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Theater Talk: Anthony reads Elizabeth Ashley's memoir, has some Broadway insights, and talks of openings, including a quick run-through of this very, very busy local opening weekend

MAMMA MIA at Shea's 710 stars L-R Michele Marie Roberts, Kelly Copps, and Bethany Moore
Stephen Gabris
/
Second Generation Theatre
MAMMA MIA at Shea's 710 stars L-R Michele Marie Roberts, Kelly Copps, and Bethany Moore

This week on Theater Talk, Anthony talks about reading a gift copy of Elizabeth Ashley's 1978 memoir "Actress: Postcards from the Road," leading to thoughts of a current equally "bankable" Broadway star, Laurie Metcalf, who will be appearing with Nathan Lane in DEATH OF A SALESMAN starting in April . Also coming to Broadway this early spring are EVERY BRILLIANT THING starring Daniel Radcliffe; Andrew Lloyd Weber's reimagined CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL (to star André De Shields and Buffalo's Dudney Joseph, Jr.); and French Canadian Céline Dion's jukebox musical titled TITANIQUE. Meanwhile, local openings this week include MAMMA MIA! (2nd Gen at Shea's 710); First Look will open with a new play, PRESERVATION by Deborah Yarchun (author of THE ALEPH COMPLEX seen at the Alleyway); and Post Industrial Productions opens with BLOOD ON LINOLEUM OR RETAIL HORROR, a new play by local playwright Ian Downes; Sean Ryan is in RENT in Lockport, and for a great musical sendup, O'Connell & Co. opens with SHREK, THE MUSICAL. PLEASE SEE LISTINGS. Remember when getting tickets for anywhere, but especially the three Shea's venues, please go through Shea's box office, or the producing company, or through Ticketmaster. Do NOT buy tickets from any other third-party vendor. SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.

Check out all of Anthony's reviews and the latest edition of Javier's "Theater Dish" at theatertalkbuffalo.com. Peter's reviews appear in Buffalo Rising (buffalorising.com).

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LOCAL LISTINGS ARE PRESENTED AS FOLLOWS: CLOSINGS (last chances to see these shows!), followed by OPENINGS, then CONTINUING, then OPENINGS NEXT WEEK or NEXT MONTH. Within the categories, shows are alphabetical by title, with any show starting with "The" under the letter "T."

CLOSINGS: none

SELECT OPENINGS JANUARY, 2025

BLOOD ON LINOLEUM OR RETAIL HORROR, an Unsettling Dark Comedy by Ian Downes, directed by Drew McCabe, starring Isabel Deschamps, Danielle Burning, Mara Westerling-Morris, Davida Tolbert, and P.K. Fortson. 1/16 – 1/25, Fri - Sat 7:30, Sun 2:00. Presented by Post-Industrial Productions at the

Lorna C. Hill Theater: 429 Plymouth Ave. Suite #2, Buffalo, NY 14213 Visit them at piptheatre or buy tickets on Facebook events or click here: zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/blood-on-linoleum-or-retail-horror

RETAIL HORROR PUBLICITY BLURB: Rachel’s work at the local [REDACTED] has its ups and downs, as anybody who’s had to work retail can attest to. The customers are cruel, the coworkers are strange, and there’s the deep crippling existential dread that everything is for nothing and that Rachel is simply throwing her life away in a meaningless pursuit of money in a corporate capitalist hell-scape. CONTENT WARNING: Blood, gore, and violence. No patrons under the age of 18 will be admitted.

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LADY DAY AT EMERSON'S BAR AND GRILL, with JazzBuffalo’s Female Vocalist of the Year, Alex McArthur, and Grammy Award Winner George Caldwell at the piano. 1/30 - 2/15 Fri 7:30, Sat 3:00 & 8:00, Sun 2:00 Presented by MusicalFare on stage at Shea's Smith Theatre, 654 Main St. Buffalo (716) 839-8540 musicalfare.com or

sheas.org/smith-theatr

LADY DAY PUBLICITY BLURB: Witness one of Billie Holiday's final performances in this tour-de-force evening starring JazzBuffalo’s Female Vocalist of the Year, Alex McArthur.

