The Seat of Our Pants

 The Seat of Our Pants
The Public Theater
November 2, 2025

Photo courtesy of The Public Theater

The Seat of Our Pants is a musical adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s The Skin of Our Teeth.  Ethan Lipton adapted the book and wrote the music and lyrics.  He maintains Thornton Wilder’s philosophical perspective, while extending the commentary on the theatrical form and pulling the references into the present day.  His music sets a peaceful, contemplative tone.  Some of his lyrics are taken directly from Mr. Wilder’s play.  His original lyrics take a deep emotional plunge into the heart of the characters.  Director Leigh Silverman beautifully sculpts this piece, allowing the colorful humor to smoothly blend into the darker, more pensive moments.  The cast skillfully makes these classic Wilder characters their own, heightening the impact of the events and intensify the timeless message. 

Act I - George & Mrs. Antrobus feed the Refugees
Photo courtesy of The Public Theater

The story centers around the Antrobus family: George (played by Shuler Hensley), Mrs. Antrobus (played by Ruthie Ann Miles), their son, Henry (played by Damon Daunno), their daughter, Gladys (played by Amina Faye), and their housekeeper, Sabina (played by Micaela Diamond).  They survive the Ice Age in Act I, a biblical flood in Act II, and the Great War in Act III.  George Antrobus is constantly finding new ways to improve life.  He invents wonders such as the alphabet, numbers, and the wheel.  Sabina is a constant distraction to George, and a burden to Mrs. Antrobus, whose main focuses is keeping her family together.  Henry is troubled, full of anger and always fighting.  Gladys is eager to grow up.  Nothing stops them.  They continually move on, rebuilding life as they know it.   

Shuler Hensley & Micaela Diamond
Photo courtesy of The Public Theater

Ruthie Ann Miles is in constant control as Mrs. Antrobus.  Her song in Act I, “Stuff It All Down Inside,” clearly states the way she faces every challenge.  Shuller Hensley is gruff and grounded as George Antrobus.  He remains steadfast under all circumstances.  His moment of doubt in Act III is genuine.  He and Ms. Miles make a sincere connection in this scene, shifting the energy to a stunning conclusion.  Micaela Diamond is subdued as Sabina.  This works very well in the first act, then generates strong impact in the second.  She takes the lead in Act III, pushing the family to move on.  She closes the show with composed and candid direct address.  

Amina Faye, Ruthie Ann Miles, & Damon Daunno
Photo courtesy of The Public Theater

Amina Faye’s Gladys matures over the course of the three acts.  This growth is subtle, clear, and highly effective.  Damon Daunno is powerful as Henry.  His anger explodes in moments of rage.  The confrontation scene with his father in Act III is fierce.  He and Mr. Hensley do not hold back.  Their resolution takes place on a different level, commenting as actors portraying their roles.  His physical position in the finale makes a compelling statement. 

Act II - Atlantic City
Photo courtesy of The Public Theater

Andy Grotelueschen opens each act and speaks as the playwright in a “stage fight” section in Act II.  He is charming, warm, and welcoming, setting the tone for what lies ahead.  There are also impressive performances by Michael Lepore as the Telegram Boy, Ally Bonino as the Fortune Teller, and an amazing ensemble who keeps the pace tight and clean. 

The Seat of Our Pants is playing at The Public Theater through November 30.  If you are an admirer of Thornton Wilder’s original play, you will appreciate this musical adaptation.  It is a phenomenal production that will touch your soul and give you hope.  

Domenick Danza

Archduke

 Archduke
Roundabout at Laura Pels
Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center for Theatre
November 1, 2025

Photo courtesy of Roundabout Theatre Company

In his new play, Archduke, Rajiv Joseph takes a microscopic look at a crucial moment in world history.  The action is intellectually engaging and emotionally riveting.  His characters are all driven by strong, definitive urgency.  Their choice seems simple, yet they are constantly circling with questions.  Director Darko Tresnjak allows the rhythm in Mr. Joseph’s writing to soar, revealing the conflict and building the tension.  The characters continually poke at one another, giving each cast member equal opportunity to establish themselves while illuminating the laughs.  

