Theatre Review 'Theatre Three's Festival Of One-Acts'

By Cindi Sansone-Braff

Photos by Peter Lanscombe, Theatre Three Productions, Inc.

The Curtain Rises on a Sold-Out House at Theatre Three’s Festival of One-Acts

Director Jeffrey Sanzel and his multitalented company of actors have worked arduously to make Theatre Three’s 24^th Annual Festival of One-Act Plays a smashing success. From a whopping 750 submissions worldwide, seven short plays were selected to have their world premieres produced at the intimate Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage.   

Theatre Three 24th Annual One-Act Festival Down to the Wire by Julia Everitt with Daniell Pafundi & Samantha FierroThis year’s festival opened on a light note with Julia Everitt’s Down to the Wire, an absurdist comedy about a college student whose procrastination over a class assignment drives her roommate crazy. Samantha Fierro as Brittany and Danielle Pafundi as Ella were excellent in their comedic roles.

Playwright Mark Cofta’s one-act play Markings appeared in Theatre Three’s Seventh Annual Festival. Sadly, Mr. Cofta passed away last July, but his artistic legacy lives on in his touching drama A Citrus Day. This gut-wrenching play revolves around two teenage half-siblings who meet for the first time and compassionately come to grips with some dark, long-kept family secrets. As the kind, soft-spoken Lorrie, Melissa Norman brought warmth and likability to the part, and Tristan Prin aced the role of Fenton, a nervous, insecure, and shy young man. 

Leslie Dianne’s Accepting Adina was another touching family drama, only this one centered around a father and son struggling to accept loss, move forward, and embrace a new normal. This play featured two Theatre Three veterans, Steven Uihlein as the son and Steve Ayle as the father. Mr. Uihlein and Mr. Ayle have great onstage chemistry, and these talented men gave heartrending, nuanced, and memorable performances.

One-Act Festival THEATRE THREE The Dating Pool Samantha Fierro, Tamralynn Dorsa, Phyllis March, Ava Andrejko, Brittany Lacey.Playwright Arianna Rose’s short plays And The Beat Goes On and Family by Numbers were performed in the last two Theatre Three festivals. This year’s entry, The Dating Pool, is a well-crafted dramedy about a widow of a certain age. She is confronted by younger versions of herself as she contemplates taking the dangerous plunge back into the dating pool. This creative play has five great roles for women of different ages, and Phyllis March, Ava Andrejko, Samantha Fierro, Brittany Lacey, and Tamralynn Dorsa all gave award-worthy performances.

One-Act Festival THEATRE THREE Unclaimed Baggage Antoine Jones, Angelo DiBiase, Jason Furnari, Tamralynn Dorsa, Phyllis MarchAct Two opened with Keith Whalen’s highly entertaining play Unclaimed Baggage. This thought-provoking piece takes place in an airport and is a metaphorical and often hilarious look at all the emotional baggage humans drag around with them. Angelo Dibiase gave a brilliant performance as Marvin, a grumpy, ungrateful man who comes to see the error of his ways. As Finn, the baggage handler, Jason Furnari gave a stellar performance showcasing his solid comedic and dramatic acting skills. Antoine Jones, Tamralynn Dorsa, and Phyllis March were also outstanding.

Larry Brenner’s First Bite is a comedic, supernatural take on modern-day dating that had the audience laughing out loud. Evan Teich gave a standout performance as John, a likable, charismatic, and charming vampire, and Brittany Lacey was brilliant as Wanda, a woman with a colorful dating history.

The festival closed on a high note with Mark Loewenstern’s The Slightly Exaggerated True Story of “Civic Virtue.” Although only twenty minutes long, this well-researched, well-crafted historical play is epic in nature. It tells the fascinating story of a marble sculpture, “Civic Virtue Triumphant Over Unrighteousness,” and how this work of art, displayed outside City Hall in New York City, created an uproar that lasted for more than 90 years. It took the entire company, filling the whole stage, to bring this mesmerizing play to life.  

One-Act Festival THEATRE THREE Entire CompanyTheatre Three’s high-energy, dedicated company brought their A-game to this festival, playing multiple roles and helping with the superfast scene changes. A big round of applause goes out to Sean Amato, Ava Andrejko, Steve Ayle, Angelo Dibiase, Tamralynn Dorsa, Samantha Fierro, Jason Furnari, Antoine Jones, Brittany Lacey, Phyllis March, Melissa Norman, Danielle Pafundi, Tristan Prin, Evan Teich, and Steven Uihlein.

Theatre Three’s 24^th Annual Festival of One-Act Plays is theatre at its best. There is limited seating, so drop whatever you are doing and get your tickets now. Running through March 25, for ticket information, call the box office: (631) 928-1130, Monday-Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, or visit their websites at www.TheatreThree.com.

Please note: Adult Content and language. Parental discretion is advised.

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of Grant Me a Higher Love, Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships, and Confessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic. Her short play, No Rest of a Soul, is in the Think Fast Theater Project Festival.    www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.

Theatre Review 'Side By Side By Sondheim' At Theatre Three

By Cindi Sansone-Braff

Photos Steven Uihlein, Theatre Three Productions

Go See Theatre Three’s Side by Side by Sondheim

Side by Side by Sondheim Theatre Three Company and BandSide by Side by Sondheim, a cabaret-style revue, features a treasure trove of hits from Stephen Sondheim’s inimitable song collection. Mr.  Sondheim, who passed in 2021, was an award-winning composer and lyricist credited with having “reinvented the American musical.” 

Mr. Sondheim’s shows tackled dark and troublesome themes that were often philosophical, exploring the complex inner workings of the human mind, the angst-filled entanglements of love, and the volatile ups and downs of married life. This new introspective way of storytelling was a major reason why so few of his shows from the 1970s were financial successes. However, they have withstood the test of time to become beloved American classics.

This musical revue premiered in 1976 and showcased songs from those early works, including Company, Follies, Pacific Overtures, and A Little Night Music. Sondheim also collaborated as a lyricist with great composers such as Leonard Bernstein, West Side Story, Jule Styne, Gypsy, and Richard Rodgers, Do I Hear a Waltz? Songs from these classic shows are included in this production.

