"The Christmas Spider" by Skylark Opera Theatre at the Lowry Lab Theater

For the last several holiday* seasons, Skylark Opera Theatre has been presenting a modern one-act English-language opera. They're continuing that tradition this year with the one-weekend-only performance of The Christmas Spider, based on a Ukranian folktale. The super sweet story of a poor family finding miracles in nature and kindness has been turned into a beautiful and accessible opera. It would be the perfect introduction to opera for kids, with a sparse 45-minute runtime and two adorable and talented children in the cast. But no matter your age, it's a heart-warming and moving piece that as always is gorgeously performed by Skylark. Catch one of the four remaining performances at The Lowry Lab Theater inside St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists in downtown St. Paul, which is particularly pretty right now with all of the lights and the recent snowfall. It makes for a very festive outing.

"A Snowy Kiss" and "Holiday Office Party" at Strike Theater

And now for something different - a night of holiday* improv! Last year Strike Theater debuted a new long-form improv show - Holiday Office Party. And since I've attended my share of such events (although not anymore, post-covid my office has virtual holiday parties in which we do things like make origami or decorate gingerbread houses or play trivia games), I found it funny and relatable. Holiday Office Party is back this year for three weekends only. And since this weekend's performances were at 9pm, I decided to see the 730 show at Strike too, which was a one-weekend-only show by jorts! Improv. A Snowy Kiss is their annual tradition, an improvised holiday romance of the type we know so well from Hallmark and Netflix. It was a fun night of improv and a different sort of holiday show. Visit Strike's website for their upcoming show schedule.

"Santa's Surprise Party" by The Mechanical Division at The Hive Collaborative

The best surprise of this holiday* season is the return of DalekoArts! Sort of. Amanda White and Ben Thietje, founders of the New Prague theater company that closed its doors last year after 11 successful years, have returned to their former company The Mechanical Division to create a silly holiday comedy of the type frequently performed at Daleko. Written by Ben and directed by Amanda, and featuring actors we know and love from Daleko, it's almost like returning to that beloved theater, without the long but gorgeous drive. It's playing at The Hive Collaborative in St. Paul, which over the last year has become one of my favorite venues for its welcoming vibe and variety of programming, and this time of year is particularly cozy with holiday lights and decorations (owners Laura and Eric live next door and their house is the brightest on the block!). Even better, it's a 7pm show with a 70-minute runtime so you can be in bed by 9 go out after the show and do other fun holiday things! Santa's Surprise Party is sweet and silly and stupid and wonderful, with just three shows remaining and few tickets left!

"The Little Mermaid" on tour at the Ordway Center

This holiday season the Ordway is presenting a touring production of The Little Mermaid, the stage adaptation of the 1989 Disney movie that was the first of its modern era animated films. I don't think this is the most successful Disney adaptation. That would be The Lion King (currently the 3rd longest running Broadway musical), followed by Alladin or Beauty and the Beast (the Ordway did a gorgeous original local production of the latter in 2022, a tradition I hope they get back to next season). But even if it's not the best, and it's not local, The Little Mermaid is still a lot of fun for the littles and those of us of a certain age who grew up with the movie. It features a winning cast, and a cool design that is so effective in making us feel like we're "Under the Sea" that I almost got seasick! The Little Mermaid continues at the Ordway Center for Performing Arts in beautiful festive downtown St. Paul through December 29.

Broadway tour of "The Book of Mormon" at the Orpheum Theatre

The Book of Mormon is the fourth longest running musical of those currently playing on Broadway, and 12th of all time, soon to pass RENT to become the 11th longest running Broadway musical. It's been touring the country (and world) for years, and has stopped in Minneapolis numerous times. But I hadn't seen it since 2018 so I was more than ready to experience one of my favorite and one of the most joyful musicals again. Seeing it for the fifth time, I was instantly caught up in the humor and heart of the piece, cringing at the foul language, and having a wonderful time. The words I've written in the past about my love for this show still hold true*:

"The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" at Park Square Theatre

I don't know about the best, but Park Square Theatre's production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever! is the cutest Christmas pageant I've ever seen! I have vague recollections of the 1972 children's novel which was adapted for the stage ten years later, and a TV movie shortly thereafter which I probably saw as a kid. But I was mostly unfamiliar with the story walking into Park Square, and was completely charmed by it. Featuring a cast of just three adult actors and 18 children, it's a super sweet, rambunctious, funny, adorable 70 minutes of theater. There were tons of kids in the audience at the Sunday matinee that I attended, who were probably entertained by all of the shenanigans of the kids on stage. As was I, but I was also moved by the story of "bad kids" finally finding a place in the community and a story that inspired them. And yes, there is a movie version playing on the big screen right now, but live and local is always better. See these talented kids having the time of their lives on Park Square's big stage in downtown St. Paul for two more weekends only!

"Take Two for Christmas" by nimbus theatre at the Crane Theater

nimbus theatre is back with another Hallmark holiday movie spoof, their third in three years. The first one, A Count Up to Christmas, was a lot of fun and chock full of cliches of those types of movies. As often happens, the sequel, A Very Electric Christmas, was still fun but not as good as the first one; it was a bit rough with a convoluted plot. I'm happy to report that the third play in the trilogy, Take Two for Christmas, is back to the fun of the original, and might even be my favorite of the three. It's got all of the tropes needed for a holiday rom-com: a small town invaded by city folk, a frozen lake, a gazebo to save, and a sweet romance (or two). The design is cozy festive and the cast is all in on the spoofy fun premise. Whether you love or love to hate the Hallmark Christmas movie, Take Two for Christmas is a fun way to celebrate that live on stage. See it at the Crane Theater in Northeast Minneapolis through December 22.

