Giulia, The Poison Queen of Palermo

 Giulia
The Poison Queen of Palermo
PAC NYC
Perelman Performing Arts Center
August 1, 2026 

Photo courtesy of Giulia,
the Poison Queen of Palermo

Giulia, The Poison Queen of Palermo is a potent new musical.  Set in 1650, and based on the life of Giulia Tofana, it tells a fiery tale of faith, dark magic, vengeance, and rage.  The passion illuminates throughout Jennifer Nettles’ book and score.  The writing is tight and clear.  The characters are all well developed.  The conflict steadily rises, as intrigue carries the story through to the end.  The score drives the action, and the lyrics reveal the inner thoughts and motivations of the characters.  The choreography, by Austin McCormick, sets the pace and style for the production.  Director Mary Zimmerman skillfully brings it all together.  

Giulia (played by Jennifer Nettles) runs an apothecary in Palermo.  All the women of the town come to her with their ailments.  When her husband, Carlo (played by Matthew Amira), starts to mishandle her daughter, Vitoria (played by Naomi Serrano), Giulia poisons him with one of her deadly potions.  After that, the women of Palermo come to her for solutions to their abusive marital problems.  The newly appointed Governatore (played by Christopher M. Ramirez) sets his eye on Vitoria, so when the Cardinale (played by Quentin Earl Darrington) needs a scapegoat for the cause of the drought and hard times facing the citizens of Palermo, they choose to blame Giulia and her apothecary.  They claim it is a center of witchcraft. 

Jennifer Nettles & the Women of the Ensemble
Photo courtesy of Giulia, The Poison Queen of Palermo

Jennifer Nettles is captivating as Giulia.  The character is driven by a clear sense of righteousness.  The more action she takes, the more determined and powerful she becomes.  She bonds with a extraordinary ensemble of women (Emily Fink, Aubrey Matalon, Jamila Sabares-Klemm, and Maya Sistruck) to create a quietly vindictive rebellious cause that changes the structure of their lives.  Naomi Serrano carries the torch as Giulia’s daughter Vitoria.  Her character grows from a naïve young girl to a determined vigilante.  She is fearless.  Didi Romero is funny and fabulous as Duchessa.  She delivers a bold character that is conniving and self-serving. 

Christopher M. Ramirez as Governatore
Photo courtesy of Giulia, The Poison Queen of Palermo

Christopher M. Ramirez and Quentin Earl Darrington are cunning villains as Governatore and Cardinale.  They both have a powerful presence that pushes against the close camaraderie of Giulia and the women.  Sam Simahk is strong and endearing as Father Paolo.  His steady sense of justice gives Giulia and Vitoria supportive guidance, both spiritually and emotionally.  There are also impressive performances by Andrew Kober, Matthew Amira, and Bre Jackson.

Photo courtesy of Giulia, The Poison Queen of Palermo

Act I succinctly and skillfully sets up the characters, time period, and situation.  Act II is full of dark twists and dramatic turns, deepening the action and keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. 

Giulia, The Poison Queen of Palermo has been extended at PAC NYC (Perelman Performing Arts Center, 251 Fulton St.) through August 2.  Unfortunately, at the time of this posting, the production played its final performance.  Keep your eye peeled for future productions.  Hopefully, this will not be the last we see of this show.  It is a phenomenal and unique musical, with a fervent message of empowerment and change. 

Domenick Danza

As You Like It

As You Like It
Shakespeare in the Parking Lot
The Drilling Company
July 23, 2026 

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

The Drilling Company’s Shakespeare in the Parking Lot production of As You Like It is a perfect way to spend a summer evening.  This marks the company’s thirty-first year of presenting free summer Shakespeare on the Lower East Side, and they never cease to amaze.  Director Hamilton Clancy has again brought together a phenomenal cast of highly skilled actors who fill the parking lot on the corner of Norfolk and Rivington with joy and enthusiasm. 