Side by Side by Sondheim Theatre Three Emily Gates, Jack Seabury, Ana McCasland, Linda May, Ryan NolinAt first glance, Side by Side by Sondheim seems like a ’70s TV variety show. An onstage band and four performers revisit Sondheim’s earlier songs, and a comedic narrator thematically ties the whole shebang together. But anything Sondheim is more complicated, nuanced, and layered than meets the eye, and before long, your whole being becomes engaged in this electrifying production. Expertly directed by the talented Christine Boehm, the audience remained spellbound as they laughed, cried, and sang along to 30 of Sondheim’s memorable show tunes. 

Ana McCasland, as the narrator, was charismatic, well-spoken, and polished. She had a rapid-fire way of delivering her comedic lines and is also a talented physical comedian. Ms. McCasland further captivated the audience with her riotous rendition of “I Never Do Anything Twice,” a racy song from the film The Seven-Per-Cent Solution. Ms. McCasland’s portrayal of a madam in a Viennese brothel, who uses feathers, more feathers, and then some more feathers to make her point, was spot on.

All four of the show’s singers had star quality, incredible onstage chemistry, and abundant talent. Each performer was entertaining, energetic, and engaging throughout the show. 

Side by Side by Sondheim Theatre Three Ryan Nolin, Linda May, Emily GatesBeloved Theatre Three veteran Linda May showcased her stellar vocals and strong acting skills throughout the show. She had the audience in stitches with her hilarious performance of “The Boy From,” and her moving rendition of “Send in the Clowns” brought tears to my eyes. Emily Gates has a mesmerizing stage presence, and her powerful voice was apparent in every number she sang. I loved her heartrending performance of “Losing My Mind.” Ms. Gates and Ms. May’s duo, “A Boy Like That and I have a Love” from West Side Story, was unforgettable and one of the show’s highlights. 

The other performers, Jack Seabury and Ryan Nolin, are two of the most talented performers you will see on any stage. I enjoyed Mr. Seabury’s gut-wrenching rendition of “Anyone Can Whistle,” a song that calls for no artifice, just pure heartfelt emotion, and Mr. Seabury was up for the task. As for Ryan Nolin, he was outstanding in every song he performed, but my favorites were “Could I Leave You?” and “Being Alive.”

At the opening of Act II, the audience uttered a collective “Wow,” when they saw all four performers dressed to the nines in Jason Allyn’s fabulous evening costume designs. Mr. Allyn hit a home run with the giant-colored wings in the showstopper, “You Gotta Get a Gimmick.”

The amazing onstage band didn’t miss a beat and featured Jeffrey Hoffman on piano, Logan Freidman on Bass, and Don Larsen on percussion. Steven Uihlein’s creative lighting design set the proper mood for each song. His clever use of lighting during “Company/Another Hundred People” was one of the show’s high points.

Spend some time with Sondheim, spectacular singers, and a well-staged show! Running now through March 18, for ticket information, call the box office: (631) 928-1130, Monday-Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, or visit their websites at www.TheatreThree.com.

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of Grant Me a Higher Love, Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships, andConfessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic. Her short play, No Rest of a Soul, is in the Think Fast Theater Project Festival.    www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.

Theatre Review 'The Wedding Singer' At Gateway Theater

The Wedding Singer at the Gateway is Bursting with Over-the-Top Talent

By Cindi Sansone-Braff

The Wedding Singer, The Musical Comedy, is based on the 1988 movie of the same name, which starred Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. This Broadway musical picked up five Tony Award nominations, including “Best Musical,” eight Drama Desk Awards, and three Drama League Awards. The upbeat, fun, ’80s-style music is by Matthew Sklar, the lyrics are by Chad Beguelin, and the book is by Tim Herlihy and Chad Beguelin.

Cast of The Wedding Singer (photo Jeff Bellante)This well-crafted musical is a nostalgic rom-com romp set in the mid-1980s, a decade of excess. In keeping with the zeitgeist, Madonna’s “Material Girl” became the anthem for this “Decade of Greed.” At the same time, Ivan Boesky and Michael Milken encouraged the youth of America to follow the almighty dollar sign. So, it’s no wonder that Robbie Hart, the protagonist of The Wedding Singer, is torn between following his dream to make music or pursuing a more lucrative career on Wall Street. When the musical opens, Robbie is New Jersey’s most sought-after wedding singer whose life falls apart when he’s jilted at the altar. His despair, dejection, and depression lead him down the road to ruin, and as a result, he becomes the wedding singer from hell. At his lowest point, he finds himself tossed in a dumpster, and this scene is pivotal in the musical because this is where and when Robbie first begins to connect with the waitress, Julia Sullivan.

I was so looking forward to seeing Stony Brook resident Douglas Goodhart in the lead role of Robbie Hart. Unfortunately, Mr. Goodhart contracted COVID-19 and could not make the opening night. I wish this Long Island talent a speedy recovery so he can get back onstage soon. In the meantime, the show must go on, and the incredibly talented Jose Contreras stepped in at the last moment to save the day. Mr. Contreras gave a strong performance as Robbie, aptly displaying his vocal and comedic talents, especially during his solo, “Somebody Kill Me.” Sarah Ellis was believable and likable as Julia Sullivan, a naïve, trusting, kind young woman engaged to a womanizing Wall Street wheeler-dealer. There was great onstage chemistry between Ms. Ellis and Mr. Contreras, and they rocked their outrageous duet, “Come Out of the Dumpster.”

Janet Aldrich was outstanding as Robbie’s young-at-heart, hot-to-trot, up-close-and-personal grandmother. Ms. Aldrich revealed her strong comedic skills throughout the show, and her solo, “A Note from Grandma,” made the audience burst out in spontaneous laughter when she referred to Robbie’s ex as “… a skanky whore.”

