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Tag: Theater

PRIVATE LIVES – GUTHRIE THEATER

Featured image by Dan Norman: William Connell (Elyot Chase) and Laura Odeh (Amanda Prynne).

PRIVATE LIVES
by NOËL COWARD
directed by DAVID IVERS
scenic design by Alexander Dodge, costume design by Meg Neville, and lighting design by Pablo Santiago

Wurtele Thrust Stage
July 18 – August 23, 2026

TICKETS: www.guthrietheater.org

Photo by Dan Norman: William Connell (Elyot Chase) and Laura Odeh (Amanda Prynne).

A lighthearted buzz and excitement filled the air around the opening night of Private Lives. I couldn’t wait to see it! Private Lives is considered a comedic masterpiece and Noël Coward’s most famous work. He famously wrote it in four days and starred in the original production. It is a Guthrie Theater audience favorite, with this being the 4th production.

Private Lives is about ex-lovers who unexpectedly show up at the same popular resort with their new spouses for their honeymoons. Divorcees Elyot (William Connell) and Amanda (Laura Odeh) called it quits over five years ago, not because they didn’t care or love each other, but because their relationship was toxic. Their new spouses, even after five years, are convinced that Elyot and Amanda still want to be together. When the couples realize that they are all at the same hotel, chaos ensues. Elyot and Amanda must decide whether to follow their hearts. At times, it’s hard to know if they love or hate each other, and they keep you guessing.

Photo by Dan Norman: Dustin Bronson (Victor Prynne), Sibyl Chase (Nikki Massoud), Laura Odeh (Amanda Prynne), and William Connell (Elyot Chase).

REVIEW OF PRIVATE LIVES at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis

I struggled with this one and purposely used the word “toxic” to describe their relationship. This show is very romanticized, which brought up feelings for me. Why are we laughing at people slapping each other around? I know it’s a comedy, but maybe that is part of the overall problem in society. We joke and brush things like this off until something really bad happens. I kept thinking about young girls (recommended for ages 12 and up) watching and how we make this relationship seem acceptable by laughing and laughing. Have others been in this type of relationship? Because it’s not funny. It’s awful.

That said, the acting and the set design are superb. And there were plenty of times that we laughed. I especially enjoyed Laura Odeh’s (Amanda Prynne) comedic timing. It was a nice surprise to hear a piano as we were seated, then see Bradley Beahen (Piano Player/Louis) on top of the set! I’m still wondering how they got the piano up there. 😉

Photo by Dan Norman: Nikki Massoud (Sibyl Chase) and Dustin Bronson (Victor Prynne).

In a future production, I’d love to see this relationship addressed instead of being romanticized. Which I think could have easily been done as part of the show.

Run time: Approximately 2 hours, 15 minutes (including two intermissions).

©Tracy Blowers

August 17, 2026
SHAKESPEARE IN THE VINES – The Two Gentlemen of Verona – by Frosted Glass Creative at Rustic Roots Winery

*Featured image: The Vineyard Conservatory at Rustic Roots Winery by Tracy Blowers

The Two gentlemen of verona through June 20, 2026. (see below for more options at different locations)

By William Shakespeare
Directed by Calyssa Hall and Alex Galick

What a beautiful location for outdoor theater! The Vineyard Conservatory at Rustic Roots Winery is a perfect spot for The Two Gentlemen of Verona. It’s so much more than a “tent” with gorgeous views of the vineyard. It brings the outdoors in giving the feeling of sitting in nature. The open air and multiple entrances, create an immersive experience with the cast coming from different directions and moving among the audience.

Two Gents is a story of best friends, love, then betrayal, then love again, with lots and lots of shenanigans among the servants. Oh and sword fighting! 😉

The Two Gentlemen of Verona Company, photo courtesy of Frosted Glass Creative.

The whole company is a joy to watch. I absolutely loved watching Proteus (one of the gents/best friends) played by Alix Galick because he has the best facial expressions. He speaks as much with his face as his words. Truly the whole cast is fantastic, full of life, vigor, and entertaining. It was a fun night filled with laughter.

AND my very favorite, star of the show, is Crab. The dog played by Kona. What a rockstar pup. 🐾

Rustic Roots Winery food options.

Rustic Roots Winery food is delicous! You can choose between the Rustic Bistro or The Grill. We love their snack board, salads, and flatbread from the bistro and burgers from the grill.

🍷The wine is fantastic, especially the summer slushies!

It was so good to see fellow Twin Cities Theater Bloggers, Jill with Cherry and Spoon and Julie with MN Theater Love. ❤️

Upcoming TWO GENTS shows via Frosted Glass Creative website below. Plus check out the other fun shows they have planned this summer by clicking HERE.

