Renaissance Theatre — Attraction in Mansfield

I had never heard of this theatre- being from Cleveland, I never would have had a reason to have heard of it. However, as luck would have it, this theatre decided to host a performance of Next to Normal. It is my favorite musical of all time, and one I have long been desperate to see performed live, so I was more than happy to make the trip to see it. And I am glad I did. The theatre was small and intimate, which made the performance all the better. And what a performance indeed. It was so incredible that once was not enough. I had to come back to see it again the following weekend.

The entire cast was incredible, but the two lead actresses in particular were phenomenal. Kelly, the actress who played Diana, was especially powerful in her portrayal and the emotions she was able to convey. I was fortunate to be able to briefly talk to her after my first viewing to tell her how moved I was. Sadly, I did not get the opportunity to talk to Jamie, who played Natalie, about how much I loved her performance. I hope that by chance she see this.

I realize that I am more reviewing the performance than the theatre. However, from reading the cast bios I know that many of these actors performed in previous productions at the theatre, and this likely won't be their last production either. With the talent that I saw in this production, I am certain that future productions will also be incredible, and well worth...

In the last few year we have seen Follies and Hello Dolly, among others, which were really great. We also saw A Chorus Line, which was disappointing. So we approached The Producers with caution. However, when Brian Stepaned delivered his first line and Dru Loman responded we knew we were in for a treat. The guest artists were great, as expected, but the locals in the cast upped their game to equal them. What great performers! The production was great in every way: the sets were creative and used well, the costumes were wonderful, and the stage action in every detail was perfect. We cannot get over how great the costumes are for every show! As a musician, I was wondering how a provided orchestra would be; it was wonderful, and one can count on Kelly Knowlton to make the music compliment the show. The office scene with the men dressing down was hilarious and so well done. The roof top scene with the great caged birds was better than the 'standard' version. But the whole company should be applauded for a show excellent in every way. Michael Thomas' direction, especially the detail for every character, is amazing. It was the best show...

I went to see the story about Ms. Etta James. My experiences from the very accessible parking lot to the comfortable regal seating inside, put me in the most refreshing nostalgic frame of mind I've had in many years. Everything was right: the attendants, ushers, concession stand employees, the refreshments, the restrooms (I used two---one before the show & one afterwards), the lighting, the intermission, & sound, and cleanliness were all 10's on the rating scale. The young lady playing the role of Etta James, was amazing. Her acting, singing and stage presence were excellent. How she sang each song was special, and frankly I didn't want her to stop. She seemed to enjoy herself and her band. How could the audience not enjoy such an outstanding production, too. The bass, drums, keyboardist and saxophone player flowed with Condrea like she was Ms. Etta James alive in 2024. What a wonderful surprise of a night. I've been telling others about my evening at the Renaissance Theater and how I plan to have many more. Thanks, Yolanda "Pinkey" Boyd...