This will just be a quick little post on 3 of the shows I was able to see over the last few weeks. 2 of them I reviewed for UTBA so the full review is there but I wanted to include them somewhere on this site as well so here goes.

AMERICAN IDIOT- SANCTUARY THEATRE, WEST JORDAN

As much as I love the classics I also always jump at the chance to see a show I’ve never seen before especially if it’s one that isn’t done often in Utah because of mature content or other aspects. Last year I got to see Avenue Q at Sanctuary Theatre and they continue to produce edgier shows this year with their latest production of American Idiot. This is the first time I’d seen this musical based on Green Day songs and it was an overall fun experience that will probably be most enjoyed by Green Day superfans. I would give a shoutout to the cast and crew but there was no program provided nor is there one on the website so well done to all involved. This is a blackbox small experience with maybe 50 seats in the “theater.” The performances are unpolished but that often quite suited the rock stylings to the songs. I also thought they did all they could to integrate video and props given the very small space and budget. My only real qualms come in the lack of a coherent story. The adapters didn’t do a good job weaving the songs together in a way that made much sense or that created compelling characters. Still, if you have been wanting to see this musical give it a shot. It’s a small company taking risks that’s worthy of your support. It plays through March 2nd and tickets can be purchased here.

ROMEO & JULIET- GRASSROOTS SHAKESPEARE, AMERICAN FORK

Even though Romeo & Juliet is probably my least favorite Shakespeare play of the ones that I’ve seen I jumped for the chance to see the delightful Grassroots Shakespeare Company’s production on Valentines Day. I reviewed it for UTBA and you can find my review here but needless to say I really enjoyed my experience. They have taken something quite dry and tired and infused energy and heart into it. They are a company that focuses on education and a raw, mostly unrehearsed approach to Shakespeare and I really appreciate what they are doing. This production is done but you can find out more here.

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN- MUSIC THEATRE WEST, LOGAN

There are certain Broadway shows that I seem to enjoy more than the average theatre fan or critic and Catch Me if You Can is one of them. Maybe it’s because I think the movie is just ok so my expectations were lower but I love the songs, story and overall energy to the piece. This is why I went out of my way to see Music Theatre West’s production way up in Logan and it was worth the drive. What a fun night of theatre with wonderful performances, choreography and everything else. Music Theatre West is almost always worth the drive and this was no exception. I reviewed it for UTBA and you can find my review here. Catch Me if You Can is playing at the Utah Theatre (my first time in this theatre which is around the corner from the Eccles where they normally have their productions) until March 9th and I highly recommend it. You can purchase tickets here.

So there you have it! If you’ve seen American Idiot or Catch Me if You Can I’d love to hear what you think of those shows and what’s the best version of Romeo & Juliet you’ve seen? Happy theatre going!

If you enjoy my writing please support me on patreon and you will get some great perks along the way! I could review more shows with more support and showcase more theatres. Check it out here.