Bill Coyne aced the role of Glen Guglia, a Wall Street broker who, like Gordon Gekko in Oliver Stone’s 1987 film Wall Street, believes “Greed is Good.” Glen made his philosophy about what matters in life plain and clear when he belted out the tune “All About the Green.” The line in that song, “But if you sell your soul, at least you’ve made a sale,” sums up this shallow, sleazy, and unscrupulous character who hawks junk bonds and shamelessly engages in insider trading. Glen Guglia lives for impressing others, driving a flashy car, splurging on cocaine, and dining in high-end restaurants while dressed for success in his expensive tailored suits and power ties. He is the “King of Conspicuous Consumption,” gobbling up the latest high-tech gadgets like CD players and cellular phones.    

Joseph Frederick Allen was excellent as gender-fluid George, a character based on the performer Boy George. With his intense facial expressions, expressive body language, and stellar vocals, Mr. Allen was a scene-stealer. His rendition of “George’s Prayer” was spot-on, funny, and one of the show’s highlights.

Kelly MacMillan gave a showstopping performance as Linda, Robbie’s vampy ex. She put her powerhouse vocals and athletic dance moves to good use during “Let Me Come Home,” a racy, high-energy number that was her desperate attempt to win Robbie back.

Katie Lamark gave a memorable performance as Holly, the sexy, fun-loving waitress with a heart of gold. I loved her crimped hair, micro-mini spandex skirts worn with fish nets, and leg warmers. As Sammy, Holly’s love interest, Hunter Brown proved to be a charismatic performer and a triple threat with his outstanding singing, dancing, and acting skills.

A special shoutout goes to all the incredibly talented Las Vegas impersonators strutting their stuff during the White House Wedding Chapel Scene. The ensemble of superstars included Shannon Conboy, Erin Fish, Ashley Klinger, Sarah Lindsey, Mikaela Rada, Renee Marie Titus, Matthew Blum, Peyton Cassity, Jose Contreras, Anthony DaSilva, George P. Roberts, and David Tanciar. Swings include Kimberly Hudman and Steven Gagliano.

The Wedding Singer is brilliantly directed and choreographed by veteran director Keith Andrews. The superb choreography was reminiscent of the riveting dance numbers performed in Flashdance and Michael Jackson’s blockbuster music video Thriller. 

If you love the 80s and enjoy a good night at the theater, drop everything and get your tickets to the Gateway’s lush and lavish production of The Wedding Singer. The show runs until February 26. For more information, contact the Box Office at (631) 286-1133, or visit the website at: Https://TheGateway.org.

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of Grant Me a Higher Love, Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships, and Confessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic. Her short play, No Rest of a Soul, is in the Think Fast Theater Project Festival.    www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.

Theatre Review 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' Engeman Theater

By Cindi Sansone-Braff

Engeman Theater’s Lavish Production of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a Smash Hit!

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a laugh-out-loud musical comedy that opened on Broadway in 2005 and ran for 626 James D Sasser (Lawrence Jameson) and Danny Gardner (Freddy Benson)performances. The music and the lyrics are by the super-talented David Yazbek, and the book is by Jeffrey Lane. This show is a stage adaptation of the uproarious 1988 MGM film of the same name starring Steve Martin and Michael Caine. That beloved movie was a remake of the 1964 Bedtime Story featuring Marlon Brando and David Niven. In 2019, there was a female-centered remake of this film entitled The Hustle, starring Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson.  

This zany musical, with its upbeat jazzy-pop score and ludicrous lyrics, is set in Beaumont-sur-Mer, a fictitious resort town on the luxurious French Riviera. The plot is simple: two grifters,  debonair Lawrence Jameson and boorish Freddy Benson, join forces but soon discover that there isn’t enough room for two professional hustlers in one small coastline town. These two-master manipulators become engaged in a fierce and funny battle to prove who is the more successful swindler. In a nutshell, this show is a whimsical lesson in how to con a con artist out.  

Matthew Bryan Feld (Andre Thibault), Danielle Cooper (Ensemble), and James D Sasser (Lawrence Jameson)James D. Sasser gave a memorable performance as Lawrence Jameson, a charismatic, charming con man who makes a full-time living scamming lonely, wealthy women. In the opening number, “Give Them What They Want,” Mr. Sasser, sophisticated and poised, commanded the stage and revealed his stellar vocals. 

Danny Gardner was spectacular as Freddy Benson, an uncouth American who cons unsuspecting women of their money by telling them far-fetched, fabricated tales about his grandmother’s failing health or his hysterical paralysis. The part of Freddy Benson, the two-bit crook, who dresses like Ed Norton on The Honeymooners, calls for an actor with strong physical comedy skills. Mr. Gardner is a natural-born comedian who had the audience in stitches every time he stepped on stage. He gave a powerhouse performance when he belted out the tune “Great Big Stuff.” This song has some of the most memorable madcap lyrics you will ever hear onstage, and Mr. Gardner knew how to use his facial expressions, body language, and amazing vocals to make this number one of the show’s highlights.

Gina Milo (Muriel Eubanks) and Matthew Bryan Feld (Andre Thibault)Emily Larger aced the role of Christine Colgate, a seemingly likable, sweet-natured American girl vacationing in the French Rivera, who is more than meets the eye. Ms. Larger rocked the song “Here I am.” Her duet with Freddy (Danny Gardner), “Love is My Legs,” was a standout moment. During this number, Ms. Larger and Mr. Gardner showcased their spot-on comedic timing, stellar acting abilities, and impressive vocal versatility.

Gina Milo gave an outstanding performance as Muriel Eubanks, a wealthy American socialite infatuated with and swindled by Lawrence Jameson before she falls head over heels in love with Andre Thibault, Jameson’s scheming French assistant. Matthew Bryan Feld was likable as Andre, and Ms. Milo and Mr. Feld had excellent onstage chemistry. The audience got a kick out of Muriel and Andre’s sexy encounters and applauded wildly after their duet, “Like Zis, Like Zat.”

Danny Gardner (Freddy Benson) and Gina Milo (Muriel Eubanks)Suzanne Mason was excellent as Jolene Oakes, a gun-toting, shoot-‘em-up American known as the “Princess of Petroleum.” She gave a strong performance during the hilarious hoedown number, “Oklahoma?” The song “All About Ruprecht” and the ensuing shenanigans involving Jolene, Lawrence Jameson, and Freddy Benson was one of the funniest scenes I have ever seen on stage. If you could use a good laugh, this scene alone is worth the ticket price!

