Theatre Banshee

"You Be the Critic" Reviews Page
The following reviews and comments are submitted by Theatre Banshee patrons. To add your review, click here.

renee from los angeles
As the lights went down, I felt a sense of excitement, for some reason I knew I was about to have a great experience with seeing this play-and I was not disappointed. The entire production was very impressive, from the art direction, to the music,to the direction and acting. The reputation of "theater in Los Angeles" was resurrected from what I saw. Keep on.....your passion permeates...

Barbara from Los Angeles
Your play was absolutely wonderful!
I am eternally grateful that I was able to enjoy it.

Bryan from Oceanside
The show today was really amazing. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, it did. I've never seen a show that took on a life of it's own as far as evolving so rapidly from a great performance by a great ensemble into sheer genius and perfection.

Guys, what you've accomplished is true, real magic. Sean and Andrew have disappeared and George and Lennie in all their pathos and humanity have become a reality that tears the heart out of every single audience member. You cannot watch this show and not be overcome with heartache and emotion watching these two travel down the hard road of life into it's final and tragic conclusion. Your stage tech called me a masochist today for seeing the show for a third time. I can't imagine what you both go through for a whole run.

On a personal note, I knew what to expect from Andrew as he shines with his routine brilliance in every role I've ever seen him play. George is no exception and he delivers the goods in spades, his physical transformation notwithstanding.

Sean, on the other hand, was a mystery before I had seen the show. My worry, frankly, was that it would be a tough act to pull off as it could easily degrade into parody or cliche' at worst and a "retarded guy" act at best. The years directing made me wonder if he could still act and keep up wit the rest of the Banshees.

I'm happy to say that Sean has blown me (and Heather) away in just how damn good he really was in every performance that I had the privilege to see. I thought I might not be able to separate you guys from your roles, having known you both for so long now, but it's shocking how it felt like I was watching two people I had never met before.

I'm not kidding fellas, I had to choke back to the tears several times today and as you both saw, Heather couldn't hold the tears back at all. We were talking a lot about the show on the drive home and we both had to stop as the emotions still ran high and heavy.

I have to say that I truly believe that this is Banshee's finest show on so many levels and you both make me so very proud to know you.

Guys, thank you so much for the magnificent gift of your performances.

I'll never forget meeting George Milton and Lennie Small.

Chris from Sierra Madre
Just doesn't get any better than the performances from Theatre Banshee! Of Mice and Men is not to be missed - we were thoroughly captivated by the actors on stage and their performances.

Gale from La Ca?ada
We loved the show, and your performance was extremely memorable.

Susan from Burbank
I just recently saw Theatre Banshee's "Of Mice and Men" and was thoroughly moved, impressed, and inspired by the acting, directing, and overall production of the play.

Kristie from Hollywood
There should be a warning in the program: if you are wearing mascara, you may want to go to the restroom and remove it now.

The entire show was just sensational.

Linda from La Ca?ada
Just wanted to let you know that my folks and I saw your production last Saturday night. It was fantastic! Thank you, and the entire cast, for all your efforts. All of you are wonderful!

Adele (age 6) from Los Angeles
It is a good show. Ther is one girl in the play. There is a lot of boys. My dad is Mark Colson. There is some bad words. I have sene the play so It is not bad. Candy is sad becaus thay wont to kil his dog.

Jojo from Burbank
You blew me away in Of Mice and Men!

George from Malibu
Once again Banshee has produced a highly commendable show. The ensemble was a powerful whole filled with very individualistic performers. Their distinctive characteristics kept me enthralled, but did not take from the thrust of the play. This is a production that makes me give thanks for live theatre!

Winnie from Valley Glen
I want to tell you how much we all enjoyed the production and the questions and answers after the show. The kids were thrilled and inspired. A couple of them said it was a turning point for them as far as how they feel about performing on stage. Please pass on my thanks to the whole cast. I am so grateful that my students were able to hear you so passionately confirming all that I am trying to teach them. My husband (an acting coach as well - Bernard Hiller) and I both agreed that your productions was one of the best we've experienced in Los Angeles. We're from New York and have become a bit skeptical about the possibility of seeing something in L.A. that is really good. You renewed our faith that it is possible to see talented actors doing wonderful work on stage in this town. I commend you for forming this company and doing it in such a first class way.