"Scrooge in Rouge" at Open Eye Theatre

This holiday* season, Open Eye Theatre is remounting** Scrooge in Rouge, which premiered last year, a show I called, "a little off-kilter, in the best possible way." The three-person musical reimagines the classic A Christmas Carol in the style of English Music Hall entertainment, meaning "witty lyrics, bad puns, and naughty double-entendres." The fabulous three-person cast portrays all of the characters in this story that hews fairly closely to Dickens' original, even including many of the famous lines you'll hear across town at the Guthrie. But there are a few ridiculous diversions too, resulting in a very entertaining and fun little show. You can see this alternative (or addition) to A Christmas Carol at Open Eye in South Minneapolis through December 29.

"Black Nativity" at Penumbra Theatre

A #TCTheater holiday* season really isn't complete without Penumbra Theatre's annual production of Black Nativity, the truest expression of a "joyful noise" I've ever seen. They've been doing this show in various incarnations for over 30 years, but this is only my fourth time seeing it. And it's been a few years, so I was overdue for this healing balm, especially necessary this year, with the world seemingly getting bleaker every day (and literally getting darker every day as we progress towards the Winter Solstice). The show is similar to what they've been doing the last several years, with a few changes in personnel. But it's always a source of joy and inspiration, lifting the spirits to face whatever darkness is to come as we leave the theater, just like Black churches have been doing for their congregations for centuries. Black Nativity continues through December 22.

"Dinner For One" at the Jungle Theater

Jungle Theater has a new holiday* tradition. After gifting us the most charming Jane Austen fan fic series Christmas at Pemberley from 2017 to 2022 (the finale of which is currently playing at Lyric Arts), they debuted their original piece Dinner for One last year. This sweet little play with music is based on a 12-minute comedy sketch written in the '20s, a televised version of which has become annual holiday viewing in many European countries. Artistic Director Christina Baldwin came up with the idea for the show, and co-created it with Sun Mee Chomet and Jim Lichtsheidl, with the former directing and the latter two performing. Featuring an odd ritual of a dinner party for Miss Sophie's 90th birthday and her imaginary guests, personified by her loyal servant, it's the perfect vehicle to show off the strength of the creators. And although I would like to say it's the rare show I wish were longer (it's a scant 60 minutes), it's perfection and I wouldn't change a thing. Somehow those 60 minutes are fuller and more satisfying than many shows two and three times its length. Dinner for One continues through January 5 at Jungle Theater in Uptown.**

"A Christmas Carol" at Lakeshore Players Theatre

'Tis the season* for A Christmas Carol. The Guthrie is in their 50th year of producing Charles Dickens' classic story of redemption, forgiveness, generosity, and kindness, and you can find many other iterations on various stages and screens. Lakeshore Players Theatre is throwing their hat in the ring too with a new original adaptation by the director Kivan Kirk. I love this story, so I was eager to experience a new version of it out here in the 'burbs. This lovely show is still the classic story we know, but from a fresh perspective, and full of heart and humor. A Christmas Carol is the first show in Lakeshore's four-show 72nd season and performances are already selling out for this crowd-pleaser, continuing through December 17.

"A Cruise-mas Carol" by The Mystery Cafe at Majestic Oaks Golf Club

Even though they've been around for 35 years, this is only my second year attending the immersive mystery dinner-and-a-show experience that is The Mystery Cafe. While much different than the type of theater I (and probably you) usually attend (no sitting in the dark passively observing, no separation between audience and performers, no fourth wall at all), it's still theatrical storytelling, and there are some familiar faces from the local theater/comedy/improv world. But it's less about the plot or the mystery, and more about the fun, food, and immersive experience. Last night I attended their new show A Cruise-mas Carol at Majestic Oaks Golf Club in Ham Lake on the north side of town, which runs through January 4, followed by the wedding-themed 'Til Death Do Us Die, which I saw last year. They've also got two shows playing at the Sheraton Bloomington, with a special Black Friday deal for 50% off tickets good though Monday. Check out one (or more) of these shows for a fun, accessible, and unique theater outing.

"An Unexpected Guest" at Theatre in the Round

Winter is here, and so is Theatre in the Round's annual Agatha Christie play. The Unexpected Guest is a 1958 play written by the prolific and beloved mystery author and playwright. It begins with a dead body, shot through the head, and the supposed murderer standing by and admitting to shooting him. But of course, it's not as simple as that. We cycle through just about every character as a viable candidate for murderer, until we get to the shocking truth. In the hands of this talented cast and creative team, it's an entertaining ride. The Unexpected Guest plays Fridays through Sundays until December 22, but TRP fans love their Christie so shows are already starting to sell out. Act fast to get your winter mystery fix!

"I Am Betty" at History Theatre

Last year History Theatre premiered a new musical that inspired me to write: "I am Betty. You are Betty. We're all Betty!" Apparently I was not the only audience member so affected; they've brought the show back for a month-long remount, with most of the original cast and creative team reassembled (hence much of this post is borrowed from my previous review). I Am Betty tells the story of American women in the 20th Century through the lens of Betty Crocker, as playwright Cristina Luzarraga noted in a talkback I attended last year. As you may or may not know, Betty Crocker was not a real person; she was a fictional persona created for marketing purposes by the Washburn-Crosby Company (later General Mills). But many women worked behind the scenes to make Betty, and the company, successful. This musical tells their stories, and through them, the history of women in America. Written and directed by women, the show features nine incredibly talented female performers playing all of the facets of Betty for a really fun, informative, and inspiring show. See it at the History Theatre in downtown St. Paul now through December 29.

"Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella" by Theater Latte Da at the Ritz Theater

This year, Theater Latte Da is forgoing their usual holiday fare (the long-running and always moving All is Calm, now streaming on PBS.org, and the more recent balm to the soul Christmas at the Local) for a show that is a series of firsts. The regional premiere of the 2013 update of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella, which was the first (and only) musical they wrote exclusively for television, Theater Latte Da's first ever production of a Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, and new Artistic Director Justin Lucero's directing debut with the company. The result is a fun, magical, and heart-warming show that feels both classic and modern, with a fantastic local cast and simply gorgeous design. See it at the Ritz Theater in Northeast Minneapolis now through January 5.

"Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley" at Lyric Arts

My recent favorite #tctheater holiday* tradition is the Christmas at Pemberley plays, a series of three plays by Lauren Gunderson (one of the most produced playwrights in the country, often writing plays about women in history, particularly in STEM) and Margot Melcon. The Jungle Theater produced all three of these plays beginning in 2017, and even co-commissioned two of them. Lyric Arts has picked up the tradition the last few years, culminating in the third play this season. Each of these plays focuses on a different Bennet sister or two, but they're all similar in their sparkling dialogue that feels both period appropriate and refreshingly modern, their centering of women in the story (continuing the legacy of Jane Austen), their fleshing out of characters who didn't get much space in the original novel, and their charming romances complete with obstacles to be overcome, just like all good Austen heroines. With Georgiana and Kitty we get not one but two new Austen heroines to love and root for in their pursuit of love, art, purpose, and happiness.** Lyric's production is an absolute delight, and I hope that they continue to cycle through these three plays for years to come! But for now, you can visit Pemberley Thursdays through Sundays until December 22.

"Steel Magnolias" at Yellow Tree Theatre

The first time I saw Steel Magnolias on stage (because of course the popular 1989 movie was a play first) was at Yellow Tree Theatre 13 years ago. Enough time has passed for them to revisit this funny and heart-warming story of female friendship. The last time I saw it was the at the Guthrie five years ago, in which Yellow Tree's Artistic Director Austene Van played Truvy. She moves to the director's chair for this production, leading a fantastic cast in this lovely production. I brought a group of female friends (as is my tradition at Yellow Tree, since I used to work at a nearby office), none of whom had seen the play (some not even the movie), and a good time was had by all. Well, a good time, and also a few tears. But as Truvy says, "laughter through tears is my favorite emotion!" Spend a couple of hours with these Steel Magnolias at Yellow Tree in Osseo now through December 22.

Broadway tour of "Les Miserables" at the Orpheum Theatre

Are you ready to hear the people sing? The people being the incredibly talented cast of the long-touring production of the 2014 Broadway revival of Les Miserables, most of whom were with the tour when it was last here in 2022 (and some even in 2018). The singing being the 6th longest running Broadway musical (from 1987 to 2003) and one of the most popular and beloved. I was telling someone about the show today (because I always end up talking theater with strangers) and they asked, why would I want to see something so miserable and depressing? Firstly, the music is gorgeous, nearly three straight hours of singing accompanied by a glorious orchestra. Secondly, because as I've previously written about the show, it's "such an inspiring story. Through a moment of kindness, a man's life is changed and he goes on to affect others' lives by passing on that kindness. But through it all he's still just a man, with doubts and regrets and struggles. In short, it's the human experience." It's truly inspiring and brings me to tears every time, especially my favorite line "to love another person is to see the face of God." Last night I was struck by the contrast between the two main characters. Valjean receives a moment of grace and kindness and allows it to turn his life around for the better, extending grace and kindness to those he meets. But when he extends it to Javert, he is unable to accept it and let go of his lifelong vendetta of hate. The world could use more Valjeans. Experience this epic journey at the Orpheum Theatre through December 1.

"Big Christmas Energy" by Brave New Workshop at the Dudley Riggs Theatre

If you're looking for a laugh this season, Brave New Workshop is the surest bet for laughing until your face hurts. The longest running comedy theater in the nation is back with their annual holiday* show, which is always a favorite. Like years past, Big Christmas Energy is an irreverent look at everything surrounding the holidays, from awkward family interactions to weird Christmas songs. The uber talented five-person cast of BNW regulars has written about a dozen ridiculously funny sketches (with the help of director/host Caleb McEwen), and performs them with great energy and enthusiasm. There's a little something for everyone (except maybe children - leave them at home), music and nostalgia and double entendres. So if this holiday (or post-election) season has got you down, you might need some Big Christmas Energy in your life; laughing with a bunch of strangers in a room together has a healing effect. The show continues through January 31, with another holiday favorite Family Dinner (a long-form improv show that has run for decades, most recently at the dear departed HUGE Theater) playing in the first floor space at the Dudley Riggs Theatre Fridays and Saturdays in December.

