The GEM Theatre — Attraction in Garden Grove

Sure, those that perform in the plays and dedicate their time to this program are great and the performances are great. BUT, those that run this place are shaddy and if you have a young child, they should NOT be involved in this program. First, the Director Damien is very inappropriate while yelling expletives (F bombs, etc.) even though there are young children in rehearsals and in these programs (I have recordings of this from other performers and other that will attest to these activities). Those close to Damien that aren't even in the rehearsals or plays might just show up on stage on a particular night during the performance. Damien may even randomly jump on stage himself and distract performers.

Most disturbing is what my daughter and I experienced. My daughter who spent 5 consecutive years through Middle School and High School in theatre and still hold the record for the most hours provided to the high school theatre program, decided to try being in a play at this theatre during her first year in college. Both her and her performing friends spoke of the unacceptable behavior of their Director, Damien. And when he had a student collect checks and cash from performers to purchase custom apparel for the play they were in, my daughter turned in an envelope with $62.00 cash for a sweatshirt, she never got the product. I have sent emails and have called to try to connect with both Damien and Nicole Cassesso, Executive Director, for weeks with no response with the exception of one email saying I would be called by Damien this last Tuesday and he never called me. Today I received an email from the executive director saying the matter is closed. How about doing the right thing? It's not about the amount as much as it is doing the right thing for a teenage girl that volunteered countless hours towards the success of the play she was in.

HORRIBLE to take cash from teenage girl for a product and not give her what she paid for. I will continue to expose these folks and will file a police report for petty theft until this matter is resolved.

KEEP YOUR KIDS AWAY AND DO NOT LET THEM PERFORM HERE!!!

Hoping to update my review, but I can't get anyone to reply to my emails or phone calls. NO RESPONSE after repeated phone...

Note: this review/rating is not about any particular production here. I’m sure the shows here are fine. As a fellow artist it kills me to do this but this review is in fact for my fellow actors. Was recently here for an audition. Auditions start at 7, doors open at 6:30, “first come first serve” (this is part of the issue but we will come back to that later). I arrived around 6:50ish. There were already nearly 100 people ahead of me on the list. Long story short, I waited nearly FOUR hours to sing for 30 seconds just to be told “great job, but we don’t think you’re right for this show”. No additional feedback, no reasoning, no nothing. Mind you, I’ve worked in professional productions around the country, so this is not an issue of “talent”, per se. And I’m ok losing out on a role to the better actor, that’s the nature of the business as any actor knows. know the role I was auditioning for inside out. I was more or less auditioning for this show “just for fun” since it is indeed a fun show. But to not get invited to the callback & to be told “you’re not right for this show” without even letting me read for the part is honestly why community/non professional theatre has been going down the tubes & why some houses still have performances with only 3 or 4 people in the audience. The biggest issue here is time wasted. 3-4 hours waiting around like this is the old school days of cattle call or something, it’s borderline disrespectful in this day in age. Many theaters (even community theaters) have adopted online scheduling for auditions where you come in (for example) between 8:30-9, you sing your song, you read your sides and then you go home. If you’re pre casting, fine. But don’t kill an entire evening of...

If you are looking for a show that will have you tapping your feet and singing along, then "All Shook Up" is the perfect choice for you! This musical is a perfect blend of beautiful singing and abundant dancing that will leave you mesmerized and wanting more.

The singing in this show is absolutely stunning, with each performer showcasing their incredible vocal range and ability. Whether they are belting out a powerful ballad or performing a lively rock and roll number, the cast of "All Shook Up" delivers each song with passion and energy, making it impossible not to get caught up in the excitement.

But it's not just the singing that makes this show so special; the dancing is equally as impressive. The choreography is creative and dynamic, with each move perfectly timed to the beat of the music. The dancers are incredibly talented, executing each step flawlessly and bringing an infectious energy to the stage.

What really sets "All Shook Up" apart is how seamlessly the singing and dancing blend together. The performers are able to convey so much emotion through their voices and movements, making each song and dance number a true feast for the senses.

Overall, "All Shook Up" is a must-see show that will leave you feeling uplifted and energized. The beautiful singing and abundant dancing are a true testament to the talent of the cast and creative team, and make this musical a true masterpiece. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of "All Shook Up"...