Sometimes, those who lose are more inspiring than those who win. Take Maurice Flitcroft, for example, who became known as the Worst Golfer in the World. He wound up having the last laugh, though.
That’s the takeaway from “The Phantom of the Open,” a kooky and charming real-life story that celebrates ordinary joes who never give up. During his well-documented remarkable life, Flitcroft achieved an unlikely more-than-15-minutes of fame.
A shipyards crane operator in Barrow-in-Furness in northern England, Flitcroft, at age 46, went after a dream with uncommon verve and an unfailing work ethic. In 1976, he managed to gain entry to The British Open Golf Championship Qualifying and subsequently shot the worst round in Open history, 121, but became a folk hero in the process.
While it did not pan out, people still remember his name. Imagine the mindset to take a risk like he did — an inexperienced golfer who played his first round ever in the 1976 British Open. He turned the stuffy pro establishment on its ear – and Rhys Ifans is hilariously condescending as gatekeeper Keith Mackenzie. The more horrified they are, the more this unrelenting optimist keeps plugging away.
Director Craig Roberts treats Flitcroft with utmost respect, even if those around him do not. The brilliant Mark Rylance anchors this film that’s populated with eccentric characters, and the ensemble is integral to winning us over.
Rylance is joined by fellow British treasure Sally Hawkins as his wife Jean, in yet another poignant role. They make a sweet couple, and Hawkins always delivers a nuanced take. She covers Jean’s heartaches well.
In fine support are Mark Lewis Jones as his best friend Cliff and Ash Tandon as a reporter who tells his story.
Even though their sons are more caricature-like here, Jake Davies is his embarrassed stepson Michael, and twins Christian and Jonah Lees are very funny as the hyper disco-dancing duo Gene and James. The retro ‘70s needle drops are terrific additions to the score.
A real actor’s actor, Rylance, Oscar winner for “Bridge of Spies” who has three Tony Awards and a couple BAFTAs, has a knack for disappearing into a role, and this is no exception. As the earnest Maurice, he will tug at your heartstrings and tickle your funny bone at the same time.
In adapting his own 2010 book, co-written with Scott Murray, screenwriter Simon Farnaby has brought out the quirky details to make the story amusing but never mocks Maurice, and gives it some emotional gravitas in the dramatic turns so that we care about the outcome at every juncture.
Farnaby, who wrote the screenplay for the beloved “Paddington 2,” knows how to mix humor and heart, and Roberts adds warmth. While parts of this story seem incredulous, we find out what seems the most outlandish is true.
Uplifting and sincere, “The Phantom of the Open” is a little gem that aims for the stars and glitters like diamonds in the sky.
Mark Rylance as Maurice Flitcroft
“The Phantom of the Open” is a 2021 comedy-drama that is directed by Craig Roberts and stars Mark Rylance, Sally Hawkins, Rhys Ifans, Jonah Lees, Christian Lees, Jake Davies, It is rated PG-13 for some strong language and smoking, and runs 105 minutes. It opened in select theaters earlier in 2022 and is now available on digital and will be on DVD Aug. 30. Lynn’s Grade: B+
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
Even an actor as good as Idris Elba can’t save this overblown and half-baked adventure-thriller.
When poachers slaughter a pride of lions, ticking off a big cat who goes rogue and becomes a killing machine, this coincides with a doctor’s visit taking his two daughters to their mother’s homeland in South Africa for a getaway safari. But their dream vacation turns into a nightmare instead in yet another movie called “Beast.”
Dr. Nate Samuels (Idris Elba) was separated from his wife at the time of her death from cancer, and this has led to friction with the oldest grieving daughter, Meredith “Mere” (Iyana Halley). They are staying with the mom’s childhood friend, Martin (Sharlto Copley), who oversees an animal preserve, protecting all the creatures on the savanna.
While it starts out promisingly enough, with stunning scenic backdrops and sweeping shots of galloping giraffes, “Beast” quickly falls apart when it becomes “Cujo” and the ticked off apex predator hunts down all humans in sight – except when he/she doesn’t.
The maulings are intense and gruesome, obviously – did they not ever heed ‘it’s not nice to fool Mother Nature?’ and the cast illogically puts themselves in harm’s way.
Characters make a series of decisions that go from bad to worse, so that they seem as dense as people in slasher films. The youngest daughter, Norah (Leah Jeffries), has a penchant for wandering at the worst times. (But is it ever a good thing in unfamiliar territory?).
While I’m not skilled in the laws of the jungle, I’m pretty sure screenwriter Ryan Engle ignores most of them.
Engle takes a video game approach, just as he did in “Rampage” and run-of-the-mill Liam Neeson movies “Commuter” and “Non-Stop,” and the action doesn’t match the characters, who are poorly drawn in the broadest cliches. For a supposedly smart man, Elba’s Dr. Samuels has little common sense.
Then there are the standard tropes. We have the angry daughter lashing out at busy doctor dad who wasn’t around. Oh, that’s original. Scenes of unrealistic peril ensue, even for an animals-attack plot.
By the end, you just want everyone to be put out of their misery after what seems to be an interminable amount of pummeling. The film’s saving grace is its short runtime of 93 minutes — yet, the ending is ludicrous.
It’s not a good sign that the audience seemed to lose patience midway, and laughter grew. Would you willingly smash a walkie-talkie when that is your only lifeline?
As their friend Martin, Sharlto Copley does what he can with a role that mostly dispenses information as he gives them a tour, which goes horribly wrong. Copley, who showed so much promise in “District 9” in 2009, doesn’t have an opportunity here to stand out, and he’s better than the material..
Jeffries and Halley are natural enough as sisters. While paralyzed with fear, they still display survival skills and actually help dad when he needs it. Elba’s character owns up to his failings, so you expect the squabbles given the circumstances. But the end game is that they bond.
However, the characters are soon boxed in, and not just in the vehicle — and the conveniences become contrivances. Whatever goodwill we had for the characters evaporates and interest wanes, so that the conclusion seems anticlimactic.
Elba shows a physical side again, but this time as a flawed hero, not menacing like in “The Harder They Fall,” “Suicide Squad,” and his brief appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Heimdall. Dramatically, in film, he has yet to surpass his work in “Beasts of No Nation” in 2015, although he is best known for his television work in “Luther” and “The Wire.”
Director Baltasar Kormakur’s style is very busy, with quick cuts, and his longshots lack focus — especially as the characters’ overlapping dialogue becomes hard to understand, and it is more difficult than it should be to hear what the actors are saying.