"A Christmas Carol" at the Guthrie Theater

The Guthrie Theater is celebrating 50 years of A Christmas Carol* this year, and as a 21-year season subscriber, I have seen 19 of those productions (including the virtual one in 2020). There simply is nothing like it. Charles Dickens' story is one of such hope, such joy, such belief in the idea that it's never too late to change and grow and become a better person, that gratitude, kindness, and generosity are the highest of virtues. After 50 years, the Guthrie's production is a well-oiled machine, guaranteed to deliver the finest entertainment and the best quality production. But in addition to feeling familiar and comfortable, it also feels fresh and new every year, with the addition of new faces or adaptations, and it's filled with so much sincerity and heart that it will melt the Scroogiest of hearts. This is their fourth year using this succinct and faithful adaptation by Lavina Jadhwani, and the absolutely stunning design, with director Addie Gorlin-Han returning from last year's production. So if you haven't seen the Guthrie's Christmas Carol since before the pandemic, you should definitely check out this new version before it closes on December 29. And even seeing it for the fourth time, it's still chock full of delights for the eyes, ears, heart, and soul.

"Homo Dramaticus" by Teatro del Pueblo and Pangea World Theater at the Southern Theater

Teatro del Pueblo and Pangea World Theater are combining their resources and talents for their new production of Homo Dramaticus, a series of three short plays by Argentinian playwright Alberto Adellach. Written in response to the Dirty War in Argentina (disclaimer: pretty much everything I know about Argentinian politics is from the musical Evita), these plays are a bleak look at the war and violence in his world, and in ours. They're written in the absurdist style, which means they're not so much narrative stories as a series of characters, scenes, images, feelings. It's beautifully acted and directed, and gorgeously designed. And while I didn't always understand what was happening, this production succeeds in evoking feeling of grief, horror, and dismay at the violence that seems to be intertwined with all of human history. This short run concludes on Sunday, with just three more performances at the Southern Theater.

"The Adventures of a Traveling Meskwaki" by Full Circle Theater at Park Square Theatre's Andy Boss Stage

Full Circle Theater doesn't exclusively do new work, but they do a lot of new work, supporting local playwrights. Their latest is #TCTheater artist Oogie_Push's lovely new autobiographical play The Adventures of a Traveling Meskwaki. In it, she and four other actors play herself as she tells the story of her life, from childhood to the present, all connected by the theme of water. Less a straight-forward narrative story and more a collection of interrelated stories, experiences, and revelations, it feels like an epic journey that comes full circle (pardon the pun) from past to present, from water to water, to finding self and home. It's heart-warming, inspiring, and thought-provoking, as it deals with themes of grief, environmental disaster, and this country's horrific treatment of indigenous people. But the overall feeling is one of hope, community, and connection, and it might make you regard water a little differently. Join the adventure in Park Square's intimate basement thrust stage, Wednesdays through Sundays until November 24.

"How the Grinch Stole Christmas" at Children's Theatre Company

It's been a rough week. A lot of people are feeling a little Grinchy right now, I know I am. Children's Theatre Company's annual holiday* favorite How the Grinch Stole Christmas has returned just in time to offer perhaps a little bit of solace, and remind us that no one can steal our Christmas, our joy, our community, if we stick together and stand up for each other and remember what's important. This is my fifth visit to Whoville; I first saw it 2014, when I wrote, "it's a bright and colorful, silly and funny, sweet and heart-warming tale of redemption and love." I'm happy to report this is still true, no matter how many times you've seen it. In a less than two-hour visit to Whoville, the show will make you laugh, warm your heart, and hopefully remind you of the real reason we celebrate any holiday - family, friends, and being together.** The Grinch continues through January 5, but the show is popular so get your tickets soon to experience the magic.

"The Turn of the Screw" at Gremlin Theatre

It's just over a week past Halloween, and less than a week since we said goodbye to the 13th annual Twin Cities Horror Festival. But spooky season is still with us, for multiple reasons. One of those reasons is Gremlin Theatre's new production of The Turn of the Screw, a chilling ghost story that feels like a continuation of TCHF. So if you're not ready to turn the page from Halloween to Christmas yet, go see this expertly executed classic ghost story. an allegory about the very real evils in our world!

Musical Mondays at Lush, November 2024

Today is a big day in America, and there's no place I would have rather spent the evening before this momentous election day than at the 100th installment of Musical Mondays. BFFs Max Wojtanowicz and Sheena Janson Kelly started this monthly cabaret series at Hell's Kitchen in downtown Minneapolis 12 years ago, with the dream of having someplace where local music-theater performers could share their talents, and maybe show a new side of themselves, in a fun and casual setting. Since then, this dream has become a reality, and a staple in #TCTheater entertainment, with a move to LUSH Bar in Northeast Minneapolis (and a couple years off due to a global pandemic). They celebrated this milestone with a larger than usual cast of all-stars, plus the return of some old favorites. As usual, it was a wonderful evening of fun, entertainment, and community, made especially poignant by the timing of it. One of the performers, the divine Erin Schwab, talked about how she's performed for decades amidst all kinds of trouble and strife in the word. And that her job is to give us permission to laugh, to have fun, and to have hope, no matter what is happening outside the walls of the theater. I don't know what's going to happen today, or this week, or next year, but I know that we need to continue to support live theater. The arts are a vital part of our economy, a vital part of our democracy, celebrating free speech and protest and all the things we hold dear as Americans, as well as engendering empathy for those we think are different from us, but are really the same at heart. And no matter what happens, we're going to need more of that going forward from this day.

