The Tragedy of Coriolanus

The Tragedy of Coriolanus
Theatre for a New Audience
Polonsky Shakespeare Center
February 8, 2026 

Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

The Theatre for a New Audience production of The Tragedy of Coriolanus is strikingly relevant.  Director Ash K. Tata sets this Shakespeare classic in “just after now.”  With the action including retribution by a powerful leader, the manipulation of the voice of the people, and war for personal gain, it is easy to see history repeating itself over centuries.  The cast works as a phenomenal ensemble, some playing numerous roles, all heightening the urgency with each consecutive scene.  

McKinley Belcher III as Coriolanus
Photo courtey of Theatre for a New Audience

Caius Martius (played by McKinley Belcher III) is victorious in the Roman siege of the Volscian city of Corioles, single handedly defeating Tullus Aufidius (played by understudy Shirine Babb).  He is hailed a hero and given the name Coriolanus.  When he returns to Rome, his pride causes him to lose favor with his citizens.  His mother, Volumnia (played by Roslyn Ruff) counsels him on how to calm the situation.  Menenius Agrippa (played by Jason O’Connell) pushes him to make a public appearance, where his temper gets the best of him.  After Sicinius Velutus (played by William Demeritt) and Junius Brutus (played by Zuzanna Szadkowski) cunningly manipulate the voice of the people, Coriolanus is banned from Rome.  He travels back to the city of his heroic battle to form an alliance with Tullus Aufidius and seek retribution on the city of his birth. 

Meredith Garretson, Emma Ramos, McKinley Belcher III,
Merlin McCormick, & Roslyn Ruff
Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

There are outstanding performances from every member of this cast.  McKinley Belcher III is a mighty Coriolanus, fearlessly filled with pride and courageously ready to defend his title.  Roslyn Ruff is powerful as Volumnia.  She proudly shows her adoration for her son, then shamelessly kneels to him to beg his return to Rome.  She commands the stage when Virgilia, Coriolanus’ wife (played by Meredith Garretson), his son, Martius (played by Merlin McCormick), and Valeria (played by Emma Ramos) try to convince Coriolanus to retreat in his attack on Rome.  It is a brilliantly director and masterfully performed scene, resolving the main conflict in the second act, while unknowingly setting Coriolanus up for his demise.

Due to sudden illness, understudy Shirine Babb went on as Tullus Aufidius with only one day of rehearsal.  She carried pages from her script and delivered a brilliant performance.  She was fully present in every scene, confronting Coriolanus in battle and meeting him head to head as an ally.  She and Mr. Belcher were evenly matched in strength and presence, building tension and raising the stakes. 

The Tragedy of Coriolanus is playing at Theatre for a New Audience’s Polonsky Shakespeare Center in downtown Brooklyn through March 1.  It is a spectacular production, maintaining the high standard of quality set by this magnificent company. 

Domenick Danza

The Cry of the Butterfly

 The Cry of the Butterfly
Theater for the New City
February 6, 2026 

Photo courtesy of Cry of the Butterfly

The Cry of the Butterfly is a beautifully written play by Nicca Ray.  It is full of raw emotion and stark reality.  Ms. Ray bravely tells the Hollywood story of her mother and father, their addictions, their infidelities, and their emotional inaccessibility.  Director Joe John Battista stages powerful cinematic moments that illustrate the relationships and heighten the emotional impact of story.  The cast skillfully portrays complex characters, who are suffering and searching for love and understanding. 

The play opens as a Podcast Host (played by Roger Gonzalez) is interviewing Nicca Ray (played by Mari Blake).  She has just published her book, Ray by Ray, which tells the story of her father and movie director Nicholas Ray (played by Tom Martin).  When the Podcast Host shifts his questions to a highly personal nature, Nicca refuses to answer and walks out.  This brings us back to the day her sister, Julie (played by Alexandra Laliberte), flew her across the country to celebrate the birthday of their mother, Betty (played by Penny Balfour).  Her daughters are concerned about their mother’s trance-like moments and emotional outbursts, but not having been together for a number of years, they push through as best they can.  All three women face their demons, but Betty has the roughest time.  The affair her husband had with James Dean (played by Michael John Gross) during the filming of Rebel Without a Cause created a severe rift in their marriage.  Nicholas never recovered from the sudden death of James Dean, which Betty has never fully accepted.  She faces this with urgency, as it is revealed that she recently received a diagnosis of terminal cancer. 

