Encore Michigan

‘Orphan Train’ jumps the tracks with too much melodrama

Review December 01, 2013
Like all stock melodramas, the good are in peril, the evil twirl their mustaches, and the villains get hissed during the bows. "Orphan Train" has... Continue Reading

Sister’s comedy makes up for lackluster mystery

Review December 01, 2013
By Dana Casadei Second grade was a rough year for me: bangs that were constantly in my eyes, a bright tie-dye vest that was worn... Continue Reading

Audience gobbles up Turkeyville musical revue

Review November 30, 2013
The audience at Turkeyville knew exactly what it wanted and Top Hat productions at Cornwell's Dinner Theater knew how to deliver. And deliver they did.... Continue Reading

A forced ‘Noel’

Review November 24, 2013
By Carolyn Hayes As a form, sketch comedy pairs well with evolution and experimentation. While all it takes for a great sketch show is a... Continue Reading

Adolescent Jesus begets heavenly original comedy

Review November 23, 2013
By Carolyn Hayes Questions authority. Hangs out with a big crowd of peers. Never denies any claim made about him, no matter how outrageous. Assemble... Continue Reading

A sugary sweet (but not always bright) ‘White Christmas’

Review November 23, 2013
By Dana Casadei With Thanksgiving less than a week away, the holidays are already on the mind for many. What presents will you get for... Continue Reading

A ‘Traviata’ to cherish

Review November 17, 2013
By Michael H. Margolin The second outing for Michigan Opera Theatre in this, the 43rd season, is the sublime "La Traviata" of Giuseppe Verdi. Pronounce... Continue Reading

The truth, the whole truth, the ugly, ugly truth – at UDM

Review November 16, 2013
By Carolyn Hayes Pick at a scab long enough, and you'll uncover the wound. "This Is How it Goes," by Neil LaBute, is no stranger... Continue Reading