© 2026 Western New York Public Broadcasting Association

140 Lower Terrace St.
Buffalo, NY 14202

Toronto Address:
130 Queens Quay E.
Suite 903
Toronto, ON M5A 0P6


Mailing Address:
Horizons Plaza P.O. Box 1263
Buffalo, NY 14240-1263

Buffalo Toronto Public Media | Phone 716-845-7000
BTPM NPR Newsroom | Phone: 716-845-7040
Differing shades of blue wavering throughout the image
Give Now
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Theater seats and the bottom of the graphic with a white THEATER TALK logo on the top half
Theater Talk

Theater Talk: Sondheim's passing shakes theater communities large and small, but, "the show(s) must go on" and we have eight (8) openings this weekend.

By Anthony Chase,
Peter Hall
Published December 3, 2021 at 5:00 AM EST
Ways To Subscribe
PRETTY WOMAN at Shea's this weekend features Kyle Taylor Parker as "Happy Man" and other roles... a very funny guy!
Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade
/
Sheas.org
PRETTY WOMAN at Shea's this weekend features Kyle Taylor Parker as "Happy Man" and other roles... a very funny guy!

After Thanksgiving dinner with friends last week, the following day Broadway legend Stephen Sondheim died suddenly at home at the age of 91. As Anthony Chase said "There could not be a larger loss in American Theater than the death of Stephen Sondheim... he was the greatest lyricist-composer of his time."

Sondheim started his theatre career by writing the lyrics for WEST SIDE STORY (1957) and GYPSY (1959) before becoming a composer and lyricist. Sondheim's best-known works include A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM (1962), COMPANY (1970), FOLLIES (1971), A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC (1973), SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET (1979), MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG (1981), SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (1984), and INTO THE WOODS (1987). Currently his ASSASSINS recently re-opened on Broadway; he was working on several new projects; and so he clearly was still very much in the game.

Sondheim won eight Tony Awards (including a Lifetime Achievement Tony in 2008), an Academy Award, eight Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, a Laurence Olivier Award, a 2015 Presidential Medal of Freedom, and he has two theaters named after him, one on Broadway and one in London’s West End.

Tributes continue to roll in, many of them from younger people who credit Sondheim with their life's inspiration and career choices. With his clever lyrics and rich internal rhymes, he had a way of making everyone feel smarter.

He was in that special class of composer-lyricists which included Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, and Jerry Herman as well as writing teams Comden and Green as well as Rodgers and Hammerstein.

CLOSINGS:

HAND TO GOD, play by Robert Askins, directed by John Hurley, through December 5, Thursday - Saturday at 7:30, Sunday at 2:00. Road Less Traveled Productions, 456 Main St., Buffalo. (716-629-3069) roadlesstraveledproductions.com.

OPENINGS (listed by date, then alphabetically):

A CHRISTMAS CAROL, play with caroling, based on the short story by Charles Dickens, 39th Annual Production, adapted and directed by Neal Radice, December 3-23, Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30, Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 and 5:00 at The Alleyway Theatre, 1 Curtain up Alley (just north of Shea's), Buffalo, NY 14202 (716-852-2600) alleyway.com

CARMEN, opera by Georges Bizet, conducted by Jaman Dunn, directed by Tim Kennedy, presented by Buffalo Opera Unlimited, Friday, December 3 at 7:30; Sunday, December 5 at 2:30 p.m. at Rockwell Hall Performing Arts Center, 1300 Elmwood Ave. on the Buff State campus. (716-878-3005) buffalooperaunlimited.org

ELF IN CONCERT, film with live orchestra, December 3 at 7:30. The Buffalo Philharmonic plays the musical score as you watch the original movie starring Will Farrell. Kleinhans Music Hall (716-885-5000) bpo.org

EURYDICE, a 21st century opera by Matthew Aucoin, based on the play EURYDICE by Sarah Ruhl (STAGE KISS; IN THE NEXT ROOM, OR THE VIBRATOR PLAY) which takes the woman's perspective, this live cinema transmission is part of the Met’s award-winning "Live in HD" series, bringing opera to movie theaters across the globe. It can be seen locally at Regal Theaters. metopera.org/season/in-cinemas/2021-22-season/eurydice-live-in-hd/