The year is 1914.  Dragutin “Apis” Dimitrijevic, better known as The Captain (played by Patrick Page), is recruiting young men for a deadly mission.  He needs six men who desire meaning in their lives.  He only finds three: Gavrilo (played by Jake Berne), Nedeljko (played by Jason Sanchez), and Trifko (played by Adrien Rolet).  They are sent to him by a doctor who has diagnosed them with consumption.  They are lungers and have very little time left to live.  They are easily manipulated into The Captain’s murderous plan, including taking cyanide when the deed is done.  They are to board a train to Sarajevo, then kill the Archduke Franz Ferdianand and his wife, Duchess of Hohenberg.  That is, if they do not stop off for a sandwich along the way. 

Jake Berne, Adrien Rolet, & Jason Sanchez
Rehearsal photo courtesy of Roundabout Theatre Company

Jake Berne portrays Gavrilo’s meekness and intellectual curiosity the moment he enters at the top of the show.  In a short time, Jason Sanchez arrives as Nedeljko, who is brawnier and rougher.  They test and challenge one another, both knowing what is at stake if they falter.  They are equally matched, and it is through this persistent confrontation that the audience understands them.  They develop a palpable bond that is put to yet another test when Trifko shows up.  Adrien Rolet is militant and demanding in this role.  He is questioned to his breaking point by Gavrilo and Nedeljko.  These three actors are captivating.  They make bold choices that reveal their characters’ grit and gusto, which thrusts the action forward. 

Patrick Page takes command as The Captain in scene two.  He manipulates the three young men, playing on their weakness.  He fabricates a story about who caused their consumption, then identifies this as the enemy.  He tells tall tales of his bravery in the fight against that enemy.  Mr. Page works every tactic as the three recruits question every detail of his plan, compete for his attention, and defend their integrity. 

The Full Cast
Rehearsal photo courtesy of Roundabout Theatre Company

Kristine Nielson is mysterious and witty as Sladjana, The Captain’s cook.  She feeds the young men to get them on The Captain’s side, then disciplines them for their juvenile behavior.  As Mr. Page uses masculine force to show power, Ms. Neilson is like a cat, silently making her way into the minds of the recruits.  She is sly and has an agenda of her own.  She uses her signature comic timing to effectively embody this role.

The strong message of the play is to take action that gives your life meaning.  Since the recruits are all dying of consumption, they easily fall for that ruse.  It is not until they are on the train to Sarajevo to assassinate the Archduke, and inevitably start World War I, that they ask themselves another question that gives them pause.  Mr. Joseph examines this historic moment by simply asking an alternative question. 

Archduke is playing at Roundabout Theatre Company’s Laura Pels Theatre through December 21.  It is a brilliant production.  It will make you think, but more importantly, it will make you question. 

Domenick Danza

Bat Boy

 Bat Boy
Annual Gala Presentation
New York City Center
October 31, 2025

Photo courtesy of City Center

The New York City Center Annual Gala Presentation of Bat Boy is electrifying.  Laurence O’Keefe’s score is energetic and bold.  It sets a mysterious tone, while building a distinctive world where unusual events are believable.  His lyrics layer in humor and moments of discovery that propel the action.  The story, by Keythe Farley & Brian Flemming, is unique and full of surprises.  Their writing succinctly establishes bizarre, sympathetic characters that are emotionally engaging.  Director Alex Timbers finds the rhythm and pace that sets it all ablaze.  The cast is stupendous, creating the perfect balance of macabre fantasy and realistic drama. 

When a Bat Boy (played by Taylor Trensch) is found in a cave by three sibling adventurers (played by Andrew Durand, Olivia Puckett, & John-Michael Lyles), Sheriff Reynolds (played by Tom McGowan) seeks the expertise of Dr. Parker, the town veterinarian (played by Christopher Sieber).  Dr. Parker’s wife, Meredith (played by Kerry Butler), tenderly cares for the creature.  She teaches it to speak and read.  She names it Edgar.  When the townspeople grow suspicious and voice their apprehension, Meredith and her daughter, Shelley (played by Gabi Carrubba), jump to Edgar’s defense.  This makes Dr. Parker dangerously jealous.  He takes extreme action to fire up the townspeople’s fear, which quickly gets out of hand.  This brings Shelley and Edgar closer, which forces Meredith to reveal a dark, buried secret.

Kerry Butler & Taylor Trensch
Photo courtesy of City Center

Taylor Trensch is phenomenal as Edgar.  His physicality creates a shocking creature, who then
transforms into an intelligent young man.  His vocal quality adds humor and sophistication to his genially grotesque character.  He exhibits terrifying flashes where his untamed tendencies overpower his learned behavior.  His timing in these moments is impeccable, making them jarring and authentic.  