While one can appreciate his intensity in man vs. nature conflicts, he fares better when it’s a war against the elements, unlike here, dealing with a hulking CGI beast of a lion. In “Adrift” in 2018, he gave a riveting account of Hurricane Raymond survivor Tami Oldman (Shailene Woodley) at sea, while in “Everest” he methodically delivered a procedural on the 1996 disaster on the world’s highest mountain that got bogged down with melodrama.
Still, “Beast” is a lot to unpack. Hampered by not only poor sound but also sloppy computer-generated graphic images that don’t seem realistic, the film becomes a merciless slog.
Disingenuous and dissatisfying, “Beast” is ultimately forgettable soon after exiting the theater.
Idris Elba, Sharlto Copley, Iyana Halley in “Beast”
“Beast” is an action-thriller directed by Baltasar Kormákur and stars Idris Elba, Sharlto Copley, Leah Jeffries and Iyana Halley. It’s rated R for violent content, bloody images and some language and run time is 1 hour, 33 minutes. It opens in theaters on Aug. 19. Lynn’s Grade: D.
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
By Lynn Venhaus As frothy as a cappuccino and sweet as cotton candy, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” took hold of The Muny stage as a swirling kaleidoscope of color, a glittery burst of cheer from a youthful ensemble that brings it home.
In the first full season after the challenging post-pandemic years 2020-2021, The Muny wraps up a groundbreaking summer with this beloved big, splashy musical that has been here six times. Last produced in 2012, the show first arrived in 1986 and returned in 1997, 2002 and 2007.
With its technical razzle-dazzle matched by the effervescent Muny Kids and Teens in the youth ensemble and children’s choir, the entire company looked like they were at the happiest place on earth.
That engaged the crowd, and the charismatic principals Jason Gotay as golden child Joseph, Jessica Vosk as the regal Narrator, and Mykal Kilgore as the swaggering Pharoah elevated the wispy material, delivering knock-out performances.
Narrator and Potiphar. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
However, the show is not without heartache and adversity – with a turnaround because of strength, perseverance, and blessings, for it is based on the Old Testament Book of Genesis tale of Jacob, his favorite son Joseph, his 11 other sons, and that famous coat of many colors.
After Joseph’s jealous brothers sell him into slavery, he impresses the Egyptian noble Potiphar, but then rejects his wife’s amorous advances, and is thrown in jail. While locked up, Joseph’s talent for interpreting dreams is put to good use. He ingratiates himself with the Pharoah because he offers a solution to the country’s famine, and that stroke of fortune results in Joseph becoming the Pharoah’s right-hand man. He is eventually reunited with his family.
In the stylized re-imagining by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice, the story is told through song and dance.
Considered innovative in the 1970s, the musical comedy has expanded over time, and is now regarded as a family-friendly favorite staged by thousands of schools and groups in the U.S. and across the pond.
The EGOT duo began this journey collaborating for the second time in 1968. Commissioned by a music teacher who was a family friend of Webber’s, their 15-minute pop cantata was performed at the Colet Court School in London. After more tinkering, it was recorded by Decca Records in 1969.
When their next piece, the rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar,” skyrocketed them to fame in 1971, the earlier musical was stretched to 35 minutes for the Edinburgh International Festival the next year. More modifications followed, and the modern format was staged in 1974. It was mounted on Broadway in 1982 and nominated for seven Tony Awards. Revivals, tours and a 1999 direct-to-video film starred Donny Osmond followed.
Like the other pop Biblical musical of that era, Stephen Schwartz’s “Godspell,” it is re-interpreted for every presentation. Consider this the theme park ride version, with the youngsters displaying as much energy as those attending summer cheerleading camps.
Photo by Phillip Hamer.
It’s a swell dance party, briskly performed in several celebratory scenes and elaborate pastiches – including countrified “One More Angel in Heaven/Hoedown,” the French-inspired lament “Those Canaan Days,” island-flavored “Benjamin Calypso” and the grandmaster flashy finale “Megamix.”
The pleasant pop-py tunes “Any Dream Will Do” and “Go, Go, Go Joseph.” are certain to be hummable on your way home.
Music director Charlie Alterman, who won last year’s St Louis Theater Circle Award for “Chicago,” is adept at lively shows with many moving parts and his orchestras are a treat to listen to — and he’s aware of the Muny’s pit challenges this season.
Of course, a show directed and choreographed by Josh Rhodes would seize the day. Rhodes, who is known for his athletic and acrobatic dances, returns after successes helming “Jersey Boys,” “Paint Your Wagon” and that stunning tap number to “Putting on the Ritz” in 2016’s “Young Frankenstein.”
This is a show that requires a special set of skills, and Rhodes’ crisp and snappy choreography is flat-out fun. He was aided by associate choreographer Lee Wilkins and dance captain Emilie Renier.
In its last national tour in 2014, the ingenious three-time Tony Award winner Andy Blankenbuehler directed and choreographed a fresh interpretation that ran at the Fox Theatre that spring. That show featured American Idol finalist Ace Young as Joseph and his wife, fellow finalist Diana DeGarmo, as the Narrator.
The role of Joseph is often filled by a pop star – and teen heartthrobs David Cassidy, Andy Gibb and Donny Osmond have played the lead before. (And first American Idol runner-up Justin Guarini, who has played various roles at the Muny, was Joseph in 2012.)
At the Muny, Jason Gotay has won over hearts as a charming leading man, appearing as Prince Eric in “The Little Mermaid,” Prince Topher in “Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella” and as Jack in “Into the Woods.”
His strong velvety vocals emphasize he is no lightweight, heart-tugging in “Close Every Door.” He commands the stage confidently, capably leading the large cast in the group numbers.
Mykal Kilgore as the Pharoah. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
However, the showstopper in this production is Mykal Kilgore.
One of my favorites since I saw him at the Muny Magic concert at the Sheldon in 2017, the affable Kilgore slays as the megawatt Pharoah. It’s as if James Brown and Little Richard had a baby.
In a departure from the previous Elvis-like personas, Kilgore reaches back to his R&B roots for “Song of the King,” bringing the house down. The Pharoah’s stage time is brief, but his impact is mighty.
Jessica Vosk makes her Muny debut, playing a hands-on narrator who just doesn’t just observe the action from the sidelines, but propels it along. Here, she is a surrogate mother hen to the youngsters as she tells the tale.
Vosk has the powerful pipes to fill an arena and is well-suited for this grand production. She has played the role before, in the 50th anniversary show at the Lincoln Center, and is remarkably assured while the action bubbles up around her.
Other noteworthy debuts are multi-hyphenate Eric Jordan Young in the dual role of well-meaning Jacob and flamboyant Potiphar, and Darron Hayes as playful Judah, who takes the lead in “Benjamin Calypso.”