Roselind (played by Lia Bonfilio), daughter of the banished Duke (played by Chris Martel), falls in love with Orlando (played by Patrick Hart), after he wins a wrestling match against Charles (played by Raphael Del Rio).  When Rosalind is accused of treason and banished from the court by her uncle (also played by Chris Martel), her cousin Celia (played by Thammie Laine Quach) decides to go with her.  They flee to the Forest of Arden.  Their servant, Touchstone (played by Andy Rowell) reluctantly joins them.  For safety, Rosalind disguises herself as Ganymede, and Celia disguises herself as Aliena.  Their journey through the Forest of Arden brings confusion, challenge, discoveries of love, and awakenings of self-awareness that none of them expect. 

Patrick Hart & Lia Bonfilio
Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Lia Bonfilio and Partick Hart explore the multiple layers in Shakespeare’s words, creating stimulating moments of sincere emotional connection as Roselind and Orlando.  They have a wonderful, natural chemistry that penetrates through any disguise Rosalind chooses to wear. Thammie Laine Quach’s Celia/Aliena brings humor to Rosalind’s tricking of Orlando in the forest, until she meets up with Oliver (played by Emmanuel Elpenord).  Mr. Elpenord is captivating as Oliver.  He and Ms. Quach develop a beguiling connection. 

Thammie Laine Quach & Andy Rowell
Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Rosalind meets Silvio (played by Dan Teachout) and Phoebe (played by Lizabeth Allen) in the forest, and becomes a foil for their love.  Mr. Teachout portrays Silvio as a simple and honest peasant.  Ms. Allen’s Phoebe is cunning, yet easily distracted.  They are charming together.  The scenes they share with Ms. Bonfilio are genuinely riveting. 

Andy Rowell delivers a bold and daring Touchstone.  He is meek in his initial departure from the court,  yet wild and adventurous when seeking love, which he finds with the seductive Audrey (played by Carly Grisson).  David Marantz portrays Jacques as a grounded philosopher, and delivers Shakespeare’s “Seven Ages of Man” with intrigue, humor, and wisdom.  

Emauel Elpenord, Carly Grissom, Adama Joy Sall, & David Marantz
Phtoco courtesy of The Drilling Company

There are also distinctive performances by Chris Martel, Robert Arcaro, Raphael Del Rio, Carly Grisson, and Adama Joy Sall.  Director Hamilton Clancy stepped into the role of Corrine due to an actor’s illness.  He was smooth and confidant, as always.  The original music by Natalie Smith, Andrew Gombas, Adama Joy Small, and David Marantz beautifully transforms the atmosphere of the parking lot into the mystical and magical Forest of Arden.

As You Like It is playing in the parking lot on 145 Stanton Street, between Norfolk and Suffolk on the Lower East Side through August 1.  Performances are Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:00 PM.  The Drilling Company’s Shakespeare in the Parking Lot productions are always a summer treat.  Don’t miss this one! 

Domenick Danza

Courting Mayhem

Courting Mayhem
Theatre 4the People
IRT Theater
July 18, 2026 

Photo courtesy of Theatre 4the People

Theatre 4the People’s production of Courting Mayhem  is a high energy and emotionally engaging experience.  Playwright Syd Rushing’s rhythmic dialogue is masterfully crafted.  Director Cooper Howell keeps this play moving at a vigorous pace.  The cast portrays boldly driven characters, while building genuine relationships.  The opening scene, a basketball game, immediately engages the audience, while setting high expectations for the story that follows.  It is impeccably timed, phenomenally staged, and skillfully written.  

Trina Hollingsworth (played by Raven Jeanette) and Camille Rutherford (played by LaCrisha Brown) are fierce supporters of their basketball playing sons, Andre (played by Wilson Hernandez) and Jules (played by Chris Cook).  Their husbands, James (played by Omari “Sim” Miller) and Benny (played by Javere Green), are equally dedicated to getting their sons on the road to a sports scholarship and eventually the NBA.  When they meet the recruiter, Big Earl (played by Syd Rushing), he brutally explains the challenges and sacrifices that lie ahead for the families.  The parents unite in their determination to support their sons, until Big Earl breaks the news that only one of them will make it. 