Kerry Butler portrays Merdith as a staunch conservative.  This is vastly contrasted in the scenes where she opens her heart to Edgar.  They are genuine, warm, and touching.  She and Mr. Trensch develop a trusting and honest connection.  Gabi Carrubba’s Shelley is rebellious and independent.  She discovers a different side of herself after spending time with Edgar.  She becomes thoughtful and emotionally aware, compelling the story to take a deep dive in the second act.  Dr. Parker’s reaction to his family’s allure to Edgar is unsettling.  Christopher Sieber successfully plays this lethal descent into madness for every laugh he can, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Christopher Sieber as Dr. Parker
Photo courtesy of City Center

Alex Newell is stunning and magical in their cameo appearance as The God Pan.  There are also outstanding performances by Marissa Jaret Winokur, Tom Mc Gowan, Andrew Durand, Jacob Ming-Trent, Olivia Puckett, John-Michael Lyles, and an excellent ensemble. 

Bat Boy is playing at City Center through November 9.  This is an excellent production.  It is fun and entertaining, while delivering a pertinent message of acceptance.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza

Sally Spectre the Musical

 Sally Spectre the Musical
News of Spite Productions
30^th Street Theater
October 22, 2025

Photo courtesy of Sally Spectre the Musical

Sally Spectre the Musical is pure Halloween fun.  This show is an intriguing combination of macabre, dark, and silly humor.  Taking inspiration from Tim Burton, playwright / composer / lyricist David P. Johnson, created a story that haunts its audience and leaves them with a valuable message.  He and his co-director, Arden Teresa Lewis, have branded this musical with a consistent and sharp style that keeps the audience fully engaged.  The opening number eerily introduces the premise and sets the tone and pace for the show.  The cast boldly takes this well-crafted material and delivers strong and haunting performances.  Every ghoulish detail is brought together for a satisfying conclusion.  

Sally Spectre (played by Helen Floersh) has been dead for fifty years, but does not know it.  The hatchet that killed her when she was a child remains embedded in her head.  She is protected by Bartholomew, a toy soldier (played by Mykeal North).  He knows that “when the fool speaks reason,” the time is approaching for Sally to move on.  When Nero (played by Patrick Beckstead) starts talking sensibly, Bartholomew knows that time is fast approaching.  The Wraith (played by Bobby Bogner) arrives during the night to play Chinese checkers with Sally, causing Bartholomew to worry.  The Wraith calls upon his assistants, Gustave (played by Richard J. Piatt) and Mabel (played by Marie Scott) to get Bartholomew, Sally, and Winky (played by Patick Beckstead) on the same page.  The secret lies in the mirror that Sally is afraid to look into.

Helen Floersh, Mykeal North, & Patrick Beckstead
Photo by Garry Kluger, courtesy of Sally Spectre the Musical

 Helen Floersh beautifully captures the youth and waif-like innocence that is perfect for Sally Spectre.  As her protector, Bartholomew, Mykael North is stoic and sturdy.  This is complemented by the characterizations of Patrick Beckstead, who plays one character with four personalities.  He transforms physically and vocally for each of these distinct roles. 

Bobby Bognar is ominous as The Wraith.  His witty sense of humor balances the darkness of his mysterious presence.  Richard J. Piatt and Marie Scott are constantly bickering as Gustave and Mabel, delivering hearty laughs despite their spine-chilling appearances.

Mykeal North, Marie Scott, Helen Floersh,
Patrick Beckstead, & Richard J. Piatt
Photo by Garry Kluger, courtesy of Sally Spectre the Musical

Sally Spectre the Musical was a winner of the Hurricane Season Playwrights Festival in 2008.  It went on to a workshop production at Theatre West in 2009.  In 2012 it was a finalist for the Richard Rogers Award.  This level of focused development is apparent in the quality of this production.  It is tight and consistent.  The production design by Marco Rivera spares no expense.  

Sally Spectre the Musical is playing at 30^th Street Theater through November 1.  If you are in the mood for some spook-filled Halloween fun, this is the show to see. 

