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Come From Away reimagined at Paper Mill

Come From Away is, in my opinion, one of the greatest musicals of all-time. This Tony Award-winning musical tells the true story of 7,000 airline passengers stranded in Newfoundland after the 9/11 attacks, and the kindness of the locals who welcomed them. With a heartfelt book, lovely music, and nonstop pacing, it’s no wonder this musical ran for over five years on Broadway. Even though it just closed in 2022, New Jersey’s Paper Mill Playhouse has decided to mount this musical with a slight reimagining. The return of Come From Away to our lives feels like a salve for the…

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The beauty and culture of western Austria

The state of Vorarlberg in western Austria is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich places on Earth. From towns like Schwarzenberg in the Bregenzerwald to Hohenems in the Rhine Valley, these villages seem like they’ve emerged from fairytales. Yet they have so much more to offer than just their beauty. Schubertiade, an annual festival honoring composer Franz Schubert, is held in both Schwarzenberg and Hohenems, Austria. For those unfamiliar, Schubert was born in Austria in 1797 and was a child prodigy, dying at the young age of 31. He had an extraordinary body of work including one of…

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Bat Boy makes its long-awaited return

New York City Center is becoming increasingly appreciated as a place not just to revive underappreciated musicals, but to put them on with all-star casts. From Parade to Ragtime, they’ve had tremendous success. When it was announced they’d be producing 2001 off-Broadway cult classic Bat Boy, I was thrilled. Bat Boy: The Musical is NYCC’s newest production in Encores series, and they have once again brought new life to a hidden gem. Bat Boy tells the story of a half-boy, half-bat discovered in a cave outside of a West Virginia coal town. We follow the Bat Boy as he transforms…

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Wishing to Grow Up Brightly shines at Theatre Horizon

The world premiere of an ambitious new musical is being produced at Theatre Horizon, and it’s not to be missed. Wishing to Grow Up Brightly is a brand new musical created by some of the Philadelphia area’s top talents with the support of The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage. The piece examines heritage, belonging, and parental dynamics all with a Black Mirror-esque sci-fi backdrop. This bold new show blends deep themes, a fascinating plot, and lovely performances to deliver an exciting new production.  The musical tells the story of Amanda Newton, inspired by the life of co-creator Amanda Morton. Newton is a…

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From The Publisher

The Cultural Critic is where thoughtful readers turn for in-depth reviews of artistic events and travel experiences. Our aim is to cover a wide range throughout every category. From theater and music critiques to travel and sporting experiences, The Cultural Critic is your destination for the most comprehensive reviews. We are proud to have as our lead critic, Corey Cohen.

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Geoffrey Dobrien, Publisher

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