Richmond's alternative for news, arts, culture and opinion
"Breathe" Some Fresh Air
This normality diminishes a couple of segments. The show-ending scene titled "In the Park" with Donna Coghill and Fernando Rivadeniera playing old friends just being old friends borders on Hallmark-greetings-style preciousness. But this is more than made up for by the evening's best vignettes. In the sidesplitting "Goddess," workaholic Ray (Matt Beyer) sees a vision of a goddess (Maggie Roop) that compels him to break free from his suit-and-tie life. This happens at a hilariously inopportune time for his business and life partner, Todd (Matt Shofner).
The moving "In My Body" features Rivadeniera as a priest and Shofner as a New Age spiritualist trying to bridge the massive gap between them. Their journey to love is quietly and believably depicted, punctuated by a soaring and inspirational title song. Even the show's more mundane plotlines are buoyed by the simply melodic songs crafted by co-playwrights Dan Martin and Michael Biello.
Director Ted Boelt has assembled a stellar cast, with Shofner finding opportunities to shine the brightest. With its straightforward stories, "Breathe" honors the extraordinary in the ordinary, offering a refreshing and uplifting take not just on gay and lesbian life, but on life in general. — David Timberline
"Breathe" plays at Fielden's Cabaret Theatre, 2033 W. Broad St., through Feb. 26. Tickets cost $14-$16. Call 346-8113.
The moving "In My Body" features Rivadeniera as a priest and Shofner as a New Age spiritualist trying to bridge the massive gap between them. Their journey to love is quietly and believably depicted, punctuated by a soaring and inspirational title song. Even the show's more mundane plotlines are buoyed by the simply melodic songs crafted by co-playwrights Dan Martin and Michael Biello.
Director Ted Boelt has assembled a stellar cast, with Shofner finding opportunities to shine the brightest. With its straightforward stories, "Breathe" honors the extraordinary in the ordinary, offering a refreshing and uplifting take not just on gay and lesbian life, but on life in general. — David Timberline
"Breathe" plays at Fielden's Cabaret Theatre, 2033 W. Broad St., through Feb. 26. Tickets cost $14-$16. Call 346-8113.
Latest in Arts and Culture
-
Parks and Rec
Jul 27, 2021 -
Jurassic RVA
Jul 14, 2021 -
Classical Cohesion
Jul 13, 2021 - More »
Most Popular Stories
-
A Triumphant Return
The Richmond Shakespeare Festival returns to Agecroft Hall with a pair of outdoor comedies.
- Jul 20, 2021
-
The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen announces 2021-2022 season
To include indoor and outdoor performances.
- Jul 21, 2021
-
Parks and Rec
New Valentine exhibition explores the evolution of Richmond’s green spaces and breathing places.
- Jul 27, 2021
-
Richmond Folk Fest announces first round of artists
Large outdoor festival returns Oct. 8-10.
- Jun 30, 2021
- More »
Other Publications
