© 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: Saul Elkin, Shakespeare in Delaware Park, Some pet peeves about programs and sippy cups, and A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE....

By Anthony Chase,
Peter Hall
Published July 1, 2022 at 5:15 AM EDT
Ways To Subscribe
Shakespeare in Delaware Park opens 47th season with AS YOU LIKE IT
Shakespeare in Delaware Park Facebook page
Shakespeare in Delaware Park opens 47th season with AS YOU LIKE IT

At opening night for the 47th season of Shakespeare in Delaware Park, founder Saul Elkin was honored when SIDP named the stage, "The Saul Elkin Stage." Elkin will remain active behind the scenes, serving on the board and other duties. He's also still active with The Jewish Repertory Theatre of Buffalo. Right after the dedication on Thursday, July 23, the 47th season began with Shakespeare's AS YOU LIKE IT.

On opening night for AS YOU LIKE IT, Saul Elkin, family, and friends at the "Saul Elkin Stage" dedication
Shakespeare in Delaware Park Facebook page
On opening night for AS YOU LIKE IT, Saul Elkin, family, and friends at the "Saul Elkin Stage" dedication

Anthony and Peter air some of their pet peeves, gripes, and grievances including the fact that more and more theaters are doing away with printed programs. After advising audiences to scan QR codes on their cellphones while in the lobby, we are soon told to silence them (which also implies turning the screens off). And then, once we in the audience arrive home, only a few production companies have the program on their website. This is discourteous to the actors, and especially to the crew, whose bios might never get read.

As far as the phrase "please silence your cellphones" we recommend telling audiences to turn them completely OFF.

And while were at it, let's talk about sippy cups containing ice brought back into the theater after intermission. As Anthony says: "It's like giving a child a rattle and then expecting them to be quiet." It's like "arming the enemy, giving them noisemakers and then sending them into the theater."

Up next: The musical, A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER, opening this coming Wednesday night at Musicalfare, starring Ricky Needham and Marc Sacco (playing all Needham's victims). Such fun!

The THEATER LISTINGS below are accurate as of this Friday morning, June 24, but check with the venue frequently. Pro Tip: Visit the websites to buy tickets but check with Facebook as well which will often have the most up-to-the-minute information on cancellations and postponements, as well as the best pictures! And always bring a mask and proof of vaccination. Several venues are requiring one or both

OPENINGS:

A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER, book and lyrics by Robert L. Freedman, music and lyrics by Steven Lutvak, directed by Doug Weyand, presented by MusicalFare, July 6-August 7, Wednesdays - Thursdays at 7 pm, Fridays at 7:30pm, Saturdays at 3:30pm & 7:30pm, Sundays at 2. MusicalFare Theatre on the Daemen College campus, 4380 Main Street, Amherst, NY 14226. (716) 839-8540 musicalfare.com

A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE BLURB: This knock-'em-dead, uproarious comedy, was the most-nominated show of the 2014 Broadway season with ten Tony nominations and four wins, including Best Musical. When the low-born Monty Navarro finds out that he's eighth in line for an earldom in the lofty D'Ysquith family, he figures his chances of outliving his predecessors are slight and sets off down a far more ghoulish path. Can he knock off his unsuspecting relatives without being caught? A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE & MURDER is a fresh new musical comedy filled with non-stop laughs and unforgettable music.

_____

CONTINUING:

ISLEÑA (Island Girl/Islander), a one-woman play by Victoria Pérez and her sister María Pérez Gómez, featuring Victoria Pérez of Raices Theatre on the Road Less Traveled Stage in an artful celebration of Puerto Rican culture, accessible to all.

While in New York City, Anthony saw POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive" at the Schubert Theatre in which a "starry" cast brings Selina Fillinger's satire to Braodway. Off Broadway, at the Public Theater, James Ijames’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, FAT HAM, set at a Southern barbecue dismantles and reassembles Shakespeare's HAMLET.

_____

AS YOU LIKE IT presented SHAKESPEARE IN DELAWARE PARK, directed by Steve Vaughan, June 23 - July 17 Tuesdays - Sundays at 7:15 on "Shakespeare Hill" in Delaware Park near Marcy Casino and The Rose Garden. These performances are free and open to the public (but bring some cash if you can for an intermission donation).