Taking place in the late 1950s, only four months before Holiday’s untimely death, the show gives a poignant and visionary look at the woman behind the music. Featuring Music Direction by Grammy-Award Winner, George Caldwell, and cabaret table seating at a reimagined Smith Theatre. NOTE: This production will be presented at Shea's Smith Theatre, not Shea's 710 Theatre. This production is not a part of MusicalFare's Subscription Season and tickets must be purchased separately. You will be re-directed to Ticketmaster (Shea's approved ticketing system).

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MAMMA MIA! Music and lyrics by ABBA's Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus (and some songs with Stig Anderson), directed by Lisa Ludwig, starring Michele Marie Roberts, Kelly Copps, and Broadway’s Bethany Moore. 1/15 - 2/1 Thu - Fri 7:30, Sat 2:00 & 8:00, Sun 2:00. Produced by Second Generation Theatre and Shea’s Performing Arts Center, on stage at Shea's 710 Theatre, 710 Main Street (corner Tupper) (716) 847-0850, sheas.org/performances/mamma-mia/

MAMMA MIA! PUBLICITY BLURB: On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. With non-stop laughs and high-energy dance numbers, ABBA’s smash hit jukebox musical, MAMMA MIA! is the perfect escape from Buffalo winter.

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PRESERVATION, a new play by Deborah Yarchin (author of THE ALEPH COMPLEX), directed by Lara D. Haberberger, starring Sarah Emmerling, Rick Lattimer and Lanie Shannon. 1/16 - 2/7, produced by First Look Buffalo at the Canterbury Woods Performing Arts Center, 705 Renaissance Dr., Williamsville NY 14221 (off of Youngs Rd between Maple and Klein). (716) 771-6358 FirstLookBuffalo.com

PRESERVATION PUBLICITY BLURB: In a small town, in an archival library, there’s a vault. Inside the vault, there’s a box. Stella, Lydia’s dying grandmother, has convinced her that inside the box is a buried family secret that could alter their lives. But the library's founder funded it on the condition that the box never be opened. Lydia and Stella need vindication. Stan, the library’s archivist, needs to protect the library and the founder’s integrity at all costs. Lydia isn’t going away. And Stan isn’t backing down. Preservation is a dark comedic drama that explores what happens when protecting the dead comes at the cost of the living.

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RENT, the musical by Jonathan Larson, starring Sean Ryan (Mark), Destinie Morales (Mimi), Jetaun Louie (Joanne), Ryan Adam Norton (Roger), Hope Shaw (Maureen), et. al. 1/16 - 1/25 Fri 7:30, Sat 2:00 & 7:30, Sun 3:00. Produced by Curtain Up Productions on the Historic Palace Theatre stage, 2 East Ave. Lockport, NY 14094 (716) 438.1130 lockportpalacetheatre.org/curtain-up-productions/

RENT PUBLICITY BLURB: RENT is a musical loosely based on Puccini’s opera “La Bohème”, set in 1980s/90s New York City. It tells the story of a group of struggling young artists dealing with poverty, AIDS, love, loss, and the pursuit of their dreams. The musical explores the lives of characters like Roger, a musician struggling with HIV/AIDS, and Mimi, an S&M dancer also dealing with the virus. Other characters include Mark, an aspiring filmmaker, Maureen, a performance artist, and Joanne, her girlfriend. The story centers on their individual struggles and relationships amid the AIDS epidemic and the East Village's bohemian culture.

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SHREK, THE MUSICAL, based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture and the book by William Steig, book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire, music by Jeanine Tesori. 1/15 - 1/25 Thu-Fri-Sat 7:30, Sat 1/24 & Sun 1/25 both at 2:00. Produced by O'Connell & Company at Shea's Smith Theatre, Box Office: (716) 848-0800, oconnellandcompany.com

SHREK PUBLICITY BLURB: "Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek...." And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude, and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there's one on hand... and his name is Shrek.

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THE LITTLE PRINCE by Rick Cummins and John Scoullar, based on the book by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. 1/31 - 2/8 (only six performances) Sat 2:00 & 4:30, Sun 2:00. Runtime 90 minutes, produced by the Kenan Center's Taylor Theatre, 433 Locust Street, Lockport, NY (716) 433-2617 www.kenancenter.org/

THE LITTLE PRINCE PUBLICITY BLURB: This adaptation of the beloved book tells the story of a world-weary and disenchanted Aviator whose sputtering plane strands him in the Sahara Desert, and a mysterious, regal "little man." During their two weeks together in the desert, the Little Prince tells the Aviator about his adventures through the galaxy and about his strained relationship with a very special flower on his own tiny planet. Through each interaction, the Aviator comes closer to understanding the Little Prince’s maxim: "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly… What is essential is invisible to the eye." A touching story for young and old that empowers the voice of young people: a perspective of untethered creativity.