Domenick Danza

Italian American Reconciliation

 Italian American Reconciliation
The Flea Theater
October 18, 2025

Photo courtesy of Italian American Reconciliation

John Patrick Shanley’s rarely produced Italian American Reconciliation is beautifully brought to life at The Flea Theater.  Director Austin Pendleton has gathered an amazing cast to inject passion and perspective into Mr. Shanley’s writing.  The setting and time period ring with authenticity.  The cast captures the rhythms and timing in the dialogue.  It all flows naturally, building the tension and humor in each moment through the characters’ conflicting desires.

Aldo (played by Robert Farrior) tells the story of his best friend, Huey (played by Wade McCollum).  Huey is dating Teresa (played by Mia Gentile).  He is very much in love with her, but feels he needs to break up with her and get back with his ex-wife, Janice (played by Linda Manning).  He feels that when they divorced, she took a part of him, and he needs to get it back.  Huey has a plan and needs Aldo’s help.  Aldo agrees, but has a plan of his own to keep Janice and Huey apart, which he feels is best for both of them. 

Wade McCollum & Robert Farrior
Photo courtesy of Italian American Reconciliation

Robert Farrior opens the show as Aldo, directly addressing the audience.  The tone, pace, and humor of the play are immediately established.  He invites the audience in for the story he wants to tell, and informs them that it has a lesson.  He brings the lesson to a specific conclusion, after experiencing torment throughout the journey.  Mr. Farrior skillfully portrays this inner conflict, while maintaining the humor in Aldo’s perspective.  He brings vibrant life to all his scenes. 

Wade McCollum skillfully portrays the various levels of Huey’s character.  He is meek and broken with a lust for life that is trapped within.  Mr. McCollum finds moments to reveal this inner zeal and strength, keeping the audience connected to his plan to reconcile with his ex-wife.  Linda Manning’s Janice is dark and brooding with an explosive temper.  She reveals different sides of herself in scenes with Huey and Aldo, creating a full and complex character. 

Mia Gentile, Mary Testa, & Robert Farrior
Photo courtesy of Italian American Reconciliation

Mia Gentile plays Teresa with a strong sense of self-awareness, while also needing love and companionship.  These elements come into conflict when the decision she makes to break it off with Huey is turned around when he breaks up with her first.  Luckily, she has Aunt May to talk to.  Mary Testa plays this role to the fullest.  She offers advice and comfort, not only to Teresa, but also to Aldo.  Ms. Testa portrays this character with warmth and wisdom, while also maintaining an edge of skepticism, which magnifies the humor.

This play addresses the messiness of love and the need we all have for it.  It is structured and communicated in a way that is unique to John Patrick Shanley.  It is a beautifully passionate adventure. 

Italian American Reconciliation is playing at The Flea Theater through October 26. 

Domenick Danza

Liberation

 Liberation
James Earl Jones Theatre
October 14, 2025

Photo courtesy of Liberation

After a successful Off-Broadway run last winter, Liberation has moved to the James Earl Jones Theatre on Broadway.  Playwright Bess Wohl has outdone herself with this play.  She crafted a brilliant exploration into what drives the desire to instigate change and generate lasting impact.  Her characters all speak from the heart, addressing large social and political issues from intimate and personal perspectives.  Director Whitney White skillfully balances the voices, giving each character a platform to be heard.  The cast is phenomenal, creating moments of honest contact that nudges the audience into deep introspection. 

Lizzie (played by Susannah Flood) wants to tell the story of her recently deceased mother who, in 1970, started a women’s liberation group while living in Ohio.  Lizzie has a few unanswered questions about that work and experience, so she looks through her mother’s notebooks.  This transports her to the meetings in the basement basketball court of the local rec center.  Lizzie steps into her mother’s shoes and meets Margie (played by Betsy Aidem), Dora (played by Audrey Corsa), Celeste (played by Kristolyn Lloyd), Isadora (played by Irene Sofia Lucio), and Susan (played by Adina Verson).  They all share their stories, challenges, and trepidations.  Lizzie’s questions are not fully answered, so she contacts the women from the group who are still living.  Lizzie does not stop probing, finally digging into her mother’s choice to marry her father, which is more than she can handle on her own. 

Susannah Flood & Betsy Aidem
Photo courtesy of Liberation

The character of Lizzie directly addresses the audience at various times throughout the play.  This
personally engages the audience, keeping them fully connected to the action as it goes back and forth in time.  Susannah Flood does a remarkable job with this.  She befriends the audience, making them a part of how she tells the story.  She is fully present, emotionally exposed, and highly amiable.  

