Exemplary Cast Delivers Emotional Honesty in Prodigious ‘The Whale’

Exemplary Cast Delivers Emotional Honesty in Prodigious ‘The Whale’

By Lynn Venhaus Anyone who has experienced grief knows that moving forward, life is measured by “Before” and “After.” “The Whale” delves into the mental... Details
Garland’s ‘Civil War’ Is an Unflinching Look at a Dystopian U.S. Future

Garland’s ‘Civil War’ Is an Unflinching Look at a Dystopian U.S. Future

By Lynn Venhaus Unrelentingly grim, the harrowing action film “Civil War” is a provocative look at a nightmarish “What If?” scenario -- and claims to... Details
Everybody Wins When SLSO Rocks Out with Reimagined R.E.M. Songs

Everybody Wins When SLSO Rocks Out with Reimagined R.E.M. Songs

By CB AdamsIt must have been a challenge trying to fill the Stifel Theater on April 5 for a program with the St. Louis Symphony... Details
‘Monkey Man’ Is Dev Patel’s Emotional Hyper Violent Directing Debut

‘Monkey Man’ Is Dev Patel’s Emotional Hyper Violent Directing Debut

By Alex McPherson Bone-crunchingly violent and layered with social commentary, director Dev Patel’s “Monkey Man” is an action thriller that packs a real punch, in... Details
Stray Dog’s Silly ‘Xanadu’ Captures the Show’s Campy Kitschy Fun

Stray Dog’s Silly ‘Xanadu’ Captures the Show’s Campy Kitschy Fun

By Lynn Venhaus “Xanadu” is a silly bunch of nonsense – and that is its intention. A spoof of the ridiculous 1980 romantic musical fantasy... Details
Albion’s Heart-Tugging ‘Molly Sweeney’ Showcases Vivid Portrayals

Albion’s Heart-Tugging ‘Molly Sweeney’ Showcases Vivid Portrayals

By Lynn Venhaus Heartwarming and heartbreaking, “Molly Sweeney” lingers. Albion Theatre’s intriguing first foray into producing an Irish play is a poignant mix of comedy... Details
‘Cabrini’ Biopic Illuminates the Nun’s Vast ‘Empire of Hope’ Efforts

‘Cabrini’ Biopic Illuminates the Nun’s Vast ‘Empire of Hope’ Efforts

By Lynn Venhaus Inspiring and empowering, “Cabrini” is a remarkable portrait of the saintly frail and fearless nun who lived the virtues of faith, hope... Details
Searing, Sobering ‘All My Sons’ Explores Tangled Family Secrets

Searing, Sobering ‘All My Sons’ Explores Tangled Family Secrets

By Lynn Venhaus Why does contemplating personal accountability and public responsibility remain a potent topic these days? Questions to ask ourselves, and the debate is... Details
Fierce Performances Elevate Masterpiece ‘August: Osage County’

Fierce Performances Elevate Masterpiece ‘August: Osage County’

By Lynn VenhausTracy Letts’ “August: Osage County” retains all its dark edges, biting wit and unflinching truths in a brilliantly acted and thoroughly engrossing interpretation... Details
Vibrant ‘Problemista’ Is a Surreal Story of Art, Friendship and the American Dream

Vibrant ‘Problemista’ Is a Surreal Story of Art, Friendship and the American Dream

By Alex McPherson An ambitious vision bursting with magical-realist style and heart, director Julio Torres’ “Problemista” explores resonant themes of pursuing your dreams, finding unlikely... Details