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a visually stunning production. Much of that credit goes to the creative staff’s collective efforts, including Kyle Dixon’s breathtaking Riviera Resort set design, director Drew Humphrey’s brilliant direction, and Mandy Modic’s polished-to-perfection choreography. Dustin Cross had the daunting task of designing outfits worthy of a high-end resort, and his efforts resulted in sumptuous and glorious costumes.  

James D Sasser (Lawrence Jameson) and Ensemble Danny Gardner (Freddy Benson), Emily Larger (Christine Colgate), and James D Sasser (Lawrence Jameson)The multi-talented Ensemble includes Danielle Cooper, Alyssa Jacqueline, Kent M. Lewis, Christopher Morrissey, Broderick O’Neal, Kennedy Perez, Emilie Renier, Noah Ruebeck, and Bryce Valle. The Swings are Laura Park and Jon Yepez.

You don’t want to miss this fast-paced, funny, fabulous show which runs through Sunday, March 5, 2023. For a complete show schedule and more information, contact the theater directly at 631-261-2900, visit the box office at 250 Main Street, Northport, or go to their website: www.engemantheater.com. 

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of Grant Me a Higher Love, Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships, andConfessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic. Two of her monologues from her full-length plays are featured in Smith and Kraus’s The Best Men’s Stage Monologues of 2022 and The Best Women’s Stage Monologues of 2022.www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.

Theatre Review 'The Sweet Delilah Swim Club'

Theater Three’s Stellar Production of The Sweet Delilah Swim Club is a Must-See!

By Cindi Sansone-Braff  

THE SWEET DELILAH SWIM CLUB Elizabeth Ladd, Lori Beth Belkin (Photo Credit: Steven Uihlein, Theatre Three Productions, Inc)The Sweet Delilah Swim Club is a beautifully written, well-crafted dramedy by a trio of talented writers, Jesse Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten, also known as Jones Hope Wooten, “America’s Playwrights.”

This funny and poignant two-act, four-scene play scanning 33 years, tells the story of five members of a championship college women’s swim team who have a weekend-long reunion every August at “Sweet Delilah Cottage,” an oceanfront beach house on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. 

The play opens when the women are 44 and ends when they are 77. As in real life, much happens during this three-decades-long period, and some heavyweight themes are tackled, such as divorce, demanding children, disappointing career dreams, dementia, disease, and death. You know, the usual trials and tribulations that form the fabric of our lives.

Each of the five characters in this show is distinctly different from one another, which is the source of many conflicts that comprise the plot. The witty dialogue, an abundance of humorous one-liners that arise organically from the action, and zany but lovable characters make this play an American treasure.

Randall Parsons’s set design, a realistic depiction of a cozy beach cottage, and Linda May’s outstanding direction, with her meticulous attention to detail, added to the overall success of this show. 

The cast of five is outstanding and displayed palatable onstage chemistry, camaraderie, and boundless energyStephanie Moreau, Suzie Dunn Lori Beth Belkin, Elizabeth Ladd, Tamralynn Dorsa ( Photo Credit: Steven Uihlein, Theatre Three Productions, Inc ) throughout. Jason Allyn’s period-appropriate costumes and wigs, in conjunction with the extraordinary acting abilities of these five actresses, allowed the audience to witness these Southern belles navigating their way through the emotional tsunami known as mid-life and later recharting the course of their lives, acclimating to the ravages of time.

Tamralynn Dorsa’s portrayal of Sheree Hollinger was spot-on. Back in the day, Sheree was the team captain of their college swim team. Throughout the decades, she continually drives her friends crazy, micromanaging their every move during their reunions. Ms. Hollinger looked the part as well since Sheree watches every bite she eats, hellbent on maintaining her athletic physique from now till doomsday.  

Lori Beth Belkin was believable as Dinah Grayson, a hard-drinking, wise-cracking, career-driven attorney who later comes to see that for all she has achieved in the courtroom, her personal life has left her less than satisfied.

I always love seeing Stephanie Moreau in Theatre Three’s productions. She excels in the role of Lexie Richards, a sassy serial divorcee, who sucks, tucks, lasers, and lifts her body parts in a fierce war against aging. Lexie is the character who transforms the most throughout the play, and by the time she reaches the 77^th year of her life, she has made the wise decision to age gracefully. She has also stopped being so self-absorbed and has become caring, kind, and supportive of others.

Suzie Dunn as Vernadette Simms, a woman down on her luck, is laugh-out-loud funny. Vernadette has a wicked sense of gallows humor, and she has some of the funniest lines in the play, most of which center around the sorry state of hertrainwreck of a life. At the end of the play, when Vernadette loses her memory, the other characters see this as a blessing in disguise.

Tamralynn Dorsa, Stephanie Moreau, Lori Beth Belkin, Suzie Dunn, Elizabeth Ladd (Photo Credit: Steven Uihlein, Theatre Three Productions, Inc)Elizabeth Ladd is superb in the role of Jeri Neal McFeeley, formerly known as Sister Mary Esther, a Catholic nun who makes a mid-life decision that shocks her longtime friends. Through her body language, facial expressions, and gestures, Ms. Ladd reflects the inner and outer growth this character experiences as she embarks on her new life outside the confines of the convent.

The Sweet Delilah Swim Club is a well-written, brilliantly directed, and superbly acted play, and it will certainly be worth your effort to venture out on a cold, wintry evening to spend some quality time with five Southern Belles at the “Sweet Delilah Cottage” by the sea.

Running now through February 4, for ticket information, call the box office: (631) 928-1130, Monday-Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, or visit their websites at www.TheatreThree.com.

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of Grant Me a Higher Love, Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships, andConfessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic. Two of her monologues from her full-length plays are featured in Smith and Kraus’s The Best Men’s Stage Monologues of 2022 and The Best Women’s Stage Monologues of 2022.www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.

Theatre Review: "A Christmas Carol, The Broadway Musical" At Gateway Theater

Gateway’s “A Christmas Carol, The Broadway Musical” is a Spirited Production for the Whole Family

By Cindi Sansone-Braff 

Photo: The Gateway

Gateway’s magical production at the Patchogue Theater is one of those Christmas miracles we all pray for. The musical adaptation of Dickens’s beloved Christmas story brings a new twist to an old tale. This show has it all: great acting, singing, dancing, a live orchestra, Broadway-quality costumes, spectacular special effects, and a magnificent set designed by the talented Kelly Tighe.