____

ISLEÑA (Islander), a one-woman play by Victoria Pérez and María Pérez Gómez, featuring Victoria Pérez, directed by María Pérez Gómez, presented by Raíces Theatre runs from June 17 to July 3 at Road Less Traveled (the new home of Raíces) 456 Main Street Buffalo NY 14202 Performances are Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 6:00 pm. Tickets can be reserved by calling

716-381-9333 or visiting ticketstripe.com/islenaonewomanshow, or calling the RLTP

Box Office (716) 629-3069 or visiting roadlesstraveledproductions.org

ISLEÑA BLURB: Isleña (Islander) is a one-woman show featuring Victoria Pérez’ journey from her beloved Puerto Rico to Buffalo and the struggle to define one’s identity while living in the diaspora. The title character is turning 40 years old and is forced to use this milestone to reconcile with her inner child and the joyful yet traumatic experiences while living in the island. In packing for the return to her homeland she must unpack memories buried in order to survive. Isleña celebrates family, tradition, culture, music and ultimately the longing to return home.

MORE JULY EVENTS/OPENINGS LATER IN THE MONTH:

ALLEY OF THE DOLLS, directed by Chris Kelly, as Buffalo United Artists continues their "Summer Camp" series, July 9 - July 21, starring Jimmy Janowski, Renee Landrigan, Matt Refermat, Christopher Standart, Michael Blasdell (Bebe), Dan Urtz, Alex Anthony Garcia, and Michael Seitz at The Alleyway Theater, One Curtain Up Alley.

ALLEY OF THE DOLLS BLURB: Kicking off our 30th Season, BUFFALO UNITED ARTISTS presents, ALLEY OF THE DOLLS, a loving parody of the cult classic film. THE ULTIMATE "SUMMER CAMP" EXPERIENCE! Here is the shocking, candid story of the dazzling glitter and gutter realities of show business as it has never been told before… with SEQUINS and WIGS and DRAG QUEENS…OH MY!

_____

THE BARD'S IN OUR YARD, touring performances of Shakespeare scenes throughout Western New York presented by Shakespeare in Delaware Park. See list of venues at shakespeareindelawarepark.org/2022-tour-locations/ Performances are July 20 - July 24 and July 26 - July 27 (leading up to the opening of A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM on July 28). Also note three Mondays in August (August 8, 15, and 22) when performances on "the hill" are dark. Performances are at 7:00 pm except for the 4:30 matinees as noted.

· July 20: Bassett Park, Amherst;

· July 21: Quaker Arts Pavilion, Orchard Park;

· July 22: Penn Dixie Fossil Site, Blasdell;

· July 23 (4:30 & 7 p.m.): Nike Base Park, Grand Island;

· July 24 (4:30 & 7 p.m.): Freedom Run Winery, Cambria;

· July 26:Hamburg Town Park (Lakeshore), Hamburg;

· July 27: Veterans Park Complex, West Seneca;

· Monday August 8: Locust Street Art, (Fruitbelt) Buffalo;

· Monday August 15: Raymond Klimek Veterans Park, North Tonawanda;

· Monday August 22: Galanti Park, Lackawanna.

_____

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM, presented by Shakespeare in Delaware Park, July 28-August 21, Tuesdays - Sundays at 7:15 on "Shakespeare Hill" in Delaware Park near Marcy Casino and The Rose Garden. These performances are free and open to the public (but bring some cash if you can for an intermission donation).

_____

SHAWFESTIVAL LIST OF SUMMER PLAYS:

(Note, visit shawfest.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/2022Calendar_print.pdf for a printable calendar with days, dates, ande times)

Shaw Festival Theatre NOTE Mask use is required until June 10, but not proof of vaccination is not longer required.

2022 Season:

AT THE FESTIVAL THEATRE

DAMN YANKEES Words and Music by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross

Book by George Abbott and Douglass Wallop opens Saturday May 28 at 6

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST By Oscar Wilde opens Saturday Jun 18 at 6

THE DOCTOR’S DILEMMA By Bernard Shaw

opens Saturday Aug 20 at 6

ROYAL GEORGE THEATRE

GASLIGHT

By Johnna Wright and Patty Jamieson

Based on the play Angel Street by Patrick Hamilton opens Friday May 27 at 6

CHITRA By Rabindranath Tagore (Lunchtime One-Act) opens Sunday June 19 at 11:30 am

JUST TO GET MARRIED By GB Shaw contemporary Cicely Hamilton opens Sun Aug 21 at 11:30 am

BLURB: “It is 1910 and Georgiana is 29, so the burning question is: how can we get her married?”