JUNE 17-20

RUSTIC ROOTS WINERY

Friday, June 19th at 7:00pm

Saturday, June 20th at 7:00pm

JUNE 25

ALEXIS BAILLY VINEYARD

Thursday, June 25th at 6:30pm

JUNE 26-27

WINEHAVEN WINERY

Friday, June 26th at 6:30pm

Saturday, June 27th at 6:30pm

TICKETS

#SeeTwinCitiesTheater

Discover. Inspire. Connect.

©Tracy Blowers unless otherwise stated

June 19, 2026
Come From Away – Guthrie Theater

*Featured image: Cast of Come From Away by Dan Norman.

Now I want to kiss a cod and become a Newfoundlander! 😉

COME FROM AWAY at the Guthrie Theater through August 9, 2026.

Book, Music, and Lyrics by IRENE SANKOFF and DAVID HEIN
Directed by KENT GASH

This cast! One word: Incredible. So many local favorites!

Cast of Come From Away by Dan Norman.

I love to see Ann Michels and Jennifer Grimm perform. Jon Hegge as Oz is absolutely hilarious. Everyone is top tier and gives you a show to remember.

Come From Away is a hit musical based on an incredible true story from 9/11. When the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) closed the U.S. airspace, 38 commercial aircraft were diverted to Gander International Airport in Newfoundland, Canada. Gander’s population was around 10,000, and with the “plane people” (an additional 7,000), it was about to double. This could have been a disaster, but instead, the townspeople embraced the plane people. They went above and beyond to make them comfortable AND took the time to understand their needs and who they were. Bonds were formed, unlikely connections turned into lifelong friendships, and love blossomed.

What I loved about Come From Away at Guthrie Theater.

The opening number, “Welcome to the Rock,” sets the energetic tone for the show. I was so captivated, I don’t think I blinked for the next two hours. The extraordinary way this (at times scary and sad) story is told through the music is inspiring. It’s the contrast of how they share the tragedy but highlight the good, the intensity of how the story builds, and the release that comes with humor.

Come From Away is performed on the McGuire Proscenium Stage, which is my favorite. I love that they chose the McGuire stage because this story deserves an intimate space where the audience feels connected. And that is exactly what happened. During a comedic scene, a few people started laughing, but one gentleman’s laugh stood out. It was contagious, and more and more people started laughing. The cast held the scene for quite a few minutes, and more and more people started hysterically laughing. I’m always so impressed that the cast doesn’t break character. It was such a joyous moment.

Cast of Come From Away by Dan Norman – Scenic Design by Edward E. Haynes Jr., Costume Design by Kara Harmon, and Lighting Design by Rui Rita.

Come From Away brings joy and a renewed faith in humanity.

Enjoy Minneapolis views before the show.

As always, we love to get a drink and take in the views before the show. We can’t wait for Indígena by Owamni to open in a few weeks!

I ran into fellow Twin Cities Theater Blogger Rob from The Stages of Minnesota. He rarely misses a show; make sure to follow our reviews HERE.

TICKETS to Come From Away.

Run time is 1 hour and 55 minutes. No intermission.

© Tracy Blowers unless otherwise stated.

June 16, 2026
Jesus Christ SUPERSTAR Rocks the Stage

Jesus Christ Superstar at Ordway Center for the Performing Arts in St. Paul, Minnesota, now through December 28, 2025.

*featured above photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade includes Jack Hopewell (Jesus) and the North American tour company.

Jack Hopewell (Jesus) with the North American tour company of Jesus Christ Superstar.
Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.

Wow! The Olivier Award-winning production of Jesus Christ Superstar is both exhilarating and conflicting. My body wanted to dance while my mind felt frozen in the weight of the story. The story is set in the final weeks of Jesus Christ’s life, told from Judas’s perspective.

From the moment the show starts with the squeal of the electric guitar and the cast’s dramatic entrance from the side doors, the audience is locked in. It has the feel of an electric stadium concert mixed with rock opera musical. I had never fully listened to Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s famous score until the show and am now a fan. Did you know that it was the 1971 Billboard Album of the Year?

Elvie Ellis (Judas) with the North American tour company and Faith Jones (Mary) of Jesus Christ Superstar. Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.

Jack Hopewell (Jesus) fills the theater with emotion, giving a full understanding of Jesus’ love, pain, and the last days of his life. His voice resonates through the theater, especially the high notes, sending chills up your spine. Opposite Jesus, Elvie Ellis (Judas) creates a perfect push-and-pull, emoting how deeply conflicted Judas was about his decision. The intensity between them is palpable. Every time Faith Jones (Mary) takes the stage, it is a breath of fresh air and comfort through the chaos of Jesus and Judas. Her voice is so beautiful and magical. It’s like a warm, needed hug.

The whole returning touring cast was all star! The confidence and ease on the stage seemingly working and moving as one is incredible to watch. I loved the simplicity of the set design, one building with windows into the soul of the stage. The windows are strategically used to highlight different actors and scenes including the guitar player and orchestra. A large cross laying, almost as if it fell through the building, is very powerful.

Jack Hopewell (Jesus) with the North American tour company of Jesus Christ Superstar.
Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.