MIRACLE IN LEVITTOWN, play by Michael Fanelli, presented by Subversive Theatre at The New Phoenix Theatre, (December 3 - 19) Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Sundays at 3:00. (716-608-3001) subversivetheatre.org Note: This is NOT a New Phoenix production and the start times are at 7:30 pm or 3:00 Sundays at 95 Johnson Park, Buffalo, NY. Described as "an off-the-wall, tongue-in-cheek, mind-bending misadventure that takes audiences to a spoofy part two of "Miracle on 34th Street" where the sweet little girl from the classic Christmas Tale discovers the ugly truth about racial discrimination in the new housing development that her family has just moved into and embarks on a surreal eye-opening odyssey through past, present, and future."

MIRACLE ON SOUTH DIVISION, play by Tom Dudzik, about Christmas in South Buffalo (December 3 - 19) Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Sundays at 2:30. Lancaster Opera House, 21 Central Avenue Lancaster, NY 14086 (716-683-1776) lancasteropera.org

SLICES OF LIFE, An evening of 4 short plays: THE LONELY GODFATHER by Andrew Calderon; RYAN’S LEGACY by Amber Dudley; ONCE UPON A SONG by Madisyn Ross; and LET’S EAT THE QUEEN by Keller Vogelsang, presented by Unique Theatre Company (December 2 - 11) Thursday-Friday 7:30, Saturday 12/4 7:00, Saturday 12/11 5:00 at Compass Performing Arts Center, 545 Elmwood Avenue (the old "TheatreLoft"), (716-243-8889) uniquetheatrecompany.com. "Please join us in our 7th year of producing plays that provide an arena where actors of all abilities give theatre a try."

SMART PEOPLE, play by Lydia R. Diamond, directed by Phil Knoerzer, about four Harvard community members dealing with racial issues (December 3 - December 19), Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30, Sundays at 4:00. Ujima Company Inc. The theatre is located in School 77, 429 Plymouth Avenue, Buffalo, 14213 (716-322-5178) ujimacommunity.org 

THE LIFE AND ADVENTURES OF SANTA CLAUS, musical, presented by O'Connell & Company (December 3 - December 19) Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00, Sundays at 2:00 on the Ken-Ton Elmwood Commons Mainstage, 3200 Elmwood Avenue, Tonawanda, NY 14217 (oconnellandcompany.com) (716-848-0800) "Based on the book by L. Frank Baum, author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, this musical chronicles the life of Claus."

Handel’s MESSIAH (note Swormville venue!) presented by the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus at St. Mary's, December 5 at 2:30 at St. Mary’s Swormville, 6919 Transit Road, East Amherst, NY Tickets are not available through the BPO Box Office this year. Tickets can be purchased at bpchorus.org or by calling 716-980-5701.

VANESSA WILLIAMS Holiday Concert with The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Tuesday, December 7 at 7:30 pm Kleinhans Music Hall 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo (bpo.org) (716-885-5000) "Television, film and Broadway's Vanessa Williams sings holiday favorites along with Broadway show tunes. An Emmy, Grammy, and Tony nominee with 7 NAACP Image Awards and 3 Satellite Awards, her 'Colors of the Wind' from Disney’s Pocahontas went platinum. Williams is a strong advocate for equal rights, especially concerning the LGBTQ+ community and minorities."

CINDERELLA, ballet by Prokofiev, with The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine, one night only, Friday, December 10, at 7:30 pm. Shea's Performing Arts Center, 650 Main St. Buffalo (716-847-1410) Sheas.org.

THE LINDSEY STIRLING CHRISTMAS PROGRAM, one night only, December 11, at 8:00. Shea's Performing Arts Center, 650 Main St. Buffalo (716-847-1410) Sheas.org.

