David Edward Perry - Page 3

'Little Shop of Horrors' is a wonderful musical amalgam of sci-fi, horror, and doo-wop. It is a stylized musical that takes you on a tale of love between a guy and a girl, and the maniacal plant standing in their way.

'The Drowsy Chaperone' by Brick by Brick Arts successfully captures the joyful feeling of escape and mixes with a fun, mad-cap story, rich with 1920's tropes and characters. The plot of 'The Drowsy Chaperone' is not the highlight of the musical, and that's the point. It's how the story is told that delivers memorable comedy and musical theater gold.

Poet Jahman Ariel Hill and one of the directors Christian Hatcher provide much insight into their upcoming Southeast premiere performance of 'Black Enough' at Theatre Downtown. Hill hopes people leave the performance moved. 'The message of the show is simple: Black people, you are enough. You Flourish. You can be anything and everything no matter what anyone tells you. You are enough and you always have been enough'

'Savage' is a powerful new musical conceived and developed by UAB Professor of Theatre Karla Koskinen. The touching story is based on the tragically true story of the life of Ota Benga played by the dynamic Royzell D. Walker. This young man from the Congo was paraded as an exotic attraction. This sheer cruelty and inhumane mindset is almost unimaginable. But then again American history has a predictably formulaic way glossing over racial autocracies. This wonderful musical boldly asks 'What makes a man a civilized man?'

Finding Neverland is an imaginative look at the creative inspirations writer James Barrie molded into the magical world of Peter' Pans adventures. The play is full of heart and childlike wonder. It's not a children's show but it is one that children and adults will definitely enjoy.

'The Mountaintop' breaks that tired old piggy bank of the homogenized perception of Martin Luther King, Jr. Katori Hall's wonderful writing reveals the extent of how complex and troubled he was; enlightening the audience to want to know more. The incredible performances by Robert Burgins, Jr. and Kenya Stewart are woven with intense emotion and commitment.

David W. Chapman's original story takes creative liberties and dives into the last days of noted 18th-century English social reformer and humanitarian John Howard. The characters, storytelling elements, and framework carry similar notes found in classic Frank Capra films.

What if you could be swinging along side with Spider-Man as he fights the Green Goblin? What if you wanted to see Black Panther run down the Rino. How about being ringside as Black Widow and Neblua go one on one? Fear not true believers. Marvel Universe Live! Age of Heroes delivers this at the BJCC this weekend for a limited run.

'Fun Home.' Based on the 2006 graphic novel / memoir by Allison Bechdel. The story draws you in as if you are turning the pages of the comic book of Alison life. 'Fun Home' is the first Broadway musical with a lesbian as the lead of the story. Her journey though life is told through a sequence of non-linear vignettes. Revealing memories of her uniquely dysfunctional family that connect with her in surprising new ways.

This energized concert shook the pillars of Olympus with a powerhouse performance of two very popular and dynamic pieces of music.The concert hall was filled to the rafters with the voices of a massive choir. The power behind such a collection of voices and music was breathtaking.

'Evita' is a hybrid rock & opera musical interpretation of the life journey of actress turned 'spiritual leader of Argentina' Eva Peron (Yael Reich). Her saturation of power, extraordinary wealth, and status grows heavier. Bringing with it heartache and self-discovery.

'A Red Plaid Shirt' is fun comedy with many surprises woven into the play.The chemistry of the cast is a highlight. The polished comedy timing of each of the actors gives cadence to shows like 'The Honeymooners.' The heart of these characters make this look at retirement enjoyable for all ages.

This lively production of 'Savannah Sipping Society' showed it's never too late to make old friends or to try something new.

J'Mel Davidson held a very special light. He was extremely giving and quick to talk with great enthusiasm. He gave so much of that light to the world. He is a true testament to the power of laughter. His body may be gone. But his creative light still shines on in all that enjoyed him.

Walt Disney would turn over in his grave if he saw 'Wonderland Wives' at Theatre Downtown. That's the point. It is supposed to break apart the crystal slipper. This is a in your face comedy poking fun at the idea of perfect princesses in the family friendly genre. This is a fairy tale full of raunchy characters with very real issues. 'Wonderland Wives' is a comical and bawdy tale of what happens after the final words in the storybook saying 'And they lived happily ever after'. It's saturated with puns, one-liners, and language that would make any magic carpet blush. These Disney princesses act more like very-desperate housewives instead of storybook icons. Buddy Thomas's writing cleverly balances an uncomfortable comedy found in these iconic storybook characters dropping shock value vocabulary. It's definitely not for children. It's bawdy, trashy and campy fun. The characters display language and behavior that you may not indulge in regularly. But dang it if you cant click away from laughing so much.

'Guys and Dolls' is based off of a string of short stories by writer Damon Runyon. His forte was tales of the seedy underbelly of the New York City crime scene of the 20's and 30's. The cast has a list of colorful characters that chew up scenes. Director Victoria Boyce brings to life the stylized and hilariously dated criminal underworld to life.

'The Three Musketeers' is high adventure for all ages . Director Brandon Bruce delivers great theater combined with a high-energy stunt show. You are treated to dazzling sword fights, combat acrobatics, and a dramatic plot with interesting characters performed by amazing actors. This classic story is rich with the spirit of adventure, friendship, honor and romance.

'Once Upon a Mattress' is a comical retelling of the 1835 fairy tale by Hans Christian Anderson, 'The Princess and the Pea.' This fun song and dance show is reminiscent to the films like 'The Court Jester' starring Danny Kaye. Overall the production is a fun comedy representation of the real story behind this classic fairy tale.

'Godspell' is a rock and roll expression of the story of Jesus's adult years without thumping a Bible over your head. If religion is Kryptonite to you, don't worry. This is rocking musical theater not a Pentecostal sermon. The touching music of the show highlights love, obtaining inner peace, embracing who you are.

'Mamma Mia' brings touching ballads, tight harmonies and rocking dance numbers. The entire cast is beaming with much joy and pride in what they are doing up on stage. It's impressive production with vibrant energy. Audience erupts into cheers and applause during each of the chart topping hits by ABBA. Looking around the audience you can see faces enjoying the production and the memories in the music.