Is it going too far to say my year wouldn’t feel complete without seeing “A Christmas Carol” at the Denver Center? I don’t think so. Our family looks forward to this production each year, and every year, I find new meaning in this classic tale. Poignant, thought-provoking and joyous, the Denver Center production balances the darkness of the story with a Scrooge who is frequently humorous even when faced with the profound teachings of the ghosts who visit him. The music, singing, dancing and radiant joy of the show fill the theater with a warm holiday spirit that can lift even the heaviest heart. Renewed, restored, and full of light, we leave the theater ready to bring even more kindness and generosity into the coming year. See this show and be sure to take the kids and grandparents too!
The Constant Wife
Snappy and charming, “The Constant Wife,” now playing at Denver Center, is a delightful evening of theater that will leave you wishing there was a sequel so you could continue to follow the adventures of the ever-so-savvy lead character, Constance.
Set in 1920s London, the play is a fine example of a comedy of manners, a satire designed to critique societal norms, and draws the audience in with quick dialogue and amusing plots twists. If you love 1940s movies with well-crafted dialogue and characters, then this show is for you! If you’re looking for an evening of classic theater that goes down easy and leaves you feeling upbeat at the end, then don’t hesitate to get a ticket before it closes on October 21st!
More info and tickets: https://www.denvercenter.org
Note: I received a pair of tickets to show, but I assure you, dear reader, that this is my true opinion and it was not influenced by the free tickets.
Vietgone
This show has everything. Even ninjas. Like a wild motorcycle road trip through comedy, romance, hardship and history, “Vietgone” is a memorable ride that somehow combines a powerful commentary on Western perceptions, the refugee experience and a challenging historical period with humor so fresh and fun you’ll be laughing until tears roll down your cheeks. Until the scene changes and you find yourself tearing up from the touching relationships between the characters and their deep revelations about life in a time of war.
Playwright Qui Nguyen keeps the audience glued to the stage by masterfully moving through time and place, as well as by intermixing songs, usually rap, into the storyline. “Vietgone” is based on the story of how Nguyen’s parents met and fell in love as refugees in America after the fall of Saigon. This play demands a lot from its cast and this talented group delivers excellent performances without exception.
Like with any good road trip, you’ll leave the theater having made some new friends (is Bobby my favorite or Nhan?), feeling like you’ve got stories to tell (how cool was that slo-mo fight scene!) and perhaps have even grown a little in your understanding of the world (what else don’t I know about the Asian American experience?). “Vietgone” is a must-see gem! Playing now through 9/30 at Denver Center.
Tickets: https://www.denvercenter.org
Note: I received 2 tickets to the show courtesy of the DCPA. However, this review conveys exactly how I feel about “Vietgone” and I enjoyed it so much I’m even thinking about buying tickets to go again!