The end and cruciifixion was difficult for me to watch, given everything going on in the world. Sometimes it feels like we haven’t evolved. Group mentality, not knowing the whole story and believing half truths from unreliable sources, judging, when will it stop?

I love when a production makes you you feel a plethora of feelings while at the same time being so entertaining. You will be swept away into the music and the story. And hopefully all of us walk away wanting to share more love, respect, and understanding.

This is the Regent’s Park Theatre London production and a replica of the show will launch its international tour across Asia next year. Another production will return to London’s West End this summer, playing at Palladium Theatre.

What to do before a show at the Ordway Center for Performing Arts

The holidays are truly magical in and around the Ordway. The Ordway is decorated to the hilt so beautifully with a bright red tree for you to grab a photo in front of, along with a selfie station. Plus, an incredible piano player sharing festive holiday tunes. Savor a drink, take a picture, and enjoy the views of Rice Park!

Follow Twin Cities Theater Bloggers on Facebook and Instagram for everything theater in the Twin Cities!

discover. inspire. connect.

©Tracy Blowers unless otherwise stated

December 13, 2025
Review – A Christmas Carol

The cast of A Christmas Carol, Photo Jenny Graham

A Christmas Carol at Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, Minnesota

When I turned onto 2nd Street in Minneapolis, as I’ve done hundreds of times, my eyes unexpectedly filled with tears. Seeing the Guthrie Theater’s bright lights shining again, feeling the familiar feeling of excitement, and at the same time, the rush of emotions of what we all have been through filled my heart. It was a big lump of hope in my throat. It’s been 616 days since the Wurtele Thrust Stage went dark, and she is back.

Above Photos Tracy Blowers

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Lavina Jadhwani, directed by Joseph Haj at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, runs through December 27, 2021. Do you ever wonder what might have been or what could be? A Christmas Carol reminds us that every passing moment is a chance to change or shift our circumstances.

Ebenezer Scrooge is stuck in a miserable cycle. He’s isolated himself, believing that he is happier when he is alone until this Christmas Eve when three ghosts visit him. One from the past, present, and future. The spirits show Scrooge through memories and realities what will happen if he stays on this course and doesn’t open his heart. As each spirit takes him on a journey, Scrooge begins to see clearly, and shows a desire to transform.

Isa Guitian (Belle), Clay Man Soo (Young Scrooge) and Matthew Saldivar (Ebenezer Scrooge), Photo Jenny Graham

For the first time since 2010, the Guthrie updated the production including new scenic, costume, prop, lighting and sound designs. We really enjoyed this adaption and the updates. It felt right. Simplified and scaled down, like an ease back which highlighted the story even more. The warm mood of the lighting (Yi Zhao), the intricate costume design (Toni-Leslie James), and the talented cast narrating the story as they moved seamlessly around the stage had me mesmerized. There is still wonderful singing including Christmas carols, dancing, humor, ghosts flying, and startles. Scenic Designer (Matt Saunders) did an amazing job adding a fresh view into the world of Scrooge. Speaking of Scrooge, we thought Matthew Saldivar, filled the shoes perfectly, and his comedic timing is fantastic.

Kurt Kwan (Ghost of Christmas Past) and Matthew Saldivar (Ebenezer Scrooge), Photo Jenny Graham

Ultimately, Scrooge realizes that sharing his life with others is what brings him joy. I think that is what overwhelmed my heart when I turned down 2nd Street. There was a time of isolation but we are coming back together as a community.

Regina Marie Williams (Ghost of Christmas Present), Matthew Saldivar (Ebenezer Scrooge), Lily Birkholz (Tiny Tim),
John Catron (Bob Cratchit), Photo Jenny Graham

“It is certainly true of this ghost story of Christmas, which reminds us each holiday season that we are not just responsible for ourselves but also for our neighbors.” – Joseph Haj

You can buy tickets to this timely holiday tale HERE.

Remember, keep searching for what stirs your soul. ❤️

November 14, 2021
Getting Plowed: A Holiday Survival Guide – Brave New Workshop – Minneapolis
“If we couldn’t laugh, we would all go insane.” – Robert Frost

If you’re looking for a fun way to kick off the holiday season, check out “Getting Plowed: A Holiday Survival Guide” at the Brave New Workshop (BNW). It’s the perfect way to keep the holidays in perspective and release some stress through laughter. The show is quick-witted, entertaining, and hilarious!

Some cool information about BNW:
- BNW has been creating original comedy and improv in Minneapolis since 1958
- Longer than any other theatre in the U.S.
- BNW was founded by Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus aerialist, Dudley Riggs
- Dudley Riggs decided to start BNW after a near-fatal fall from a trapeze
- BNW boasts the most comprehensive improv training curriculum in the country
Before the show…

After the show. 😉

Brave New Workshop

824 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis

612-332-6620

www.bravenewworkshop.com

#sponsored
November 19, 2019

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