Syd Rushing, Omari "Sim" Miller, Javere Green,
Raven Jeannette, & LaChrisha Brown

Raven Jeannette and LaChrisha Brown drive the action as Trina and Camille.  They are aggressively committed to their sons’ success, even though they are motivated by drastically different reasoning.  When partnered, they are a vivacious duo.  When pitted against one another, they are deadly.  Omari “Sim” Miller and Javere Green are constantly causing distraction as James and Benny.  They continually tug on the success of their sons and distract their wives from the job at hand.  Their efforts become obstacles in their wives’ focus.  Syd Rushing fuels their fires as Big Earl.  This character holds the key to success for the young basketball stars.  Mr. Rushing spreads this knowledge with menacing authority, upsetting the family structures and accepted norms.  Wilson Hernandez and Chris Cook are the heart of the story as Andre and Jules.  While their parents are losing all perspective over the opportunity presented to them, Mr. Hernandez and Mr. Cook keep it real.  The portrayal of their camaraderie keeps the audience aware that there are vulnerable young men involved in the overwhelming mayhem that builds when striving for financial success. 

Wilson Hernandez & Chris Cook
Photo courtesy of Theatre 4the People

In Act II, Andre and Jules compete to win the opportunity Big Earl is offering.  The first basketball scene of this competition is choreographed like a ballet... with a basketball.  It is seamlessly tied into the dialogue from both sets of parents, which heightens the action.  The second basketball competition is virtually still, placing the focus on the angst and desperation of the parents and the inner emotional conflict of the young men.  These scenes are brilliantly staged and beautifully directed.

The Theatre 4the People’s production of Counting Mayhem is playing at IRT Theater (154 Christopher Street) through August 1.  The rhythm of the dialogue, the pace of the action, and the drive of the characters draws the audience in from the first scene and delivers them to a compelling final moment.  It is a visceral experience.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza

The Last Out Gate

 The Last Out Gate
Chain Theatre
June 18, 2026 

Photo courtesy of The Last Out Gate

Kevin Anthony’s play, The Last Out Gate, is a tender telling of bravery in the face of adversity.  Mr. Anthony keeps the main character’s secret under wraps, building intrigue and captivating the audience.  His dialogue is rich and authentic, capturing the atmosphere and backstory of the characters.  Director Casey Bradley builds genuine relationships between the actors, allowing them to deliver truthful performances. 

Tyson (played by Billy Oxendine) is a champion bull rider in the Texas Rodeo.  He suffers serious injuries and a severe concussion from his last bull ride.  He gives his winnings away to a friend who needs them more than he does.  Shannon (played by Rachel Ann Jerome), who manages Tyson’s ranch, explains to him how badly they need that prize money to keep the ranch going.  Tyson’s sister, Lippy (played by Terra Layne), shows up unexpectedly with her teenage son, Jake (played by Grant Dine).  Jake has been having trouble since his best friend was killed while driving under the influence.  Tyson decides that Jake can stay on the ranch for a few weeks.  Shannon pushes Tyson to realize that the only way he can truly help Jake is by facing his own truths. 

Billy Oxendine & Evan Hayes
Photo courtesy of The Last Out Gate

Billy Oxendine captures the rhythm and bravado of a rodeo cowboy in his portrayal of Tyson.  His character hides his vulnerability behind confidence and swagger.  The scene between the ghost of his partner, Shane (played by Evan Hayes) is beautifully written and delivered.  This scene is in direct contrast to how Tyson relates to Shannon.  With her he is stubborn and direct.  With Shane he is warm and gentle.  This dichotomy gives Tyson the depth and balance to be a strong role model for his nephew in his time of need.  The choice made by the playwright in these scenes is enhanced by excellent direction and highly skilled acting. 

Grant Dine & Rachel Ann Jerome
Photo courtesy of The Last Out Gate

Rachel Ann Jerome delivers an equally strong performance as Shannon.  Camron Chapple plays Charlie, a ranch hand who suffers from PTSD due to his time served in Afghanistan.  Their relationship is grounded in discipline and understanding, which allows them to connect with Grant Dine’s Jake.  These characters are distinctly different yet form a solid bond of mutual support and acceptance.

The characters in Mr. Anthony’s play are all broken and need one another to learn, mend, and move forward.  As the play concludes, the healing begins. 