The adult choir is chock-full of Muny regulars, and some familiar castmates are playing brothers. Dynamic Harris Milgrim, a standout as Benjamin in last year’s “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” is again as Reuben in “One More Angel.”
Sean Ewing, in his third season at the Muny, is second son Simeon, amusing in “Old Canaan Days.”
Not all the hijinks work, for the mashups often are silly, and the gaudy pageantry can easily slide into trivial frivolity, but that’s the problem with the show itself. As the years ago on, they keep gilding the lily, adding more to an already over-the-top show. But it remains a huge crowd-pleaser.
And the joyous look on those kids’ faces on stage said it all. (I counted 40 in the youth ensemble and 14 in the children’s choir, in addition to the 19 in ensemble, not to mention principals.)
Photo by Phillip Hamer.
Edward E. Haynes Jr., the award-winning scenic designer for “Smokey Joe’s Café” last year, combines glitz, a Skittles rainbow of bold colors, and Egyptian symbols for the second act, in a whimsical set reminiscent of Tim Burton and the Marvel superheroes’ cinematic universe.
In a stunning backdrop, he references King Tutankhamen’s gold headdress in a giant piece anchoring a fancy staircase with neon piping..
Video designer Greg Emetaz is in sync with Haynes’ vision, and an extension of the gold-plated theme uniting the looks is on the LED screens.
Costume designer Leon Dobkowski references Vegas showgirls, exotic images and B.C. looks to create sparkly outfits and a sunny vibe. His elaborate headdresses are something special to see. The different gold fabrics stand out in garments, and kudos to wig designer Kelly Jordan for the Pharoah’s massive ‘do.
Jason Lyons’ lighting design capitalizes on the wonder and magical parts, and smartly ascertains between the dreamy sequences and the dark times.
It’s fitting that The Muny focused on home, family, relying on each other and connection for the last show of the 104th season, particularly after what they endured from mid-June to now with the double-whammy of back-to-back floods, extreme heat – even by St. Louis standards (oh you layered Edwardian Londoners in “Mary Poppins”!), and a new strain of COVID-19 on the rise in the region (but thanks to understudies and swings, the shows went on).
In his annual farewell address, Mike Isaacson, executive producer and artistic director since 2011, joked that the season was ‘biblical,’ and who could argue?
Known for its fizzy fun, “Joseph” delivered a spectacle to end the season on a high-spirited note.
If you think of the Muny in terms of a summer vacation, “Chicago” was nightlife fun, “Camelot” was a Renaissance Faire, “Mary Poppins” was a trip to the Magic House, “Legally Blonde” was a class reunion, “Sweeney Todd” was visiting the Louvre, “The Color Purple” was the Smithsonian and “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” was a trip to Disneyland.
Until we meet again under the stars in Forest Park, here’s raising a glass to a summer tradition that I am grateful for, and will never ever take for granted.
Cast of ‘Joseph.’ Photo by Phillip Hamer.
The Muny presents the musical “Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Aug.13-18 at 8:15 pm. Performances take place on the outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information, visit www. muny.org.
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
By Lynn Venhaus When the U.S. Department of Justice sounded the alarm bells this week, after having no choice but to act on such egregious disregard for national security by seizing 11 sets of classified documents from Mar-a-Lago, information trickled out, each revelation more concerning than the day before regarding what was found at the former president’s residence.
But those initial knee-jerk reactions by far-right extremists, propaganda media and dog-whistling GOP elected officials caused a great deal of harm.
Without knowing what transpired, they shouted to “Defund the FBI” and claimed Nazi tactics. Really? Without any supporting facts and taking the word of a pathological liar, their rush to judgment was disturbing. They continued to rile up the partisan divide that seems irreparable at this point. so irresponsible. If no one listens to logic, we are a long way from public leaders using common sense.
Isn’t there any moderate who is willing to go on record with “Maybe there is something very wrong here, and lives are at jeopardy?” But when no one cares about anything but power and winning, this is where we are in 2022.
The talking points fueling conspiracy theories were nonsense. How fast their violent rhetoric escalated lies and misinformation, damaging the foundations of our judicial institutions. And this is just accepted behavior. Fan the flames because they can?
And to what end? Defending abuse of the rule of law because they think any investigation into #45 is unjust and uncalled for? Blind support for his unsubstantiated claims that he was the victim, it is a “witch hunt” and “nothing to see here,” which has been debunked, is troubling. Surely you can’t support someone’s abuse of the law, no matter what party you are affiliated with? That is not being a patriot.
TFG is not above the law. Why is it so hard to understand?
Why can’t more citizens admit they were wrong and distance themselves from a man who clearly continues to be a danger to democracy?
While more will come out, of course, so many laws appear to be willfully broken. Time will tell just how serious these charges are, if it comes to that. And there is such rampant speculation, so the sooner we know the truth, the better.
But the national security experts are shocked at the blatant disregard for national security and how at-risk the lives of government intelligence employees are — and it is beyond the pale.
The mind is blown because these laws and procedures are to protect the safety of not only our country’s military, but our allies as well.
No excuse makes this OK. No amount of blaming others makes it legal.
The twice-impeached former president will knock the investigation to further distract people, but this is serious. While he has committed so many other infractions and seemingly isn’t punished – yet, these questions remain a concern.
1. Why have this stuff? 2. Why lie about having it? 3. Why disregard a subpoena?
This isn’t ‘he said, she said,’ but rather based on written evidence, surveillance videos and irrefutable behavior. Interrogations will follow.
I have long wondered what would be the tipping point for those die-hard devotees to realize what an actual liability Trump is, a morally bankrupt demagogue whose mob-boss tactics and long history of corruption has led us to this very scary point. And how the political parties move forward. When will accountability matter?
This inexplicable grip he has is being tested, and while his radicalized supporters become increasingly violent and threats are up, what happens next will be very revealing.
Attorney General Merrick Garland
Now would be a good time to drop the cult-like devotion, say “Enough!” aloud, and understand that supporting a traitor means you are in favor of treason.
When people learn they are on the wrong side of history is a day I hope they must deal with the consequences. But most of all, right the ship. Start over from Day 1 for the betterment of all of us.
I fear if people do not de-program the craven acolytes, we are at a grave juncture.
Every day seems like authoritarianism is imminent because so many people are unwilling to stand up, do their duty and uphold the US Constitution.
And for what? Be afraid, be very afraid. I know I am.
Presidential Historian Michael Beschloss: “Rule of law. Protect our institutions of democracy. Defend our national security. There should be nothing partisan about any of this.”
