Reviews & Media Coverage
2021-2022
Small Mouth Sounds
"Excellent ensemble piece! I really enjoyed this production both times... It was exciting to see the whole cast responding to a slightly different version of that character (Evan Nasteff replacing Adam Valentine's role). Jenny Hundley had really grown into her role. Maura Mazurowski, her character felt deeper... There was more depth to the entire show because of what we've been through (COVID pandemic) in the interim." — Julinda Turner and Claire Boswell, Open Source RVA's Curtain Call (October 1, 2021)
“Cadence Theater Company’s riveting production of Small Mouth Sounds keeps the audience on the edge of their seats the entire play. We get yet another masterpiece from director Laine Satterfield, who assembled and guided this stellar cast. Their performances and character choices rocked our socks. At moments, we were splitting our sides with laughter, while tearing up with sadness and anxiety at others. All in all, Small Mouth Sounds is the perfect blend of technical theater and the creativity we love seeing from performance artists and directors. This production will leave you pondering how ironically relevant the themes and messages are of this wonderful, little play.” — Milind Murthy, KdentsTV Student Leadership Program Member (September 24, 2021)
2019-2020
Small Mouth Sounds
“With Small Mouth Sounds and their Centered Stage workshop series, Cadence Theatre Company invites audiences to experience mindfulness beyond the boundaries of the play.” — Claire Boswell, Style Weekly (February 25, 2020)
“…This excellent cast offers amusing and sometimes tender insights into a group of encumbered strangers in a unique situation.” — Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (March 8, 2020)
“Delightful production... Marvelous cast... Perfectly captured the juxtaposition of the meditative environment with the characters’ personalities and problems.” — Julinda D. Lewis, RVArt Review (March 8, 2020)
"A rewarding production... Director Laine Satterfield has expertly guided the actors to create real people using just movement, expression, and a minimum of speech." — Susan Haubenstock, Broadway World (March 9, 2020)
"Intimate, thought-provoking, and invigorating.” — Rachel Marsh, Boomer Magazine (March 13, 2020)
13
“The musical 13, with its high-energy cast of teenagers, starts off at a level 10 and pretty much stays there for the duration.” — Julinda D. Lewis, RVArt Review (October 26, 2019)
“I can’t say enough good things about the music and message of this show.” — Karen Schwartzkopf, Richmond Family Magazine (October 29, 2019)
Rich Griset, Style Weekly (October 29, 2019)
Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (October 27, 2019)
Joan Tupponce, Richmond Family Magazine (September 30, 2019)
2018-2019
The Wolves
“Although this will certainly appeal to a young audience (who can relate to the youthful interactions), this cast embraces their characters and the drama with naturalistic skill.” — Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (September 28, 2018)
“In topic and tone, The Wolves strives to – and largely succeeds – in standing out from the pack.” — Julinda D. Lewis, RVArt Review (September 27, 2018)
Taylor Patzman, The Commonwealth Times (September 27, 2018)
Mike Goldberg, WCVE (September 27, 2018)
Rich Griset, Style Weekly (September 25, 2018)
Between Riverside and Crazy
“Cadence Theatre Company and Virginia Rep’s electric and multilayered — if ultimately frustrating — co-production of Stephen Adly Guirgis’ 2015 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama doesn’t hesitate to grab us by the lapels and bark more than one compelling tale in our faces.” — Tony Farrell, Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 17, 2018)
“Tawnya Pettiford-Wates has directed Between Riverside and Crazy with sensitivity and perception. The cast has responded with authenticity that defies perfection. The resulting experience makes for unforgettable, must-see theatre.” — Julinda D. Lewis, RVArt Review (October 14, 2018)
Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (October 14, 2018)
Rich Griset, Style Weekly (October 16, 2018)
In My Chair
“DeVirgilis and Rothe have crafted a heartwarming and engaging show about self-acceptance and female empowerment that probes past the skin-deep.” — Rich Griset, Style Weekly (March 5, 2019)
”In My Chair is such an inimitable, witty and potent production that's anything but a conventional play.” — Jeremy Bustin, Broadway World (March 26, 2019)
Harry Kollatz, Jr., Richmond Magazine (March 1, 2019)
Tony Farrell, Richmond Times-Dispatch (March 20, 2019)
Julinda D. Lewis, RVArt Review (March 3, 2019)
Annie Tobey, Boomer Magazine (March 4, 2019)
Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (March 3, 2019)
Gloria
“This production’s creation of compelling characters and involving situations make this an interesting examination of the effects of trauma in the workplace.” — Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (May 12, 2019)