Tammy from Moorpark
We came out to the show after reading a certain online review that really intrigued me.
I am so happy we did!
I fell in love with this play!
"Lennie" "George" "Slim" "Candy" "Crooks", even "Carlson", although I have to be a little mad at him for the dog incident...they pull you in and won't let go. And that gorgeous goofy blue eyed "Whit"! What a character!
The humor & depth throughout rings so true.
Thank you for such a powerful, amazing show!
XO Tammy

Eric from Burbank
First, I was able to get a seat for Of Mice and Men tonight (Saturday) and your work was inspired and inspiring. Thank you! Your performance was so fully realized, I didn't miss a beat and I was quite moved. All of you were fantastic and I was happy to hear you've extended.

Nick, Ipo & Lelani from Glendora
I was asked by Leilani (my mother-in-law) to pass on her appreciation of your efforts and how much she loved the production. She still hasn't stopped raving about the show. Ipo & I feel the same. We continue to to go over the show and characters in our minds - hard to put away. This is certainly one of, if not the best you've done. Among other aspects of "perfection", the characters were so right on, consistant, unique, and some how immediately communicated with such power and clarity. All your usuals were superb, but "Curley's wife" - the monologue with Lennie just before the "end" was precious!

Jim from Van Nuys
The play was very entertaining and very well done by the entire cast. BRAVO!!

David from Silver Lake
Wow. Of Mice and Men is better than I remembered it!
Thank you for a touching, entertaining, powerfully moving show.
Very well done!

Nick from Glendora
Simply the greatest. 9 out of 10 are a 10. Maybe an errant 9 here and there, but hey... Allow yourself an evening of powerful emotion, if you dare. No stinking bordom in Sean's stuff! Bring a towel. Yes, I cry. You will too!!!

Bryan from Oceanside
I'm still amazed at how truly great your shows always are and just how really good your company is. You have long been an inspiration to me in so many ways. I have never seen anything you guys did that was less than brilliant and I mean that from the bottom of my heart.

Natalie from Sherman Oaks
I loved Of Mice and Men!
Very well cast. Pleasurable to watch. A lot of humor to break up the heavy themes.
Barry Lynch ("Candy") is poetic.
PJ King ("Whit") is charismatic, funny, and endearing.
Great Cast, all the way around.
Highly Recommended.

Lesley from Universal City
I saw Of Mice and Men the Friday before your opening night. I couldn't stick around after the show so I wanted to take the time now to say that I very much enjoyed the show. Sean and Andrew are wonderful together and very endearing. The Gentleman that played Candy was amazing. The three of them were very commited to their characters and it was only your second performance. I am hoping to see the play again towards the end of the run and I can't wait to see how much more connected and grounded everyone will be. You all are truly in for an incredible run. Well done!

Pamela from Los Angeles
I'm so lucky to have attended a preview performance of The Banshee Theatre's production of John Steinbeck's classic tale, OF MICE AND MEN last week & LOVED IT*! The Banshee Theatre's productions are always "top drawer" & if you love live theatre, OF MICE AND MEN is a "must see" (please see all the info below) - You'll be so glad you did!!!

Toni from Glendale
We r thrilled to have enjoyed you and your Banshee's in the brilliant Mice & Men- we talk about it to everyone--- Sean- you are so wonderful and matched by your best friend Andrew. Its a blessing- a healing really. Than you for your incredible gifts to the most enduring gift to the world- the arts.... We adore love and totally appreciate you guys.

Jean from La Canada
Jonathan and I both thorougly enjoyed the performance. Please give our thanks and kudos to the performers.

Casey from Los Angeles
I was really impressed with you guys last night. I thought you were your ìown peopleî up there. In other words, unique portrayals of characters that could have been so stereotyped.
I think one always has the greatest burden playing such iconic characters. Youíve done masterfully! It is going to grow in the most lovely way. And I look forward to coming again.