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SELECT LOCAL OPENINGS IN FEBRUARY, 2026

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, the Stephen Sondheim musical, with an all-female cast. 2/19 - 3/01 Fri-Sat-Sun 7:30, Sat-Sun 2:00. Produced by O'Connell & Company on stage at the Canterbury Woods Performing Arts Center, 705 Renaissance Drive, Williamsville (716) 848-0800 oconnellandcompany.com

"FORUM" PUBLICITY BLURB: With Book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart, and Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, Based on the plays of Plautus, and an all-female cast presents this farce - light, fast-paced, witty, irreverent, and one of the funniest musicals ever written. "Forum" takes comedy back to its roots, combining situations from the time-tested, 2000-year-old comedies of Roman playwright Plautus, with the infectious energy of classic vaudeville. Pseudolus, a crafty slave, struggles to win the hand of a beautiful but slow-witted courtesan named Philia for his young master, Hero, in exchange for freedom. The plot twists and turns with cases of mistaken identity, slamming doors, and a showgirl or two.

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A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER, a musical, with book and lyrics by Robert L. Freedman, music and lyrics by Steven Lutvak, directed by Doug Weyand, with a MusicalFare all-star cast. 2/19 - 3/08 Thu - Fri 7:30, Sat 3:00 & 8:00, Sun at 2:00. Produced by MusicalFare Theatre at Shea's 710 Theatre.

(716) 839-8540 musicalfare.com or shea's.org

NOTE: For additional savings, call 716-839-8540. Please note: Tickets for A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER are only legitimately available through www.musicalfare.com or www.sheas.org. These websites will take you to Ticketmaster to purchase your tickets. Purchasing tickets from third-party vendors (such as Vividseats or Ticket-Center) is far more expensive, and other sites can be fraudulent, potentially leading to invalid tickets.

"GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE" PUBLICITY BLURB: When a distant heir to a family fortune sets out to speed up the line of succession by using a great deal of charm...and a dash of murder… uproarious hilarity ensues. This knock-'em-dead, rollicking hit won 4 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. A huge sold-out hit at MusicalFare in the summer of 2022, we can't wait to share the side-splitting insanity once again!

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A SKULL IN CONNEMARA, a play by multiple award-winning Martin McDonagh, directed by TBA, starring TBA. 2/13 - 3/1 Thu - Sat 7:30, Sat, Sun 2:00. Produced by Irish Classical Theatre, 625 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14203 (716) 853-ICTC (4282), irishclassicaltheatre.com

A SKULL IN CONNEMARA PUBLICITY BLURB: Irish Gothic gallows humor from BAFTA, Oscar, Academy Award, and Drama Desk winner Martin McDonagh. Nothing stays buried forever. For one week each autumn, Mick Dowd is hired to disinter the bones in certain sections of his local cemetery to make way for the new arrivals. As the time approaches for him to dig up those of his own late wife, strange rumours regarding his involvement in her sudden death seven years ago gradually begin to resurface. Hailed by The Guardian as “a superior play that redefined the concept of graveyard humour,” this piece completes ICTC’s productions of McDonagh’s The Leenane Trilogy, following The Beauty Queen of Leenane and The Lonesome West, by the director and author of the Golden Globe Award-winning Banshees of Inisherin.

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DIARY OF A WIMPY KID, THE MUSICAL, book by Kevin del Aguila,

music & lyrics by Michael Mahler and Alan Schmuckler, directed by Arianna Lasting & Charles McGregor, starring Tiffany Nowak (Kai Crumley, understudy) et. al. 2/28 - 3/14 Most weekend shows at 2:00, Sat 3/7 at 11:00am & 2:00 pm. Run-Time is 60-Minutes, plus the post-show 10-minute talk-back. Understudy Performance is scheduled for Sunday, March 8 at 2:00pm.

