Theater Critic Picks
These are the 5 can't-miss shows in Dallas-Fort Worth theater for April
COVID-19 can stop a lot of things, but it can't stop the performing arts. Though no one's going anywhere in April, that doesn't mean you can't watch some plays at home and support your local theaters.
These Dallas-Fort Worth theater companies have found creative ways to still deliver their programming, and some are even free (though we highly suggest donating the ticket price — or more — if you're in a position to do so).
Here are five local shows to stream this month:
American Mariachi
Dallas Theater Center, streaming purchases available through April 5
A video was taken in March of the final dress rehearsal for American Mariachi, a new work by José Cruz Gonzalez about a young woman who forms the first all-female mariachi band in the 1970s, despite disapproving relatives and going against social norms. Patrons are encouraged to pay-what-you-can — starting at $15 — to receive a link and a password to access the recording within 24 hours. Purchasers will then have up to two weeks to watch the video. Tickets are available up through the original close date of April 5, 2020; after that, it will be deleted.
The Imaginary Invalid
The Classics Theatre Project, livestreaming April 1-19
At first, TCTP was going to stream its complete production of Moliere's comedy from an empty Margo Jones Theatre in Fair Park. Then when venues got shut down, it looked like the production would be postponed or canceled. Then, Van Quattro stepped up. The venerable actor will be performing the play via free solo livestream from his house, each night during the time it was originally supposed to be presented. And he's playing all the parts. Check the theater's website for times.
Mrs. Haggardly
Ochre House Theatre, available April 3-24
Originally presented in February, this new work by artistic director Matthew Posey is getting another life through livestreaming. A recording of the production can be accessed for free on the theater's YouTube channel, and be sure to sign up for notifications in case they release any more of their prior world premieres.
The Children
Stage West, available April 9-29
The third play of the theater's 41st season, which was originally supposed to run March 12-April 12, will be streaming through Vimeo On-Demand. There are a limited number of seats available for $40, and season ticket holders and previously-purchased single ticket holders will receive a unique promo code via email on April 9 at 12 am to enter at check-out. The plot: In a seaside cottage on the east coast of England, a pair of retired nuclear scientists are startled by the reappearance of a former colleague. As crackers and wine are trotted out, so are remembered stories, old jealousies, and haunting secrets, all leading to the true reason for this sudden visit: a chilling and dangerous plan.
The Bippy Bobby Boo Show
Theatre Three, April 10-12
The ghosts of this Halloween hit from Danielle Georgiou Dance Group know something about being trapped in one place, but that doesn't stop them from putting on a 1960s'style variety show. Watch a free (or pay-what-you-can) Facebook stream of the show from last year (it'll hopefully be returning this year, barring quarantine extensions) that made my list of the most memorable theater moments of 2019. All proceeds from the stream will be split between DGDG and Theatre Three.
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Looking for other arts-related events and activities you can enjoy online? This list is constantly being updated with new virtual happenings.