HAMILTON, Dec 14, 2021-Jan 2, 2022 (a three week run!)Tuesday - Friday at 7:30 pm, Saturday at 2:00 and 8:00, Sunday at 1:00 and 6:30 (performances on Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day but NO PERFORMANCE CHRISTMAS EVE DECEMBER 24.) Shea's Performing Arts Center, 650 Main St. Buffalo (716-847-1410) Sheas.org.

CONTINUING:

ALL IS CALM, an acapella musical by Peter Rothstein, directed and staged by Susan Drozd, about a special Christmas Eve during World War One, presented by MusicalFare, runs through December 12 on stage at 4380 Main St. on the Daemen College Campus. Wednesday - Thursday 7pm, Friday 7:30, Saturday 3:30 and 7:30, Sunday 2pm. (716-839-8540) musicalfare.com

PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL, national tour and part of the M&T Bank Broadway Series, through December 5 (Friday at 7:30 pm, Saturday at 2:00 and 8:00, Sunday at 1:00 and 6:30. Shea's Performing Arts Center, 650 Main St. Buffalo (716-847-1410) Sheas.org.

TRIBUTE, a play by Bernard Slade, directed by Jay Desiderio, continues at Desiderio's Dinner Theatre through December 18 in the back of Bobby J's American Grill 204 Como Park Blvd Cheektowaga featuring Gregory Gjurich, Zachery Gammel, Lisa Hinca, Jennifer Starr, Lisa Ludwig, Robert Insana, and Marie Costa. Shows run most Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays (& some Wednesdays). (http://www.mybobbyjs.com/desiderio-s-dinner-theatre) Reservations by telephone only 716-395-3207 Evening: 6pm Dinner, 7:30pm Show Matinee: 1pm Dinner, 2:30pm Show

