Last weekend to see 8 plays and musicals (Nov. 14-16)

by Shawn Parikh

Closing weekend for so many productions, so hurry!

Another weekend means another round of shows ending their runs, so try and see a couple while time permits:

Sweeney Todd

STOMP, presented by Casa Manana. STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews, and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. The return of the percussive hit also brings some new surprises, with some sections of the show now updated and restructured and the addition of two new full-scale routines, utilizing props like tractor tire inner tubes and paint cans. As USA Today says, “STOMP finds beautiful noises in the strangest places.” Call 817-332-2272 or visit the Casa Mañana Theatre box office for tickets ($30-75).
Sweeney Todd – Fiend of Fleet Street, presented by Pocket Sandwich Theatre. Definitely not the musical, this is another of the Pocket’s audience-participation, popcorn-tossing, comedy-spoofs. It is based on the legendary London barber, Sweeney Todd, who cut more than hair, and his accomplice, Mrs. Lovett, who took care of the evidence by baking some very strange meat pies. “PG-13.” Call 214-821-1860 for tickets ($10-18).
The Little Mermaid, all-youth production presented by Theatre Arlington. In the harmonious world under the sea, the little Mermaid dreams of the world above. Cautioned by her sea-bound family and friends and enchanted by the Sea Witch, she ventures forth to find true love and a happy ending with the handsome Prince and learns a few lessons along the way! Purchase tickets ($10) online or by calling 817-275-7661.
The Book of Job, presented by Artisan Center Theater. This wonderful musical story of Job and his trials and triumphs was originally written for and premiered at Jubilee Theatre. This marks the first time this production will have been done on a stage other than Jubilees. It is glorious, infectious, colorful, soulful, emotional and best of all, entertaining. It is a tribute to the former Rudy Eastman and Joe Rogers - their works will live on. The whole family will love it. Call 817-284-1200 for tickets ($6-15).
South of Where We Live, presented by The Black Academy of Arts and Letters, for this weekend only. Six Black folks are forced to spend 60 hours stuck in a conference room with others who are just as talented, wealthy and gifted as they are. After 60 hours of fighting, biting, picking, judging, blaming, and hunger strikes, something miraculous happens that shapes the lives of the folks in the conference room. Without warning, you will be taken on a journey which you will never recover in the hilarious dramatic comedy. Call 214-743-2400 for tickets ($32.50-37.50) or purchase online.
The Tragedy of King Richard III, presented by University of Dallas. Out of a land of vicious personal rivalries, civil war and unending political chaos emerges Shakespeare’s greatest villain? The Tragedy of King Richard III is at once a study of the cycle of power and a terrifying look into the soul of evil. The University Theatre for the first time ever presents one of Shakespeare’s most thrilling and popular plays. For tickets (free-$5) or more information call 972-721-5314 or purchase online.
Our Town, presented by TCU Department of Theatre, for this week only. With a minimalist set and a narrative stage manager, Thornton Wilder managed to capture and portray the complexity of the human experience in fictional Grover's Corners, New Hampshire. As we witness the residential interactions in this seemingly commonplace town, we are reminded to recognize and appreciate life's beautiful simplicities that transcend all walls and spaces. This 1938 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama offers artistic & essential nourishment for the human soul. Call 817-257-5770 for tickets ($5-10).
Life Could Be a Dream, presented by Granbury Opera House. Denny and his friend Eugene form a singing group ( Denny and the Dreamers) so they can enter and win the local radio contest at the state fair. When they discover they need $50 to enter the contest, they set about getting a sponsor. Wally has a connection with Big Stuff Auto ( they already sponsor his Father's church bingo games), and since Big Stuff is also selling the Chevy that Denny wants - it seems all will work out. Trouble is, Big Stuff Auto's owner is 'Big Eddie' Franklin, father of Lois, who broke Eugene's heart many years ago at the Springfield High Junior Prom. Lois' flirting has caused more heartache and problems with all four of our boys. Will they perform as a group? Will they reconcile? Will they smooth out all the edges? Purchase tickets ($10-25) online or by calling 800-547-4697.