“This is not theater for those who want to be entertained, but for those who desire to be challenged.” — Julinda D. Lewis, RVArt Review (May 12, 2019)
Tony Farrell, Richmond-Times Dispatch (May 26, 2019)
Rich Griset, Style Weekly (May 21, 2019)
2017–2018
Fun Home
“This musical, through the talent of all ages in this collaborative production, elevates an excellent storyline to an emotional level and reaches out to all audience members – leaving them with an experience of the arts they won’t forget.” — Kevin Johnson, Richmond Family Magazine (September 11, 2017)
‘‘Fun Home looks and sounds great, and has many, many moments of brilliance… the talented cast turns in a strong production that's as fulfilling as it is entertaining.” — Jeremy Bustin, Broadway World (September 13, 2017)
Annie Tobey, Boomer Magazine (September 15, 2017)
Julinda Lewis, Richmond Times-Dispatch (September 19, 2017)
Jerry Williams, Richmond Magazine (September 11, 2017)
Rich Griset, Style Weekly (September 19, 2017)
The Christians
“Interactive, engaging and brimming with food for thought, Cadence Theatre's The Christians is smart, provocative and not to be missed.” — Claire Boswell, Style Weekly (February 20, 2018)
“The Christians raises valid questions and stirs up controversy that requires introspection, discussion, and debate.” — Julinda D. Lewis, RVArt Review (February 16, 2018)
John Porter, WCVE (February 11, 2018)
Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (February 11, 2018)
Appropriate
“Cadence Theatre Company's production of Appropriate is immediately engaging, moving at a brisk pace, with complex, fully-realized characters, thanks to Anna Senechal Johnson's wise direction and impeccable casting.”— Claire Boswell, Style Weekly (May 8, 2018)
Tony Farrell, Richmond Times-Dispatch (May 3, 2018)
Bruce Chadwick, History News Network (May 21, 2018)
2016–2017
John
“Cadence’s John is haunting and haunted, full of ruminations on connection and detachment, life and death, love and loneliness — essentially the human condition.” — Claire Boswell, Style Weekly (November 1, 2016)
“Matt Bloch and Anne Michelle Forbes showed a well played troubled, almost bipolar couple trying to find love for one another through their own doubts. The universal motifs and unique design contributed to create a wonderful show I recommend.” — Sophia Anthony, Knights in the Limelight (November 8, 2016)
Julinda Lewis, Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 23, 2016)
David Timberline, Style Weekly (October 23, 2016)
Violet
“With a cast that creates appealing characters and embraces the show’s vocal charms, this is a moving musical journey worth taking.” — Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (February 19, 2017)
“Again, Cadence Theatre Company proves that it’s doing some of Richmond’s best theater work. Violet is definitely worth a look for teens and their parents.” — Lisa Crutchfield, Richmond Family Magazine (February 20, 2017)
Claire Boswell, Style Weekly (February 23, 2017)
Tony Farrell, Richmond Times-Dispatch (February 19, 2017)
Joan Tupponce, Richmond Times-Dispatch (February 16, 2017)
Rabbit Hole
“Cadence Theatre's production of Rabbit Hole is beautifully designed and offers captivating performances.” — Jeremy Bustin, Broadway World (May 5, 2017)
“The ensemble is exquisite, underplaying the complexity of emotions, which makes the drama and the production more masterful.” — Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (April 30, 2017)
Claire Boswell, Style Weekly (May 9, 2017)
Joan Tupponce, Richmond Times-Dispatch (April 25, 2017)
2015–2016
The Flick
“Cadence Theatre brings free drama to historic cinema palace.” — Rich Griset, Style Weekly (September 1, 2015)
Susan Haubenstock, Richmond Times-Dispatch (September 30, 2015)
Equus
“Seeing Equus here was maybe one of the most impressive things that I have ever had an honor to take in with my own senses. You should not miss this very special chance to be challenged intensely and left reeling by the awesome talent Richmond theatre has to offer in rendering Peter Shaffer’s deeply haunting story.” — Taber Bain, RVANews (November 17, 2015)
“If only we could still feel the trail beneath us, the wind on our faces, the touch of each other. Forty years on, Equus still haunts.” — Tony Farrell, Richmond Times-Dispatch (November 9, 2015)
Rich Griset, Style Weekly (November 17, 2015)
John Porter, WCVE (November 11, 2015)
Tina Eshleman, Richmond Magazine (November 2, 2015)
Dani Brown, The Commonwealth Times (November 16, 2015)
Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (November 8, 2015)
The Mountaintop
“Katrinah Carol Lewis who plays Camae and Jerold Solomon who takes on the role of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. are outstanding. Their portrayals are seamless and riveting. They solidly capture the heart, the fears, the playfulness, and the spirit of each character.” — Joan Tupponce, Richmond Family Magazine (February 21, 2016)
“With subtle, yet masterful skill, this duo brings out the humor and humanity of this surprisingly entertaining imaginary encounter.” — Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (February 21, 2016)