"The McAdo" by The Gilbert and Sullivan Very Light Opera Company at the Conn Theater

If you can't wait for new episodes of Outlander to begin on November 22, maybe you should go see The Gilbert and Sullivan Very Light Opera Company's Scottish take on The Mikado. Granted, there aren't a whole lot of similarities between G&S and our favorite time-traveling romance, but there are plenty of kilts and questionable Scottish accents! There is also a bit of romance and danger and fighting, although in a much less dramatic way. Using an adaptation form Gilbert & Sullivan Austin, this McAdo (which is an actual Scottish name) very cleverly changes the setting from Japan to Scotland, with some modern references as well (additional "tinkering" by stage director Joe Andrews). And as always with GSVLOC, the huge cast and orchestra sound amazing bringing to life another G&S classic in a fun and fresh way. The McAdo continues through November 24 at The Conn Theater in Plymouth Congregational Church in South Minneapolis.

"Mauritius" by Stage North at 480 Arts

Who knew a play about a stamp could be so riveting?! Of course, the 2007 Broadway play Mauritius by Theresa Rebeck (who also wrote Bernhardt/Hamlet, produced by Theatre Pro Rata last year) is about much more than stamps and the cut-throat world of philately. It's about grief, and family dynamics, and the way death can bring out the worst in people, and grifters trying to make a buck off of someone else's grief. It's kind of a mystery dramedy thriller of a play, brought to life in an excellent production by Stage North. They've unfortunately moved out of their original home the Capri Theater in North Minneapolis and into a new space known as 480 Arts in St. Paul's Midway neighborhood. I can't imagine this work on the Capri's stage in their proscenium theater, it's so much more suited to this intimate in-the-round staging (although the Capri also has a black box space where Ten Thousand Things regularly performs). The talented five-person cast, clear and smart direction, and almost immersive staging make for a very entertaining evening of theater. Mauritius plays Thursdays through Sundays until November 17.

2024 Twin Cities Horror Festival at The Crane Theater

The weather is (finally) turning cooler, the brightly colored leaves are falling from the trees, which means it must be time for the 13th annual Twin Cities Horror Festival. Unlike my friends at Minnesota Theater Love and The Stages of Minnesota (follow them for full coverage), I am not in general a fan of horror. But I am a fan of this mini Fringe festival that features many of my favorite Fringe artists. So I'm seeing a handful of shows this year (October also happens to be the busiest theater month of the year in general, and this year in particular). I was at the first show of the festival on last Thursday evening before continuing my stretch of five non-TCHF shows in five days, and then returned a few times to see a few more. I saw 7 of the 11 shows this year, read about them below, and visit the TCHF website for details and tickets (warning: there are sellouts already, particularly in the smaller studio space). Shows continue daily through November 3 at The Crane Theater in Northeast Minneapolis.

"Just for Us" at Six Points Theater

NYC-based comedian Alex Edelman's comedy special Just for Us, about that time he, a Jewish man, attended a White Nationalist meeting in Queens, won both a Special Tony Award and an Emmy Award (it's available on Max, where I watched it). A comedy show may seem like an odd choice for a theater, but it's really less of a stand-up show than it is a solo storytelling show, like you may see at a fringe festival. And in fact, it debuted at Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2018. Six Points Theater's Artistic Director Barbara Brooks has inquired about the rights for years, so when they finally became available (after Alex performed it over 500 times), Six Points became the first theater in the country to produce it. And #TCTheater artist Ryan London Levin became the first actor to perform it, other than the playwright. It's a brilliantly written piece (don't just take my word for it - ask the Emmy and Tony voters!), confronting some really ugly parts of our world with humor and honesty. Ryan gives a fantastic performance (you'd never know it was his first solo show), and I really can't imagine anyone else in the role (other than Alex, of course). This show is really funny and engaging, using laughter as a weapon against bigotry and hate. I think the world could use a little more of that. See it at Highland Park Community Center now through November 10.

"The Ally" at Mixed Blood Theatre

For the second mainstage production as Artistic Director of Mixed Blood Theatre, and the first he's directing, Mark Valdez choose a new play by Itamar Moses (whom I know primarily for writing the books of the musicals The Band's Visit and The Children's Theatre's stage adaptation of An American Tail). The Ally debuted at The Public Theater in NYC earlier this year, and now it's here in Minneapolis - a smart choice of a brilliantly written play, artfully executed by Mark, the creative team, and this terrific cast. The Ally is a must-see, and the kind of theater we need right now. It delves into one of the most contentious issues of our time, the Israeli/Palestine conflict, and brings the kind of nuance and humanity to it that seems to be missing in a lot of the debates, arguments, and accusations surrounding it right now. I don't know the solution to this decades, even centuries long problem, and the play doesn't offer one either. But what it does do is provide a place for thoughtful, informed, respectful discourse about it. Not that the characters are always respectful; the play is tough to watch at times as some real pain and righteous anger are on display. But through these characters we're able to explore, process, and maybe come to some new understandings about the conflicts in our lives.

"Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors" by Nocturnal Giraffe Theatre at the Center for Performing Arts

It's come to the point where the Halloween holiday theater season almost rivals the Christmas holiday theater season. It's not just Twin Cities Horror Festival (currently running through November 3), spooky theater abounds everywhere! A fantastic entry into this theater sub-genre is Nocturnal Giraffe's regional premiere of the new horror-comedy play about one of our most famous creepy characters: Dracula. Written by NYC-based playwrights Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen and premiering Off-Broadway earlier this year, Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors is more funny than scary, unless we're talking scary good. The five-person cast is a definite contender for the Twin Cities Theater Blogger Award for favorite comedic cast; they're all ridiculous. At about 90 minutes no intermission, it's the perfect treat for the season. See it at Center for Performing Arts now through November 2 (including a Halloween night performance).

