at Marines Memorial Theatre
We admit we were a little skeptical when we heard about this Janis Joplin musical. After all, remember Lennon, the musical that premiered here and closed after a month on Broadway? And, who remembers the ill-fated Grateful Dead musical from like 10 years ago? We're like, Please, don't let SF be known for doomed rock musicals. But this morning one of our other theater insiders just gushed about the opening night Sunday night. The text itself is taken directly from Janis's letter and interviews, and so should satisfy those seeking an authentic story. The show actually features two actors playing Janis, a "singing Janis" and an "acting Janis," and by all accounts it's a successful conceit. "The singing Janis sounds exactly like her!" exclaimed our friend, and then went on about the standing ovations and encores.
Playing through September 3
A Chorus Line at Curran Theatre
Everyone should see all the major musicals at least once. And apparently, New York couldn't handle not having A Chorus Line on the Great White Way for another year. Usually we would have ignored this show, but then, it isn't another short-run tour passing through town. It's actually a pre-Broadway revival--which really means the acting, singing and dancing will be more superb, and we also hear they've retooled bits of the show. So, break out the legwarmers and catch this show before it opens on Broadway in September.
Playing July 23 through September 2
A Chorus Line photo by Walter Iooss.
For more stage options, check out the listings at the Guardian, the Express, the SF Weekly, and the calendar on Theatre Bay Area's website.
