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    Berkeley Repertory Theatre

    4.2 (404 reviews)
    Closed 12:00 pm - 7:00 PM

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    Montage of images from Berkeley Repertory Theatre ("Galileo: A Rock Musical ")
    Ed U.

    REVIEW: "Galileo: A Rock Musical" at the Roda Theatre on June 8, 2024. Until this past weekend, I didn't realize I had not been to Berkeley Rep in nearly twenty years when I saw Rita Moreno's stirring turn as Amanda Wingfield in "The Glass Menagerie". It's still a really well constructed facility, especially the 600-seat Roda Theatre. This time I was motivated to see the brand new musical about Galileo because it stars one of my favorite Broadway performers, Raul Esparza. In my opinion, he was the definitive Bobby in the 2006 Broadway revival of Sondheim's "Company" (review: https://yelp.to/ks7d5rzNC3), so I was thrilled to read that he was playing the title role. I convinced Jamie W. to come with me this past Saturday, and happily, Esparza was in top form playing Galileo as an obstreperous visionary. His powerful voice has not diminished over the years, and he inhabited the character with passionate brio. Although visually arresting, the Broadway-bound musical itself still needs a bit of work. The book by Danny Strong worked well in tracing the challenges Galileo faced in presenting his scientific findings against the omnipotence of the Catholic Church in the early 17th century. The "rock" music, however, often felt asynchronous with the setting as it sounded like a mash-up of "Rent" and a rap-free "Hamilton". The power ballad-heavy score by Michael Weiner and Zoe Sarna presented a few genuine highs like "Heaven's Changing" when Galileo discovered the telescope, but there were songs that should be jettisoned like the showy rocker "Two Sides". The repetitive chorus "Louder and Louder" really got on my nerves. There wasn't really a standout number in the entire show because it felt more like an opera than a musical. Beyond Esparza, there were a couple of vocal standouts. Jeremy Kushnier carried the show's biggest character arc as Galileo's initial ally, Bishop Barbarini, who becomes Pope in record time. The other was Madalynn Mathews as Galileo's feisty daughter Virginia who becomes a nun. Both deliver powerful numbers. Less impressive was the often clunky choreography and the uncertain ending with no big finish. I should mention this was the first time we took advantage of the seating in the bar lounge before the show. Cocktails were not overly pricy though most of the choices came prepackaged in cans. By the way, similar to most theatres, there were never enough restrooms, especially during intermission. Jamie discovered the second restroom beyond the terrace but a little too late. Second row orchestra seats cost $93. RELATED - Exploring Berkeley? Here's my collection of places I've patronized and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2CbVh8u

    Debbie F.

    We just saw Galileo there and it was as good as any Broadway production! Don't miss this one!

    Jessica A.

    This is mainly a review of the Cambodian Rock Band. My cousin told me about his friend seeing this show a week prior and how they recommended it to us. We impromptu bought the tickets ($30 under 30 years old and $60 for those over) a couple of days before the show for ourselves and my dad, a Khmer Rouge survivor, and it was well worth it. Initially, I was under the impression this was only a concert. Instead, it was a heartfelt, entertaining play that puts you on a roller-coaster of emotions. The story is set in 2008 Cambodia as you follow a 26-year-old Cambodian American's journey and her relation to Comrade Duch. You are immersed in energetic music, tragic history, and outstanding storytelling. Masks- They do require masks and provide any if you didn't bring them. I saw that they required vaccination proof but didn't check when we arrived. Parking- The parking structure is conveniently located across the street. You can pay at the pay station or on your way out. It was $9 for a weekday night.

    My ticket
    Nicole R.

    I really enjoyed my experience at this theater. The play was done so well and I loved the sets. My husband and I thought the actors were so great. I really want to see more plays here and explore the local area more. I will absolutely return.

    Program
    Tanya W.

    I saw Octet (Friends of Saul) here Friday and it exceeded every expectation. The Peets theatre is midsized and comfortable with top notch audio and visuals. The production was so good with such a powerful message that I was saddened that it wasn't a full house. The cast of eight (obviously) were all phenomenal. I almost never feel that. They complemented each other's voices and characters perfectly. As we were entering the theatre there was an optional "secret" entrance which of course I was all over. I'm really glad I did! If you get the chance, take the risk. I'm actually considering going back to take others. If it works, you'll come away reconsidering your relationship with screens and other people in this modern world. We're all in there to some extent... I highly recommend this play and theater!

    A middle center view of the play, Mexodus

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    Always puts on a fantastic and thought-provoking show. A true pillar of the Bay Area theater scene with world-class productions

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    Ask the Community - Berkeley Repertory Theatre

    Where could a group of 20 people go for an early dinner after a play?

    Comal or Gather. I suggest making a reservation.

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    Review Highlights - Berkeley Repertory Theatre

    . The Berkeley Rep bathrooms have dozens of stalls, with no long lines snaking out at intermission and post shows

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    Shotgun Players

    Shotgun Players

    4.5
    (86 reviews)
    1.1 mi

    I came here with my friends to see Sunday in the Park with George. The production was very well…read moredone and our seats were only $8/each since the show was still in previews! Support local theater! I'd come again to check out other shows.

    I write with an update about Shotgun Players. I do so because of the pandemic. That historic event…read moredivides experience, individual and collective. So much of the world did not make it through, even institutions. I'm glad this theatre is still around. It is as good as before. Shotgun Players actually is better. During the pandemic, they renovated. I thought that from looking around, and I googled for news articles to confirm. I also learned they are considered, with Berkeley Rep and Aurora, one of the Big Three in town. We subscribed again. I want to support local live theatre. I don't even reside in the Bay Area anymore. But my wife does. We're in the area enough weekends to want to catch more than one show. We go with another couple. The matinees are a favorite. We received free soft drinks as regulars, and a chocolate. The poster art, with murals to match on the side of the building, are by R. Black. They also have a set of tarot cards. I was not able to find too much more about the person. I am glad Shotgun Players has such a consistent look and feel. A note about the seating. I mentioned earlier my favorite, row L, which consists of bar stools for a high top table. They won't be for everyone. Your feet will be dangling. All of the other rows are benches with long cushions underneath and individual pillow cushions behind. The legroom is great. You are not cramped as at most venues. The truth is following the lockdown, we are not out as much for cultural events. But I am always interested in what Shotgun Players is doing. If you have the least interest in seeing performers on stage, I recommend them with enthusiasm.

    Photos
    Shotgun Players
    Wolf Play
    Wolf Play
    Shotgun Players

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    Berkeley Repertory Theatre - theater - Updated July 2026

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