘My Fair Lady” paced by Norman Moses’ unforgettable Henry Higgins.
Nov 24th, 2015
The Rep Tries Agatha Christie
Its production of ‘The Mousetrap’ is fun but long on melodramatics.
Nov 23rd, 2015
The Short Happy Life of Emmett Till
Renaissance production captures the joys and tragic end of the teen whose death inspired civil rights activists.
Oct 26th, 2015
The Arab Among Us
Next Act’s ‘Back of the Throat’ offers angry, absurdist look at post 9/11 fears.
Oct 5th, 2015
Love (Sort Of) Between Poets
Chamber Theatre production captures a mystic romance between poets Robert Lowell and Elizabeth Bishop.
Sep 28th, 2015
Dear Elizabeth is a Love Story
Milwaukee Chamber Theatre takes everyone, cast included, on a journey into a special romance.
Sep 22nd, 2015
The Rep Goes Back Home Again
Remarkable musicality keeps the audience engaged, despite the piece's shaky dramatic underpinnings.
Sep 14th, 2015
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.
Jul 10th, 2015
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.
May 4th, 2015
Inherit the Wind Again?
Next Act Theatre’s fine staging of Ten Questions revisits the issue of evolution vs. religion (and creationism). Who wins?
Apr 13th, 2015
Rep’s Five Presidents Is Blandly Bipartisan
New play by “West Wing” writer is flat fare, but production is solid.
Mar 16th, 2015
Local Boy Makes Good?
In Tandem struggles with Milwaukee playwright Neil Haven’s comic drama, Come Back.
Mar 3rd, 2015
The Train Driver Offers Magnetic Acting
MCT staging of Fugard play is packed with moral and theatrical lessons.
Mar 2nd, 2015
Great Storytelling in The Amish Project
Deborah Staples shines, playing multiple characters, in riveting Rep show.
Feb 16th, 2015
Every Child Left Behind
A powerful one-woman show at Next Act probes the problems -- and drama -- of urban schools.
Feb 2nd, 2015
The Kreutzer Sonata Is Elegant, Powerful
Renaissance staging imaginatively merges music and drama in captivating adaptation of Tolstoy story.
Jan 27th, 2015
Laura Gordon Is a Show Stopper
Her terrific performance anchors Milwaukee Rep’s probing comic drama, Good People.
Jan 26th, 2015
MCT Shakespeare Spoof is a Nonstop Riot
Milwaukee Chamber Theatre show is fast--paced, hilarious parody and celebration of the Bard’s many plays.
Nov 25th, 2014
The All-Too Invisible Six Foot Rabbit
Rep’s Harvey has comic touches, but lacks subtlety and depth.
Nov 24th, 2014
Next Act Commits Heresy
A. R. Gurney’s futuristic parable offers strong views and weak drama, but a stellar cast does its best.
Nov 17th, 2014
Lion King Is Still a Winner
Even if you’ve seen it before, it can still surprise with its power and creativity.
Nov 14th, 2014
A Sudden Attack of Laughs
Four wildly different comedy shows are coming to Milwaukee.
Oct 7th, 2014
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.
Oct 6th, 2014
A Great Glass Menagerie
In Tandem Theatre production is smart, subtle and so true to Tennessee Williams.
Oct 1st, 2014
Color Purple Offers a Really Good Cry
Rep’s version of musical is splashy, flashy audience pleaser, but lacks depth.
Sep 30th, 2014
‘Rey’ Returns to the Midwest with Mystery and Magic
The Rep hosts an experimental two-person drama from an unpredictable young playwright
Sep 24th, 2014
In “The Good Father,” Artful Mastery of On-Stage Chemistry
At the Milwaukee Chamber Theater, an unexpected pregnancy bridges the class divide in Ireland.
Sep 23rd, 2014
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.
Sep 19th, 2014
The Glass Menagerie Is No Antique
In Tandem prepares to stage a fresh interpretation of the Tennessee Williams classic.
Sep 18th, 2014
Capitol Steps Fever Hits the Pabst Theater
The comedy troupe, including former D.C. staffers, skewers farcical Washington.
Sep 16th, 2014
Local Theater Companies Invest in the Unknown
Established Milwaukee theaters will present playwrights whose work may be unfamiliar to the local audience.
Sep 9th, 2014
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.
Sep 2nd, 2014
Iannone’s Own “Master Class”
Local talent reprises her acclaimed role as a diva in the Milwaukee Chamber Theatre’s celebrated production.
Aug 12th, 2014
APT’s Earnest A Bit Too Wilde
The cast handles witty language impeccably, but staging is overdone at times.
Jul 7th, 2014
“Magical Thinking” Packs Power
APT’s staging of Joan Didion book-turned-play is intimate, uneven yet powerful.
Jul 3rd, 2014
Romeo, Wherefore Art Thou?
APT’s Romeo and Juliet is strong on action and pacing, and weak on the tragic meaning of it all.
Jul 2nd, 2014
Going Crazy in Cleveland
Chamber Theatre deftly handles the antic farce, Lend Me a Tenor.
Apr 15th, 2014
Not Going Gently Into That Good Night
Next Act’s Three Views offers funny, insulting, despairing, poignant look at old age.
Apr 8th, 2014
The Heart of the Matter
Longtime First Stage director Rob Goodman returns to direct a new play starring children at Acacia Theatre.
Mar 4th, 2014
I Sing a Song of Sadness
Actor James DeVita turns An Iliad into an epic tale of war and woe.
Mar 3rd, 2014
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.
Feb 25th, 2014
A Twisted Tale of Slavery
Rep’s The Whipping Man offers intense look at a master and his freed slaves.
Feb 10th, 2014
Rhythm of the Streets
In the Heights floods the stage with the music of the barrio, but leaves the Skylight searching for more drama.
Feb 4th, 2014
Not Easy to Talk About Race
Mamet’s play pushes all the hot buttons, and Next Act and audience struggle with the results.
Feb 3rd, 2014
The Ghost of Judy Garland
“End of the Rainbow” replays Garland’s last days in a backstage play that’s better musically than dramatically.
Jan 13th, 2014
Still Radical After All These Years
The Rep’s “Woody Sez” mixes Guthrie’s great music and still provocative politics.
Jan 8th, 2014
Why Kimberly Walker Was Fired
The county board had ample grounds for dismissing the Corporation Counsel.
Jun 28th, 2013
The Story Behind the Strike
Thin reporting and overheated commentary have obscured the real story of why workers are striking against Palermo’s.
May 23rd, 2013