Mike from Los Angeles
Simple brilliant production [Of Mice and Men] - I?ll be sure to send as many students as I can

Congrats ñ thanks for the art ñ donít see that much

Barbara from Los Angeles
Thank you for reminding me that good theatre is possible in LA.,............this theatre company is great.

Mike & Jess from LA
Before the week is over (they fly by so quickly), I want to tell you what a great show "Loyal Women" was. Jessica and I enjoyed every moment at the Banshee last Saturday night. Your direction, aided by the play's solidly swelling structure, really allowed the action to boil; from the ensemble, and more specifically, Rebecca's character. I really felt sympathy for her character, and I was so impressed with her performance. The scene where she was back-lit by the kitchen light, just prior to her tearful, agonizing breakdown was so touching and effective. I don't usually cry in public, but ya got me! I've paid $65 bucks and more to watch theatre at the Taper, the Geffen, Ahmanson, La Jolla Playhouse, etc., but those theatres don't come near in consistency to what you guys always deliver.

As long as we're in town, we will always see your shows. You should raise your ticket price!

Thanks for your hard work and passion,

Mike & Jess

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Margaret from Los Angeles
I saw the performance on Sunday afternoon last and I have to say that this is the best cast of Irish women I have ever seen on one stage. Dan Conroy and Barry Lynch -
Just superb. What a cast. Yours is the best theater of its type in LA. I knew that the first time I went there.
Congratulations on your incredible work.
What a team you have

Dany from Los Angeles
I'm still overwhelmed by what I saw. Your cast gave one of the top performances this year. And I thought your direction was perfect. I didn't
notice one little thing that nagged at me. Even the house's lights went out at the right times (noticed Rebecca turning out lights upstairs, too!).

Beautiful work!

Jen from Los Angeles
great show!
I enjoyed it very much over the holiday!
Tremendous to hear that story-one we never hear...even though it's still going on over there...
...enjoyed-isn't quite the.. right...sorry about that- but - well done- (?)...yes-no- at any rate- I am better for having seen it..and that's the thing...maybe-and its good to get a "merry fecking x-mas" sometimes...good for the soul.

Clara from Glendale
I laughed. I cried. I screamed. I was great!

Wendy from Burbank
More info on rights and premieres:

I found out that if a university or college does apply for the rights to a play, because the piece won't have a legitimate theatrical run, they can actually get the rights at a drastically reduced rate. No body really makes a profit but the students get to work on a good piece of theatre.

So Duke might have done right by Gary Mitchell, I'm sure they did, but it's still not counted as a legit premiere of the piece.

No one else may find this interesting but me.

Did I mention that Loyal Women is a really good play?

Wendy from Burbank
Actually, college productions don't count as premieres because they usually only have about a two week run and they aren't reviewed. Also, most universities, because they don't produce to make money, don't bother securing the rights for plays...meaning that the playwrite doesn't see a dime.

If the playwrite and his publisher gave the Banshee crew the "U.S. premier" it's because it's the only legit US premiere.

The Duke production happened only about 6 months after the play was published. I sincerely doubt the playwrite would have knowingly given the rights to a school for the first US production. This is all speculation of course.

Regardless, this is a great production.

Veronica from Charlotte
This is not actually the U.S. premiere of the show....highly recommended but it made it's debut at the Duke theatre almost 2 years ago

Cathleen from Los Angeles
I, too, was perplexed by the review posted by Dramanotglama concerning Power. Producing a play about one of the most opulent periods in history on a budget and in a small theatre is an ambitious undertaking, and McKerrin Kelly and her cast did a superb job. The pace was crisp, the acting excellent, and the blocking and direction appropriate for the play itself. If Dramanotglama wants an experience that embraces the ìformalities that were enforced within the court hierarchyî I suggest he/she stay home and watch the History Channel. In my opinion, Dramanotglama completely missed the intention of the author, and instead concentrated on unwarranted criticism that only exposed his/her misunderstanding of the material.

Go see this play!

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Rebecca from Burbank
Sorry. My previous review is referring to 'Power' by Nick Dear.

Rebecca from Burbank
Reading the previous review I have to wonder if I saw the same play Dramanotglama saw.

Nick Dear wrote the play with a very contemporary bent, so I didn't mind that the actors weren't encumbered by strict adherence to the "style" of the period.