JACKIE MAXWELL STUDIO THEATRE

TOO TRUE TO BE GOOD By Bernard Shaw opens Sun May 29 at 11:30am

EVERYBODY By Branden Jacobs-Jenkins opens Fri Jun 17 at 6

GEM OF THE OCEAN By August Wilson (The first play in August Wilson’s THE AMERICAN CENTURY CYCLE) opens Fri Aug 19 at 6

_____

SHEA'S 2022-2023 SEASON

The M&T Broadway series at Shea's for 2022-2023 includes:

THE PROM Sep 27-Oct 2, 2022

TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL Nov 8-13, 2022

COME FROM AWAY Dec 13-18, 2022

HADESTOWN Feb 21-26, 2023

BEETLEJUICE Mar 21-26, 2023

SIX Apr 25-May 7, 2023

JAGGED LITTLE PILL Jun 6-11, 2023

with two "special engagements"

Disney's ALADDIN Nov 22-27, 2022 and

DEAR EVAN HANSEN June 20-25, 2023.

2022
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
  • Sandra Roberts as Kate in THE TAMING OF THE SHREW, final weekend
    Theater Talk: Final weekend for TAMING OF THE SHREW starring Sandra Roberts; Lisa Hinca stars at Desiderio's; Artie Award winning Katy Clancy remembered; David Bondrow to be remembered tomorrow at Lancaster Opera House
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about Desiderio's Dinner Theatre's production of AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER where Lisa Hinca and Steven J. Brachman excel; the final weekend for Shakespeare in Delaware Park's THE TAMING OF THE SHREW; It's the final weekend to catch Sandra Roberts as "Kate" in Shakespeare in Delaware Park's current production of THE TAMING OF THE SHREW; a memory of Katy Clancy who was a stalwart of dinner theater in the 1970s and 80s who won an Artie for playing Reno Sweeney in ANYTHING GOES, she was a belter; and a reminder that longtime Artistic and Executive Director of the Lancaster Opera House David Bondrow will be memorialized at a gathering, come as you are, at the opera house on Saturday August 15th starting at 11am. And, finally, 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.
  • CURTAIN UP! the official opening of the 2026-2027 professional theater season in Buffalo will be September 18
    Theater Talk: Curtain Up! Meg Quinn to get a star, David Bondrow memorial event at LOH on August 15, Shakespeare's TAMING continues as does Desiderio's FAMILY MURDER, Chautauqua presents August Wilson's HOW I LEARNED WHAT I LEARNED, live capture of FALLEN ANGELS coming.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter look forward to Curtain Up! the official opening night of the Western New York professional theatre season 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 Monday, 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. Right now, Sandra Roberts continues to entertain audiences as "Kate" in Shakespeare in Delaware Park's current production of THE TAMING OF THE SHREW. Longtime Artistic and Executive Director of the Lancaster Opera House David Bondrow will be memorialized at a gathering, come as you are, at the opera house on Saturday August 15th starting at 11am. The opening weekend of the live-capture HADESTOWN is reported to have outsold the opening weekend of the live-capture of HAMILTON. FALLEN ANGELS, Noël Coward’s fizzy 1925 comedy starring Kelli O’Hara and Rose Byrne will have a new live‑capture release limited cinematic run on October 22. And the movie "Hamnet," a moving story about the death of Shakespeare's son is available to stream. Desiderio's Dinner Theatre continues with AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER where Lisa Hinca and Steven J. Brachman excel.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.
  • Shakespeare in Delaware Park TAMING OF THE SHREW thumbnails
    Theater Talk: Sandra Roberts and Derek Emerson Powell command Shakespeare in Delaware Park's TAMING OF THE SHREW with a very funny cast, AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER continues as does Shawfest (see listings).
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter praise Shakespeare in Delaware Park's second Main Stage production this summer, THE TAMING OF THE SHREW, very funny, ably directed by Brendan Didio, with a stellar "Kate" played by Sandra Roberts to Derek Emerson Powell's "Petruchio" and a quartet of Buffalo's funniest: Kevin Craig, Jake Hayes, Jeremy Kreuzer, and Dan Urtz. Desiderio's Dinner Theatre continues as well with AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER where Lisa Hinca and Steven J. Brachman excel.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.
  • AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER stars included L-R Steve Brachmann, Justin A Chortie, and Lisa Pitzonka Hinca
    Theater Talk: Shakespeare in Delaware Park's TAMING OF THE SHREW opens while FOOLS AND FOES continues in local parks (very funny). AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER sends up every trope of the detective play at Desiderio's Dinner Theater, and this weekend you can see HADESTOWN (live film capture) in movie theaters.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about FOOLS AND FOES, the touring production of Shakespeare in the Park (free) going from park to park in the area. The second Main Stage production, THE TAMING OF THE SHREW is now up and at Desiderio's Dinner Theatre it's with AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER where Lisa Hinca and Steven J. Brachman excel. HADESTOWN: The Musical arrives in movie theaters as a limited, one week event beginning this Friday, July 24, 2026. This filmed live capture features the original Broadway cast, including André De Shields (who was a guest on Theater Talk). It's up at the four local Regals and the Amherst Theatre. SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.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.
  • FOOLS AND FOES cast (Shakespeare in Delaware Park Touring Show)
    Theater Talk: Anthony's trip to NYC this month and the "Holiday Magic" tour in December. Locally FOOLS AND FOES (Shakespeare in Delaware Park's Touring show) and AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER at Desiderio's Dinner Theater.. See listings (which also include Shaw Festival).
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about Anthony's recent trip to NYC to see DEATH OF A SALESMAN with Nathan Lane and Laurie Metcalf; RAGTIME at Lincoln Center, and GIULIA: THE POISON QUEEN OF PALERMO at the Perelman Performing Arts Center. Locally FOOLS AND FOES is the touring production of Shakespeare in the Park (free) going from park to park in the area. The next mainstage production will be THE TAMING OF THE SHREW. and Desiderio's Dinner Theatre is presenting AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER. SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.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 HEARTBREAK HOUSE at the Shaw Festival Julia Course and Martin Happer
    Theater Talk: Shawfest in Niagara-on-the-Lake presents HEARTBREAK HOUSE which Shaw called his "fantasia in the Russian [Chekhov] manner on English themes.” Tim Carroll directs an all-star cast. Heading to Broadway? Anthony suggests reading the NYTimes and Playbill.com to keep in the know.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about PERICLES at Shakespeare in Delaware Park, a fun 2 hours picnic with music by Tom Makar. Shawfest in Niagara-on-the-Lake presents HEARTBREAK HOUSE which Shaw called his "fantasia in the Russian [Chekhov] manner on English themes.” Tim Carroll directs that all-star cast. Heading to Broadway? Anthony suggests reading in the NYTimes "The 10 Most Mind-Altering Theater Moments of 2026 (So Far)" by Helen Shaw. Also, check out Playbill.com's schedule of upcoming cast changes as well as "Broadway Real Estate" to see which plays are coming or going. For example, Moulin Rouge will be replaced by PADDINGTON THE MUSICAL in 2027, about a bear "from deepest, darkest Peru!"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 PERICLES, Sean Patrick Ryan laments his fortunes while Tom Makar's band provides continuity through song
    Theater Talk: Shakespeare in Delaware Park's PERICLES makes for a fun 2 hour picnic outing, Shawfest is up and running and so is the Stratford Festival for some first rate theater right over the border.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about PERICLES at Shakespeare in Delaware Park, a fun 2 hours picnic with music by Tom Makar. Then, a bit about Canada's Stratford Festival and Niagara-on-the-Lake's Shaw Festival with a reminder that July 8th is the deadine to reserve your seat for Anthony's September 10th bus trip with BTPM to see FUNNY GIRL at Shawfest - the bus trip, the show, and the dinner. Visit btpm.org/events/travel-club. Scroll down to see the local (Buffalo area) listings and then the Shaw Festival listings and then the Stratford Festival listings. CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.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.
