Brett Moore is back after his award-winning show in 2019, which I loved. Link to 2019 review. In an updated venue and with additional material, Moore continues to impress and delight a brand-new crowd with his remarkable memory and passion for all things baseball. From naming every World Series winner since its inception to recounting facts and figures of current and past players, Moore's feats are nothing short of amazing.

One of the highlights of the updated show is Moore's celebration of his beloved Dodgers' recent achievements, including their World Series win. This brings an infectious joy to the performance, and the audience is engaged from start to finish, captivated by his genuine love for America's favorite pastime.

Additionally, Moore introduces an impressive new segment on the history and legacy of the Negro Leagues. With the Hall's Early Baseball Era Committee voting in legendary figures like Buck O'Neil and Bud Fowler as part of its Class of 2022, recognizing these players' contributions adds a profound and educational layer to the show. Brett has memorized the names of all 37 inductees who reached Cooperstown primarily for their careers in the Negro Leagues, showcasing his unparalleled dedication.

This production is more than just a baseball show; it celebrates the sport's rich history and impact on American culture. He proves you don't have to be a die-hard baseball fan to appreciate and enjoy his performance. His passion is contagious, and by the end of the show, you'll likely want to visit your local stadium and catch a game.

Brett Moore has hit back-to-back home runs with this show, leaving audiences entertained and inspired. It's a must-see, a perfect blend of entertainment and education that will have you cheering long after the final out.

The world premiere Our American Tragedy at the McCadden Place Theatre offers a riveting exploration of a pivotal moment in American history. Set four days post-war in the spring of 1865, the play immerses the audience in the tense and chaotic atmosphere backstage at Ford's Theatre on the night of Lincoln's assassination.

For those who appreciate a bit of history, here's a brief context: John Wilkes Booth, a well-known actor and Confederate sympathizer, assassinated President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865, at Ford's Theatre. Booth was familiar with the theatre's layout, having performed there. His actions were part of a larger conspiracy to revive the Confederate cause. Booth's assassination of Lincoln was a pivotal moment in American history, changing the trajectory of the nation and impacting the theatre community forever.

Moments after the fateful shot is fired, the actors and crew members of Ford's Theatre find themselves detained and under suspicion. As desperation to avert the gallows sets in, accusations fly, and each individual must defend their level of involvement or lack thereof. The play masterfully captures the fear, confusion, and paranoia that ensues as the detainees grapple with the reality of Booth's escape and the looming question: who knew, who lied, and who took the truth to their graves? 

The performances deeply resonate with the audience, who skillfully balance the witty dialogue with the tense dramatic scenes. The actors bring a sense of urgency and authenticity to their roles, making the historical figures they portray feel alive and relatable. The use of the McCadden Place is particularly effective; utilizing the stairs and various levels of the stage, the production successfully transports the audience to the backstage chaos of Ford's Theatre.

Small details, like the mirror on stage, which several characters use to reflect on themselves, add a layer of introspection and depth. The stage is beautifully decorated, and the costumes feel authentic, effectively transforming us to the period. The sound design during cutscenes and transitions creates a seamless and immersive experience. The clever use of flashbacks highlights what the audience might have missed, keeping the narrative snappy and engaging for a 45-minute show.

This has tremendous potential for expansion. I could easily see it developing into a full 90-minute or two-act play. The characters and cast are intelligently written and three-dimensional. They bring a human element to a historical event often dominated by the larger-than-life figure of Booth. Who makes an appearance but only in voice recording? I wonder if there is an opportunity to enhance the play's impact by having the part of John Wilkes Booth performed live rather than voiced. Even though it's a small part, a physical presence could add to the tension and gravity of the scenes.

Overall, this production is a fun and enlightening show for American history and theatre fans. It highlights a unique and pivotal time in the past, offering new perspectives on the events surrounding Lincoln's assassination. The production's attention to detail, solid performances, and thoughtful narrative make it a must-see. It's an engaging piece that entertains and educates, reminding us of the fragility of history and the individuals who shape it.

I encourage everyone to see this great play and experience the blend of history and drama it brings to the stage. It's a compelling look at the events that forever changed American theatre and history.