God bless America, my country ’tis of thee, sweet land of liberty. Let freedom ring.
To read the complete document: https://www.npr.org/2022/08/12/1117277865/read-the-full-warrant-documents-from-fbi-search-of-trumps-mar-a-lago-home
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
By Lynn Venhaus “She’s a fighter like nobody else I know,” states Mark Kelly about the woman he married in 2007, in the new documentary, “Gabby Giffords Won’t Back Down.”
For 95 minutes, that description is confirmed in numerous instances. Kelly, former U.S. Navy captain and Space Shuttle commander, was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2020, and continues to work with his wife on reforming gun laws. It is truly astonishing that she is even alive, let alone fighting for causes, after an assassination attempt in 2011.
Just as they did with their exceptional documentary “RBG,” directors Julie Cohen and Betsy West provide a passionate portrait of the former Congresswoman, depicting her courageous and remarkable recovery from a gunshot to the head, her advocacy regarding gun violence prevention, and her strong marriage to Kelly.
While it seemed like she had a charmed life as an all-American girl growing up, a voracious reader who earned a master’s degree in regional planning at Cornell University and earned a Fulbright Scholarship in Mexico, Giffords has had her battles – and has met many challenges with energy and persistence throughout her business and political career.
Giffords, who changed her party affiliation from Republican to Democrat in 2000, maintained that she was a centrist. “A good idea is a good idea. It doesn’t matter if it’s from a Democrat or a Republican,” you hear her say in the film.
Colleagues discussed how she won people over, and someone coined the phrase “Gabbified.” You’ll see why.
Third-generation owner of the tire business her grandfather started, Giffords ran for a seat in the state legislature at age 30. She served in the Arizona House 2001-2003 and the state Senate 2003-2005 before being elected as a U.S. Representative. She had just been elected to her third term when she was meeting with constituents at a Safeway grocery store in a suburb of Tucson, Casa Adobes.
It was a Saturday morning, Jan. 8, 2011. Shots rang out, 19 people were struck, including Gifford, and six people died.
Jared Lee Loughner ran up, shooting into the crowd gathered for “Congress on Your Corner” with a 9 mm pistol that had a 33-round magazine. The crowd detained him, and the next day, he was charged with killing federal government employees, attempting to assassinate a member of Congress, and attempting to kill federal employees. He pleaded guilty to 19 of the 50 charges in a plea bargain where he avoided the death sentence.
The rising political star’s near-death experience obviously changed her life, and now she tirelessly works as an activist for gun violence prevention.
While Giffords was in the hospital, Kelly asked a friend to videotape Gabby’s progress, thinking she might want to see it someday.
These home videos are gut-wrenching, and show how her brain was affected, and what she had to re-learn. They provide a realism that words can’t match, although hearing from a neurosurgeon, her speech pathologist and music therapists add insight to what trauma gunshots triggered.
She remains affected by aphasia, a language impairment, and her right arm is partially paralyzed.
In January 2013, Giffords and her husband started a political action committee called Americans for Responsible Solutions. Its mission is to promote gun-control legislation with elected officials and the public. They repeatedly advocate for keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous people like criminals, terrorists, and the mentally ill. They have proposed limiting the sale of certain magazines and assault weapons and stopping gun trafficking.
Her heart-tugging journey, of course, is inspiring, and well-told by the filmmakers, with sharp editing by Ilya Chaiken and strong camera work by Dyanna Taylor. Miriam Cutler’s score and well-chosen pop-rock songs enhance the story.
Gabby Giffords
No matter what political party you are affiliated with, you can’t help but admire the woman and her compelling life story.
“Gabby Giffords Won’t Back Down” is a 2022 documentary directed by Julie Cohen and Betsy West. It is rated PG-13 for thematic material involving gun violence and some disturbing images and runs 95 minutes. It is currently available on Premium Video on Demand. Lynn’s Grade: A.
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
Director Ron Howard knows how to tug on the heartstrings, and with its life-or-death scenario, “Thirteen Lives” is ready-made for an agonizing Hollywood adaptation – with a happy ending, of course.
In 2018, a rescue mission is assembled in Northern Thailand where a group of young boys and their soccer coach are trapped in a system of underground caves that are flooding. Based on true events.
Like he did in “Apollo 13,” Howard creates a suspenseful narrative out of a historical account where we know the outcome, but he keeps us enthralled, using William Nicholson’s gripping screenplay to build the against-the-odds story with palpable emotional heft.
The daring rescue of 12 boys and their soccer coach captured the headlines in 2018 – dubbed the “Miracle in the Cave” by the global news media — and the world’s hearts.
If you are fuzzy on the particulars, the soccer players, after practice, went on an outing to explore a nearby elaborate system of caves called Tham Luang. During a storm, they became trapped. The Thai Navy, U.S. Navy Seals, and well-known cave divers combined their know-how for a daring rescue. The Thai government and international leaders take part in the plans.
Howard, Oscar winner for “A Beautiful Mind” and nominee for “Frost/Nixon,” has many moving parts here depicting the dangers of cave diving. It’s a remarkable physical feat working with those unstable natural elements – and the underwater scenes are genuinely harrowing.
Last year, in the inspiring documentary, “The Rescue,” filmmakers Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi chronicled the story, using never-before-seen material and exclusive interviews.
They also conveyed the enormous outpouring of caring and compassion from the international community, which is necessary to show the scope.
Howard uses those same elements – survival, determination, and ingenuity, as portrayed by the actors. Viggo Mortensen is Rick Stanton and Colin Farrell is John Volanthen, the divers who were the first ones to spot the boys after 10 days.
They were joined by many people to help save the boys, and Joel Edgerton plays Dr. Harry Harris, the Australian diver and anesthesiologist who came up with a risky plan. His reaction to the news that all the boys are fine will choke you up – such relief.
The actors make us feel the peril, and the claustrophobia ia seems overwhelming. Special mention to Tom Bateman as Chris Jewell as part of the British Cave Rescue Council and Paul Gleeson as Jason Mallinson, another diver flown in to help.
The danger mounts, the clock is ticking, and we hope the anguished parents have a good outcome before monsoon season arrives.
A large international cast, including many Thai characters, help with the realistic approach. Some subtitles are used for the families and government official characters.
Howard, who has been equally at home in comedy and drama since his first film in 1978, has helmed several outstanding documentaries during the past decade, including the Beatles’ “Eight Days a Week,” “Pavarotti,” “Rebuilding Paradise” about California wildfires destroying a community, and most recently, the Emmy-nominated “We Feed People” about Jose Andres’ efforts through the World Central Kitchen.
