May 2016 – reclining standards

THEATER REVIEW: Home and Heroism in The Plough and the Stars at Irish Heritage Theatre

An A-for-effort production with some fine moments doesn’t fully realize the size and scale of the play.

At Bucks County Playhouse, Robert Harling’s formulaic script is made more enjoyable by a terrific cast.

Superb direction and a blue-chip cast in a beautiful, heartfelt, and visually glorious production.

As a play, Ballad has flaws; as a community experience, it’s overwhelming.

Lucas Hnath’s bold, beautifully nuanced play in a pitch-perfect production.

Considerable moment-to-moment power here is stronger than the big picture.

The energetic, high-wattage ensemble isn’t an optimal fit for this dark-tinged show about life on the margins.

A crowd pleasing, musically expert production of Donizetti’s delightful comedy closes the season in style.