Looking for some tips on what to do this weekend and beyond? We’ve got you covered. Here are a few theater recommendations from Ocean State Media’s afternoon host, Mareva Lindo and producer, James Baumgartner.
Girl from the North Country
This jukebox musical features songs from Bob Dylan with a story by Conor McPherson. It’s set in 1930s Duluth, Minnesota and follows a group of travelers and locals whose lives intersect at a guest house. It explores all the ways the characters are affected by the Great Depression. Anne Scurria is outstanding as Elizabeth, who has aphasia and is in the process of forgetting a lot of her life. She communicates her character so well without even using words. You can’t help but look at her even when she wasn’t the focus. She’s funny, but also carries the incredibly emotional moments as well. It’s a great ensemble of performers showcasing different kinds of voices. Girl from the North Country uses Dylan’s music well, and if you know the songs, it could be more impactful for you at times, but you don’t need to be a Dylan fan to enjoy the story. The play is directed by Josh Short and will be at the Wilbury Theatre Group in Providence through June 21.
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Tennessee Williams’ classic tale of family secrets, lies and mendacity is directed by Steve Kidd. It all happens at a giant plantation in Mississippi and it’s the birthday celebration for Big Daddy, the patriarch of the Pollitt family. It’s the 1950s and certain things are not discussed in polite company, or at all. For example, Big Daddy’s favorite son, Brick had a very close relationship with his football buddy, Skipper. Big Daddy has been diagnosed with cancer, but nobody wants to tell him. Nora Eschenheimer plays Maggie, Brick’s wife and she owns the first act of the play. She is the cat, slinking around the bedroom hoping to recapture the attention of her husband. She grew up poor and we feel how desperate she is to hold onto her place in this wealthy family. Joe Penczak bursts onto stage in Act Two as Big Daddy. It was such a stunning entrance, the audience practically broke into applause. His performance lets you know why everyone is in fear of this patriarch. It’s a big play that demands huge performances and the entire cast delivers. You can see it at The Gamm Theatre in Warwick through June 21.
Also in local theaters:
Next to Normal
This Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical is a “cathartic masterpiece of modern musical theater.” At Trinity Rep through June 28.
Measure for Measure
Shakespeare’s tale of subterfuge and puritanical despotism is at the Burbage Theatre Co. in Pawtucket for one last weekend through June 7.
Ocean State Improv Festival
If you’d rather watch something unscripted, the Ocean State Improv Festival brings together artists and troupes to create an interconnected community that teaches, learns, inspires, and performs together. At the Contemporary Theater Company in Warwick, June 3 - June 7.