So, giving this drama a documentary feel is natural. The tension ramps up with a thoughtful score by Benjamin Wallfisch, a frequent collaborator with Howard, who takes a pared down approach.
The cinematography of Sayombhu Mukdeeprom is a marvel, and between the rising waters of the caves and the torrential rain, stunning craftsmanship.
If you’ve seen the documentary, you do feel like you’ve seen this before, but “Thirteen Lives” is a respectable exercise.
This film is another one of those compelling accounts that shows how people come together to overcome adversity. The real people of the “Miracle in the Cave,” are true heroes, and it’s impossible not to be moved.
“Thirteen Lives” is a 2022 action-drama based on true events and directed by Ron Howard. It stars Viggo Mortensen, Colin Farrell, Joel Edgerton, Paul Gleeson and Tom Bateman. Rated PG-13 for some strong language and unsettling images, it runs 2 hours, 27 minutes. It opened in selected theaters on July 29, and began streaming on Amazon Prime beginning Aug. 5. Lynn’s Grade: B
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
By Lynn Venhaus How do you define J-O-C-U-L-A-R-I-T-Y? The literal translation is “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” now playing at Stray Dog Theatre.
A splendid summer sojourn, the jaunty musical comedy celebrates American traditions and meritocracy, our inherent competitive spirt, and freak-flag waving.
At a nondescript middle school, a sextet of smarty-pants sixth graders competes for a $200 savings bond and a towering trophy at the annual big-deal event. Three adults handle the proceedings, and four audience members are selected to participate, too.
And the blithe spirits on stage and in the audience instinctually know this is far more pleasurable than Mensa members getting together for Scrabble, especially with its clever audience-participation cachet.
However, those who didn’t make the honor roll need not worry, for SAT scores aren’t required at the door, and it’s a very accessible and inclusive work. The catchy music and savvy lyrics by William Finn (“Falsettos,” “A New Brain”) and the whip-smart Tony-winning book by Rachel Sheinkin offer something for everyone.
In this enjoyable production, adroitly directed by Justin Been, the dexterous cast has mastered the nimble word play and spit-take worthy improvisations for a rollicking good time. They got game.
The in-sync ensemble expertly colors outside the lines, shading their idiosyncratic characters with humor and humanity. Unlike “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” where grown-ups also play kids, this is a show with mature content.
Kevin Corpuz is returning champ Charlito “Chip” Tolentino, a strident Boy Scout who is struggling with puberty and distracted by a female in audience; Grace Langford is resolute newcomer Olive Ostrosky, whose mom is in India and dad is always working; and Sara Rae Womack is fervid Marcy Park, an over-achieving transfer student.
Clayton Humburg is mellow Leaf Coneybear, home-schooled son of hippies; Dawn Schmid is high-strung Logainne “Schwartzy” SchwartzandGrubenierre, politically aware and pushed by her two dads to win at all costs; and Kevin O’Brien is last year’s egghead finalist William Morris Barfee, whose name is really pronounced Bar-Fay, because of an accent aigu, and not Bar-Fee, like the announcer repeats.
Photo by John Lamb
While everyone’s comic timing is admirable, O’Brien elicits many laughs as he embodies a know-it-all misfit unfortunately hampered by one working nostril. Hunching his shoulders, rolling his eyes, and sighing in exasperation, O’Brien is in his element. He has the most peculiar way of spelling out the words – with his “Magic Foot.”
Barfee is one of those supporting roles that is an awards nomination magnet, like Adolfo in “The Drowsy Chaperone” and the UPS guy in “Legally Blonde – The Musical.” Dan Fogler, now of “Fantastic Beasts” who recently played Francis Ford Coppola in “The Offer,” won a Tony Award for originating the role.
The middle-school spellers are joined by four individuals that have volunteered for the gig – signing up in the lobby beforehand. Good sports, they are called on to spell, without any special treatment, which is a key element to the fun. They might have to spell Lysergic Acid Diethylamide, or cow.
The three adults in the room include ‘comfort counselor’ Mitch Mahoney (Chris Kernan), an ex-con who gives the eliminated contestants a juice box and a hug; former champ and returning moderator Rona Lisa Peretti (Stephanie Merritt), a successful realtor who enjoys reliving her glory days; and Vice Principal Douglas Panch (Jason Meyers), who has returned as a judge after personal time off to work out some ‘things.’
Their perspicacity is evident – and the three veterans are oh-so-smooth with the innuendos and deadpan humor. Merritt is guileful as the supremely assured and unflappable announcer – think Patty Simcox from “Grease” as an adult.
She glibly describes the contestants with seemingly innocent comments and a few double-entendres. You don’t want to miss a word, for you might do a double-take (Wait – what?).
Hilarity ensues whenever the puckish Meyers wryly uses a word in a sentence or describes his feelings. He elevates the script’s wit (those inappropriate comments!) with his crackerjack delivery. Just don’t get him started on Klondike’s decision to drop the Choco Taco! He’s a tad jittery.
Photo by John Lamb
Several performers double as ancillary characters, such as parents – for instance, Kernan and Humburg are Logainne’s importunate fathers. Corpuz shows up as Jesus Christ. (You’ll just have to see).
The convivial show, workshopped into an off-Broadway hit, transferred to Broadway in 2005 – and was nominated for six Tony Awards, winning two. It was originally conceived by Rebecca Feldman and based upon “C-R-E-P-U-S-C-U-L-E,” a play by her improv collective, The Farm. Additional material was supplied by Jay Reiss.
The ingenious construction has managed to keep it fresh 17 years later by relying on the actors to be on the ball with au courant references.
Been astutely uses the state of play as an advantage, maintaining a balance of friskiness and sweetness that makes sure everyone is in on the jokes. No mean-spirited sarcasm here.
The cast’s exemplary improv skills make this a very funny, free-wheeling show. But let’s not forget the music is an integral part, too, and each character nails a signature song. Besides Barfee’s “Magic Foot,” there is — Leaf: “I’m Not That Smart.” Olive: “My Friend, The Dictionary.” Marcy: “I Speak Six Languages.” Logainne: “Woe Is Me.” Chip: “Chip’s Lament.”
Rona’s “My Favorite Moment of the Bee” is a running theme throughout, Mitch serenades the last audience speller with “Prayer of the Comfort Counselor,” and Panch is in “Spelling Montage.”
The troupe’s strong voices harmonize well in the group numbers, too.
Photo by John Lamb
Music Director Leah Schultz smoothly keeps the tempo on track, and is on piano, joined by Kelly Austermann on reeds and Joe Winters on percussion. Choreographer Mike Hodges keeps the moves light-hearted and breezy.