"Helen" by Ten Thousand Things at The Capri Theater

Six years after taking over as Artistic Director of Ten Thousand Things from founder Michelle Hensley, Marcela Lorca is directing her final show with the company before moving on. For this, she returns to one of her favorites - Greek tragedy. Specifically, she worked with playwrights John Barton and Kenneth Cavander on their adaptation of Euripides' Helen, a different retelling of the tragedy of the Trojan War than we usually hear. This adaptation, Marcela's direction and choreography, and this uber talented cast make this two thousand year old play feel refreshingly modern and relevant. And don't let the word tragedy fool you; this Helen is full of lightness and humor and music, albeit tinged with tragedy, specifically around the senselessness and destruction of war. My theater blogger friend asked me if this was a must see, and I said - of course it is, it's Ten Thousand Things! Marcela Lorca is concluding her tenure at TTT on a high note, and I look forward to how this uniquely special company created by Michelle Hensley continues into the future. In the meantime, you can see Helen at The Capri Theater, Open Book, United Methodist Church, or various locations around the community through November 10.

"All the Devils Are Here: How Shakespeare Invented the Villain" at Guthrie Theater

All the Devils Are Here is a masterclass in Shakespeare. Acclaimed stage actor Patrick Page does for Shakespeare what Bill Irwin did for Beckett in his solo show On Beckett, presented at the Guthrie earlier this year. That is, one of the nation's most experienced and knowledgeable experts giving a personable, entertaining, educational, and captivating oration on one of our greatest playwrights. Those of you who, like me, know Patrick mostly as Hades, or Scar, may be surprised to learn that he's been studying and performing Shakespeare for four decades. He created and performed in All the Devils Are Here: How Shakespeare Invented the Villain Off-Broadway, and we are beyond lucky that his first tour stop is right here at the Guthrie Theater. If you're even a little bit interested in Shakespeare, or the acting process, or the depiction of evil in literature, or the presence of evil in our lives, All the Devils Are Here is a must-see. The 80-minute show, with an optional talkback after every performance, continues through November 17.

"Log Kya Kahenge (what will people say?)" at Lyric Arts, a co-production with Exposed Brick Theatre and South Asian Arts and Theater House

There have been a lot of co-productions in #TCTheater lately (which is a great way to share resources and audiences, and support the work of other companies), but this might be the first co-co-production. Not one, not two, but three theater companies have joined forces to bring this engaging new play to life on Lyric Arts' stage. Exposed Brick Theatre supplied the playwright and director (co-Artistic Directors Aamera Siddiqui and Suzy Messerole), South Asian Arts and Theater House (SAATH) provided some of the cast members and the connection to the local South Asian community, with Lyric supplying production and design resources. And probably countless other ways that the three companies contributed and shared duties. Judging by the final product, it's a beautiful partnership. Log Kya Kahenga (which means "what will people say?" in Hindi or Urdu, two related languages of South Asia) tells the story of a family dealing with grief, loss, change, mental health challenges, and societal and parental pressure. It's a story specific to the South Asian community, but universal in these themes. The short run continues for two more weekends only at Lyric Arts in Anoka.

"Thank You for Holding: The Caregiver Play Project" by Wonderlust Productions at 825 Arts

Wonderlust Productions is unique in the kind of theater that they make. Whether it's prison, or state government, or in this case caregiving, they spend a couple years researching a topic, specifically by interviewing people in the community who live in it. Then they create a new piece of theater, with both professional actors and these community consultants acting in the story. The result here is a very moving, raw, truthful depiction of caregiving, the pain and the joys and the endless bureaucracy of navigating a broken health care system. While I have never been a caregiver (yet, as this show reminds us), at least not to humans, I have been a witness to caregiving, and it is probably the hardest and most necessary job there is. But a thankless and often unrecognized one, so kudos to Wonderlust to shining a light on it, and letting caregivers tell their own story. Thank You for Holding continues at the new theater space 825 Arts on University in St. Paul through November 3.

"The Lady Demands Satisfaction" by [un]qualified theatre at University Baptist Church

Another new #TCTheater born out of the Minnesota Fringe Festival continues to make great work outside of Fringe. [un]qualified theatre's super fun and playful adaptation of The Invisible Man was one of my favorite shows of 2023. Now they're bringing that playful silly vibe to the play The Lady Demands Satisfaction. This 18th Century farce was written in this century, so it feels both period and modern. Co-Artistic Directors Jake Sung-Guk Sullivan and Kiko Laureano serve as director and associate director, respectively, and have made a fun scrappy little show, performed in a church basement. They read this play during the pandemic and wondered why no one was doing it here, so they decided to do it themselves. That's the great thing about this theater community, that a group of young artists can put on a show with a much lower budget but just as much entertainment value as the big theaters in town. Unfortunately this is a super short run, with only two performances remaining at University Baptist Church in Dinkytown (go early to navigate construction, traffic, crowds, and parking).

