Non-Registered Critics: Michael Cooper
FALSETTOS
Falsettos may be a bit long and it certainly has some slower scenes, but the musical is an important one to revive not only because it’s still relevant today, but because it takes the audience on an emotional journey, making us laugh and cry in its very real reflection of a truly modern family. Catch it while you still can this week.
CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY
Incorporating all the classic songs from the 1971 film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, plus some original tunes by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (the team behind the Hairspray musical), the musical adaptation adds a lot of humor and provides a modern take on the story we all know and love…
While the musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory isn’t groundbreaking, it’s definitely entertaining and aesthetically pleasing. Fans of the book as well as the original film will no doubt be happy with this updated take on the story.
CATS
The show’s great to look at but it isn’t really musical theater. It’s more like an impressionist painting onstage, with its success depending on each audience member’s personal take. If you’re there to watch some great singing and dancing, you’ll love it. If you expect some solid story and character development, as I do, you’re left bewildered, and wanting more.
HELLO DOLLY
It may be “old-time,” but its portrayal of a powerful older woman at the center of the story, in control of the narrative, is timeless.
DEAR EVAN HANSEN
Every member of the ensemble shines in his or her own way, particularly Marrick Smith, who is not onstage often as Connor but steals the show every time he is. – GO!
WAITRESS
While the film is a little darker than the musical, some details were changed and some characters lightened (especially some of the male characters aside from Earl), the heart and themes of Shelly’s film live on and are now immortalized in this fantastic musical. GO!