theater

The Importance of Play Readings

“Invisible Man” cast member McKinley Belcher III discusses the value of readings.

Hawke's a Hit in Chekhov's 'Ivanov'

Chekhov’s “Ivanov” can be hard to love, with its maddening depressed protagonist, but Ethan Hawke triumphs at Classic Stage Company under Austin Pendleton’s knowing direction.

'Rise' Is a Roller Coaster of Emotional Impact

“Rise,” a best new play winner in the 2012 Hollywood Fringe Festival now at Elephant Stages courtesy of Zenith Ensemble, is an impressive debut for fledgling playwright Cal Barnes.

The New Musical 'The Island of No Tomorrows' Fails to Cohere

“The Island of No Tomorrows,” a new musical from Interart Theatre and MultiStages, begins with an intriguing premise but soon becomes disjointed, confusing, and exhausting.

Potent 'Obskene' Juxtaposes Possible Futures and Ancient Horrors

“Obskene,” the Talking Band’s amalgamation of grim messenger speeches from Greek tragedies and sensational stories from America’s near future, at Here, is impactful and profound.

'The Bald Soprano' Is an Absurdist 'Anti-Christmas' Present From City Garage

Presented by City Garage with an oddball reverence and dripping with mid-20th-century style, this holiday-themed production of Eugène Ionesco’s “The Bald Soprano” is a real treat.

'Coney' Is a Welcome Theatrical Tonic

David Johnston’s “Coney,” a lovingly sunny ode to life along the boardwalk and beach of Coney Island, from Blue Coyote Theater Group, casts an overall glow that charms.

'Billy Witch' Has Campy Appeal but Is Too Thin

Instead of deepening voices and surging hormones, the teens in “Billy Witch,” Gregory S. Moss’ creepy summer-camp tale from Astoria Performing Arts Center, sprout tentacles and fur.

'Isaac Babel and the Gangster King' Has a Neat Conceit but Needs Work

“Isaac Babel and the Gangster King,” a musical about the life and stories of the great Russian-Jewish writer who was killed by Stalin, is best viewed as a promising work in progress.