Jacob Baxley’s sound design enhances Rona’s championship spotlight, as does Tyler Duenow’s lighting design.
Eileen Engel’s costume designs distinctly outfit the personalities – and allow them to move easily, whether in the minimal dancing or walking through the aisles.
The Tower Grove Abbey’s small stage is well-suited for the show’s sparse set design, put together by Been.
For logophiles, the principal contestants are relatable. — perhaps a bit more eccentric, but these quirky characters have all learned an early invaluable life lesson: Knowledge is power.
My fellow nerds will feel at one with their tribe. For we know that summer vacation fun isn’t defined by theme park rides, water slides, and sports camps, but by summer reading lists – whether it’s for a library club, school enrichment class or a free personal pan pizza in the Pizza Hut Book It! Program.
It’s still the only musical where the cool kids are here for the orthography. Revenge of the nerds, indeed. So, Wordle can wait – and this show cannot, for there are 8 performances remaining.
Stray Dog Theatre presents the musical “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Thursdays through Saturdays from Aug. 4 to Aug. 20 at 8 p.m., with additional performances at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14 and 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 17 at the Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee Avenue in Tower Grove East. For more information, visit www.straydogtheatre.org
Note: Tickets are only offered in physically distanced groups of two or four.
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
In its Muny premier, “The Color Purple” is a momentous experience — one that cannot be missed for its historic and landmark significance, but also because it’s one of the finest ever ensembles in its 104 seasons.
The cast takes us on an unforgettable emotional journey, and their glorious harmonies soar into the summer night.
Delivering a story of uncommon courage and grace in a harrowing account of deeply rooted cruelty and oppression, the core group of female principals makes us feel their sorrows, love, pain, and indomitable spirit.
To paraphrase Annie Lennox and Aretha Franklin, sisters are doing it for themselves (referencing a 1985 Eurythmics female empowerment song). And what a sisterhood it is!
In 1909, Celie is a humble, hard-working 14-year-old poor black girl living in rural Georgia, who has delivered two babies whose father is her father, and Pa (Duane Martin Foster) has taken them away.
Several years later, he makes a deal to give Celie to Albert “Mister” Johnson, an emotionally and physically abusive widower and farmer, to care for his unruly children and serve him and his family.
She spared her sister, Nettie, so that she could follow her dream of being a teacher. Unbeknownst to Celie for a long time, the compassionate Nettie winds up with a missionary family in Africa, and is eventually tracked down by Shug Avery, another important influence in Celie’s life.
Celie has gone from one house of horrors to another. This is unsettling, of course, but her unwavering faith sees her through these tough times, as do the people who raise her up. She has always found solace with her sister and in church, and as time passes, it is the community that relies on her that pays back her kindness.
While taking care of Mister’s home, the nurturing Celie meets the glamorous, worldly, and determined nightclub chanteuse Shug Avery. They eventually share a romantic relationship and deep bond despite the singer having an on-again, off-again affair with Mister and a marriage to Grady.
One of Mister’s grown children, Harpo, marries Sofia, and she is a strong-willed free spirit, known for her independence and speaking her mind, with her phrase: “Hell, no!” even a song title. She cannot be ‘tamed,’ but she loves Harpo. Sofia’s stance will bring her serious harm.
Over the course of several decades, what the women learn, how they grow and overcome obstacles will tug at our hearts, so that the mercy shown in the second act leads to triumph– and for the men too.
Marsha Norman wrote this tough adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning touchstone novel, a National Book Award winner in 1982, which told Celie’s story through letters she wrote to her sister and children.
Sisters Nettie and Celie “Our Prayer.” Photo by Phillip Hamer.
For director Steven Spielberg, Menno Meyjes adapted the book into a 1985 movie that garnered 11 Academy Award nominations (but famously did not win any). A new movie based on the musical is set for a December 2023 release.
The heart and soul of any version is Celie, and it’s no fluke that both actresses who played Celie on Broadway — LaChanze in the original 2005 production and Cynthia Erivo in the 2016 revival — won Tony Awards (Director John Doyle’s re-imagining also won the Tony Award for Best Revival).
In this powerhouse role, Anastacia McCleskey is transcendent, bringing out the dignity, heartbreak, and virtues of a true survivor of overwhelming trauma. This tour de force performance is deeply felt and delivered with remarkable strength and skill.
Her eyes glistening with tears, McCleskey became a bona fide star in her 11 o’clock number, “I’m Here,” in which she expresses self-love and perseverance, and left us in awe. The thunderous ovation that followed was one of the longest in memory. Goosebump moments, indeed.
When she leads the cast in the finale, a fervent reprise of “The Color Purple,” it’s impossible for the audience to not have been affected by this sublime show.
Yes, it’s gut-wrenching, but it’s also about healing, resilience, and the mighty power of love. Throughout our history, we have learned that we should never forget what’s happened before, those teachable moments that make us better people.
The score includes gospel, jazz, ragtime, blues, and African beats, with songs by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray that bring out the purpose, yearnings and period of these early 20th century lives.
“Mysterious Ways” number. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
The cast is stellar from leads to brief parts, evident from the Sunday church services depicted in “Mysterious Ways,” with Omega Jones belting out praise as the preacher and Alexis J. Rosten, Shantel Cribbs and Melanie Loren instant crowd-pleasers as the supremely talented trio of church ladies Doris, Darlene, and Jarene.
You will quickly discover what a joyful noise this ensemble will make, their strong vocals providing a sense of faith, hope and charity that church communities share.
Nasia Thomas, who stood out in last year’s “Smokey Joe’s Cafe,” is impressive as Celie’s beloved sister Nettie. You can feel a palpable bond between them, as if they were real sisters. Their duets are beautiful, especially the touching “Our Prayer.”
In the showy role as the irrepressible Shug, singer Tracee Beazer sashays across the stage with ultra-confidence. She leads the big splashy number “Push Da Button” but it’s her poignant ballads, “Too Beautiful for Words” and “The Color Purple,” that showcase her vocal strengths, as well as the exquisite “What About Love?”, a tender duet with Celie.
Nicole Michelle Haskins as Sofia and Gilbert Domally as Harpo reprise their roles from the acclaimed 2019 Drury Lane Theatre production in Chicago and endear as a dynamic couple — and as individuals. They have a fun, playful duet “Any Little Thing.”
As the villain Mister, Evan Tyrone Martin inspires a gamut of emotions as the heartless husband perpetuating a long cycle of suffering. After he’s cursed and lost everything, “The Mister Song” begins his redemption.