Tags
2021 WBFO Arts & Culture DeskTheater TalkStephen Sondheim
Anthony Chase
Listen for Theater Talk, Friday morning at 6:45 and 8:45 during Morning Edition.
See stories by Anthony Chase
Peter Hall
Peter Hall has worn many hats. After 20 years of presenting music to listeners 5 days a week, Peter Hall retired, well mostly. Over the course of two decades, Peter’s distinctive voice and were heard by over a million listeners as host of CD Saturday, Mid Day Classics, and Afternoon Classics on BTPM Classical.
See stories by Peter Hall
Latest Episodes
  • THE HAUNTING OF HOOVERTON HOTEL continues at The Alleyway Theatre
    Theater Talk: NYC vibrant as ever with "TWO STRANGERS..." and DOWNSTATE, locally THE HAUNTING OF HOOVERTON HOTEL "a great confection for Hallowe'en," looking forward to MusicalFare's SWEENEY TODD and Jewish Reps' THE LAST YIDDISH SPEAKER, while ALICIA KEYS' HELL'S KITCHEN is perhaps even better than Broadway!
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk aboutPeter's NYC trip, recommending the musical TWO STRANGERS CARRY A CAKE ACROSS NEW YORK and the straight play DOWNSTATE, while in Buffalo Anthony was charmed by THE HAUNTING OF HOOVERTON HOTEL by Buffalo's own Jacob Albarella & Jason Kaiser. The touring production of ALICIA KEYS' HELLS KITCHEN might even be better than the Broadway show with outstanding singing and dancing on stage at Shea's through Sunday. Still have to see SWEENEY TODD starring Steve Copps and Amy Jakiel as well as THE LAST YIDDISH SPEAKER at Jewish Repertory Theatre, but if you haven't seen TOBACCO ROAD, you now have only two more chances.SEE COMPLETE LISTINGS BELOW.CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS FOR LOCAL SHOWS, SHAWFEST, STRATFORD, AND SHEA'S TOURING SHOWS.For over 30 years, Theater Talk has been appointment listening on WBFO, featuring the insights of theater critic and historian, Anthony Chase. Chase co-hosted Theater Talk with Buffalo Broadcast Hall of Famer Jim Santella for many years. These days, it's Peter Hall. With more than 20 active producing theater companies in Buffalo alone, not to mention Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Shaw Festival at nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, Chase and Hall keep their calendars full, trying to see and share their insights on as many shows as possible.But Theater Talk is anything but a dry community arts listing service. Instead, with affection, good humor, and just the occasional rant, the segment provides snapshot reviews, recommends local productions, analyzes the Western New York theater scene and occasionally looks at what's happening on Broadway and across the nation.Chase is the founder of the Artie Awards, which recognizes excellence in Western New York theater and raises money for AIDS charities.
  • Maya-Drake-as-Ali-and-the-company-of-the-North-American-Tour-of-Alicia-Keys-Hells-Kitchen
    Theater Talk: ART's TOBACCO ROAD excellent on all measures; HELL'S KITCHEN about to open at Shea's; Anthony back from Broadway; he saw 5 shows and has some recommendations. See complete listings attached.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about American Repertory Theater which has added Wednesday performances to its excellent run of TOBACCO ROAD (in its day, one of the longest running plays ever, surpassed only by ABIE'S IRISH ROSE). Peter hopes that the touring production of ALICIA KEYS' HELLS KITCHEN is as visually stunning as the Broadway version he saw last year on the BTPM trip (where the dancing was so fresh and new). Anthony was sure it will be. Speaking of Broadway, Anthony went to NYC and took in five shows, including Moliere's THE IMAGINARY INVALID with Buffalo's Daniel Croix Henderson (listen to podcast of 10/2/2026) where also in the audience was a Tony nominator, Buffalo's Roslyn Ruff, and then Anthony went on to ROCKY HORROR with Rosie O'Donnell wrapping up her run, then a new musical THE HEART about a heart transplant, and WANTED, a true life story about two black women trying to escape an unjust life. Actually, here in WNY we have three shows opening: the Broadway tour of ALICIA KEYS' HELLS KITCHEN, MusicalFare's SWEENEY TODD at Shea's 710, and a comic spoof, THE HAUNTING OF HOOVERTON HOTEL, by local funnymen Jacob Albarella & Jason Kaiser. SEE COMPLETE LISTINGS BELOW.CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS FOR LOCAL SHOWS, SHAWFEST, STRATFORD, AND SHEA'S TOURING SHOWS.For over 30 years, Theater Talk has been appointment listening on WBFO, featuring the insights of theater critic and historian, Anthony Chase. Chase co-hosted Theater Talk with Buffalo Broadcast Hall of Famer Jim Santella for many years. These days, it's Peter Hall. With more than 20 active producing theater companies in Buffalo alone, not to mention Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Shaw Festival at nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, Chase and Hall keep their calendars full, trying to see and share their insights on as many shows as possible.But Theater Talk is anything but a dry community arts listing service. Instead, with affection, good humor, and just the occasional rant, the segment provides snapshot reviews, recommends local productions, analyzes the Western New York theater scene and occasionally looks at what's happening on Broadway and across the nation.Chase is the founder of the Artie Awards, which recognizes excellence in Western New York theater and raises money for AIDS charities.
