All the World’s a Stage Andrew Park’s original musical for Quest Theatre Ensemble takes inspiration from Shakespeare’s soliloquy breaking down the seven stages of life, and borrows from its cast’s real-life stories as examples. Scott Lamps’s music is too schlocky to resonate beyond pleasantness; I still left a blubbering mess—earnestly relayed life experiences about addiction, marriage, and loss cut through any of the softness. There’s a genuine feeling of compassion throughout, and any of these monologues would hold up to the best episodes of This American Life. —Dan Jakes
My Solo Show of All Duets What makes this show so delightful? Not just the repertory of Broadway staples, which we hear sawed in half for these hilariously maimed solo renditions. Not just the deadpan of accompanist T.J. Shanoff, who brings the house down wordlessly from the bench many times, fingers flying. Not just the whole conceit of having a one-woman show of duets. It’s all that—but who can explain the incredible clowning of Shirley Lame (pronounced la-MAY, natch), her complete grasp of the audience, her instant shifts from showbiz glitz back into the heavyhearted pathos of a dream somewhat past its prime? It’s all so wonderful, such a trip. As Shirley reminds you between songs, she is a star. Don’t worry if you haven’t brought flowers to throw, she has extra. It’s a pity this show runs just once a week. —Max Maller
Those Sensational Soulful 60s Black Ensemble Theater’s 40th anniversary season is essentially a victory lap for executive producer Jackie Taylor, who’s polishing up and showcasing the company’s biggest jukebox hits from over the years. Playing in repertory with its 50s counterpart Doo Wop Shoo Bop, this compilation lacks deep biographies or side plots to get mired in, so the spotlight stays on what Taylor and company do best: rapturous, roof-burning renditions of singles that thrive in the hands of the superb house band. Performances of Aretha Franklin and Jackie Wilson hits in particular showcase the electricity BE exemplifies. —Dan Jakes