Sensory-Friendly Performance is Sunday, March 1 at 10am. Produced by Theatre of Youth 203 Allen Street, Buffalo, NY 14201, 716.884.4400 theatreofyouth.org.

"WIMPY KID" PUBLICITY BLURB: The musical is based on the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” Book Series by Jeff Kinney and the 20th Century Studios Films

Middle school, ugh. It’s the worst. But Greg is determined not to be at the bottom of the popularity chart. He’ll leave that to his weird neighbor, Fregley. Or maybe Greg’s best friend, Rowley Jefferson. But it’s not going to be Greg…no way. Jeff Kinney’s popular character takes center stage as Greg’s cartoon diary becomes a hilarious and heartfelt musical. Will Greg’s plans to become popular lead him to sacrifice his one true friend? Can anyone avoid the dreaded Cheese Touch? Grab a hall pass and don’t be late for an adventure familiar to anyone who actually survived middle school. Recommended Ages: 8 and up.

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EXIT STRATEGY, a play by Ike Holter (author of 2024's THE LIGHT FANTASTIC), directed by Scott Behrend, starring Lissette DeJesus-Wrafter, Diane DiBernardo, Alex Garcia, Steven Maiseke, Gabriella McKinley, David Mitchell, and Sean Ryan. 2/20 - 3/22 Thu-Sat 7:30, Sun 2:00. Produced by Road Less Traveled Productions, 456 Main St. Buffalo (716) 629.3069 roadlesstraveled.org

EXIT STRATEGY PUBLICITY BLURB: The teachers of Tumbldn High School bring mousetraps from home, they make the toilet paper last, and they show up for the kids nobody else shows up for. So when the school is slated for closure at the end of the year, and the weight of the inevitable bears down on the community, students and teachers alike discover their breaking points. Ricky, the vice principal, has stayed firmly on the sidelines for all of the teachers' previous battles, but now in the eleventh hour, he's compelled to step up with a plan to save the school. Some risk their futures to follow his lead-- But does he actually have any idea what he's doing? Spiked with humor and brimming with fury, Exit Strategy is an exhilarating call to arms about what we owe each other.

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GOD OF CARNAGE, a play by Yasmina Reza, directed by Robyn Lee, starring Chris Avery, Kristin Bentley, Kelly Copps, and Steve Copps. 2/27 - 3/15 Thu - Fri 7:30, Sat 8:00, Sun 2:00. Produced by Second Generation Theatre at Shea's Smith Theatre Shea's Smith Theatre, 654 Main St. Buffalo (716) 508-SGT0 (7480) secondgenerationtheatre.com or sheas.org/smith-theatre/

GOD OF CARNAGE PUBLICITY BLURB: A comedy of manners with no manners! Two couples meet to discuss a fight between their children. As drinks are poured and gloves come off, what began as a polite discussion devolves into off-the-walls chaos. Starring two couples who are married "in real life." To purchase tickets in person visit the Shea’s Box Office at 650 Main Street Buffalo, NY 14202. If shopping online please note: Tickets for 2nd Gen shows are only legitimately available through their website or www.sheas.org Those websites will take you to Ticketmaster to purchase your tickets. Purchasing tickets from any third-party vendors can be overcharged or fraudulent, potentially leading to invalid tickets.

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HEDDA GABLER, play by Henrik Ibsen, a new adaptation by Patrick Marber, directed by Fortunato Pezzimenti, starring Kate LoConti Alcocer as Hedda Gabler with Arin Lee Dandes, Roderick Garr, Jordan Levin, Mary Moebius, Ben Michael Moran, and Priscilla Young-Anker. 2/27 - 3/21 Thu - Sat 7:30, also Sat 2:30. Produced by D'Youville's Kavinoky Theatre 320 Porter Ave. (Entrance on Prospect Ave) Buffalo, NY 14201 (716) 829-7668 kavinokytheatre.com

HEDDA GABLER PUBLICITY BLURB: “I want for once in my life to have power to mold a human destiny.” Newlywed Hedda has it all—beauty, class, privilege. What she lacks is the one thing she wants: freedom. Trapped by social expectations, she’s unable to shape her own destiny. Instead, she shapes those around her with the only tools she knows: seduction and deceit. How far will Hedda go in pursuit of personal power? Will it be enough to set her free? A new adaptation of the classic drama, HEDDA GABLER is a captivating portrait of one of theater's most (in)famous anti-heroes. Run Time: Approx. 2 1/2 hrs, including one 15-minute intermission