Alexandra Laliberte, Penny Balfour, & Mari Blake
Photo courtesy of The Cry of the Butterfly

Penny Balfour captures the essence of legendary movie star glamour as Betty.  She carries herself with grace, yet has a piercing directness.  Her ability to gloss over her daughter’s emotional experiences is juxtaposed by her skill at deeply cutting them down.  Mari Blake portrays Nicca with a stamina that comes from years of introspection and recovery.  Even though Betty pushes her buttons, she regains her strength and bounces back.  Alexandra Laliberte plays Julie with drive and moxie.  She has been witnessing her mother’s declining mental and physical health, and put great effort into bringing her sister in for this much-needed visit.  These three women are survivors, determined to keep moving, and these three actors portray them with grit and vigor.  Their scenes together are a constant battle for power, yet they each take on the role of caregiver when one of them is knocked down. 

Tom Martin, Michael John Gross, & Penny Balfour
Photo courtesy of The Cry of the Butterfly

Michael John Gross’ physical and vocal portrayal of James Dean is spot on.  His scenes with Penny Balfour are strong and impactful.  The stakes are high, the conflict is strong, and their connection is visceral.  Tom Martin plays Nicholas Ray with sleek elegance.  You can feel the power he has over Betty, and the love she feels for him.  It is ethereal and borderline psychotic.

The tone is set in the opening scene by Roger Gonzalez as the Podcast Host.  The audience expects the brutal truth, and that is exactly what is delivered.  The scenes between the three women are beautifully written and skillfully directed.  You can feel the isolation they are each experiencing as they relive their memories and try to connect.  They are all present in the room together, yet emotionally separate, incredibly alone, and yearning for connection. 

The Cry of the Butterfly is playing at Theater for the New City through February 22.  It is a uniquely structured and carefully crafted telling of a highly personal story. 

Domenick Danza

Just Desserts, A Musical Bake-Off

 Just Desserts
A Musical Bake-Off
AMT Theater
February 4, 2026 

Photo courtesy of Just Desserts, A Musical Bake-Off

Just Desserts, A Musical Bake-Off is a fresh new Off-Broadway musical with a poignant message.  The score, by Brad Ross, is lighthearted and fun.  The lyrics, by Barbara Campbell, dive deep into the backgrounds and motivations of the characters.  Director Tom Wallace magnifies the humor in Ms. Campbell's book, keeping the audience engaged and entertained.  Each cast member creates an identifiable character the audience roots for, even when they are suspected of foul play. 

The Jefferson County Fair Bake-Off is down to five finalists.  Mildred (played by Klea Blackhurst) is a four-time Bake-Off champion.  She is confident she will be taking the prize home again this year.  Emma (played by Tori Jade Lopez) was runner up last year.  She is young and has a bright future ahead of her, having just graduated from business school.  She is driven, focused, and dedicated.  Brandy (played by Lauren Nicole Sherwood) is no stranger to contests, having competed in beauty pageants her whole life.  This is, however, her first baking challenge, and she admits that she doesn’t like to cook.  Lou (played by JP Sarro) is a new resident of Jefferson County.  He is from Brooklyn and wants to open his own Italina restaurant.  Jean (played by Gina Lamparella) is a school nurse and doesn’t think she deserves to be in the finals.  She and Lou share an attraction that Brandy is continually egging on.  Zack (played by Michael Hunsaker) is the MC for the event, as well as the local weatherman.  He keeps the competition focused and moving, even though there are other places he’d rather be.  Each contestant has a lot at stake.  Some are willing to go further than others to take home to prize. 

Lauren Nicole Sherwood, Tori Jade Lopez, Klea Blackhurst, JP Sarro, & Gina Lamparella
Photo courtesy of Just Desserts, A Musical Bake-Off

Michael Hunsaker opens the show as Zack, the MC.  He is bold and energetic, setting the pace and humor that continues throughout the show.  Klea Blackhurst takes center stage, literally, as Mildred.  The character is a successful businesswoman who is very well known in the county.  She has a cold heart and is suspected of underhanded behavior.  When she reveals her personal story in Act II, she wins over her fellow contestants and every member of the audience. 

