New musical revue ‘American Dream Deferred’ speaks truth to power

Bethesda Little Theatre production explores themes of dreams and aspirations, struggle and heartbreak, protest, progress, and hope.  By BRETT JORDAN

Stories of Vietnam War medics, nurses, and corpsmen in ‘Saving Lives’...

Based on first-hand accounts, this collection of monologues gives voice to the medical staff who helped the wounded and battle-scarred. By JEFFREY WALKER

‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ fizzes with energy at Little Theatre of Alexandria

The sparkling production is a funny, entertaining showcase of immense talent, but even more, it’s a reminder of the power of the arts.  By MEGAN FRAEDRICH

Oscar Wilde’s ‘Salome’ by Rude Mechanicals as comic absurdity

At Greenbelt Arts Center, the 1890s biblically inspired tragedy becomes a 1990s comedy skewering racial, sexual, and power dynamics. By HANNAH ESTIFANOS

Arlington Players tends a healing story in ‘The Secret Garden’ 

The production is a charming evening of entertainment with layers of lessons in love.  By ZOE WINSKY

At Silver Spring Stage, the intense inner drama of ‘The Effect...

The casual, everyday cruelty in which the central family operates can be triggering. By GREGORY FORD

Pip-pip and cheers for British Players’ rousing ‘Music Hall 2026’ 

Comedy, old and new songs, dance, and even some sing-alongs highlight this entertaining production that brings back the British vaudeville tradition. By JEFFREY WALKER

‘Tales of the Artisan’ brings magic to Fauquier Community Theatre

The charming and enchanting new musical tells the story of a Scots/Irish family who flee political persecution in America in 1814. By STUB ESTEY

An emotionally authentic ‘Spring Awakening’ from St. Mark’s Players

The compelling production invites reflection on the role of guidance and repression in shaping young lives. By AMY KOTKIN

A profound ‘Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time’ at...

The true power of this skillfully executed production lies in its refusal to sugarcoat the cost of its autistic teen protagonist’s journey. By VALERIE J. MIKLES

A hilarious and emotional ‘Sense and Sensibility’ at City of Fairfax...

The wildly entertaining production is full of love and laughter, with a lot of heartache along the way. By KENDALL MOSTAFAVI

An enthusiastic ‘Guys and Dolls Sr.’ at StageCoach Theatre Company

The engaging abridged musical was made all the better by the lovely, heartwarming portrayals of classic roles by talented local performers. By KENDALL MOSTAFAVI

AI adds tension and pathos in ‘Anthropology’ at NOVA Nightsky Theater

Lauren Gunderson’s thrilling drama of truth-telling questions technology and examines grief. By JEFFREY WALKER

Modern meets medieval in comedic ‘Poor Clare’ at Colonial Players of...

Giving the young Saint Clare of Assisi a contemporary voice reframes her as a relatable woman whose concerns mirror those of the present day.  By JULIA TUCKER

With ‘My Fair Lady’: By George, Vienna Theatre Company’s got it! 

The show that keeps you on your toes, from the dramatic plot to the comedy and catchy song and dance numbers.  By HALEY LINT

Hexagon’s ‘Lollapalosers!’ soldiers on in tough political times to satirize

‘Poking fun at what the world’s coming to’ is what Hexagon promises. And that’s what they do. By RICHARD TARBOX

Laughs nonstop in ‘A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to...

The entire cast and creative team are more than up to the challenge of this fast-paced comedic tour de force. By MEGAN FRAEDRICH

Women’s bonds endure in ‘4 a.m. Friends’ from Endangered Species theatre...

This regional premiere set in Frederick invites locals to feel a deeper connection with the characters and imagine them as neighbors.  By MORGAN FEDDES SATRE

‘Outward Bound’ at the Arts Barn is a journey worth taking

Kentland Community Players presents a fascinating combination of character-driven drama, humor, mystery, and spooky fantasy. By JENNIFER GEORGIA

A fun, exuberant ‘I Hate Hamlet’ from Lumina Studio Theatre  

Lumina Ensemble young actors perform Paul Rudnick’s refreshing comedy-drama. By DEBBIE MINTER JACKSON