I felt like the light hearted tone of some of the excentric characters, like the incredible Matt Foyer, added a very sharp edge to the moments in the play when the worm began to turn. So many people of that court who lived to wild excess met with very brutal ends.

David Pavao palyed the highest comedy he could reach for as Phillipe, a bold choice I was grateful for in a city where so many actors are trying to bring their TV/film chops to the theatre. Andra Carlson's Louise was a deliciously innocent delight and an incredible contrast to Casey Kramer's vicious machinations as Anne.

I enjoyed myself thoroughly at the high points and felt my heart break at the low points. Great theatre, wonderful actors and design that's worthy of The Ahmanson! Go see this play.

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DramanotGlama from Los Angeles
I have to have a certain sympathy for powerful actors that have been so misdirected by McKerrin Kelly in Nick Dear's potentially cunning play. The play is entitled "Power" - each scene is carefully written to reveal the intrigues and dangers of gaining and losing power. Mr. Dear has drawn psychological complexity to each character - but Ms. Kelly chose to stage it like 2 rate vaudeville. So much 'power' has been lost because of thoughtless 'blocking', uneven farce, and a sloppy disregard for the formalities that were enforced within the court hierachy.

Mr. Dear has laced his intrigue with wit and humor. But Ms. Kelly is not grounded in style nor finesse and the result is sometimes 'whacky'. Unecessarily so.

The actors were quite excellent. Many give standout performances, they're just not doing the same play. The playwright would be better served with a stronger director.

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Mimi from La Canada
I love how every character in the play Henry never lost character for one second, even when they weren't speaking. You could look at the characters around a person making a speech, and you could say to yourself "This is what ___ is thinking, so we can see that they are probably going to ___" Every little facial expression was perfect! If it wasn't for the size of the room they had to work with, I really would have been shocked it was a play, and not time-traveling.

Carolyn from Santa Monica
Greetings Banshees! I just wanted to drop a note and say that I really enjoyed your 'Henry' - the battle scenes were so cool - and truly frightening, but what stays with me more than a week later is that there were profound moments of beauty, which in counterpoint to the ferocity of temper in battle really show us how self-destructive humans are. The song sung by Robyn Heller was a gorgeous illustration of this, and made me wonder why beauty and love are not enough to stop all the wars in the world. Thanks for a truly rich evening of theatre!

Christian from Burbank
I saw 1HIV today at your theatre. great performance, excellent sword fighting, good connection of the actors to each other.

Gary from Los Angeles
Thanks again for getting me in a seat for your great show
last night. It really was a rollicking good Henry IV in every way.

Linda from Los Angeles
The whole cast was simply great. It's also a really cute little theatre that I hadn't even known existed. H4 also had by far the most powerful and authentic sword fighting I've ever seen on ANY stage, and I see the RSC in Stratford almost every summer. I can't wait until your next production.

Ryan Lisman from La Canada
I saw Henry 4 and it was the best, Ms. Baldwin is my teacher and she is great. Great job

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Bryan from Oceanside
I was just thinking about our Banshee experience of yesterday!

I LOVED it, and I'm not a Shakespeare buff at all. I still cannot believe you got that many people onstage for a full blown battle sequence, but you nailed it brother!Outstanding on all counts.

Your shows are consistently so good that I've honestly run out of nice things to say as I must sound like a broken record! Rest assured that Henry IV was no exception in your arsenal of excellent shows.

The usual suspects ( Leman, Foyer, Lynch, Thoemke, Harper, DiVincenzo, et al) were on par with their always great performances and newer faces were a joy to watch as well.

Your invisible direction (a REAL compliment sir) was flawless as always.

I know the pinnacle of the Bard for Chloe was "Hal is so cute", but I guess that's good as her first experience with it was positive! Great actor by the way for one so seemingly young. I hope to see him as well in future Banshee productions.

kate dobbyn from dublin
Hi there Sean - just wanted to congratulate you and the team on your recent awards - you really deserve every success and I am thrilled that you now have a 'permanent home' at Gene Bua - Rob and myself are thrilled to have witnessed your direction, production and company's talent first hand when we visited LA in Feb 2006 for Eclipsed - Lisa is so proud to be a part of the company and we are so happy that she is involved - all good things for you in the future and remind me to tell you my own particular banshee story when next we meet! kind regards and love and best wishes to the rest of the gang - kate (lisa's mom)

Mary from Pasadena
Thanks again for the terrific performance. It was so well done!