  • TOBACCO ROAD is now at American Repertory Theater of WNY at the Compass Performing Arts Factory, 545 Elmwood Ave.
    Theater Talk: A handsome production of 1776 at LOH, First Look's New Play Readings on point, last chances for BAT BOY and DA VINCI CODE this weekend, NUTS continues, TOBACCO ROAD opens at ART of WNY, with a reading of James Marzo's ACCIDENTAL ASSASSIN after the Saturday 5pm show.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about a very handsome production of 1776 at Lancaster Opera House, but it's now closed! Speaking of closings, it's the final weekend for Second Generation's BATBOY:THE MUSICAL at Shea's Smith and/or THE DAVINCI CODE at Road Less Traveled. NUTS, the courtroom drama, continues at Desiderio's Dinner Theatre. First Look Buffalo held two successful weekends of new play readings out at Canterbury Woods, including VICKA AND THE VISIONARIES by Bella Poynton and TELL ME WHAT I WANT TO HEAR (about AI) by James Marzo, who will also have his ACCIDENTAL ASSASSIN read this Saturday at the Compass Performing Arts Center following the 5:00 pm showing of ART's TOBACCO ROAD (in its day, one of the longest running plays ever). CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS FOR LOCAL SHOWS, SHAWFEST, STRATFORD, AND SHEA'S TOURING SHOWS.For over 30 years, Theater Talk has been appointment listening on WBFO, featuring the insights of theater critic and historian, Anthony Chase. Chase co-hosted Theater Talk with Buffalo Broadcast Hall of Famer Jim Santella for many years. These days, it's Peter Hall. With more than 20 active producing theater companies in Buffalo alone, not to mention Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Shaw Festival at nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, Chase and Hall keep their calendars full, trying to see and share their insights on as many shows as possible.But Theater Talk is anything but a dry community arts listing service. Instead, with affection, good humor, and just the occasional rant, the segment provides snapshot reviews, recommends local productions, analyzes the Western New York theater scene and occasionally looks at what's happening on Broadway and across the nation.Chase is the founder of the Artie Awards, which recognizes excellence in Western New York theater and raises money for AIDS charities.
  • In BATBOY THE MUSICAL, the energetic Ricky Needham heads a superb cast at the Smith Theatre.jpg
    Theater Talk: BAT BOY: THE MUSICAL (2nd Gen at Smith), while at Desiderio's Lisa Ludwig directs as Maria Pedro stars in NUTS, and DAVINCI CODE also continues at Road Less Traveled. Final weekend for 1776 the musical at Lancaster Opera House and the New Play Festival with First Look at Canterbury Woods. Anthony saw TOUT CASSE by Casey Grim at Buffalo Improve House. SEE LISTINGS!
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about Second Generation's BATBOY:THE MUSICAL with Ricky Needham in the title role with a great cast including Marc Sacco, Michele Marie Roberts, Audree Woods, Dan Urtz, and many more, so much fun, while at Lancaster Opera House (whose telephone number ends in 1776!) there are first rate performances still to enjoy including Bernie Sheredy as Benjamin Franklin and Charles McGregor's big big voice as Edward Rutledge in "Molasses to Rum" (and Tony recalled seeing Buffalo's Jonathan Young in that role, Young now on Broadway as u/s for both Jay and Tom in THE GREAT GATSBY). Maria Pedro continues to star in a first-rate cast in NUTS, a gripping, but also funny (yes, both!) courtroom drama directed by Lisa Ludwig at Desiderio's Dinner Theatre. THE DAVINCI CODE continues at Road Less Traveled while First Look Buffalo presents the second group of new play readings out at Canterbury Woods. This week there are six play readings starting tonight (including one by Bella Poynton) and last week Peter saw one by Donna Hoke. And Anthony got to see TOUT CASSE (Everything's Broken) by Casey Grim at the Buffalo Improv House. Note: While the remaining few Shaw Festival's shows close this weekend, the Stratford Festival continues all the way through November 1st.SEE COMPLETE LISTINGS BELOW.
  • Buffalo's Daniel Croix Henderson now on Broadway in Moliere's THE IMAGINARY INVALID
