The holidays approach, which means some of the major companies in town are firing up some major productions. Here’s a look:
#5: H.M.S. Pinafore at the Skylight Opera.
Why? Because sometimes lasses do love sailors. Even when they’re from opposite sides of “the tracks.” In these Tea Party days of class warfare, W.S. Gilbert’s satire can offer some delicious chuckles, all set to the swooning tunes of Arthur Sullivan. And because this show marks the return of longtime Skylight Music Director Richard Carsey, who will conduct the show after spending a year on the road with a Broadway musical tour.
#4: Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra at Uihlein Hall.
Why? Because last year’s semi-staged performance of Bartok’s Bluebeard was a hit for the MSO, partly, we speculate, because of the spectacular Dale Chihuly glass sculptures that set the scene. This year, Edo de Waart brings Bartok back without the visual flash, but the fireworks of the Concerto for Orchestra should offer a different kind of spectacle. And because Frank Almond steps forward to play Samuel Barber’s beautifully tuneful violin concerto.
#3: Present Music’s Thanksgiving Concert at St. John’s Cathedral.
Why? Because nothing marks the start of the holiday season with more soul and welcome gravitas than PM’s celebration, which features Native American drumming, the lush, meditative choral music of John Taverner, and a piece by PM favorite, John Adams – Shaker Loops. The Milwaukee Children’s Choir and Milwaukee Choral Artists are guest performers. And Kevin Stalheim himself will once again lead a drummed dance/procession around the church to close the concert.
#2: Theatre’ Gigante’s The Lears at the Kenilworth Building.
Why? Because when the always inventive Gigante focuses its imagination on Shakespeare’s great tragedy, you’re never sure what might happen. Take the title: Does “The Lears” suggest a sitcom, like “The Honeymooners” (“Some day, Cordelia. Pow!! To da moon!). Or a great sudsy epic, like The Thornbirds. Whatever the case, you are sure to find both wit and wisdom in Mark Anderson and Isabelle Kralj’s take.
#1: The Subject Was Roses at Milwaukee Chamber Theatre.
Why? Because Frank Gilroy’s 1964 Pulitzer Prize winner is the kind of play Chamber Theatre does best: intimate, character-driven stories that capture the challenges and triumphs of modern living. And because Chamber Theatre Artistic Director has assembled a dream cast – Tami Workentin, Nicholas Harazin and James Tasse – to tell Gilroy’s story about a returning war veteran enmeshed in his parents’ deeply rooted marital conflicts.