Lauren Nicole Sherwood grabs the audience’s attention from her first entrance as Brandy.  The character is openhearted and enthusiastic.  Ms. Sherwood portrays this with joy and vigor.  Tori Jade Lopez creates a multi-layered character with Emma.  She is sweet, cunning, naïve, and ambitious.  Ms. Lopez reveals these traits in the way she reacts and relates to the other characters, creating truthful moments that build a complete and genuine character. 

Gina Lamparella plays Jean as shy and unassuming.  The strength in her performance is in the subtlety of her portrayal.  She is underplayed and boldy resonant.  JP Sarro is gruff and gentle as Lou.  He and Ms. Lamparello have a tender connection, adding a sentimental layer to the over-the-top storyline. 

Be prepared to purchase sweets at the conclusion of the performance. The producers have invited some of the finest bakers to sell their creations in the lobby after the show.  For the matinee I attended, Rachel Cheng, a student from the Culinary Arts Program at John Dewey High School in Brooklyn, sold two of her original recipe cookies.  The Lemon-Glazed Earl Grey Cookies are as enticing as they sound.  The Neapolitan Cookies are a delectable mixture of flavors.  She was supported in her successful venture by her fellow students from the Business Academy at John Dewey.  

Just Desserts, A Musical Bake-Off is playing at AMT Theater (354 W. 45 St.) through February 22.  It is a heartwarming and delightful production.  Go see it!

Domenick Danza

The Ladder

 The Ladder
IRT Theatre
January 31, 2026 

Photo courteys of The Ladder

Isaac Bryne’s play, The Ladder, tells the mythical tale of Theseus slaying the Minotaur.  Director Haley Rice beautifully builds the mystery and suspense in this well-crafted play.  The characters are often searching in the dark, causing the audience to lean in and listen, until the light reveals the object of their search and the desperation of the adventure.  The cast skillfully balances the heightened action with grounded emotion, engaging the audience in their individual journeys. 

When Theseus (played by James Jelkin) escapes the labyrinth after killing the Minotaur (played by Ken Orman), he has tall tales to tell.  He weaves a tale of bravery for Pirithous (played by Justin Senense), capturing his heart and loyalty.  He lures Ariadne (played by Lucy Turner) to a secluded island, only to desert her so as not to reveal how he broke his promise to her in the labyrinth.  King Ageus, Theseus’ father (played by Ken Orman), kills himself when he thinks his son is dead.  It is Persephone (played by Rebekah Rawhouser) who draws the true story out of Theseus by holding Pirithous hostage.  Even then Theseus holds back the full truth of his lustful rise to power. 

James Jelkin creates an egotistical Theseus with a blend of strength and humor.  It is the humor that makes this god-like figure a truthful and identifiable character.  Justin Senense is seductive and adversarial as Pirithous, capturing Theseus’ attention and affection.  Mr. Jelkin and Mr. Senense cleverly play at this masculine tug of war, developing a relationship based on need and convenience. 

Lucy Turner is beguiling as Ariadne.  There is a power in her self-assurance.  Theseus easily falls into her trap, only to betray her when he no longer needs her.  Ms. Turner dominates her scenes, even when she is fully defeated and confronted by Baccus (played by Justin Senense).  Mr. Senense brings an impish quality to the role of Baccus. 

Ken Orman plays a mighty King Ageus and a frightening Minotaur.  He has a majestic and commanding presence.   Rebekah Rawhouser is evil and manipulative as Medea, and fearsome and erotic as Persephone.  She is a true dynamo. 

Playwright Issac Byrne focuses on the story that each of these mythical characters holds within them.  These stories are explored as each character is introduced, giving the play a non-linear structure.  Mr. Byrne successfully delivers an ending that pulls all the loose ends together, and Ms. Rice affectively delivers it with amazing style.

The Ladder is playing at IRT Theatre (154 Christopher St., 3^rd floor) through Feb. 15. 

Domenick Danza

The Disappear

 The Disappear
Audible Theater at Minetta Lane Theatre
January 21, 2026

Photo courtesy of The Disappear

Playwright/Director Erica Schmidt creates truthful and humorous characters in The Disappear.  The relationships are compelling and realistic, allowing her theme to be viscerally understood.  Love, fame, and creativity can easily disappear in a moment, unless effort and value are put into their viability.  When they’re gone, they can be rebuilt or recreated.  If that is not possible, a simple fabrication can keep things in perspective. 