The Last Out Gate is playing at Chain Theatre through June 27. 

Domenick Danza

The Fear of 13

The Fear of 13
James Earl Jones Theatre
May 26, 2026 

Photo courtesy of The Fear of 13

After being nominated for an Olivier Award for his London stage debut in The Fear of 13, Adrien Brody recreates his role in a stunning Broadway debut.  This is a compelling character in a gripping story of forgiveness and redemption.  Playwright Lindsey Ferrentino based this work on the documentary film by David Sington.  It is an evenly paced, well-structured play with high stakes and well-crafted dialogue.  Director David Cromer creates a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere, then widens the sense of despair.  As hope rises so does suspicion and doubt.  The tension returns, then releases, allowing for satisfying closure. 

Jacki Miles (played by Tessa Thompson) is an advocate for death row prisoners.  She visits once a week and listens, taking notes on the stories they tell and reporting on their treatment, health, and psychological needs.  One prisoner, Nick Yarris (played by Adrien Brody) gets her attention when he quotes from Catcher in the Rye.  Jacki researches the implausible stories he tells to confirm they are the truth.  She finds herself spending more time with him on her visits, and finally admits she is getting involved.  Nick declares to Jacki that he is innocent… and in love with her.  She insists he tell her the full story of how he became incarcerated before they address their emotional situation.  Jacki realizes she could have full access to Nick’s records to better assist with his appeal if they were married.  Once she makes this commitment, there is no turning back. 

Adrien Brody as Nick Yarris
Photo courtesy of The Fear of 13

Nick Yarris is an intense and fascinating character.  He is well read from his time on death row, so he is articulate and knows how weave incredible tales.  Adrien Brody projects a glib and beguiling façade as this character.  He renders child-like traits, while masking deep feelings of hurt and betrayal.  He is vulnerable and full of anguish.  As his darker side rises, you wonder how trustworthy he is.  The more Jacki believes him, the more you fear for her safety.  You want to believe him, but are never really sure.  It is this duality that draws you in emotionally.  

Adrien Brody & Tessa Thompson
Photo courtesy of The Fear of 13

Jacki Miles gradually opens up to Nick.  She takes her responsibilities as an advocate very seriously.  She develops a genuine tenderness for Nick over the course of her visits.  Since she does not jump in unknowingly, the audience willfully goes on this journey with her.  Tessa Thompson splendidly portrays this measured discovery and immersion of emotion.  Her character is sure of herself and confident in every step she takes.  Ms. Thompson and Mr. Brody skillfully shift in their susceptible moments, supporting one another as they waver between hope and helplessness.  Their connection is tender.  Their bond is visceral.

The Fear of 13 is playing at the James Earl Jones Theatre through July 12.  You must see these performances.  The characters go through a harrowing journey, making this play a unique and amazing experience. 

Domenick Danza

Thornton Wilder’s The Emporium

 Thornton Wilder’s The Emporium
Classic Stage Company
May 16, 2026 

Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

Classic Stage Company’s production of Thornton Wilder’s The Emporium is inspiring.  Kudos to playwright Kirk Lynn for uncovering this unfinished Thornton Wilder play and bringing it to fruition.  The play encompasses Mr. Wilder’s philosophical point of view.  It has the powerful images contained in The Skin or Our Teeth, and the poetic scope of Our Town.  Director Rob Melrose orchestrates the action, putting focus on the repeated motifs that culminate in a poignant message. 

John (played by Joe Tapper) wants to work at the Emporium.  It’s all he thinks about while growing up at the orphanage, and the reason why he runs away from the farm he works on after he is adopted.  It’s not until he gets to the city that he realizes how hard it is to get a job there.  He meets Laurencia (played by Cassia Thompson), who works at the Emporium.  She starts to tell John how to get a job there, but he cuts her off before she can finish.  He runs off to apply through an independent employment agency, and ends up working at Craigie’s Departmental Store.  It’s not as glamorous, but it’s steady work and offers immediate satisfaction.  Just as he is about to achieve a top-level position at Craigie’s, John realizes he longs for something more. 