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LUCKY STIFF: A MUSICAL COMEDY MYSTERY, by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty 2/20 - 3/8 Fri - Sat 7:30, Sun 2:00 Produced by Lancaster Opera House 21 Central Avenue, Lancaster, NY 14086. (716) 683-1776 lancasteropera.org

LUCKY STIFF PUBLICITY BLURB: From the Tony Award-winning duo behind Ragtime and Seussical, book and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, Music by Stephen Flaherty, based on the novel "The Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo" by Michael Butterworth comes LUCKY STIFF, a madcap musical farce full of mistaken identities, disguises, and a dead body in a wheelchair! When unassuming English shoe salesman Harry Witherspoon learns he has inherited a fortune, there’s a catch — he must take his deceased uncle on a vacation to Monte Carlo. But Harry isn’t the only one after the money! A quirky cast of characters, including a dog-loving charity worker, a desperate optometrist, and his nearsighted sister, are all in hot pursuit. Packed with toe-tapping tunes, outrageous antics, and nonstop laughs, Lucky Stiff is a high-energy adventure you won’t want to miss!

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PRECIOUS LITTLE, a play by Madeleine George, directed by Stefanie Warnick. 2/1 - 2/28 Fri 7:30, Sat 5:00 Produced by Brazen Faced Varlets at the Compass Performing Arts Center, 545 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14222. (Note: elevator available) (716) 598-1585 varlets.org

PRECIOUS LITTLE PUBLICITY BLURB: "A crisp, fast-moving, tough-minded but often comic play about love, language, memory, culture and commitment." A research linguist, Brodie, receives genetic testing results: her unborn child may never be able to learn a language. Her girlfriend’s unsympathetic; her genetic counselor’s a rookie; her own uncompromising intellect betrays her. Her search for guidance takes her to unexpected places. Three actresses play multiple roles – including a gorilla – in Madeleine George’s irreverent exploration of one of our most fundamental questions: when does too much knowledge get in the way of our basic instincts?

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SHELTERED, a play by Alix Sobler, directed by Kyle LoConti, starring Rebecca Elkin, Peter Horn, Gretchen Didio, Maria Pedro, and Adam Yellen. 2/5 - 3/1 Thu 7:30, Sat 3:30 & 7:30, Sun 2:00 (no performances on Fridays). Produced by Jewish Repertory Theatre 2640 N. Forest Road, Amherst, NY 14068. (716) 650-7626 jccbuffalo.org/jewish-repertoy-theatre

SHELTERED PUBLICITY BLURB:

This powerful and emotionally charged play delves into a little-known chapter of history, exploring the moral complexities and personal sacrifices involved in rescue efforts during the Holocaust. Set against the backdrop of 1939, just before World War II fully erupts, the play follows Evelyn and Leonard Kirsch, an American Jewish couple who choose not to flee from danger, but to step into it. Their mission: to rescue 40 Jewish children from Nazi-occupied Europe and bring them to safety in the United States.

Highlighting the human cost of heroism and the fragility of moral certainty, this fascinating play questions how far one should go to help others, especially when the personal toll is high and the outcomes uncertain. Through sharp dialogue and complex characters, SHELTERED becomes both a historical drama and a reflection on contemporary questions of responsibility, identity, and compassion.

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THE BROTHERS SIZE, play by Torell Alvin McCraney, directed by Curtis Lovel. 2/27 - 3/8 Thu - Sat 7:30, Sat at 2:00, Sun 4:00. Produced by Ujima Company Inc. 429 Plymouth Ave, Suite 2, Buffalo NY 14213. (716) 322-5178 ujimacoinc.org

THE BROTHERS SIZE PUBLICITY BLURB: In the Louisiana bayou, big brother Ogun Size is hardworking and steady. Younger brother Oshoosi is just out of prison and aimless. Elegba, Oshoosi's old prison-mate, is a mysterious complication. A simple circle defines a world that begins in ritual and evolves into a tough and tender drama of what it means to brother and be brothered. Flights of poetry, music, dance and West African mythology combine in a contemporary tale that explores the tenuousness of freedom and the need to belong somewhere, to something, to someone.