Fine in supporting roles are Erica Durham as the colorful Squeak, Sean Walton as flashy Grady, and Jos N. Banks as lively Buster. Muny favorite Kennedy Holmes portrays Olivia and Rodney Thompson is Adam, Celie’s children.
The staging on a simple slab with different levels depicting various locales is a smart move by scenic designer Arnel Sanciano, which narrows our focus to the human interaction. Other accoutrements, such as Harpo’s sign for his juke joint and fields of purple flowers, are deftly handled on the LED screen by video designer Paul Deziel.
The creative team is new to the Muny but not the material. Director Lili-Anne Brown, music director Jermaine Hill and choreographer Breon Arzell were responsible for the Drury Lane Theatre production in fall 2019 that received seven Joseph Jefferson Awards nominations and won two — for directing and supporting role (Haskins).
Their collaboration has transferred well to the large outdoor stage. Every part of this exercise is told with attentiveness and passion.
The trio’s vision is brought vividly to life by the top-tier ensemble and their team, including outstanding craftsmanship by lighting designer Heather Gilbert and sound designers John Shivers and David Patridge. Production stage manager Jhanae Bonnick keeps everything at a brisk pace.
“Miss Celie’s Pants.” Photo by Phillip Hamer.
The costumes are a panoply of 40 years of style, with costume designer Samantha C. Jones dressing a church-going community in their Sunday best, what they wear to work and play in a Southern town, and how they dress up for a juke joint. Wig designer is Kelly Jordan.
With Celie designing pants in the second act, a striking array of comfortable yet stylish outfits are on display. That celebration number “Miss Celie’s Pants” marks such a turning point in the story and is one big smile.
If you believe, as I do, that if you spread light and love in the world, and are a good person, then the universe responds in kind. That is ultimately why Celie’s story resonates. Yes, she endured hell on earth, but she never gave up her belief in goodness, and finally realized her worth as a human being.
Purple symbolizes strength, transformation, power, wisdom and bravery, and all meanings can be applied here.
What an inspiration Alice Walker’s book was to the world 40 years ago, and continues to be, and what a distinguished accomplishment this show is for The Muny and St. Louis.
The Muny presents the musical “The Color Purple” Aug. 3-9 at 8:15 p.m. nightly on the outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information or tickets, visit www.muny.org.
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
A jubilant celebration of culture, community, and connection, “In the Heights” is a warm embrace emphasizing the meaning of home.
This Stages St. Louis production sizzles with its scrupulous staging and splendid ‘triple-threat’ cast. Director Luis Salgado, whose heart is big as the George Washington Bridge in New York City, makes the show ‘pop’ with his spirited direction and vibrant choreography.
The ensemble makes its mark individually — impressive as personalities but they come together as a whole, with a spark that lights up the stage like Fourth of July fireworks.
From the uplifting title song that introduces the cast, they will quickly endear because of their characters’ devotion to their friends and family, sharing heartwarming stories and creating a tapestry in their little corner of the world.
This version’s brilliant burst of energy is because of Salgado’s inspiration and his unwavering commitment to the musical that began 15 years ago. His effusive motto “Dare to go beyond” is apt here.
As a performer and emerging choreographer, Salgado was involved in the original work – with 118 performances off-Broadway in 2007 and nearly 1,000 on Broadway (2008-2010). He was assistant to three-time Tony winner Andy Blankenbuehler (“In the Heights,” “Hamilton,” “Bandstand”).
Amanda Robles, Marlene Fernandez and Ariana Valdes. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
Blankenbuehler had brought Salgado on board to give authenticity to the show’s movements and to help bring the creative team’s vision to life. He described Salgado as “passionate” and “inventive.”
Their mutual admiration society has resulted in Salgado using Blankenbuehler’s original choreography on the sensational ensemble numbers “In the Heights,” “96,000,” “Blackout” and “Finale.”
However, Salgado isn’t the only original connection involved at Stages.
Anna Louizos, Tony nominee for the show’s scenic design, designed the Ross Family Theatre’s richly textured set, creating the Washington Heights neighborhood that comes alive in a stunning recreation inside the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center.
This is an ideal setting for such an exuberant group sharing their hopes while struggling with everyday realities. “In the Heights” takes place over the course of three days, during a blistering summer heat wave in the barrio, which is on the brink of change.
Creator of the historic and cultural phenomenon “Hamilton,” Lin-Manuel Miranda’s first Tony-winning musical in 2009 was special because it had a specific sense of place and resonated with a universal story about people chasing their dreams.
Manuel honored his Latin heritage and cultural traditions as an American whose parents came from Puerto Rico, growing up in Washington Heights (where he still lives). He included the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Mexico, and Caribbean Islands as origins, too.
The pulsating score is a hybrid of Latin, urban, hip-hop and salsa beats but also features touching ballads. Miranda was the first composer to put hip-hop lyrics in a Broadway show — and the youngest to win the Tony for Best Music Score in 2009.
Ryan Alvarado grew on me as the hard-working, good-hearted Usnavi de la Vega, the owner of a local bodega who dreams of selling the store and moving to a tropical place where he feels he can be happy. He’s the lynchpin to all the action swirling around him.
Tami Dahbura as Abuela Claudia. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
His confidante, Abuela Claudia, who dispenses advice – and love – to the neighborhood denizens, is the heart and soul of the show, and Tami Dahbura stood out in her heart-tugging numbers, “Paciencia y Fe” (Patience and Faith) and “Hundreds of Stories.”
Isabel Leoni as Nina and Amanda Robles as Vanessa are high points, showcasing their outstanding voices. You feel a connection with their characterizations immediately.
Nina, the golden girl who landed a scholarship at Stanford University, was a role model for many but now she is disappointed with herself and feels she let everyone down. She delivers a poignant “Breathe” and a sentimental tribute “Everything I Know” with much passion.
Usnavi’s crush, hairdresser Vanessa, is someone who sees moving to Manhattan as a steppingstone to a better life. Robles soars in “It Won’t Be Long Now,” joined by Alvarado, who clearly wears his heart on his sleeve, and the whirlwind Luis-Pablo Garcia as his cousin Sonny.
Robles, Alvarado, Garcia. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
While the robust and oh-so-catchy “96,000” is Usnavi’s big number dreaming about winning the lottery, Robles shines in her part. Closer to the finale, Robles and Alvarado have sweet, tender and funny moments in “Champagne.”
The most moving song of all is “Alabanza” (Praise) in honor of Abuela Claudia, such love and respect expressed. It just may bring a tear to your eye.