Photo courtesy of Liberation

Each of the characters is distinctly drawn, and this cast embodies every element of these specific and strong personalities.  Betsy Aidem is phenomenal as Margie.  As her character grows, she does not shed her cynical edge.  Audrey Corsa portrays the emergence of her character Dora with grace and confidence.  She truly blossoms through her participation in the group.  Kristolyn Lloyd is stoic and grounded as Celeste.  She bravely faces her challenges, yet is highly vulnerable when she lets down her guard.  Irene Sofia Lucio creates a lustful and vibrant Isadora.  As transparent as she presents herself, she is continually full of surprises.  Adina Verson is solid and fiery as Susan.  Her subtext is vivid and clear.  There are also powerful performances by Kayla Davion and Charlie Thurston.

Photo courtesy of Liberation

Most of the action of the play takes place in the 1970s and focuses on the women’s liberation
movement.  It directly speaks to who we, as a society, have become since then.  Our successes and our disappointments.  The play makes the point that our participation has value.  Great value.  Everyday value.  This is an important play. 

Liberation is playing at the James Earl Jones Theatre.  You must experience it for yourself.    

Domenick Danza

Truman vs. Israel

 Truman vs. Israel
Abzug and the Undressing of Truman
Theater at St. Clements
October 11, 2025

Photo by Darin Chumbley, PictureDLC 
Courtesy of Greenhouse Theater Center 

The Greenhouse Theater Center’s production of Truman vs. Israel is a unique glimpse into a specific slice of history.  Playwright William Spatz sets up a fictional meeting between Harry S Truman and Bella Abzug that fervently illustrates the conviction it takes to make bold and difficult decisions.  There is no going back and there cannot be any regrets.  Director Randy White uses this theme in the way the cast approaches their characters.  Strong and bold choices are made, heightening the emotional impact of the play. 

After serving as President of the United States, Harry S Truman (played by Willy Falk) brings a defamation lawsuit against a NY journalist.  Truman’s law firm sends Bella Abzug (played by Helen Laser) to his home in Independence, Missouri to review the case.  Her main objective is to get him to drop the charges.  The law firm is concerned that the trial will prove the journalist’s statements correct.  These concerns are verified when President Truman tells Bella Abzug that Jews are not allowed in his home.  Don Muller, Ms. Abzug’s assistant (played by Matt Caplan), has an agenda of his own and contradicts her when she consults with President Truman.  This puts her on guard.  When Mr. Muller interviews Eddie, President Truman’s longtime friend and neighbor (played by Mark Lotito), these concerns are magnified.  It is the discussion of President Truman’s decision to not support or arm Israel that leads Mr. Muller to take action that no one anticipated. 

Willy Falk, Helen Laser, & Matt Caplan
Photo by Darin Chumbley, PictureDLC
Courtesy of Greenhouse Theater Center

The writing is full of facts about decisions that President Truman made while in office, including the dropping of two atomic bombs on Japan and the support of the state of Israel.  The tensions in the scenes where these facts are discussed are high, giving the events a sense of urgency.  Even though they took place in the past, they have lasting effects.  The characters of President Truman and Bella Abzug are highly complex and known to most audience members.  Willy Falk and Helen Laser successfully take on this challenge, humanizing these historic figures.  Their strengths and flaws are equally portrayed.  They have strong beliefs in equality and justice, while both being stubborn, boisterous, and forthright.  

Willy Falk, Matt Caplan, & Helen Laser
Photo by Darin Chumbley, Picture DLC
Courtesy of Greenhouse Theater Center

Matt Caplan portrays Don Muller with equal complexity.  The difference is that his character is fictional.  He has a gripping and heartbreaking backstory.  When it is revealed, the motivation for his unexpected action is clearly justified.

The character of Eddie is both a help and a hinderance to the case Ms. Abzug is building.  Since he and President Truman were friends from an early age and served in the military together, Eddie has witnessed his bravery and heard his anti-Semitic and racist remarks.  These scenes are vital in painting a vivid portrait of President Truman.  Mark Lotito plays these scenes with total honesty, having great respect for his friend while seeing past his flaws and upbringing. 

Truman vs. Israel is playing at Theater at St. Clements through January 4.  It is a timely play, offering historic facts as a framework to better understand the present. 

Domenick Danza