There’s a little quiet time ahead on the arts scene as performers scramble to get their shopping done, after spending their last months on various stages. But there are still a few new events between now and the start of the new year.
#5: Valley of the Dolls at the Off the Wall Theatre.
Why? Because Dale Gutzman and his theater take this camp classic for a spin with its own adaptation, which promises “A Theatrical Catastrophe,” including “cat fights and really lousy songs.” As they say in Netflix-land, if you like Girls or Sex in the City, you might just love this version of Jacqueline Susann’s tawdry tale of three pill-popping friends trying to make it in the big city. Audience members will receive their own bag of pills to join in the fun.
#4: It’s a Wonderful Life: Live from WVL Radio Theatre at the Marcus Center.
Why? Because, sure, it is a little strange that our favorite holiday movie is about a man contemplating suicide, but Frank Capra’s classic story is altogether worth revisiting, particularly in this mock-radio adaptation. Last year, Next Act Theatre stage the show with lovely results. This year, the Marcus Center brings this North Carolina-based touring company to town to do the honors for a single weekend.
#3: All In Productions’ The Last Five Years at Next Act Theatre.
Why? Because during all those tense family gatherings at the holidays, it’s sometimes nice to think back on young love. And this bittersweet, two-person musical by Jason Robert Brown explores the ups (and eventual downs) of a star-crossed relationship between Jamie and Cathy. If you’re wondering how it all turns out, you should know that the show starts with a last “farewell” kiss between the couple, and then moves backward. But there are still some beautiful and heart-stirring moments along the way. This production by the fledgling “All In” troupe features Amanda Carson and Michael David Stoddard.
#2: Jim Gaffigan at the Pabst Theater.
Why? Because Gaffigan’s New Year’s shows are becoming as much of a Milwaukee holiday tradition as dancing fairies and Dickensian waifs. But his menu will not likely include sugarplums or roast goose. Instead, Gaffigan loves to riff about real, 21st-Century food—like BBQ, cheeseburgers, BBQ and, of course, Hot Pockets. His new book is a tour of his food obsessions, including a few Milwaukee stops. And he’ll surely talk frozen custard when he’s in the land of Kopp’s.
#1: Home for the Holidays at the Florentine Opera Center.
Why? Because sing-a-longs with the cousins from Tomah are fine. And it’s nice to get a front-door surprise serenade from some itinerant carolers. But sometimes you need your carols delivered with the oomph and wow that only a trained singer can provide. And there will be plenty of that in the Florentine’s annual holiday concert, offered in the intimate confines of its Riverwest studios. Faithful or not, y’all should come by.