Candy Buckley & Joe Tapper
Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

Joe Tapper is full of ambition and chutzpah as John.  He strives to achieve his ultimate goal and becomes smaller when he settles for less.  He and Cassia Thompson have natural chemistry.  Ms. Thompson portrays Laurencia as grounded and sure of herself.  As the action progresses, it becomes clear that the calm security she project can dissipate at any time.  When the action culminates in the final scene, these two characters are united in a full understanding of their journey, and these two actors play it beautifully.  

Candy Buckley, Partrick Kerr, Joe Tapper, Eva Kaminsky, & Mahira Kakkar
Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

Candy Buckley plays numerous characters.  She is Bernice, an employee at the Emporium.  She plays Mrs. Foster, the woman who runs the orphanage with her husband.  She plays the Farmer’s wife who adopts John.  She is the woman who runs the independent employment agency.  Her most uniquely comic role is Ermengarde, the daughter of the man who own Craigie’s Departmental Store.  Ms. Buckley creates distinct and bold characters in each of these roles.  Her energy establishes a throughline, connecting every scene and leading the audience to Mr. Wilder’s stunning conclusion.  

Eva Kaminsky, Derek Smith, Candy Buckley, & Mahria Kakkar
Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

Derek Smith also plays numerous roles, and always opposite Ms. Buckley.  They are wonderful
together.  Mr. Smith’s characters challenge John, constantly pushing him out of his comfort zone.  Their scenes build with urgency, propelling the action forward and forcing John to make decisions to face his true calling. 

There are also strong and enigmatic performances by Mahira Kakkar, Eva Kaminsky, and Patrick Kerr.  Their roles and purpose in the story are constantly shifting, until the final scene, where it all falls into place. 

Thornton Wilder’s The Emporium is playing at Classic Stage Company through June 7.  As in all Thronton Wilder’s plays, it contains a strong message of hope, which is something we all need to feel at this time.  It is certain to ring differently for each audience member.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza

The Adding Machine

The Adding Machine
The New Group
The Theater at St. Clement’s
May 14, 2026 

Photo courtesy of The New Group

The New Group production of The Adding Machine is mesmerizing.  Playwright Thomas Bradshaw makes striking revisions to Elmer L. Rice’s landmark 1923 expressionist play.  Director Scott Elliott captures a crisp style, brisk pace, and machine-like rhythm that draws the audience in to the desperation and isolation of the characters.  The cast is riveting. 

Mr. Zero (played by Daphne Rubin-Vega) is stuck.  He has been in the same routine job and bland marriage for twenty-five years.  His wife, Mrs. Zero (played by Jennifer Tilly), expects more from him.  She nags him, but he shows her no emotion.  Mr. Zero bickers with his co-worker, Daisy (played by Sarita Choudhury), while they both fantasize about getting married if Mrs. Zero should die.  When Mr. Zero’s Boss (played by Michael Cyril Creighton) fires him and replaces him with an adding machine, Mr. Zero stabs him to death.  The action takes a sharp turn as Mr. Zero faces the afterlife. 

Jennifer Tilly & Daphne Rubin-Vega
Photo courtesy of The New Group

Jennifer Tilly opens the show with an extensive monologue to her husband while he is asleep.  It is brilliantly delivered.  Ms. Tilly is dark and funny.  She skillfully sets the tone and pace for the rest of the play.  Dahne Rubin-Vega has a grounded presence as Mr. Zero.  This character is complex and carries the most challenging sections of the story.  Ms. Rubin-Vega physically communicates clear subtext in the numerous scenes where she does not speak.  She delivers an outstanding performance.

Daphne Rubin-Vega, Michael Cyril Creighton, & Sarita Choudhury
Photo courtesy of The New Group

Michael Cyril Creighton plays numerous character roles throughout the play.  He is bold and funny.  He often acts as the narrator, glibly connecting the action from one scene to the next.  Sarita Choudhury is enigmatic as Daisy.  Her character has many layers.  Ms. Choudhury differentiates these traits, then unites them in Act II as she makes a daring decision.

The Adding Machine has been extended through May 17.  It is playing at The Theater at St. Clement’s, the new home of The New Group.  This production engages your intellect and challenges your thought process.  Get a ticket before it closes. 

Domenick Danza