A Christmas Carol, The Broadway Musical was an annual holiday tradition at the Theatre at Madison Square Garden from December 1994 until December 2003. With music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and book by Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens, this show continues to enthrall audiences of all ages, as evidenced by Saturday night’s rousing standing ovation.

One of the underlying themes in Dickens’s 1843 novella, A Christmas Carol, the source material for this musical, was the hardships of being a child during the Victorian era. Scrooge’s miserably lonely childhood played a significant role in his grown-up jaded and pessimistic attitude toward the world. The storyline concerning Tiny Tim and the possibility of his early death from a childhood disease mirrors the real fears and harsh realities of life during the 19^th century. With that said, a great deal of the success of this production must be given to the dedication and talent of the cast of children, who are members of The Gateway School for the Performing Arts. A big applause goes out to Logan Baxter, Sonnie Betts, Sage Cotter, Bailey DeLauter, Skylar Greene, David Lafler, Kailyn Marra, Halle Morana, Sienna Reefer, Mia Rofrano, Marty Timlin, Elliot Torbenson, and Addison Wasylyshyn.  

A heartwarming moment in the show takes place at the Cratchit’s house when the entire family sings the upbeat song “Christmas Together.” Bennett Schneider was particularly endearing in the role of Tiny Tim, and he aced his solo. Ben Jacoby was convincing as the ever-optimistic Bob Cratchit, and Jennifer Byrne gave a strong performance as his loving wife.

The full title of Dickens’s novella is A Christmas Carol, In Prose, Being a Ghost Story of Christmas. The four ghosts in this production are all eerily unforgettable. Tom Lucca was fantastic as the ghost of Jacob Marley, revealing his powerhouse vocals during the bone-chilling song “Link by Link.” The audience was memorized as Marley flew across the stage, terrifying Scrooge. Gerry McIntrye gave a showstopping performance as The Ghost of Christmas Present, as did Morgan Billings Smith in her role as the Ghost of Christmas Past. As the Ghost of Christmas Yet To Be, Saki Masuda performed one of the most beautifully choreographed dance numbers I have ever seen, thanks to the gifted choreographer Debbie Roshe.

As for the central character, Ebenezer Scrooge, Howard Pinhasik gave an award-worthy performance as the bitter, bah-humbugging curmudgeon who finds redemption. Mr. Pinhasik displayed his strong acting, dancing, and singing skills throughout the show. 

I loved seeing Gateway’s Director of Development, Scot Patrick Allan, in the role of Mr. Smythe. Mr. Allan has a charismatic and engaging stage presence, and I hope to see him in many more productions.

During the festive song and dance number, “Mr. Fezziwig’s Annual Christmas Ball,” Robert Anthony Jones was a standout as the jovial Mr. Fezziwig.  Renee Marie Titus was equally as memorable in the role of his fun-loving, supportive wife, and Ms. Titus and Mr. Jones garnered some of the biggest laughs of the evening.

Under the astute direction of David Ruttura, the entire ensemble was first-rate, and their high energy and immense talent added to the overall success of this production. Ensemble and swing members include Evan Bertram, Steven Gagliano, Cody Gerszewski, Gianna Vasquez Bartolini, Daniel Deist, Fabi Gallmeister, Kaitlyn LaGrega, Whitley Locks, Katie Mattar, Michael Morley, Corrie Newman, Austin Phillips, Grace Sautter, and Brian C. Veith. 

Gateway’s spectacular production of A Christmas Carol, The Broadway Musical, is entertaining and enchanting right up to the exuberant finale when Ebenezer Scrooge rejoices in the true spirit of Christmas. A moment later, snowflakes fell upon the stage, and the children in the audience clapped their hands in delight. 

Running through December 28 at Patchogue Theatre, tickets are on sale starting at $59. Contact the Box Office at (631) 286-1133, or visit their website: Https://TheGateway.org.

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of Grant Me a Higher Love, Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships, and Confessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic. Two of her monologues from her full-length plays are featured in Smith and Kraus’s The Best Men’s Stage Monologues of 2022 and The Best Women’s Stage Monologues of 2022. www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.

Theatre Review "A Christmas Story, The Musical" At Engeman Theater

By Cindi Sansone-Braff

Photos: Engeman Theater

Put Seeing Engeman Theater’s Latest Production on Your Yuletide Wish List

Ryan Hunt (The Old Man) and Ensemble The John W. Engeman Theater’s magical production of A Christmas Story, The Musical, is a holiday must-see for the whole family. The cast is bursting with talent, including an abundance of charismatic children who will wow you with their singing, acting, and dancing abilities.  

Based on the beloved 1983 film A Christmas Story, this holiday musical has a book by Joseph Robinette and music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. This show had a Broadway run during the 2012 Christmas season, an engagement at Madison Square Garden in 2013, and a successful production at the Engeman theater in 2014.

Ryan Hunt (The Old Man), Rachel Gubow (Mother), Jackson Parker Gill (Randy), Kaian Lilen (Ralphie) Leigh Brown, Bob Clark, and Jean Shepherd wrote the original movie based on Shephard’s book: In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash. Michael Fasciano gave a heartwarming performance as Jean Shepherd, the legendary radio personality who serves as the narrator in this coming-of-age Christmas musical.

A Christmas Story, The Musical takes place in 1940 in the fictitious small town of Hohman, Indiana. The riotous plot revolves around Ralphie Parker, a likable, strong-willed nine-year-old with an overactive imagination. He only wants one gift for Christmas: an Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. Kaian Lilien gave a powerhouse performance as Ralphie Parker. “Ralphie to the Rescue” was a spectacular musical number where Ralphie, wearing a sparkling cowboy outfit designed by the amazingly gifted Dustin Cross, fantasizes about how he and his prized Christmas BB gun will save the day.