Noel from Burbank
I really enjoyed Henry IV.

Marianne from Los Angeles
I thoroughly enjoyed H4P1, thank you so much for that!

Linda from Los Angeles
Very enjoyable. I have told a number of people about it.

Larry from Los Angeles
My wife, my son and I came to see I Henry IV last Sunday - what a treat! We all enjoyed the production and the performance very much, and I was impressed with the wonderful minimalist staging as well as the acting. Barry Lynch stood out as Falstaff but everyone was really terrific nd sustained the energy of the play from first to last.

Jennifer from Los Angeles
After seeing the show tonight I can definitely agree with the reviews. You guys did an amazing job. Thanks for yet another great show.

Dave from Los Angeles
I have tremendous respect for your sustained and valuable contributions to the LA theatre scene. Keep up the great work!

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Michele from Glendale
WOW! What a show and performance "Eclipsed" is...I can see why you wanted to remount it. Sean, your direction was wonderful and Leslie was just great in that tough role. Please tell me that Sister Virginia left the convent and went out into the world?!?!?! I felt that the heavy content was so well balanced with the humor and the caring connection among the women. Thanks for yet another positive theater experience.

Ronald McCoy from Melbourne Australi
Chi mi na morbheanna is not Irish

It is a Scottish Gaelic poem and song

Please correct our website

Ronald McCoy
Australia
rmccoy@ocean.com.au

Kenny Han from La Canada
The play was an absolute phenomenon. Even though there were some parts where I didn't understand anything, it was still fun. I loved the ways the actors spoke. They spoke in such good ways that it made me think they were really people from the past.

Thanks for such an excellent show!

Diane from King George
I just saw your production of "Mine Eyes Hath Seen" and several days later I'm still reliving the experience! It gave me a new appreciation for the Civil War and what our country suffered and strived for during that time. Every actor did an exceptional job and I especially enjoyed the live music. The solo by Josh Thoemke was very moving. Thank you to all for providing such quality theatre for our enjoyment!

Heather from Los Angeles
I saw your production on Sunday and just wanted to tell you again that I was blown away! It was so well done... every little aspect and detail.

You have such a wonderful company of actors. Every time I see one of your shows...it's the best show I've seen up to that point.....

Keep it up!

Fred from Riverside
Outstanding group of actors who skillfully presented quotes from real people that lived and fought on both sides during the American Civil War 1861-65. Their too long unheard thoughts were eloquently shared. I listened intently to every word and left the theater wanting more of "Mine Eyes Hath Seen" from Theatre Banshee. Go raibh maith agat - Thank you!

Lorraine from La Ca?ada
Thanks for an exceptionally wonderful experience. I laughed, I cried, I sang and wanted to dance, it was exhilarating - and the performance was overwhelming and very touching.

My son is learning about the Civil War right now in school and he wasn't very interested in history but now he wants to learn more - it really sparked his interest.

Jeff from Westlake Village
Spectacular performance! Perhaps the most educational and entertaining afternoon I've ever spent. I especially appreciated the even handed, and historically fair approach you gave to a subject that has been inappropriately influenced by 21st century conventional wisdom and distorted by political correctness.

You followed the number one rule in history: "When you travel in time, leave yourself behind."

Nick from Pasadena
Mine Eyes is one powerful, impactive performance!!! I've not seen a more consistant effort with such uniformily outstanding performances by your cast - the whole cast. I wanted so much more when it ended - a sure sign of a great show. We all concurred - talked about it all the way home. This is among your best.

Chris from Pasadena
Sean, just a note to let you and Leslie know how much we enjoyed the play last night. The acting and the music were beautiful and we really enjoyed every moment.

The Jacksons from Los Angeles
We came, we watched...and we loved it! Great show!

Roger from Santa Fe
It was a fabulous experience for us. Thank you for offering such meaningful art. Your hard work helps to make a better world.

