Philly Theatre Week starts February 6th-16th and will feature the best of the best of some of the most amazing actors and actresses in the city. There is a play for everyone-children, men, women, great date night, Black History focused, and everything else in-between. With that in mind I am linking with several theatres to bring you the best reviews during this exciting time.
Here are my chosen productions and why I choose to review them. I will of course double back as I cross them off my list and report to you which made my personal grade and why. Although I want you to enjoy my reviews I also want you to be a part of the action as well. I am listing each theatre and their respective pages so you can grab a friend or two and immerse yourself into theatre life. These men and women work hard to bring about some of the most amazing productions and to miss them would be a travesty.
Oh and it’s not just plays there events too from learning the tricks of the trade to readings, and panels. Some events feature food and drinks too. In order to find your way go here!
There you will find all of the events so you can grab your tickets and be ready!
Inis Nua “A hundred words for snow”
Inis Nua is one of my favorite theatres to attend. I attend a lot of their productions all year so I wouldn’t miss a thing during Philly Theatre Week. I will be seeing A hundred words for snow. Although in real life snow is not one of my favorites this production will showcase the grieving process and honoring family wishes. I like to think I am doing the same in my own way. I love one actor productions. They show depth and range and I can’t wait to see how this journey ends.
Bristol Riverside “Theatre King Lear”
King Lear-I wanted to see this early in its production but sadly it’s possible. I will be seeing it in its final run time and date. However it’s about tragedy and there’s a part of me that is drawn to tragedy. I am still figuring that out about myself. However King Lear is a classic and about forgiveness, madness and reconciliation. I have heard the buzz and now I want take my own look to see how this production matches the buzz.
Bristol Riverside Theatre is also a stunning place. I have always found great help when there, a great welcoming spirit and great snacks as well. If ever you are going, leave early for parking.
Quintessence Theatre Group “Rachel”
Rachel is all I have been hearing about. The press has been eating it up. One of the things that attracted me to this production has to be that it’s one of the original pieces during the Harlem Renaissance. The author Angelina Weld Grimke was a Black queer writer and it was produced by the NACCP in 1917 by an all-Black cast. I can’t wait to dive in. I will be attending this important piece and the time I am going will also have a question and answer following the production. This will no doubt be great conversations to dissect what it was like for Blacks during that time. I am so proud to be at this production. Also the theatre itself is magnificent. I made my first attendance when I saw the Wizard of OZ this past fall and I can’t wait to see this production its high on my list of must see.
Philadelphia Theatre Company “Everything is Wonderful”
I am from Lancaster and to see a play about am Amish couple who forgives as they deal with the tragedy of their son. They are welcomed by their daughter and something about this appeals to me. I know I sure haven’t thought of myself of someone who could be so forgiving but I have seen it done. Since I am working on bettering myself seeing plays where its possible gives me hope. Also I know quite a few Amish personally and I want to see how far in the faith it goes to showcase their great ability to forgive.
Dramatist Center presents “A Thin line between love and hate” Rotunda Theatre
I have not ever been to this production although I have seen the original movie. This will be a great production of the over obsession one woman goes after she meets a charming man who isn’t ready to fully commit. I expect it to be funny, witty, and have a lot of drama. I might take the hubby with me to see this one. As much as we both enjoyed the movie I know we will laugh our way. You know some women never can tell the difference between the two.
“Ruth and Estelle; A sequins of Fortunate events” Bagel place
One who doesn’t love bagels and drinks? I do. With that I was intrigued to see what exactly something called an ‘educomedy” would produce through unique story telling. I was told that once I see this I will never un-see it and for great reasons. I was also told that I would feel like the two actors were like my best friend even if it’s in my head. For that reason I love to see stories told in bold format to match my bold personality. I have never been to the Bagel place but I feel like once there I will be back.
“I love Alice” Curio Theatre
The Curio is one of the theatres that I frequent. I tried to match my schedule to make room for all but unfortunaly I am only one person. With that in mind I can’t wait to see how two women make some headlines for kissing each other in Ireland. I know now it may not be that big a deal but back in time it was taboo. The LGBTQ community have always been under attack and I love to see people authentic in their love choices and how they push past all odds to love on purpose since love is love. Oh both women are named Alice so this should be good.
Philly Improv Theatre “Free Improve Jam” Adrienne Theatre
This is a free improve jam and I am nervous. I have zero experience but I know that since growing up in theatre most of life, the guts it takes to perform of an audience is something that I want to add to my plate. Not that I plan on showing up in front of a large audience but expanding my fear gates to close fear out is one of those things that will help me in all areas of life especially blogging. So I can’t wait to see how I do and I can’t wait to have some fun
As my schedule permits I want to add so many more that’s how wonderful the theatre circuit is here in Philadelphia. Be on the lookout for the reviews as they come in and I attend and also get you some tickets! Congrats to all who will be putting on for the city!! I can’t wait!!
Shout out to all the sponsors!!