Production Team:

• Matthew Namik: Co-writer, Actor
• Angelique Fustukjian: Co-writer, Actor
• Nick Roy: Co-writer, Actor
• Hayla Stewart: Actor
• Luke Steinborn: Actor
• Carlos Cameron: Actor
• Bryan Snodgrass: Actor
• Presented by: Theatre Asylum
• Directed by: Jack Filsinger

​

What the Chuck?! is more about a "who," and that "who" is Charles Mee.

Charles Mee is a contemporary American playwright celebrated for his innovative, collage-style plays that blend historical texts, found materials, and various sources into non-linear narratives. His works challenge traditional storytelling and explore complex themes such as war and sacrifice, love, violence, gender politics, and American culture and experiences. Mee's plays are known for their thought-provoking content and accessibility, as he publishes his works online for free, encouraging reinterpretation and creative engagement. His contributions to contemporary theater are significant, pushing the boundaries of conventional narratives and offering rich, thematic explorations.
​
While you don't need to be familiar with Mee's works and plays, they do set the groundwork for this show.

Warning: slight spoilers below, but I truly believe you should just show up to this show and experience it all for the first time when you sit down.

The premise is straightforward: The year is 2027, and we are in the worst of timelines where all theatre has been banned for the "best interest" of the American people. The newly formed U.S. Department of D.R.A.M.A. has targeted playwright Chuck Mee. Over the next 65 minutes, a group of highly trained Government Actors performs selected scenes from Mee's plays, acting as gatekeepers to decide, with the audience's help, if these works should be censored or preserved. Add in a powerhouse cast that McFadden has assembled alongside some of the most impactful and relevant writing you will see at this year's Hollywood Fringe Festival, and you will be a guaranteed winner.

When you sign in and head into the Broadwater Main Stage, you are fully immersed in the show. The cast is ready and in character, performing joyfully and enthusiastically as they transform into larger-than-life satirical personas. Prepare yourself to be swept up in the ride; once the show starts, the gas pedal is to the floor and doesn't let up.

The cast delivers exceptional performances. Brandon Blum, as Agent Quaid, is a true chameleon in this show, quickly and effortlessly switching between characters and affectations. Julia Finch's portrayal of Agent Dudak mixes stern authority with subtle vulnerability, making her character both intimidating and relatable. Jonathan Brooks' towering presence on stage adds a level of energy and intensity that is infectious and helps get the audience engaged.

Their chemistry and timing make the show's inviting and thought-provoking interactive elements. Watching the cast play roles within roles is a testament to their multifaceted proficiency. They seamlessly shift between characters, delivering lightning-quick dialogue, acting, performing, and dancing throughout the show.

The creative team behind the show includes Lee Margaret Hanson and Will Thomas McFadden, who not only created this immersive experience but also brought their talents to the stage. They absolutely deserve their flowers as they perform double-duty, seamlessly blending with the rest of the cast.

My few notes on this show are that it could swing into a bit too meta and a self-reflection of theatre criticism with its breaking of the fourth wall and concerns. That said, it doesn't dive into much inside baseball territory. Some references might resonate less with someone who isn't an artist, writer, or performer. But based on the audience's response and enjoyment, plenty of easter eggs and nuggets will be appreciated, especially if you are more familiar with theatre. However, don't let that dissuade you if you're not. You don't need to be familiar with the plays referenced to appreciate the themes of censorship and the importance of letting art speak to themes such as love, loss, heartache, tragedy, and resilience.

Overall, this was easily one of the best shows I have seen and truly is a love letter to American theatre. I implore you to show up and be prepared to engage with this delightful show, and I guarantee you will have a wonderful time. 

Production Team:

• Lee Hanson: Producer
• Will Thomas McFadden: Co-Producer & Director
• Brandon Blum: Agent Quaid
• Julia Finch: Agent Dudak
• Jonathan Brooks: Agent Spicer

Returning to the Hollywood Fringe Festival after their award-winning show last year, Samantha Bowling's latest solo show, "MISSIONS," delves into the complexities of identity and spirituality through a blend of humor and excellent storytelling.