Kaian Lilen (Ralphie), Raquel Sciacca (Ensemble), Quinn Oliver Lessing (Flick), Liam Polani (Schwartz), Avery Sell (Ensemble), Sofia Jarmel (Ensemble), Lanene Charters (Miss Shields) Rachel Gubow was warm and likable as Mother. Ms. Gubow has a beautiful singing voice and gave a touching performance during her solo, “What a Mother Does.” 

Jackson Parker Gill as Randy, Ralphie’s finicky little brother, had some of the funniest lines in the show, and he delivered them with perfect comedic timing. The audience roared with laughter when his mother stuffed him into a one-piece snowsuit.

Jackson Parker Gill (Randy), Kaian Lilen (Ralphie), and Ensemble In the performance I saw on Saturday evening, Cayel Tregeagle played Ralphie’s father, who is referred to as “The Old Man.” Mr. Tregeagle aced the part, and one of the show’s highlights was the musical number, “A Major Award,” in which “The Old Man” celebrates the fact that he won a sexy leg lamp! The company joined Mr. Tregeagle using life-sized light-up leg lamps as dance partners. The audience wildly applauded when the dancers used this one-legged prop in a kickline routine.

Another standout fantasy musical number was “You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out,” where Miss Shields, Ralphie’s teacher, brilliantly portrayed by Lanene Charters, dons a flapper dress, and she and the company perform a breathtaking tap dance routine. The audience was amazed by the talent of the young tap dancers.

Kaian Lilen (Ralphie) Kyle Dixon’s movable scenic design allowed for the necessary quick scene changes, and the set for the Parker’s home was warm and inviting, evoking the feeling that we are in a 1940s-era home. I loved the cozy kitchen with the matching checkered curtains and tablecloth and the under-the-sink cabinet, which was big enough for Randy to hide in. On Christmas morning, the magnificent tree, all lit up and decorated in the living room, was a beautiful sight to behold.

Kudos to Mara Newbery Greer, who directed and choreographed this musical. She brought out the best in this enormous cast, and the stunning result was a top-notch, polished production. The band, under the astute direction of Daniel Mollett, meshed perfectly with the singing and dancing.

Liam Polani (Schwartz), Quinn Oliver Lessing (Flick), and Ensemble A standing ovation goes out to the stellar ensemble, including Lindsay Lee Alhady, Matthew Blum, Finn Brown, Sy Chounchaisit, Jordan Coates, Jake Cooney, Bobby M. Davis, Anthony De Marte, Mackenzie Germain, James Garrett Hill, Sofia Jarmel, Kayla Kennedy, Max Lamberg, Quinn Oliver Lessing, Timmy Lewis, Paige Mathers, Katie Pohlman, Liam Polani, Tony Romero, Raquel Livia Sciacca, Avery Sell, Luca Silva, and Tara Sweeney.

Saturday night’s audience showed their appreciation for thisJackson Parker Gill (Randy) and Rachel Gubow (Mother) spectacular holiday production by giving it a rousing standing ovation. The show runs through December 31. Tickets can be purchased by calling 631-261-2900, going online at www.engemantheater.com, or visiting the Engeman Theater Box Office at 250 Main Street, Northport. 

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of Grant Me a Higher Love, Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships and Confessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic. Two of her monologues from her full-length plays are featured in Smith and Kraus’s The Best Men’s Stage Monologues of 2022 and The Best Women’s Stage Monologues of 2022. www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.

Theatre Review: Theatre Three's "A Christmas Carol"

By Cindi Sansone-Braff

Photos: Ana McCasland

Don’t Miss Theatre Three’s Spectacular 38^th Annual Production of “A Christmas Carol!”

In 1881, the American journalist Kate Field wrote in praise of A Christmas Carol, “In December 1943, all England was aroused from its selfish slumbering by the sound of a carol. It was no carol sung by a bird; it was sung by a man, and that man was Charles Dickens.”

A Christmas Carol was the first of many Christmas stories penned by the illustrious English author Charles Dickens. Dickens was amazed by the strange mastery in which this story seized him, how he wept over it, laughed, and wept again as he wrote this beloved Christmastime novella. In the evenings and late into the night, he would walk through the back streets of London for hours, mile after mile, consumed by the characters and the tale they were telling him. Amazingly, he completed this holiday masterpiece in just six weeks.

What makes Dickens stand out as one of the greatest writers of the Victorian era is the timeless, unforgettable, fictionalized characters he created that touched the hearts, souls, and minds of his readers. Perhaps, one of Dickens’ most memorable characters is Ebenezer Scrooge. I mean, come on, who hasn’t heard of Ebenezer Scrooge, the miserly, mean-spirited businessman who makes a miraculous transformation for the better after being haunted by the ghost of his business partner, Jacob Marley, and three Spirits?

Theatre Three’s Executive Artistic Director Jeffrey Sanzel has portrayed Scrooge nearly 1500 times! To many Long Islanders, Mr. Sanzel is the quintessential Scrooge. His stellar performance Saturday night reflected his years of painstaking study of this ghostly Christmas morality tale in an earnest effort to understand the essence of the soul of Ebenezer Scrooge. The richness and depth of characterization Mr. Sanzel displayed blew me and the audience away. In “Christmas Yet to Come,” I fully expect to see Mr. Sanzel continue to amaze us with the enormity of his talent.

When the play begins, we are eerily reminded, “Marley was dead … There is no doubt about that.” The echoingTheatre Three A CHRISTMAS CAROL Jeffrey Sanzel, Julie Friedman, Alexa Eichinger, Dylan Rumble, Patrick Hutchinson, on steps Scott Hofer of this indisputable reality made Stephen T. Wangner’s dramatic portrayal of the remorseful ghost of Jacob Marley, draped in chains, all the more spine-chilling.  

Danielle Pafundi is utterly ethereal as the Ghost of Christmas Past. The two six-year-old girls sitting behind me were awestruck when Ms. Pafundi appeared in her magnificent white gown, looking like a cross between a bride and a fairy princess. One of the little girls whispered, “I really like her.” I am sure if any of us were to be visited by a specter in the night, we would choose to be haunted by the angelic Ms. Pafundi.