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SHEA'S BUFFALO 2025-2026 Five Star Bank Broadway shows presented at Shea's Buffalo Theatre 646 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202 (716) 847-0850 sheas.org include:

KIMBERLY AKIMBO, March 17-22, 2026

A darkly comic and deeply compassionate musical about a New Jersey teenager aging at an impossible rate. As Kimberly navigates a chaotic family, unexpected friendships, and the urgency of limited time, the show blends humor and heartbreak into a luminous portrait of resilience, hope, and the fierce desire to live fully

WATER FOR ELEPHANTS, April 14-19, 2026

A young runaway joins a Depression‑era circus, finding love, danger, and belonging as performers and animals unite in a sweeping tale of survival, spectacle, and chosen family.

SUFFS, June 2-7-2026s

A vibrant retelling of the American women’s suffrage movement, following determined activists balancing strategy, conflict, and sacrifice as they fight for voting rights and reshape the nation’s future.

The Five Star Bank 2025-26 Broadway Season is presented by Shea’s Performing Arts Center and Albert Nocciolino, and is sponsored locally by Five Star Bank, The Buffalo News, and WKBW-TV.

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Copied from https://www.theatertalkbuffalo.com/post/2025-artie-award-winners

34th Annual Artie Awards

Sponsored by Buffalo Toronto Public Media

Presented June 9, 2025 at Asbury Hall, Buffalo, New York

Hosted by Anthony Chase, Curtis Lovell, and Amy Jakiel with Music Director Philip Farugia

2025 Artie Awards Winners

OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF A PLAY

Dorian, Irish Classical Theatre Company

OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF A MUSICAL

Waitress, MusicalFare Theatre

EMANUEL FRIED AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NEW PLAY

Matthew LaChiusa, The Informer

OUTSTANDING LEADING ACTOR IN A PLAY

David Lundy, Remember This

OUTSTANDING LEADING ACTRESS IN A PLAY

Tracie Lane, Scenes from A Marriage

OUTSTANDING LEADING ACTOR IN A MUSICAL

Vanna Deux, Hedwig and the Angry Inch

OUTSTANDING LEADING ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL

Maria Pedro, Waitress

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A PLAY

Gerald Ramsey, The African Company Presents Richard III

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A PLAY

Rebecca Elkin, The Loved Ones

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A MUSICAL

Kristopher Bartolomeo, Hedwig and the Angry Inch

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL

Kelly Copps, The Producers

OUTSTANDING FEATURED PERFORMANCE

Caitlin Coleman, The Hung Man

OUTSTANDING DIRECTION OF A PLAY

Mason Beggs, Dorian

OUTSTANDING DIRECTION OF A MUSICAL

Susan Drozd, Waitress

OUTSTANDING ENSEMBLE OF A PLAY

The Hobbit, Theatre of Youth

OUTSTANDING ENSEMBLE OF A MUSICAL

Into the Woods, O'Connell & Company

OUTSTANDING CHOREOGRAPHY

Eric Deeb Weaver, Newsies

OUTSTANDING MUSIC DIRECTION

Bridget Moriarty, The Fitzgeralds of Saint Paul

OUTSTANDING SET DESIGN

Dyan Burlingame, Shipwrecked!

OUTSTANDING COSTUME DESIGN

Ann R. Emo, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

OUTSTANDING TECHNICAL ELEMENT

Emma Schimminger, Lighting, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

CAREER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Eileen Dugan

SPECIAL APPRECIATION AWARD

Buffalo Toronto Public Media

KATHARINE CORNELL AWARDS – honoring the work of visiting artists

Christie Baugher; composer, lyricist, and playwright; The Fitzgeralds of Saint Paul, Irish Classical Theatre Company

Derrian Brown, actor, William Barfee, 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Second Generation Theatre

Kevin Zak, playwright, Kidman Carol, Alleyway Theatre

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  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk about Shea's expansion (more toilets and some elevators, too); Bianca Marroquín coming to Rochester in KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN; Bill Irwin and Buffalo's Daniel Croix Henderson in THE IMAGINARY INVALID; at the Shaw Festival Sara Farb as Fanny Brice and Matt Alfano as Eddie in a stunning Broadway worthy FUNNY GIRL, don't miss this one. And Desiderio's Dinner Theatre's AN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY MURDER continues. 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.