"Bonnie and Clyde" by Collide Theatrical Dance Company at Luminary Arts Center

Collide Theatrical Dance Company begins their 11th season with a new original jazz dance musical about the notorious 1930s outlaw couple Bonnie and Clyde. Collide uses dance to tell a narrative story in a theatrical way, which gives me an excuse to watch dance (which I usually don't have time to do). As always, the dancing in this show is fantastic (it's a great week for '30s-themed dance shows, see also Some Like It Hot). And while this version of the story might be a little too sympathetic towards these criminals and killers (I don't think their guns went off "accidentally" over a dozen times), it has some interesting things to say about celebrity culture and our glamorization of violence. But mostly, it's just really great dancing. Bonnie and Clyde plays Thursdays through Sundays (plus one Wednesday matinee) until November 3 at the Luminary Arts Center.

"Some Like It Hot" Broadway tour at the Orpheum Theatre

I saw the new musical adaptation of the 1959 comedy classic film Some Like It Hot on Broadway in 2023, and loved it more than I expected to. I was unfamiliar with the film at the time, but have since learned that the musical stays fairly true to the plot of the film, but with a few tweaks that make it feel refreshingly modern and relevant. When I saw it on Broadway I wrote, "this is a show that is perfect for touring." It is at its heart an old-fashioned musical comedy show, with a fabulous score, thrilling dance numbers, and hilarious comedy that I heard an audience member refer to as "corny as hell." But it's almost subversive in the way that it works in issues of trans acceptance, feminism, and overcoming racism. I'm thrilled that it's touring around America in this time when we need more of all of that, and that one of the first stops on the tour is right here in Minneapolis. So don't walk, don't run, but tap briskly down the street as if gangsters were chasing you to get to the Orpheum Theatre to see this fantabulous new musical before Joe, Daphne, and the gang tap on out of town! Click here for tickets, including student/educator rush tickets.

"Holmes/Poirot" at Park Square Theatre

A year and a half after cancelling the remaining shows in their 2022-2023 season, Park Square Theatre is back! After experiencing financial difficulties, they took a season off to reassess and regroup, and are coming back with a four-show season on their main stage in the Historic Hamm Building in downtown St. Paul. First up is one of those cancelled shows - a world premiere new mystery combining two of literature's favorite detectives. Holmes/Poirot was inspired by a dream that Steve Hendrickson (who has played Holmes multiple times) had, and told to prolific local playwright Jeffrey Hatcher. The result is not one but two thrilling and well-plotted mysteries, brought to life by a fantastic nine-person cast. Park Square has a long history of presenting summer mysteries, and while it is now finally, thankfully, fall, Holmes/Poirot fits well in that popular tradition. Playing Thursdays through Sundays until November 3.

"Afterlife: The Experience" by Sparkle Theatricals at the Wabasha Street Caves

I know Sparkle Theatricals for their dance and movement-based shows, but they also produce more immersive, experiential work. My first experience with the latter is their current production, Afterlife: The Experience, running for one more night only at the Wabasha Street Caves. I'll admit, part of the draw was to see the Caves, built into the sandstone bluffs on the Mississippi River across from St. Paul originally as storage, and later turned into a speakeasy during Prohibition with rumored visits from some of the era's most notorious gangsters. Now it's an event center, and a very cool theater venue. The conceit of Afterlife is that we're all (recently) dead, and our souls have arrived at the Caves on our way to somewhere else. A number of previously departed souls are there to guide us on our way. I found it to be overall a unique, interesting, and fun experience, although parts of it were a little too interactive and participatory for this introvert (I don't want to be part of the storytelling, I want to be a witness to it). A mix of theater, storytelling, party games, food and drinks, and dance, you have one more chance to enter the Afterlife on October 25.

"Irving Berlin's White Christmas" at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

It may still feel like summer outside, but winter has arrived at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres! The #TCTheater holiday* season begins early this year with their production of Irving Berlin's White Christmas, a nostalgic and heartwarming charmer. And demand for it is high - the show is already virtually sold out in the months of November and December (more availability in October and January). Audiences will be rewarded will a ridiculously talented cast, familiar and beloved Berlin tunes (more than we hear in the movie), thrilling dance numbers, and an overall warm glow that'll prepare us for holiday celebrations and (hopefully) a snowy winter to come.

"RENT" at Artistry

Whenever someone asks me what my favorite musical is, I usually respond that while there are many musicals I love, only one is permanently tattooed on my body. Ever since it exploded in 1996, when I was a grad student living on my own for the first time, RENT has had a special hold over my heart, unmatched by any of my other musical theater loves. Something about Jonathan Larson's story of friendship, community, living fully in the face of death, and appreciating life every day, struck a chord with me and continues to do so. Seeing Artistry's new production last night was my 18th time seeing it live, and I was reminded all over again why I love it so much. This brilliant cast pouring their hearts and souls into every poignant, funny, heart-breaking, or inspiring moment of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical brought tears to my eyes, frequently. And although I've seen the show many times, the majority of those productions were the Broadway/touring production, which I know like the back of my hand. So it was fun and exciting, as someone who has loved this musical for 28 years (likely longer than some of the cast has been alive), to see a fresh new take on it, and discover new things in it. Whether you've seen RENT a hundred times, or never seen it, you truly need to get yourself out to Bloomington to experience this wonderful new production. No day but today to get your tickets! (Continuing through October 27.)

"Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations" Broadway tour at the Ordway Center

The trend of biomusicals about musicians and their lives and careers has reached The Temptations, one of the most successful groups to come out of Motown. Ain't Too Proud is based on a book written by Otis Williams, one of the founding members, and the musical's book was written by acclaimed playwright Dominique Morisseau, whose plays have been produced by several local theaters. The musical is similar in structure to Jersey Boys, one of the first (and in my opinion best) biomusicals, which follows the life of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. In both musicals the story of the group is narrated by its members, but there's just one narrator here - Otis Williams. He tells the story of The Temptations directly to the audience, from their formation, to their early hits, to the rotating door of members. And it's chock full of great Motown hits of the '60s and '70s, by other artists as well as The Temptations. The tour first came to town two years ago (at the Orpheum*), and is now bringing its high energy, sharp choreography, and classic hits to the Ordway for one week only.

"Speechless" by The Moving Company at Jungle Theater

The Moving Company is remounting their 2017 original piece Speechless, although I think it's more of a reimagining than a remounting. It is once again directed by co-Artistic Director Dominique Serrand and starring co-Artistic Director Steven Epp and Producing Artistic Director Nathan Keepers, but the other three company members have changed. So while maybe the framework is the same (loosely speaking, a group of friends mourning the death of a friend), the new ensemble members bring their own talents and skills to the equation, resulting in something new and different. Truthfully, I don't remember many details about this show from seven years ago other than there were literally no words, and it was unique and inventive and moving. So it was like a new and surprising show to me, and I was able to enjoy each delightful and sometimes mysterious turn. For that reason I won't give too many details about what happens in the show, because you need to experience that yourself without any preconceptions. So head to the Jungle before November 10, let go of expectations about narrative form, and enjoy the speechless but not silent experience of Speechless.

"Measure for Measure" by The Birth Play Project at A-Mill Artist Lofts

My favorite new theater company of 2022, The Birth Play Project, is back, this time with a new twist on a classic. Their new play with music Mary’s Wondrous Body, based on a so-bizarre-it-must-be-true story of a woman who claimed to give birth to rabbits, was indeed wondrous. Now this company whose mission is "to place birth in public memory by developing representational practices for staging reproductive stories" is presenting Shakespeare's Measure for Measure. If you're wondering, "what does this play have to do with birth?," you're not alone. I've seen this play a few times before, and it's always been Isabella's story, a soon-to-be nun who is offered a chance to save her brother Claudio from death, if she sleeps with his accuser Angelo. But so far in the background that I even forgot she was there, is Juliet, Claudio's not-quite-wife, who is pregnant with his child (the crime with which they're both charged). This adaptation by Madeline Wall and William Edson, who also direct the piece, puts the focus on this forgotten woman who is quietly (or not so quietly) giving birth while the other actions of the play swirl around her. It's an engaging and entertaining take on this classic that explores a hidden side of it, and makes one wonder what other birth stories are hiding in the background, waiting to be told. Click here to find out more about The Birth Play Project and to purchase tickets to one of their two remaining performances at Saint John the Evangelist Episcopal Church and Elision Playhouse.

"Behind the Sun" at History Theatre

The third chapter in History Theatre's continued story about historical racism in Minnesota, specifically in real estate, is now on stage. Back in their 2021-2022 season, they presented two plays that were originally intended to run in rep pre-covid, but had to be adapted post. Not in Our Neighborhood was set in the '20s and told the story of a successful Black couple who moved out of their Rondo neighborhood into the all-White neighborhood of Groveland Park, and the racism they faced. Not for Sale took place about 40 years later, and centered on a White couple, a real estate agent who lost everything because he sold houses to people of color in St. Paul neighborhoods where there was an unwritten (and sometimes written) rule not to. Behind the Sun continues this story, jumping across the river into Minneapolis, and back to the mid '50s. Another true story of a Black family who moved into an all-White neighborhood (using a bit of clever subterfuge), and the racism they encountered before being accepted into the increasingly diverse neighborhood. It's an important story to tell, important history to remember. Especially now with an impending election that will decide if we move forward into a more just world, or return to these ugly times. See Behind the Sun at History Theatre now through October 13.

"A Walless Church" at Pillsbury House + Theatre

Certain religious traditions say that humans were created in god's image, but I've also heard it said that humans created god in their image. Which is often not a good thing. But this is a good thing: in Pillsbury House + Theatre's production of the world premiere new play A Walless Church (walless = wall-less = without walls), three Black women, "godlings," show us how to create god in just about 70 minutes (and they're not happy about the time constraint). You need a big emotion, a common intention, and a conduit (although this one isn't absolutely necessary). But they need our help. Join in this loving, playful, heart-warming ritual of a play happening four to five times a week through October 13 at Pillsbury House in South Minneapolis.

"Star Keeper" by Emily Michaels King at Red Eye Theater

How do I describe Star Keeper, the latest of Emily Michaels King's very personal shows that combine theater, storytelling, spoken word, movement, dance, sound and lighting effects, and perfectly chosen nostalgic props? Simply one of the most raw, vulnerable, heart-breaking, and moving performances I've ever seen. Emily is the most fearless performer I know, sharing her deepest wounds with the audience, baring her heart, soul, and body. In this piece she explicitly works through the childhood trauma she's alluded to in previous works, and it's astonishing. At times difficult to watch (there was a moment when I, and probably everyone in the audience, wanted to rush the stage and stop what she was doing to comfort her, as she was causing real physical pain to her body in attempt to rid herself of the emotional pain of the trauma), at times esoteric (taxidermy?), but in the end one of the most moving experiences I've had at the theater. If you're looking for theater that's a little different, a little outside the box (we might call it "performance art"), and incredibly gutsy and risk-taking, head to Red Eye Theater to see one of the five remaining performances of Star Keeper.