As The Ghost of Christmas Present, Scott Hofer displayed his comedic genius and garnered many belly laughs, providing the audience with much-needed comedic relief. Other sources of great humor came from Mr. Hofer’s delightful portrayal of the lovable Mr. Fezziwig, Scrooge’s first employer. Ginger Dalton was magnificent as Mrs. Fezziwig, a down-to-earth loving wife. The onstage antics and chemistry between this couple were a source of pure joy whenever they graced the stage. As their loving daughter, Belle, Samantha Fierro gave a standout performance. Belle was also Scrooge’s fiancée, who broke off their engagement when she came to see just how greedy and obsessed with money he had become.

Theatre Three A CHRISTMAS CAROL Scott Hofer, Jeffrey SanzelPerhaps one of the most dramatic onstage moments occurred when the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come ominously appeared, donning a larger-than-life costume that Sean Amato expertly manned. This Spirit reveals some future tragic events, including the death of Tiny Tim, if Scrooge doesn’t correct the errors of his ways. Mr. Amato also made for a very likable Fred Halliwell, Scrooge’s kind, forgiving, family-oriented nephew.  

I always love seeing Theatre Three veteran actor Douglas J. Quattrock in anything he does, but he is most endearing as Bob Cratchit, the long-suffering employee of Scrooge. Mr. Quattrock’s touching solo was one of the show’s highlights. As Bob Cratchit’s devoted wife, Linda May gave a moving and heartrending performance. Kathleen Arabelle Han made for an adorable Tiny Tim. With her charismatic stage presence, she is a superstar in the making.

Every aspect of this show is polished and professional, and a standing ovation goes out to Theatre Three’s top-notch creative and technical team. The outstanding lighting and sound design by Robert W. Henderson, Jr., and Randall Parsons’ awe-inspiring set design and authentic Victorian costumes greatly added to the overall success of this production.

Theatre Three A CHRISTMAS CAROL The Entire CompanyIn today’s modern world, where every day is Amazon.com Christmas because everyone buys whatever they need or don’t need all year round, it can be a daunting task to figure out what to buy your friends and family members. Treating them to a night out at the theatre with you would make a fantastic gift. Theatre Three’s yearly holiday tradition of presenting Jeffrey Sanzel’s every evolving adaptation of this beloved Christmas classic would be a great venue to ring in the holiday season and create a memory that you and yours will remember forever.

A special shoutout goes to the rest of the stellar cast, including Steven Uihlein, Ava Andrejko, Ellie Dunn, Alexa Eichinger, Samantha Fierro, Griffin Fleming, Julie Friedman, Skye Greenberg, Patrick Hutchinson, Brooke Morrison, Michaela Reis, Dylan Paige Rumble, Vivian Leigh Rumble, Jennifer Salvia, Addyson Urso, Hannah Waller, and Cassidy Worrell. 

Theater Three’s magical performance of the timeless classic A Christmas Carol is a holiday must-see! The show runs through December 30.  For tickets, call the box office at 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild and the Long Island Authors Group. She is the author of three self-help books, Grant Me a Higher Love, Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships, and Confessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic. 

Theatre Review 'Guys And Dolls' At Theatre Three

By Cindi Sansone-Braff 

Photos Brian Hoerger

I’ll Bet the Farm You’ll Love Theatre Three’s “Guys and Dolls”

Entire Company of ‘Guys and Dolls’ at Theatre ThreeTheatre Three made a wise decision to kick off its 52nd season with a revival of Guys and Dolls, the screwball musical comedy from Broadway’s Golden Age. With music and lyrics by Frank Loesser, book by Joe Swerling and Abe Burrows, and based on stories and characters created by Damon Runyon, this show opened on Broadway in 1950, ran for 1,200 performances, and picked up the Tony Award for Best Musical. In 1955, Samuel Goldwyn Productions made this Broadway musical into a film starring Frank Sinatra, Marlon Brando, Jean Simmons, and Vivian Blaine. 

From the moment the show begins, the audience gets caught up in the hustle and bustle of New York City life. The actors scurry busily about the stage in Ronald Green III and Jason Allyn’s authentic period costumes, with the men wearing suits, ties, and fedoras; and the women donning dresses, hats, pearls, purses, and gloves.

This show has a huge cast, and a lot is happening on stage at every moment of every scene. Director Jeffrey Sanzel’s excellent staging kept the show well-paced, polished, and professional, from lights up to the dazzling finale.

Kevin Shaw and Rachel GreenblattRachel Greenblatt gave an outstanding performance as the idealistic missionary Sister Sarah Brown from Save-a-Soul Mission. She is hellbent on saving sinners, and she lets this fact be known when she belts out “Follow the Fold,” a song imploring people to stray no more and seek repentance. Ms. Greenblatt has a sweet soprano voice and gave a riveting performance during this up-tempo, comedic, jazzy song.

Kevin Shaw made his Theatre Three debut as Sky Masterson, the smooth-talking, handsome high-stakes gambler whose luck never seems to run out. When Mr. Shaw entered the stage wearing a perfectly tailored three-piece suit and fedora, he already had the audience in the palm of his hands. Mr. Shaw has star quality, that indefinable something that makes an audience believe that a performer is magical. The sky’s the limit for this triple-threat actor, who can sing, dance, and act. I hope to see him time and time again on Theatre Three’s mainstage.

At the end of Act I, Sarah (Rachel Greenblatt) and Sky (Kevin Shaw) discover, much to their mutual surprise, that they have fallen in love. Their passionate duet, “I’ve Never Been in Love Before,” was one of the highlights of the evening.

Angelo DiBiase and Steven UihleinTheatre Three veteran, Steven Uihlein, was lovable as Nathan Detroit, a nice enough guy, although plagued with a gambling problem. Nathan runs an illegal floating crap game to earn a living and constantly dodges the cops. Angelo DiBiase, as Lt. Brannigan, was most believable in his portrayal of a by-the-books police officer at his wit’s end because Nathan and the other gamblers are always outsmarting him.  

