Reviews by Carol Moore

**** Highly Recommended  I was kind of surprised when I read that the Copley Theatre was doing "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee".  It’s a sweet, silly, ultimately happy musical about a group of snarky fifth grade misfits competing for a trophy and the chance to go to the national Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.  Although it’s one of my favorites, it’s also a favorite show for community/high school theater groups – which means it’s been a tad overdone.  That said, the Copley’s high-energy production was terrific – definitely out-spelling the competition!  4 Spotlights

**** Recommended  Teatro La Plaza’s "Hamlet" is an entirely unique interpretation of Shakespeare’s dark and broody play.  The exuberant cast took possession of the story and retold it in their own inimitable style, and that style was personal and mostly joyful.  They even made it interactive by inviting audience members into the production.  4 Spotlights

**** Highly Recommended  I didn’t know anything about Harold Pinter’s play, "Betrayal," before I saw the Goodman’s revival recently.  A friend had mentioned that there was a small controversy over Director Susan V. Booth’s decision to cast older actors – over twenty-somethings – but I never even thought about age as I was drawn into the human drama unfolding on that stage.  That a character could maintain that very British stiff upper lip, even while receiving devastating news delivered in the calmest of tones, was a revelation. Kudos to Director Susan V. Booth for a theatrical gem!  4 BIG Spotlights

**** Highly Recommended  "Circus Quixote" is quite simply the most fascinating show of the season, and exactly the pick-me-up we need! Forget that gloomy Quixote in the musical, he takes himself entirely too seriously. This Quixote tilts on his rocking chair, climbs/rides that windmill, and climbs a rope like a circus star.  I love this whimsical show produced by Lookingglass Theatre in association with The Actors Gymnasium.  I was enthralled from start to finish.  4 BIG Spotlights