Music

The Sun Shines Nellie (Review of Taylor Mac, Part II at PIFA, for Parterre Box)

Warmth, humor, and joyful out-and-proud-ness dominate the mood, yet there is considerable darkness in Mac’s view of both past and present.

A particular tension—between angry political resistance, and gloriously buoyant queerness—fuels TM24’s immense energy.

The “semi-staging” seen here delivers less theater than no staging at all.

The group is among the most distinguished AVA has had in memory.

The provocative show that director Emma Griffin offers here goes beyond a reimagined staging.

How do you like your Carmen? The role – and Bizet’s opera – contain multitudes.

The vocal standards are high, and the pleasure of discovering new talent always exhilarating.

Without its companion pieced, Trouble in Tahiti, this difficult late work feels like half of an opera.

A terrific evening of music and theater, and a thrilling affirmation of a magnificent work.

But why isn’t there more light and clarity in this moody but muddy work about illuminated manuscripts?