This was my first time experiencing one of Bowling's shows, and I can confidently say I am walking away a huge fan. The show primarily focuses on flashbacks of Bowling playing her 14-year-old self, exploring the internal conflict that arises from being a queer, mixed-indigenous teen on a mission trip to her family's ancestral homelands in rural West Virginia. It captures the confusion, curiosity, and courage of adolescence, revealing deep connections to her Cherokee heritage and the history of the land.

I had zero expectations and truly did not know what to expect. These are tough topics, so initially, I came in slightly guarded, as discussing and listening to the traumas of religious dogma can be tough. But from the moment you step into the theater, you are greeted by the warm, soft tones of a sound bath. As the audience settles into their seats, there is a profound sense of calmness and empathy throughout the venue, almost as if we were sitting down for a church service. That said, Bowling is not here to preach; she educates and encourages self-reflection. All while doing so with witty and fast-paced dialogue. The one-hour show flew by, and I found myself surprised at how much information was conveyed in such a short time.

The show dives into the complexities of living in areas of grey, such as the inherent struggle of being raised in a traditional conservative church while figuring out one's identity. What makes this show so compelling is its ability to authentically portray the tension of taking the good from her upbringing while growing, learning, and reflecting, and passing that information along to the audience. Throughout the show, I found myself constantly challenged to think critically about topics like spirituality, colonization, land ownership, and stewardship of the land we are on. I have included links below for my own education, and I hope you, as a reader, can use them as a jumping-off point.

Bowling's performance is a standout. She effortlessly blends humor and raw emotion, skillfully joking about her past and conveying it with humor and grace. One of Bowling's greatest strengths is her ability to tackle challenging and sensitive subjects without falling into cynicism. She approaches these topics with compassion and clarity, making her viewpoint inspiring rather than jaded. The show is extremely funny, blending amusing anecdotes with sincerity and genuineness.

There is a lot to chew on in this show, especially if you have any relation to church or organized religion. Bowling delves into the spirituality of her Native heritage, exploring the rich traditions and spiritual practices of her Cherokee roots. This exploration adds an additional layer to the narrative, highlighting the contrast and confluence between her Native spirituality and her Christian upbringing. Her spiritual journey is as much about reclaiming and understanding her Indigenous identity as it is about navigating her contemporary life. The show's chaotic energy, mirroring the protagonist's internal turmoil, adds charm and authenticity. It truly feels like you are inside her mind.

There are plenty of memorable moments, from the fun portrayals of various characters that impact and interact with her during the flashbacks to the great use of audience participation that fosters a sense of community and connection. I won't spoil a musical segment that adds a delightful and unexpected twist.

The minimalistic set design, complemented by effective lighting, focuses attention on Bowling's dynamic presence, while simple yet evocative props add authenticity to the storytelling. The immersive effects are a real treat; the use of simple but practical scents transports you to the beautiful Appalachian mountains.

I have few complaints. There were a few small technical issues, such as repeated audio cues and syncing with the screen behind. I also recognize that I saw this during a preview performance. I do think there is a ton of potential here and would love to see this piece refined and expanded. I enjoyed how fleshed out the characters you meet along their journey were and would have loved more time with them.

Overall, "MISSIONS" is a powerful solo show. Samantha Bowling's talent and immersive storytelling create a unique theatrical experience that shouldn't be missed. You don't need to be spiritual or religious to appreciate this show. Come in with an open mind and be ready for a thought-provoking and immersive experience.

While this might not be a traditional church experience, it is undoubtedly a spiritual one and a journey worth taking.

*Note on Indigenous Land Acknowledgement:

The Hollywood Fringe acknowledges that we are on the unceded lands of the Tongva, Kizh, Gabrielinos, and Gabrieleños. A land acknowledgement is a formal statement that recognizes and honors the Indigenous peoples of the land we presently reside and/or work on. Our statement serves as a practice, as we commit to furthering our connection to the Indigenous communities past, present, and emerging. For more information, Fringe has used these resources for our own education:

• A Guide to Indigenous Land Acknowledgment
• Native Land
• Gabrieleno Indians
• Gabrielino Tongva