John Shand Posts

November 1, 2024 / Features - Archive

Jazzmeia Horn’s grandmother knew that Jazzmeia’s mother was pregnant before the mother did herself. Her grandmother told her she would have a musical child, who should be christened Jazzmeia. Her mother’s response? “Hopefully it’s a girl!” Despite the name, it was gospel and soul music that filled young Jazzmeia’s early…

October 29, 2024 / Theatre Reviews - Archive

Reginald Theatre, October 19 7/10 Don’t judge the play by its title, because what curious fare this is: like having a bagel or fries with your authentic Indian curry. The spicy part is the satire, and the carbs are the feel-good factor. In fact Indian-American playwright Dipika Guha may even…

October 24, 2024 / Theatre Reviews - Archive

Roslyn Packer Theatre, October 18 6/10 Hamilton rightfully won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2016. A year later, they lowered the bar to Dear Evan Hansen, reminding us of the Tonys’ wild inconsistencies. In 1958 The Music Man beat West Side Story, in 1972 Two Gentlemen of Verona…