    Theater Talk: A conversation with Buffalo's Daniel Croix Henderson, now on Broadway in THE IMAGINARY INVALID as "Cleante," remembering his years at BAVPA. Last weekend to see EMMA, BECKY SHAW, and HAIR. Click to see complete listings for local, Shaw, and Stratford shows.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk with Buffalo's Daniel Croix Henderson currently on Broadway as the lover "Cleante" in Moliere's comedy The Imaginary Invalidat the Todd Haimes Theatre, 227 West 42nd Street alongside Tony Award® winner Bill Irwin as "Argan." Daniel, a big fan of but not related to Stephen McKinley Henderson, talks about an inspiring visit when Stephen came to his classroom at the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, and gives shout outs to Lorna C. Hill, Kelly Beuth, George Davis, and Meg Quinn and hopes that every theater kid in Buffalo takes advantage of the playground in the arts that is open to them. Meanwhile, this is the final weekend to see BECKY SHAW, EMMA, HAIR, and JANIS JOPLIN while at Shawfest, it's the final weekend for AMADEUS, FUNNY GIRL, HEARTBREAK HOUSE, and OHIO STATE MURDERS. But "as one door closes, another opens" and Second Generation has opened BATBOY:THE MUSICAL, while First Look Buffalo presents the first 5 of 10 new plays out at Canterbury Woods. Continuing shows include NUTS at Desiderio's, 1776 at Lancaster Opera House, and THE DAVINCI CODE at Road Less Traveled. Note: While the Shaw Festival's shows close either this weekend or next, The Stratford Festival continues all the way through November 1st. SEE LOCAL LISTINGSCLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS FOR LOCAL SHOWS, SHAWFEST, STRATFORD, AND SHEA'S TOURING SHOWS.For over 30 years, Theater Talk has been appointment listening on WBFO, featuring the insights of theater critic and historian, Anthony Chase. Chase co-hosted Theater Talk with Buffalo Broadcast Hall of Famer Jim Santella for many years. These days, it's Peter Hall. With more than 20 active producing theater companies in Buffalo alone, not to mention Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Shaw Festival at nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, Chase and Hall keep their calendars full, trying to see and share their insights on as many shows as possible.But Theater Talk is anything but a dry community arts listing service. Instead, with affection, good humor, and just the occasional rant, the segment provides snapshot reviews, recommends local productions, analyzes the Western New York theater scene and occasionally looks at what's happening on Broadway and across the nation.Chase is the founder of the Artie Awards, which recognizes excellence in Western New York theater and raises money for AIDS charities.
  • EMMA at Irish Classical stars Penelope Sergi. Delightful in title role.jpg
    Theater Talk: Penelope Sergi delightful as EMMA at Irish Classical, DA VINCI CODE thrills at Road Less Traveled, Anthony chats this morning at Shawfest, more shows to see include MusicalFare's HAIR at Shea's 710, NUTS at Desiderio's, 1776 at Lancaster, BECKY SHAW at Alleyway, GUYS AND DOLLS at O'Connell & Co.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about EMMA, at Irish Classical, simply divine with the winning Penelope Sergi in the title role, also THE DAVINCI CODE at Road Less Traveled with its stunning graphics, and HAIR, with exciting choreography by Eric Deeb Weaver at MusicalFare, as they look forward to seeing GUYS AND DOLLS at O'Connell & Co. at Canterbury Woods, 1776 at Lancaster Opera House, and NUTS at Desiderio's Dinner Theater. See listings below. Later this morning, Anthony will be back at the Shaw Festival this Friday September 25 to host/emcee ANECDOTES & STORIES FROM THE THEATRE at 10:00am at the Shaw Artists' Village Hall.CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS FOR LOCAL SHOWS, SHAWFEST, STRATFORD, AND SHEA'S TOURING SHOWS.For over 30 years, Theater Talk has been appointment listening on WBFO, featuring the insights of theater critic and historian, Anthony Chase. Chase co-hosted Theater Talk with Buffalo Broadcast Hall of Famer Jim Santella for many years. These days, it's Peter Hall. With more than 20 active producing theater companies in Buffalo alone, not to mention Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Shaw Festival at nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, Chase and Hall keep their calendars full, trying to see and share their insights on as many shows as possible.But Theater Talk is anything but a dry community arts listing service. Instead, with affection, good humor, and just the occasional rant, the segment provides snapshot reviews, recommends local productions, analyzes the Western New York theater scene and occasionally looks at what's happening on Broadway and across the nation.Chase is the founder of the Artie Awards, which recognizes excellence in Western New York theater and raises money for AIDS charities.