Filmmaker Benjamin Braxton (played by Hamish Linklater) finds his muse in young upcoming actress Julie Wells (played by Madeline Brewer).  His wife, Mira (played by Miriam Silverman) is tolerant of Ben’s indiscretions.  She is fully dedicated to their twenty-year marriage.  Ben’s producer, Michael Bloom (played by Dylan Baker) refuses to cast Julie Wells, and drops the project.  When Ben starts a new project to feature Julie, she insists he hire Raf Night (played by Kelvin Harrison Jr.) to star with her.  Raf is big box office, so Michael Bloom agrees to back it.  When Raf insists Mira, who is his favorite novelist, writes the screenplay, the creative process gets extremely complicated. 

Hamish Linklater & Miriam Silverman
Photo courtesy of The Disappear

Hamish Linklater plays the role of the neurotic, self-possessed, egotistical movie director to perfection.  His timing and mood swings are both humorous and genuine.  Miriam Silverman balances his quirky character by being grounded and sincere.  They are wonderful together.  The dynamic of their relationship is clear from the very first scene.  The complications they face cause them to poke at and spar with one another.  Again, this is both comic and genuine, until it hits the point of no return.  They admit the truth, make a spontaneous decision, then face an imperative transformation. 

Anna Mirodin, Madleine Brewer, & Hamish Linklater
Photo courtesy of The Disappear

Madeline Brewer is charming as Julie Wells.  At first, she comes across as naive and flirtatious.  As the action rises, her controlling and manipulative side is revealed.  Ms. Brewer portrays this dichotomy beautifully.  Kelvin Harrison Jr. has a strong presence as Raf Night.  He seduces Mira, getting her to agree to write the screenplay with Ben.  Mr. Harrison and Ms. Silverman have strong chemistry, adding a layer of intrigue to the plot.  Raf opens up to her about his background, giving Mr. Harrison a chance to dive into the complexities of his character.

The character of Michael Bloom acts as a foil for the conflicts.  Dylan Baker builds a dynamic character in this role, making it an effective catalyst for the action.  Anna Mirodin plays Dolly, Ben and Mira’s teenage daughter.  She observes all the events of the story, even though she is unseen by her parents.  She reflects the turmoil they are feeling and sets up the transformation they all need to experience.

The Disappear is playing at Audible Theatre at Minetta Lane Theatre though February 22.  The characters are well developed, and the performances are equally strong. 

Domenick Danza

Oedipus

Oedipus
Studio 54
December 23, 2025

Photo courtesy of Oedipus

Robert Icke’s version of Sophocles’ Oedipus is riveting.  The story is set in the present, driven by desire for power.  Every word in this adaptation is purposeful.  Every action is intentional.  The cast is focused and connected.  The characters are aggressively ambitious.  The tension builds at a perpetual pace, erupting at moments of heightened frustration.  Every minute of the two hour running time (with no intermission) is intensely absorbing. 

It is election night.  Oedipus (played by Mark Strong) is running for office.  He has a solid lead in the pools and makes a few last-minute promises.  He vows to release his birth certificate, proving his citizenship and calming concerns about his commitment level.  He also promises to start an investigation into the murder of Laius, his wife Jocaste’s first husband, who ruled the country until his murder decades earlier.  Oedipus’s campaign manager, Creon (played by John Carroll Lynch), knows the truth about the events leading to Laius’ death, and is uncomfortable that Oedipus made the decision to investigate without conferring with him first.  When Oedipus’ mother, Merope (played by Anne Reid), hears that Oedipus is planning to turn over his birth certificate, she leaves her husband’s deathbed and travels to see him.  Jocasta (played by Lesley Manville) prepares a surprise dinner for Oedipus at the campaign office.  She secretly invites their three children, Antigone (played by Olivia Reis), Polyneices (played by James Wilbraham), and Eteocles (played by Jordan Scowen), to celebrate Oedipus’ impending victory.  Before they arrive, Oedipus is visited by a blind beggar, Teiresias (played by Samuel Brewer), who shares three predictions, which shifts Oedipus’ demeanor. 