Bryan from North Hollywood
I thought the play was terrific. You really should be so proud and I must say, that new fellow Kem is a wondeful addition to the Banshee. It would be a pleasure to see him in future plays as well! Of course, everyone was routinely flawless as usual under your masterful and invisible direction. Damn good culling of the letters and assembling them in a cohesive story. Says it all without being preachy or condemning either side. I quite liked the singing too! In ordinary circumstances it might be considered a little "coffee-house-folksy", but in the context of the play delivered by your incredible company, the results were equally joyful and devastating.

I know this isn't a pro review by a real critic, but I know what I like and I like your work A lot!

Doug from Tokyo
I just wanted to write you, and tell you, outside and beyond the post-show glad handing, that you have created something truly wonderful. I cannot tell you how many times I was moved to tears last night -- and I'm usually not affected that way.

You have gathered incredible stories, designed an entertaining, multi-layered vehicle with which to convey these stories... and above all, you have once again put together a cast that chews up the text and delivers. They really rock. It's quickly paced and the mix of humor, tragedy and song is a fabulous ride. How easy it would have been to take a bunch of letters from a war that took place 144 years ago and deliver a straightforward, dry yet honest, rendering. Mine Eyes goes so far beyond that -- on an entertainment level.

Thank you for NOT being stoic. Thank you for making us laugh, think, and ripping our hearts out. I believe you have a hit. And not just some sellout shows, but a play that rings true on a societal level, and comments, as you intended, on the divide in our country and this war in Iraq. Perfect timing to do this. We need this, especially now.

Robert from Los Angeles
What a wonderful production and performance! We're very happy we caight the show; it helped make our first anniversary perfect.

Susan from Atlanta
Thanks for yet another extraordinary evening of drama.
You and Theatre Banshee have given a new meaning to
the words "live theatre."

Jen from Los Angeles
Great show!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I saw it yesterday and it was FANTASTIC!
I've been telling folks about it for a while and after having finally seen it- I raved and raved. It's such a beautiful story and the performances are so wonderful- I really loved it-

Bryan from North Hollywood
All I can say is wow. I woke up this morning with the play on my mind.

My god, It really had me toward the end; almost choked up a few times. The emotions and the tragedy of facing oneself in the mirror was all too apparent by your masterful (and invisible) direction. The performances, as typical of any Banshee production, were all outstanding as usual. Heather commented how remarkably similar to her own vistit to the Emerald Isle last year it was.

It reminded me so much of the same kind of denial and desperation in Death of a Salesman (maybe planted there because of the reference in your directors notes) but unlike the Loman family, there was more than a shred of hope at the conclusion without being sappy or contrived.

Heather and I both were in such a good mood when we left, both knowing that THAT WAS GOOD THEATER! No joke, you really created an outstanding work last night and we both were thrilled to see something really good for once, being so used to substandard forms of entertainmant. Man from Clare was real, honest, heartbreaking and ultimately rewarding for all onstage and off. My hat is off to you and the entire Banshee team again. You really know what you're doing and it's such a joy to be able to be moved so much by your extraordinary experiences which you give so unselfishly.

Also, the natural energy between Dan and Rebecca last night was joyous to watch. I don't know how two people who have worked together before can create that awkwardness between two people have have never met, but need each other so much and so desperately.
True magic. True magic. What a pleasure.

Vicki from Orange County
We had a great time. Can't wait for the next play!

Alisa from Los Angeles
Saw the show [The Man from Clare] last Saturday night and LOVED it! Thank you again for consistently producing good theatre!

Larry from Los Angeles
As always, Theatre Banshee's productions are just fantastic. I've got some Irish in me, too, and I am learning to really appreciate Irish theater thanks to you.

Thanks again and congratulations for the incredible body of work Theater Banshee is producing. You've got to be proud.

Michael from Sun Valley
I was at your play [The Man from Clare] tonight. EXCELLENT!!!!! Congratulations :-)
There were eight of us in our group and we all loved it :-)
I'll tell as many people as I can about it.

Judy from Los Angeles
The show was a delight! Congrats on another fine
job, looking forward to the next one already.