Quiara Alegría Hudes wrote the musical’s original book, and it’s noteworthy regarding all the strong women role models, including Camila, Kevin’s wife and partner in a car service business, in addition to Abuela Claudia, Nina, Vanessa, hairdresser Carla and salon owner Daniela.
Tauren Hagans excels in her two solo numbers “Siempre” (Always) and “Enough” as Nina’s strong mom Camila, and the four younger women have fun with “No Me Diga” (You Don’t Say!).
Jahir Lawrence Hipps is impressive as Benny, who works for Nina’s intense dad Kevin (Edward Juvier). But when he falls in love with Nina, that’s another story.
Leoni and Hipps. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
The duets featuring Hipps and Leoni are lovely – especially “When the Sun Goes Down” and they superbly lead the company on “When You’re Home” and “Sunrise.”
Juvier, a Stages veteran, with a St. Louis Theater Circle Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical for “The Drowsy Chaperone” in 2017 and a nominee in “My Fair Lady” in 2014, was Bob Crewe in “Jersey Boys” last summer.
As the demanding dad Kevin, he showcases his vocal prowess in “Inutil” (Useless) and “Atencion” (Attention).
Comical relief is welcome when crowd-pleasers Cristian Rodriguez as Graffiti Pete and Michael Schimmele as Piragua Guy are on stage, as well as the salon’s Carla, firecracker Marlene Fernandez, and Ariana Valdes as the animated owner Daniela, who leads the buoyant “Carnaval del Barrio” (Neighborhood Carnival).
Fernandez, Schimmele and Valdes. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
And Garcia, who was memorable as Freddy in “The Karate Kid – The Musical,” is in a league of his own, as cheerful chatterbox Sonny, stealing practically every scene he’s in, eliciting laughs every time he’s on stage.
The sprightly ensemble includes Tavis Kordell Cunningham, Mauricio Villanueva Espinosa, Carmen Guynn, Sarah Hampton, Paola Hernandez, Karma Jenkins, Ricco Martin Jr., Jovany Ramirez, Joey Rosario and Carlita Victoria.
Music Director Walter “Bobby” McCoy keeps the tempo lively and brings out the emotional sincerity in the ballads, using the arrangements and orchestrations of Tony winner Alex Lacamoire and Bill Sherman.
As the conductor and a keyboard player, McCoy has a dynamic orchestra that flavors the Latin score with their expert musicianship in strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Trumpet player Chris Miller brings such a great sound to “The Club/Fireworks” while the percussion’s driving beat is such a treat. Ovations for McCoy, Miller, associate music director and bass Alerica Anderson, Sean Andrews on second keyboard, Travis Mattison on guitar, Lea Gerdes on reeds, Evan Palmer on trombone, Charles “Chuck” Smotherson on drums and Peter Gunn on percussion.
Hagans and Juvier. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
Bethany “Beef” Gratz’s sound design is exceptional — smooth and crystal-clear, capturing not only three generations of rhythms but the ambiance of the neighborhood.
Costume Designer Brad Musgrove outfits the vivacious residents in casual, colorful summertime attire, with a few dress-up glam looks, while Sean M. Savoie’s lighting design is a striking enhancement on the day’s progression and the nighttime worries.
Salgado’s joy regarding the material infuses the entire production, as he moves things at a vigorous pace from well-staged big numbers to intimate emotional scenes. Special mention to assistant director and associate choreographer Bryan Ernesto Menjivar and dance captain Megan Elyse Fulmer, for this show is a terrific example of teamwork and collaboration.
This uplifting show had me on my feet and humming the songs afterwards, putting the cast album back on rotation at home. If anything can change a mood, it is this 23-song collection and this exciting ensemble that aims for the heart and has us at “Hola!”
Amanda Robles as Vanessa. Photo by Phillip Hamer.
Stages St. Louis presents “In the Heights” from July 22 to Aug. 21 at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center in Kirkwood, Mo. Performances take place in the Ross Family Theatre. For more information: www.stagesstlouis.org
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
By Lynn Venhaus If you grow it, they will come. But the sunflowers dotting our regional landscape have a brief life in the summer. Now is the absolute peak time, so don’t wait to make plans.
The Columbia Bottom Conservation Area is 4,300-acres located south of the Missouri River in Spanish Lake. For years, the Missouri Department of Conservation has planted fields of sunflowers. It’s a couple miles’ drive from the entrance gate, which is located a few miles north of Interstate 270 on Riverview Drive. Take that exit, and then travel north about three miles. Follow the sign.
The location in North St. Louis County is at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, and.Columbia Bottom has wetlands, forests, prairies and croplands. The area encompasses the 110-acre Duck Island on the Mississippi River as well as more than six miles of river frontage.
Columbia Bottom Conservation Area, July 30, 2022. Lynn Venhaus photo
The Missouri Department of Conservation reports that visitors can see sunflowers in the area from early July through the middle of August — depending on weather conditions. There is no charge.
The area is closed from one-half hour after sunset until one half-hour before sunrise, except for authorized hunting, fishing and boat ramp use.
The confluence is the fourth largest river system in the world — and can be observed from the site’s Confluence Viewing Platform, which is located at the end of the road.
The road that runs through the area has eight exploration stations along the way. It is a self-guided learning experience, and visitors can view surrounding habitats. The area offers hiking, biking and river access.
There is a visitor center with educational displays that will help guests become acquainted with the site. For educational programs that are offered to the general public, call ahead, as most require advanced registration.
I ventured there on July 30. These are my photos.
Families, couples, photographers explore the paths in early evening July 30, 2022. Photo by Lynn Venhaus
Eckert’s Belleville Farm
The two-acre field has gorgeous photo opportunities. The Sunflower Trail opened last weekend and runs through Aug. 7.
You must register online for a time and a date to visit. The cost is $5 plus field access admission for $6.50. Besides the field, the adventure includes one sunflower to cut and take home, a sunflower cookie from the bakery and a sunflower sticker. For more information, visit www.eckerts.com.
Someone put shades on a flower, so I had to include him/her in my selfie.
Lynn (Zipfel) Venhaus has had a continuous byline in St. Louis metro region publications since 1978. She writes features and news for Belleville News-Democrat and contributes to St. Louis magazine and other publications.
She is a Rotten Tomatoes-approved film critic, currently reviews films for Webster-Kirkwood Times and KTRS Radio, covers entertainment for PopLifeSTL.com and co-hosts podcast PopLifeSTL.com…Presents.
She is a member of Critics Choice Association, where she serves on the women’s and marketing committees; Alliance of Women Film Journalists; and on the board of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. She is a founding and board member of the St. Louis Theater Circle.
She is retired from teaching journalism/media as an adjunct college instructor.