Lesley Manville & Mark Strong
Photo courtesy of Oedipus

Mark Strong and Lesley Manville are brilliant together.  Mr. Strong’s Oedipus is indomitable and
explosive.  Ms. Manville portrays Jocasta as determined and vivacious.  Their passion and attraction are robust.  Their bond is visceral.  Ms. Manville stunningly delivers a long speech, revealing her abusive marriage to Laius and the birth of her first child, at fourteen years of age.  This important backstory is beautifully written.  The details are gruesome and specific, allowing for the scope of the Oedipus myth to be relevant in modern times. 

Olivia Reis, Mark Strong, Lesley Manville, Jordan Scowen, & James Wilbraham
Photo courtesy of Oedipus

Mr. Icke’s adaptation fully acknowledges that every member of the audience knows the outcome of the story.  The opening scene, which is filmed, sets up the premise and the subsequent downfall of the characters.  The tension and suspense build as the audience waits for the reveal.  It does not disappoint.  When the truth is fully comprehended by Oedipus and Jocasta, they are in shock.  It is personal and tragic.  The audience holds their breath to see how they will proceed.  As they start responding, the ending becomes uncertain.

Oedipus is playing at Studio 54 through February 8.  It is a powerful adaptation, brilliantly directed, and masterfully performed. 

Domenick Danza

Richard II

 Richard II
Red Bull Theatre
Astor Place Theatre
December 13, 2025

Photo courtesy of Red Bull Theatre

The Red Bull Theatre production of Richard II is polished, sharp, and passionate.  Craig Baldwin masterfully adapted and directed this William Shakespeare history play, making it modern and accessible.  Scenic design, by Arnulfo Maldonado, is simple, stylistic, and highly effective.  The costumes, by Rodrigo Muńoz, are a unique blend of periods, pulling the events of the play into a timeless setting.  The set and costumes allow Mr. Baldwin to present a seamless telling of this tale.  Richard is present in every scene, often skulking in the shadows, overhearing treasonous discussions as well as acts of honor and loyalty.  The prison cell from the opening scene transforms into numerous locations, allowing Richard’s fate to loom throughout the story.   

King Richard II (played by Michael Urie) banishes his cousin, Henry Bolingbrook, Duke of Hereford (played by Grantham Coleman) and Thomas Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk (played by Daniel Stewart Sherman) after their dispute over treasonous accusations.  When Henry Bollingbrook’s father, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (played by understudy Raphael Nash Thompson) dies, the Duchess of York (played by Kathryn Meisle) requests that Richard bring the banished Henry back to his homeland.  Not only does Richard refuse, but he seizes all the Duke of Lancaster’s property that Henry should rightfully inherit.  The Duchess of York joins Henry in a vengeful rebellion to overthrow the King. 

Grantham Coleman & Michael Urie
Photo courtesy of Red Bull Theatre

Michael Urie plays Richard II with wit, charm, and impeccable timing and valor.  He fully embodies this character and speaks the heightened language with eloquence and conviction.  He transitions from moments of intense introspection to sarcastic humor in an instant.  

Mr. Urie develops distinct and potent relationships with every cast member.  These relationships are vital in understanding the loyalty and treachery that drives the action.  The relationship he creates with Grantham Coleman’s Henry Bollinger changes drastically.  They go from loyal and respectful cousins to fierce enemies, as Bolingbrook attempts to take the throne from Richard.  Their connection is strong throughout the story, heightening the betrayal felt by both of them.

Kathryn Meisle, Grantham Coleman, & Emily Swallow
Photo courtesy of Red Bull Theatre

The relationship between Richard II, his Queen (played by Lux Pascal), and Aumerle (played by David Mattar Merten) is intriguing.  The love between them is passionate and truthful.  Kathryn Meisle portrays the Duchess of York with unwavering principle.  Her reasons for turning against Richard are clearly realized.  Emily Swallow’s Northumberland is cold and concise.  She stands forthright in her actions and convictions.    

Photo courtesy fo Red Bull Theatre

After Richard is imprisoned and Henry is about to be crowned King, the Bishop of Carlise (played by understudy Raphael Nash Thompson) delivers an impassioned speech that gives Henry pause.  It is a bold and risky move that makes Henry realize he needs Richard to willingly forfeit his crown in order for him to have a peaceful reign.  Mr. Thompson’s energy and intention give this moment the strength it needs to shift Henry’s course of action. 

Richard II has been extended.  It is playing at Astor Place Theatre through December 21.  It is a brilliant production. 

Domenick Danza