Author Archives
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Vivacious Jessica Vosk Brings Charisma, Wit, and Talent to the Trust’s Cabaret Series
By JESSICA NEU Before renowned singer and actress Jessica Vosk took the Cabaret stage, the theater staff introduced her as a “secret superstar.” If that’s the case, it seems that the secret might be out on Vosk’s talent and charm as she… Read More ›
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Ballet to Broadway: an Interview with Leigh-Ann Esty – a Swing and Understudy for ‘Disney’s Beauty and the Beast’
By JESSICA NEU The Benedum Center has invited Disney’s Beauty and the Beast to ‘be their guest’ from Tuesday, February 24th, through March 1st. The production marks the 30th anniversary of Disney’s groundbreaking musical that brings the beloved 1991 film to life…. Read More ›
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Step Afrika!’s ‘The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence’ Ignites a Fire of Hope and Rejuvenation
By JESSICA NEU The Pittsburgh Dance Council’s 2025-26 series continued last night with Step Afrika!’s The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence. Combining traditional African instruments and choreography, artistic director Mfoniso Akpan and 17 tremendously talented cast members brought this profoundly moving piece to life. The Migration:… Read More ›
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Review: Martha Graham Dance Company Continues to Modernize Dance in its 100th Anniversary Program
By JESSICA NEU Founded by Martha Graham in 1926, the acclaimed Martha Graham Dance Company is the oldest dance company and the oldest integrated dance company in the United States. Hailed by the Washington Post as “one of the seven wonders of… Read More ›
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Review: Defying Expectations and Dazzling Audiences – ‘Wicked’ Remains Wonderful
By JESSICA NEU When I interviewed Wicked ensemble member Just Wirick, he noted, “You never forget the first time seeing Wicked.” The show leaves such an indelible mark that the experience becomes a core memory. I first saw Wicked at the Benedumin 2006. My friend and I drove down… Read More ›
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Veteran Cast Member and Uniontown Native Justin Wirick Brings Experience and Gratitude to ‘Wicked’
Wirick is celebrating his 16th year on the Wicked national tour! By JESSICA NEU Flying into the Benedum Center for the first time since 2018, the mega-musical Wicked is prepared to ‘defy gravity’ from January 14th to February 15th. But before Glinda… Read More ›
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Review: Game On: ‘Clue Live on Stage!’ Makes Everyone a Winner
By JESSICA NEU Odds are that at some point in your life, you have played at least one round of the iconic Parker Brothers’ board game, Clue. You have selected your suspect, room, and weapon, placed your cards securely in… Read More ›
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Attack Theatre’s ‘Holidays and Hops’ is the Holiday Event for All Age Groups
By JESSICA NEU Whether the hustle and bustle of the holiday season has left you feeling like the Grinch, or you are one candy cane away from becoming Buddy the Elf, Attack Theatre’s Holidays and Hops is guaranteed to spread relaxing holiday cheer… Read More ›
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Review: Iron Horse Theatre Company’s ‘RENT’ is Measured in Talent
By JESSICA NEU The mainstage production of the 1996 smash hit musical RENT employed a multi-tiered set with scaffolding and a balcony to accommodate the 13-15-person cast, constantly weaving through the East Village/Alphabet City, NYC. Last night, as we left Iron Horse Theatre… Read More ›
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Review: Nick Cartell Leads a Flawless 40th Anniversary Production of ‘Les Misérables’
By JESSICA NEU Last week, I had the opportunity to tour the Wyoming state capital building, where the Amish handcrafted the building’s woodwork. The Amish believe that the only person who can create something perfect is God, so they intentionally… Read More ›