  • In GULP! THE GAY BEACH MUSICAL Ryan Blunt as Teddy, Matt Rittler as Birdie, and Robert McKnight, exude pure joy as they perform Nicole Cimato's choreography
    Theater Talk celebrates CURTAIN UP! with its myriad of performances all over town. Listen then click through for complete listings. And Anthony returns to Shawfest 9/25 at 10am for a conversation with actors.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about CURTAIN UP! tonight, September 18, with a wide variety of shows to choose from including GULP! THE GAY BEACH MUSICAL, FUNNY GIRL, GUYS AND DOLLS, HAIR, A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN, EMMA, NUTS, THE DAVINCI CODE, BECKY SHAW, BAT BOY, JUICY AND DELICIOUS, and BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB. Peter will be at Nichols to see Buffalo Opera Unlimited's limited run of Pauline Viardot's CINDERELLA. See listings below.CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS FOR LOCAL SHOWS, SHAWFEST, STRATFORD, AND SHEA'S TOURING SHOWS.For over 30 years, Theater Talk has been appointment listening on WBFO, featuring the insights of theater critic and historian, Anthony Chase. Chase co-hosted Theater Talk with Buffalo Broadcast Hall of Famer Jim Santella for many years. These days, it's Peter Hall. With more than 20 active producing theater companies in Buffalo alone, not to mention Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Shaw Festival at nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, Chase and Hall keep their calendars full, trying to see and share their insights on as many shows as possible.But Theater Talk is anything but a dry community arts listing service. Instead, with affection, good humor, and just the occasional rant, the segment provides snapshot reviews, recommends local productions, analyzes the Western New York theater scene and occasionally looks at what's happening on Broadway and across the nation.Chase is the founder of the Artie Awards, which recognizes excellence in Western New York theater and raises money for AIDS charities.
  • Dudney Joseph, Jr. as Munkustrap, the emcee in CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL on Broadway
    Theater Talk: Buffalo's Dudney Joseph Jr., now a Broadway star, remembers his start and talks about his role as Munkustrap in CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL. Many shows open this weekend before CURTAIN UP! next Friday. See listings.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk to Buffalo's latest Broadway star, Dudney Joseph, Jr. a Buffalo favorite on many, many local stages, who remembers his start, and who recently wowed audiences on Broadway as Munkustrap, the onstage emcee in CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL, a reimagining of CATS through ballroom/voguing/drag culture. Unfortunately, despite strong reviews, high attendance, and multiple Tony Awards (direction, choreography, and costume design) rising Broadway production expenses closed the show on August 8, 2026 to the surprise of everyone including Andrew Lloyd Webber who called the closing “gutting” and used it to highlight Broadway’s “unsustainable cost of producing and running any new show now” urging industry stakeholders to address the crisis. Meanwhile, several shows open in Buffalo this weekend including GULP! THE GAY BEACH MUSICAL from Buffalo United Artists on stage at 545 Elmwood. Also opening A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN at the Kavinoky, BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB at Shea's, GUYS AND DOLLS (O'Connell & Co. at Canterbury Woods), and NUTS presented by Desiderio's Dinner Theatre.
  • Sharry Flett as Rat in THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS at Shawfest
    Theater Talk: BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB™ to open Shea's season; GULP! THE GAY BEACH MUSICAL, an historically significant show to open for BUA; GUYS AND DOLLS at O'Connell & Co. and Anthony to host a discussion at Shawfst 9/25 at 10am with current actors Sharry Flett (pictured), Patrick Gallivan, and Sanjay Talwar!
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB, a tale of old Havana filled with infectious dance music, a show which both Anthony and Peter have seen on Broadway and are thrilled that it's opening this season's Shea's schedule. And BTPM is giving away tickets (see TICKET GIVEAWAY! below). And for a chance to experience Gay theater history, Buffalo United Artists is presenting GULP! THE GAY BEACH MUSICAL which predates La Cage, Rent, and Fun Home to name other landmark shows. And Anthony will be back at the Shaw Festival Friday September 25 to host/emcee Anecdotes & Stories from the Theatre with special guests, Sharry Flett, Patrick Gallivan, and Sanjay Talwar, all currently in shows. Also noted, O'Connell & Co. is putting on GUYS & DOLLS.CURTAIN UP! IS SEPTEMBER 18. So put