  • For the defense L-R Renee Hawthorne, Adam Yellen, Nick Stevens in Aaron Sorkin's A FEW GOOD MEN, RLTP at Shea's 710
    Theater Talk: PERICLES at SiDP off to a fun start; A FEW GOOD MEN and GIRL ON AN ALTAR, both excellent, close this weekend; YALLA BITCH continues a touring show; deadline to join Anthony at Shawfest for FUNNY GIRL is July 8; deadline to enter drawing to see Broadway's Josh Groban in Canandaigua is June 30 (see listings for details).
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk a bit about PERICLES at Shakespeare in Delaware Park, YALLA BITCH touring throughout town, and Anthony's bus trip with BTPM to see FUNNY GIRL at Shawfest. The deadline is is July 8th to reserve your seat for the bus trip, the show, and the dinner. Visit btpm.org/events/travel-club. While you're on the BTPM website, enter the drawing to win a pair of tickets to see Broadway star Josh Groban on stage in Canandaigua on August 18. Five pairs of tickets will be drawn, but the deadline to enter is June 30. Visit btpm.org/giveaway. Closing this Sunday, June 28, are two excellent shows, A FEW GOOD MEN (Road Less Traveled Productions on the Shea's 710 stage) and Irish playwright Marina Carr's GIRL ON AN ALTAR at the Irish Classical Theater. Aaron Sorkin's A FEW GOOD MEN (it was this play before it was a movie) stays true to the original (no sappy Hollywood love interest); GIRL ON AN ALTAR by Irish playwright Marina Carr at Irish Classical shows us that for once, Clytemnestra isn’t the monster, she’s the wounded one; SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS. SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.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 HIS GIRL WATSON Anna Fernandez stars in title role at the Alleyway
    Theater Talk: Anna Fernandez stars in HIS GIRL WATSON at the Alleyway, A FEW GOOD MEN (Road Less Traveled at Shea's 710) stays true to Sorkin's original script, the stunning GIRL ON AN ALTAR (Irish Classical) shows Clytemnestra as the wronged party, and THE BOOK OF MORMON opens a short run tonight at Shea's.
    This week on Theater Talk, it's all in the one block "Theatre District" as Anthony and Peter talk about Anna Fernandez, about to leave for New York, starring brilliantly in HIS GIRL WATSON: A SHERLOCK NOIR at the Alleyway; while down Main St. Aaron Sorkin's A FEW GOOD MEN (it was this play before it was a movie) stays true to the original (no sappy Hollywood love interest); GIRL ON AN ALTAR by Irish playwright Marina Carr at Irish Classical shows us that for once, Clytemnestra isn’t the monster, she’s the wounded one; and THE BOOK OF MORMON returns to Shea's for a limited run. SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.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.
  • GIRL ON AN ALTAR, an adaptation of Greek myth, opens at Irish Classical starring Keelie Sheridan, Jorge Luna and more
    Theater Talk: What a week! Pride, Tonys, Arties! Shakespeare has touring show FOOLS & FOES up and in neighborhoods, PERICLES opens soon. Both Marina Carr's GIRL ON AN ALTAR and Aaron Sorkin's A FEW GOOD MEN open, and THE LEGEND OF GEORGIA MCBRIDE continues at Torn Space.
    This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter reflect on a busy weekend with Pride, the Tonys (remember Anthony called SCHMIGADOON as best musical), and the 2026 Artie Awards (35th annual!) held Monday June 8, at Babeville, hosted by Anthony Chase, Jake Hayes, Maria Pedro with music direction by Joe Isgar and stage management by Emma English. THE LEGEND OF GEORGIA MCBRIDE, a collaboration of Torn Space and BUA continues. FOOLS AND FOES, the touring production of Shakespeare in Delaware Park just opened and next week PERICLES opens on the Saul Elkin stage in the park. Aaron Sorkin's A FEW GOOD MEN (it was a play before it was a movie) opened last night; GIRL ON AN ALTAR (think Greek tragedy) by Irish playwright Marina Carr opens tonight at Irish Classical. SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS. Did you do that?SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.CLICK THROUGH OR SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.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.