Nathan is also a diehard commitment-phobic, finding any excuse to put off the nuptials, although he has been engaged for 14 years to his fiancée, Adelaide, played by Sari Feldman. Ms. Feldman, with her heavy New York accent and expressive body language, aced the role of a singer/showgirl with more heart than brains. Ms. Feldman and Mr. Uihlein have great chemistry, and their duet “Sue Me” held the audience spellbound. Ms. Feldman has pitch-perfect vocals and great comedic timing. These talents were apparent during her performance of “Adelaide’s Lament,” a song about how being single has caused her to have psychosomatic symptoms that manifest as a continuous cold.

Melanie Acampora, Tamralynn Dorsa, Samantha Fierro, Melissa Norman, Cassidy Rose O’Brien, and Michelle ShapiroThe Hot Box Girls, who perform with Adelaide at the Hot Box club, looked fabulous in their showgirl costumes. They are all talented performers, and a big round of applause goes out to Melanie Acampora, Tamralynn Dorsa, Samantha Fierro, Melissa Norman, Cassidy Rose O’Brien, and Michelle Shapiro.

Finn MacDevitt gave a spot-on performance in the role of Nicely-Nicely Johnson, a compulsive gambler and associate of Nathan Detroit. Mr. MacDevitt is a comic genius, delivering his lines with expert timing. He demonstrated his powerful vocals during the big production number “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat.”  Linda May, as General Cartwright, the regional director of the Save-a-Soul mission, was hilarious when she finally ripped loose and joined in the festivities.

James Taffurelli gave a solid performance as Big Jule, a sore-losing hustler from Chicago. Big Jule seemed to appear on stage out of nowhere, just menacingly standing there, stone-faced and silent, and the audience knew this was a man to be feared. However, Mr. Taffurelli revealed Big Jule’s softer side when he got momentarily swept up in the heat of the “hallelujah” moment at the mission. 

Michael J. Butera as Arvide Abernathy, Sarah’s grandfather and the leader of the mission band, gave a heartwarming rendition of “More I Cannot Wish You.”

The scenic design by Randall Parsons transforms in an instant from a bustling Time Square cityscape, with neon signs, billboards, and towering buildings, into the glamorous Hot Box Club. When Nathan opens a manhole cover, the set morphs into a dingy sewer. This grungy underground tunnel system with huge sewage pipes was the only place Nathan could find to host a crap game. In this unsavory setting, the showstopping “Luck Be a Lady” number enfolds. Mr. Shaw, as Sky Masterson, gave a stellar rendition of this classic song while the other gamblers joined him in a high-energy, athletic dance routine choreographed by the gifted Ryan Nolin.

Theatre Three’s spectacular revival of Guys and Dolls is a sure bet. See it! You’ll love it, “A Bushel and a Peck!”

The show runs through October 22, 2022. To purchase tickets, visit www.theatrethree.com or Call the Box office: 631-928-9100.

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright. She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild and the Long Island Authors Group. She is the author of Grant Me a Higher Love, Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships, and Confessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic. Two of her monologues from her full-length plays are featured in Smith and Kraus’s The Best Men’s Stage Monologues of 2022 and The Best Women’s Stage Monologues of 2022. www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.

NPR's Nina Totenberg At Cinema Arts Centre In Huntington

NPR’s Nina Totenberg Promotes Memoir and Answers Tough Questions at Long Island Litfest

By Adam Navas

Last Friday NPR’s acclaimed legal affairs correspondent - and New York native - Nina Totenberg promoted her new book Dinners with Ruth: A Memoir on the Power of Friendship before a sold-out audience. Held in Huntington at the Cinema Arts Centre, Totenberg joins a list of renowned authors and celebrities, such as Erik Larson and David Duchovney, in this year’s Long Island Litfest. Due to its recent release, most in the audience hadn’t read the book prior, and all received a copy included in the ticket price. Joye Brown, a columnist and associate editor for Newsday, took the stage with Totenberg to provide questions and conversation before the audience Q&A. The discussion between the two journalists shed light on Dinners with Ruth’s recapitulation of the decades-long friendship between Totenberg and the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, providing insight into their more human, vulnerable, and hilarious interactions. However, once the audience was given the microphone it was clear they were more interested in the socio-political stakes and repercussions of the contemporary Supreme Court than the fun banter between two iconic women. 

The first question from the crowd addressed the controversy that perhaps if Ginsberg had retired from the Court during Obama’s presidency, the current conservative majority would’ve been avoided. Totenberg answered quickly, explaining that her friend’s health had been in a positive place at the time and that she had assumed Clinton to be the winner of the 2016 election. She speculated that if Ginsberg had known her health would decline and that Trump would win the presidency, she would’ve taken those precautionary steps. Totenberg likened it to a “gamble,” and that Ginsberg lost. To which a woman in the back of the audience retorted, “no, WE lost!”

Immediately after, the questions leaned more toward the future of the Supreme Court and American journalism. Totenberg was asked about court-packing, which she strongly cautioned against, stating that Ginsberg would have agreed if she were still alive. She was asked if there should be a regulatory committee in charge of separating truth from fact in the current media, a concept she couldn’t help but scoff at, asserting that Americans should have enough intelligence to discern between the two. And when asked about term limits for Justices, she reminded everyone of the uphill road that sort of decision would take - an amendment to the constitution is only possible with a House majority, a senate majority, and three-fourths of the States.

After a few more audience interactions of a similar nature, it became clear there wouldn’t be any questions about the memoir itself, and that Brown would soon have to wrap up the evening. Yet, even with the light interrogation, Totenberg responded to each query with knowledge, grace, and accuracy. By the end, she received a standing ovation and a unanimously warm reception. While not providing a clear plan of action for a future in today’s dangerous judicial climate, she still managed to ignite a spark of hope. Dinners with Ruth: A Memoir on the Power of Friendship is now available in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook. 

Adam Navas is an award-winning filmmaker/screenwriter, in both narrative and documentary, currently residing in Los Angeles. Navas has worked for major networks such as Disney, NBC, and Hulu, as well as producing his own internationally-screened content. His social media journalism throughout the pandemic garnered a following of over sixty-thousand people and millions of views. In 2020, he was awarded top honors by the Golden Script Competition, Milan Gold, Hollywood Just4Shorts, and Short Stop International. He currently has three films - one documentary, two narratives - slated for release in 2023.