it on your calendar: Curtain Up! the official opening night of the Western New York professional theatre season will be on Friday, September 18 when Buffalo’s theatre season kicks off with parties, premieres, and one big Main Street celebration. For information visit tda-wny.com/event/curtain-up-2026/ On the Monday prior, September 14th, children’s theater pioneer Meg Quinn, co-founder of Buffalo's Theater of Youth will be honored with a star in the Buffalo Theatre District. The installation ceremony will begin at 5:30PM in the lobby of the newly renovated Shea’s 710 Theatre, followed by unveiling of the star outside on the Plaza of Stars. A reception will follow immediately after at The Bijou, 646 Main St.SEE LISTINGS for these and the Shaw Festival below.SEE LISTINGS for these and the Shaw Festival below.CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS FOR LOCAL SHOWS, SHAWFEST, STRATFORD, AND SHEA'S TOURING SHOWS.For over 30 years, Theater Talk has been appointment listening on WBFO, featuring the insights of theater critic and historian, Anthony Chase. Chase co-hosted Theater Talk with Buffalo Broadcast Hall of Famer Jim Santella for many years. These days, it's Peter Hall. With more than 20 active producing theater companies in Buffalo alone, not to mention Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Shaw Festival at nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, Chase and Hall keep their calendars full, trying to see and share their insights on as many shows as possible.But Theater Talk is anything but a dry community arts listing service. Instead, with affection, good humor, and just the occasional rant, the segment provides snapshot reviews, recommends local productions, analyzes the Western New York theater scene and occasionally looks at what's happening on Broadway and across the nation.Chase is the founder of the Artie Awards, which recognizes excellence in Western New York theater and raises money for AIDS charities.
  • In Shawfest's ONE FOR THE POT L-R Martin Happer, Camille Eanga-Selenge, and Peter Fernandez
    Theater Talk: Shawfest excels in outrageous farce ONE FOR THE POT, B'way quality FUNNY GIRL, and G.B. Shaw's tragicomedy HEARTBREAK HOUSE (think Shaw + Chekhov + Wilde). Anthony on & off B'way for JUST IN TIME (now starring Jeremy Jordan) and PARANORMAL ACTIVITY (plenty of jumpscares) and last chance to see Lisa Hinca at Desiderio's this weekend.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about Shawfest's farce ONE FOR THE POT, the musical FUNNY GIRL, and the satirical tragicomedy HEARTBREAK HOUSE (a little Shaw, a little Chekhov, a little Wilde) each marvelous in its own way. Anthony gets down to NYC for JUST IN TIME now starring Jeremy Jordan as well as PARANORMAL ACTIVITY (plenty of good jumpscares). And it's the last weekend to see Lisa Hinca star at Desiderio's Dinner Theatre. CURTAIN UP! IS SEPTEMBER 18. So put it on your calendar: Curtain Up! the official opening night of the Western New York professional theatre season will be on Friday, September 18 when Buffalo’s theatre season kicks off with parties, premieres, and one big Main Street celebration. For information visit tda-wny.com/event/curtain-up-2026/ On the Monday prior, September 14th, children’s theater pioneer Meg Quinn, co-founder of Buffalo's Theater of Youth will be honored with a star in the Buffalo Theatre District. The installation ceremony will begin at 5:30PM in the lobby of the newly renovated Shea’s 710 Theatre, followed by unveiling of the star outside on the Plaza of Stars. A reception will follow immediately after at The Bijou, 646 Main St.SEE LISTINGS for these and the Shaw Festival below.SEE LISTINGS for these and the Shaw Festival below.CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS FOR LOCAL SHOWS, SHAWFEST, STRATFORD, AND SHEA'S TOURING SHOWS.For over 30 years, Theater Talk has been appointment listening on WBFO, featuring the insights of theater critic and historian, Anthony Chase. Chase co-hosted Theater Talk with Buffalo Broadcast Hall of Famer Jim Santella for many years. These days, it's Peter Hall. With more than 20 active producing theater companies in Buffalo alone, not to mention Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Shaw Festival at nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, Chase and Hall keep their calendars full, trying to see and share their insights on as many shows as possible.But Theater Talk is anything but a dry community arts listing service. Instead, with affection, good humor, and just the occasional rant, the segment provides snapshot reviews, recommends local productions, analyzes the Western New York theater scene and occasionally looks at what's happening on Broadway and across the nation.Chase is the founder of the Artie Awards, which recognizes excellence in Western New York theater and raises money for AIDS charities.