Brian from North Hollywood
Just wanted to say thanks for another great show and the tictac man speech! You have a really good company to draw talent from and it's always a joy to go see your shows.

Lorie from Newport Beach
I haven't laughed so much in a long time!!!! Thank you for a delightful performance and most of all, thank you for continuing to produce wonderful theater. I am so proud to know you.

Josie from Burbank
KUDOS and congrats. Everyone was perfect in their role. I am truly impressed with both McKerrin and Carolyn - such fun fun stuff. Favorite moments of mine include that curtain 'choreography' of the many ways poor Ms. Barclay tried to cover up, McKerrin's final drunken moments, and, not to mention the rucous ala keystone cops at the end. (I'm such a sucker for a naked man, [insert pun here] particularly one in such good shape as Josh...) I'll be back with friends.

Wes from Los Angeles
I recently saw your production of Red Noses. What an extremely moving and strong perfromance by all involved.

Peter from Ventura
Many congratulations on the show! A difficult piece and a lot for a director to contend with. You found an excellent cast and really put together a quality evening. Quite an accomplishment!

Thom from North Hollywood
Bravo on another great production.

Jessica from Los Angeles
Thank you so much for fearlessly putting on Red Noses with such talent and passion. It was a rare pleasure of the theatre. And an awesome cast!

James from North Hollywood
Just spent one of the funniest (and thought provoking, as well) evenings I have ever spent in the theatre! And how wonderful to have spent it with some other Interact members & family... out supporting their friends in the village called "Theatre". Yes -- we were in the audience for the production of RED NOSES, now playing at the Gene Bua Theatre on Magnolia Blvd. in Burbank, just east of Hollywood Way.

Andrew Lehman, who played 'Stanley' in our production of "Death of a Salesman", is playing the lead role... also in it is Dan Harper (for those of you who may know him) and Barry Lynch and 17 other wonderful actors.

If you haven't seen it yet, do not waste another second of your time -- make your reservations now!! It was sold out tonight and due to cast conflicts it may not be able to extend and so it could close on July 13. GO SEE IT!! You will NOT regret it!!

Brenda from Hollywood
Thanks for the afternoon in the theatre - I really enjoyed the play, it's density, the direction and the actors... a difficult piece performed well~ I'll look for future Banshee Productions.

Mark from Chino Hills
Red Noses was terrific ñ a very game cast ñ beautifully executed!

Lorie from Glendale
The production of Red Noses is fabulous! It has all the wit, humor, provocation, and emotionality of what we have come to expect from a Banshee production. The actors are remarkable...well cast and highly talented. You truly have produced a winner. Everyone loved it...dinner conversation was
quite lively. Thank you for continuing to bring outstanding theatre to the small stage!!!!

Doug from Woodland Hills
Red Noses was TREE-MENDOUS. I can't remember when I've been to a play that has made me laugh so hard and then, moments later, hit me with an emotional, sad whallop. The direction, pacing, casting et. al. was first rate.

Brian from Los Angeles
I'd *highly* recommend "Red Noses".

Well-directed and well-acted by every performer across the board, mixing funny and poignant in a historical setting that speaks to all times.

You don't usually get performances like this in the "big" theaters, let alone theaters where if you lean over too far you'll end up on stage.

Aaron from Hollywood
Congrats to Sean and all of Theatre Banshee for "bursting the seams" with a stupendous exhibition of talent! Story, acting, costumes, makeup, lighting, sound effects, singing, dancing--it was all a supremely choreographed circus!

I am impressed at the breadth and depth Theatre Banshee contains, from spooky character dramas like "The Weir" to full scale black death satires. Kudos to the company.

I forgot to buy a shirt, though. Haft pick one up.

Thanks again, everyone. There *IS* good theater in Los Angeles! (and the Valley, even!)

Richard from Burbank
I loved "RED NOSES" and am interested in seeing more of your work.

Larry from Monrovia
It was fantastic! I recommended it to my partner
Kirk and his wife Diane. We'll come see Theatre Banshee every time. And I'll pass the word on.

