Author Archives
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Director, Star and Ingenue: Pittsburgh CLO’s ‘Anything Goes’ Trio Chats About 2023 Season Opener

By SHARON EBERSON In the intimate conference room in Pittsburgh CLO’s Benedum Center offices, there was a special something in the air. The trio of director Ameenah Kaplan, star Rashidra Scott and ensemble member Kylie Edwards had gathered to talk… Read More ›
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‘Anything Goes’ Marks First Benedum Set for Veteran Designer Tony Ferrieri
It seems impossible that among the hundreds of scenic designs created by Tony Ferrieri for Pittsburgh theaters, Anything Goes marks his first set at the Benedum Center. The musical that opens the summer season isn’t his first for PIttsburgh CLO… Read More ›
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Review: ‘Frida’ Entwines Performer and Artist on Journeys of Self-Discovery
Vanessa Severo’s Solo Show Concludes Pittsburgh Public Theater Season By SHARON EBERSON Experiencing Vanessa Severo’s indelible portrayal of the artist Frida Kahlo, be prepared to be swept away on a journey grounded in historical truths, yet soaring on wings of… Read More ›
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Frida Kahlo’s Story Is Retold in Pittsburgh Public’s Season Finale
By SHARON EBERSON Of Frida Kahlo’s 143 known paintings, 55 are self-portraits. They are painted in bold strokes, with the artist’s face often in three-quarter pose, her eyes engaging the viewer. It’s a strikingly familiar face to anyone with knowledge… Read More ›
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Review: Kinetic’s ‘Every Brilliant Thing’ Faces Darkness With Hope and Humor
By SHARON EBERSON The alchemy of Every Brilliant Thing is a wonder that apparently works with just one consistent ingredient. Marcus Weiss is the lone actor, guide, soothing presence and often everything everywhere all at once. He leads the audience… Read More ›
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Review: Billy Porter Delivers Dynamic Concert, Feels the Hometown Love at Heinz Hall
By SHARON EBERSON The sparkling talent and dedicated drive were always there, pushing against walls of denial and prejudice. Then along came some dynamite named Lola, and Billy Porter became the unstoppable force he was always meant to be. The… Read More ›
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Kelly Awards Highlights to Air on ‘CBS News Pittsburgh’
An hour-long program of highlights from the 2023 Gene Kelly Awards for High School Musical Theater Excellence can be viewed on CBS News Pittsburgh on Wednesday, May 31, at 8 p.m. You can find it on the CBS News App, Pluto TV… Read More ›
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Review: Laughs and Truisms Flow in New Horizon’s ‘Chicken & Biscuits’
By SHARON EBERSON Truisms abound in the laugh-out-loud comedy Chicken & Biscuits, with one in particular that bears repeating: “Family is a loaded word.” And to that I say, “Amen!” There are many occasions to say, “Amen,” punctuating a point… Read More ›
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Elizabeth Forward Completes Comeback, Wins Big at 2023 Gene Kelly Awards
By SHARON EBERSON In a dazzling display of talent Saturday night, the big winners at the 2023 Gene Kelly Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theatre were Our Lady of Sacred Heart, Westinghouse Arts Academy, Hampton and the comeback… Read More ›