Reviews

Limelight Theatre’s production of The Drowsy Chaperone is a love letter to the Golden Age of musical theater — wrapped in humor, nostalgia and delightful absurdity. The show follows a socially anxious theater lover, simply called Man in Chair, who invites the audience into his world as he plays a record of his favorite (fictional) 1928 musical, The Drowsy Chaperone. As the record spins, the musical comes to life in his living room, complete with over-the-top characters, show-stopping numbers and theatrical mishaps, all filtered through his unreliable but endearing narration.

Set fifteen years after Nora Helmer famously slammed the door on her life, Limelight Theatre’s production of A Doll’s House, Part 2 offers a fresh perspective on a classic story, delving into the complexities of personal freedom, societal expectations and one woman’s steadfast commitment to her own principles and autonomy above all else.

First Date is a hilarious and charming musical that follows the story of Aaron (Mitchell Wohl), a nervous investment banker, and Casey (Mary Elizabeth Schubert), a quick-witted artist, who are set up on a blind date at a bustling New York City cafe. Throughout their evening, their inner anxieties and hopes burst into life with the unexpected interventions of their ex-partners, overbearing relatives and a gaggle of imaginary advisors who appear out of the ether to dish out advice, often comically unsolicited.

At Limelight Theatre, 9 to 5: The Musical offers a toe-tapping, delightful romp through the highs and lows of office life in the late ’70s. This spirited adaptation of the 1980s hit film, with music and lyrics by the iconic Dolly Parton, follows three office workers as they enact a wild plan to kidnap their “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot” of a boss and run the company themselves, leading to unexpected hilarity and heart.

Limelight Theatre’s production of Bright Star brings Steve Martin and Edie Brickell’s bluegrass musical to life with a rustic charm and emotional depth that make the show soar. Under the direction of a thoughtful creative team, the production delivers powerful performances, innovative staging and a narrative that draws audiences into its world.