JoJo from Burbank
Excellent work from actors and direction; with all the jokes about the size of the performance space, there wasn't one moment where I felt it couldn't handle the production. Branney's direction of an excellent cast hit all the right comic moments, along with the ones we wouldn't expect to be there, yet touched us so deeply that you'll remember these special characters far beyond the hour you leave the theatre. Don't miss it.

Bryan from North Hollywood
Absolutely incredible job on Red Noses. I don't know how the hell you pulled that off with the singing, dancing, juggling, EVERYTHING!

My hat is truly off to you. A great cast and my slack-jawed awe in your directing prowess made a true fan of you and Theater Banshee for life.

Still in awe,
Bry

Daniel from L.A.
What a daunting task Sean Branney has succeeded in accomplishing. In an Eguity Waiver situation, to assenble a large cast for a production that requires the players to have such versatile performing skills,and bring it all in sync, with a unique style that made it work so delightfully,speaks for his leadership and talent as a director. It was impressive to see everyone having a good time on stage,but doing the job of presenting a disiplined and finely directed performance. There was not a weak link in the entire ensemble and in addition to being fine actors, they all had a marvelous sense of good ol' showmanship. With lesser talent, I imagine that Mr. Barnes' play could possibly slip into theatrical folly. But not so with this production; everyone is a solid pro.

Jennifer from Toluca Lake
I just HAD to tell you how BRILLIANT your production of The Weir was. Congratulations on getting back on your feet. Don't stop!

Lee from Burbank
The Weir is a great play, but on that requires a great production which you certainly gave it. Thank you to your uniformly excellent cast and to you for the smarts and skill and depth of feeling you brought to the project. It was an invigorating evening and one that will continue to stay with me.

Toni from Glendale
All the actors were grand and I was extraordinarily moved by the whole experience.

Bryan from Studio City
Thank you sir, for a wonderful evening of theater. I must admit I didn't know Andrew was such a charismatic presence on stage! Leslie too, although in a much more subdued role, was equally effective in her monologue delivery which held the audience spellbound.

Daniel from Los Angeles
Last friday evening, I had the good fortune of finally getting around to see your production of, THE WEIR. The experience has compelled me to write this and express my praise to all involved, for a masterful presentation of a fine play. Its charm and soul glowed with Irishness. I loved it.

Daniel Keough from Los Angeles
I had more to say, but the other screen left me limited room...I thought the spontaneity and vitality of the ensemble interaction was magnificent, as well as each character's individual stories; all performed in just the right key and with ne'er an awkward or theatrical moment. The talent and skills of the players effectivily concealed any trace of direction.Also, the contrast of personalities among the characters was so well defined, while each contributed to the pallette of celtic expression. It shined with talent and integrity on all levels, and I shall encourage everyone I know to try and see it by its closing weekend.

My appreciation,
Daniel Keough

Mike from Thousand Oaks
Excellent show! Jen and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves Saturday night. You should be very proud of that production you have put together! Your cast was outstanding (especially Leslie) and the play was really intriguing and funny. Jen liked that they cussed so much.

Helen from Venice
Thanks for a wonderful evening! We really enjoyed the play. Lots of nice real life type moments, good play. Sorry we couldn't stick around, we had another party to get to in Hollyweird, oh, so popular. So popular in fact,
we arrived to the party and not a soul was around, hm.

Anyway, it was great to see a packed house! Amazing set too.

Johnathan from Sherman Oaks
Kudos to you and your crew. A most excellent show and very entertaining to boot. :) Jan and I were delighted to attend and we were still discussing the show today in the car.

Maria from Burbank
We just had a great time on Sunday...just a terrific production..great script, terrific acting, wonderful direction........just altogether terrific...thanks so much

Donald from Encino
The show was really great. One of the best shows I've seen in years. I thought the actor who played Jack was really funny and sad too. The girl who played Valerie was heartbreaking. Everything about the show made me feel at home. Thanks for a really enjoyable evening.

Kevin from Pleasanton, Ca
Great acting, great directing, and well worth the trip! By far my favorite Theatre Banshee production to date!

Christine from La Crescenta
Really enjoyed it--live theatre is great!

Pascal from City of Angels
The show was so good, it drove me to drink... More Guiness, please!