by William Grennan

            Several shows abound for those looking to take in some theatre this Valentine’s weekend. If you prefer your love story with a side of zombies, blood, and ponchos, then I suggest you take up Evil Dead: The Musical. As someone who lived through “The Splatter Zone” I can offer a few pieces of advice: 1) Even with the ponchos and foot protection, you will get gloriously bloody. 2) You’ll hardly care after watching a high energy ensemble belt, bounce, and bleed out one hilarious show. 3) A little Spray N’ Wash and a couple of wash cycles later, my clothes were clean as whistle (special thanks to props master Darin Kuehler for the cleaning advice).  It’s a must see (especially for those who might not normally go see theatre so bring a friend). My one criticism? I wanted even more blood! But I’m weird like that. You can find Warren Francke’s full review online.

            If you prefer your love story a little cleaner (and with dinner) then head over to the Central Presbyterian Church and help Circle Theatre celebrate its 30th year with the Pulitzer-nominated Love Letters by A.R. Gurney running February 14-16th. Each night a different pair of actors from Circle’s founding will perform the story of Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepeace Ladd III in a readers’ theatre style. The list of actors includes Doug and Laura Marr, Amy Kunz and Kevin Ehrhart, or Michelle Phillips and Mike Markey. For Doug Marr, the play is the perfect showcase for the love of theatre and community that started the Circle and continues to grow strong 30 years later.

            Historical comedy lovers will get their fill with the opening of Liz Duffy Adam’s play Or, directed by graduate student Sarah Fogarty Campbell for the UNO Theatre Play Festival starting this weekend. The story of Aphra Behn, the first female professional playwright, promises an evening filled with “love, betrayal, espionage, foiled plots, and lots of kissing”. The 3 person cast includes UNO veterans Scottie Pace and Victoria Luther playing multiple roles in support of newcomer Elizabeth Nye. With the recent departure of several graduates and influx of new students, the talent turnover at UNO should be a quick one.

            Next week don’t forget to check out Crumble (Lay Me Down, Justin Timberlake) at OCP’s 21 & Over. Eric Salonis as an Apartment? Paul Hanson as Justin and Harrison Ford? Where can you go wrong?

COMMENTS

(We're testing Facebook commenting (you can login using other services, too); please let us know if you have trouble.)