Tina Eshleman, Richmond Magazine (February 17, 2016)
David Timberline, Style Weekly (March 1, 2016)
John Porter, WCVE (March 1, 2016)
Danielle Brown, The Commonwealth Times (February 29, 2016)
4000 Miles
“Funny, moving and intimate, 4000 Miles is a rare show that entertains while emphasizing a message of compassion.” — Rich Griset, Style Weekly (May 10, 2016)
Joan Tuppponce, Richmond Family Magazine (May 6, 2016)
Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (May 6, 2016)
John Porter, WCVE (May 9, 2016)
2014–2015
Sight Unseen
“Cadence continues to bring exciting new talent to town, making its productions an adventure in discovery. Sight Unseen is no exception.” — David Timberline, Style Weekly (October 18, 2014)
”A powerful production full of tension, discovery, and surprises.” — John Porter, WCVE (October 27, 2014)
Bruce Levy, Broadway World (October 20, 2014)
Joan Tuppance, Richmond Magazine (October 17, 2014)
Sarah Lockwood, Richmond Family Magazine (October 27, 2014)
Tony Farrell, Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 20, 2014)
Caroline, or Change
“Caroline, or Change is a rare theatrical gem… It was the successful conclusion of a new and unique collaboration between its creators.” — Julinda Lewis, Richmond Times-Dispatch (February 22, 2015)
Karen Schwartzkopf, Richmond Family Magazine (February 22, 2015)
Rich Griset, Style Weekly (March 3, 2015)
A Lie of the Mind
“Director Anna Johnson has tapped an excellent assortment of actors who throw themselves wholeheartedly into the melee of passionate confrontations.” — David Timberline, Style Weekly (May 8, 2015)
“Director Anna Johnson, recognizing the beauty in Shepard’s plain-spoken American locution . . . never rushes the action and allows her cast of uniformly outstanding actors to take full ownership of each conflicted character.” — Tony Farrell, Richmond Times-Dispatch (May 4, 2015)
2013–2014
Good People
“If you’re in the mood for a crusty tale that doesn’t pull any punches as it stares the American Dream in the face, check out Good People.” — Rich Griset, Style Weekly (November 5, 2013)
“A great cast and an impressive set.” — Bruce Levy, ShowBizRadio (October 28, 2013)
Celia Wren, Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 20, 2013)
Tony Farrell, Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 21, 2013)
BWW News Desk, Broadway World (October 24, 2013)
Joan Tupponce, Richmond Family Magazine
David Timberline, Style Weekly (October 31, 2013)
Clybourne Park
“With Clybourne Park, Cadence has created an admirable and impressive work that stands on the pulse of the country's views on race relations. Given the local ballpark debate, it couldn't have better timing.” — Rich Griset, Style Weekly (March 4, 2014)
“Clybourne Park is a powerful drama, filled with tensions, outbursts, overlapping dialogue and sharp and witty humor.” — Jeremy Bustin, Broadway World (March 8, 2014)
Julinda Lewis, Richmond Times-Dispatch (February 25, 2014)
Sarah Lockwood, Richmond Family Magazine (March 2, 2014)
John Porter, WCVE (March 6, 2014)
Detroit
“Director Anna Johnson has pulled together a dynamite cast to explore this tale of suburban strife.” — Rich Griset, Style Weekly (Mary 16, 2014)
“Anna Johnson has directed her supremely talented ensemble without reservation, allowing the characters to spiral from reserved and cautious individuals to unrefined and honest human beings.” — Jeremy Bustin, Broadwayworld.com (May 7, 2014)
2012–2013
The Pillowman
“Director Steve Perigard has assembled an exceptional ensemble to handle the horror and with his own spooky sound design.” — Matthew Miller, Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 22, 2012)
“It’s an incredibly riveting and soul wringing experience.” — John Porter, WCVE (October 29, 2012)
Bruce Levy, ShowBizRadio (November 3, 2012)
Liz Jewett, Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 26, 2012)
Sons of the Prophet
“Sons of the Prophet isn't a laugh-a-minute joke fest. But the humor offered in this affectionate portrayal of a strong, struggling family is unexpected, intelligent and ultimately very satisfying.” — David Timberline, Style Weekly (March 5, 2013)
“I have heard stories about Cadence being legendary with their abilities to design extraordinary sets on their small stage, and Sons of the Prophet did not disappoint.” — Bruce Levy, ShowBizRadio (February 17, 2013)
Marilyn Drew Nicci, RVA Magazine (February 25, 2013)
John Porter, WCVE (February 21, 2013)
Celia Wren, Richmond Times-Dispatch (February 10, 2013)
Next to Normal
“A modern, mature subject in a powerful package. A vocal tour de force.” — Jerry Williams (TVJerry), Sifter (April 28, 2013)
“Next to Normal creates something phenomenal out of an unconventional subject.” — David Timberline, Style Weekly (May 7, 2013)
Julinda Lewis, Richmond Times-Dispatch (April 29, 2013)
Bruce Levy, ShowBizRadio (May 1, 2013)
Tony Farrell, Richmond Family Magazine (May 5, 2013)
2011–2012
Kimberly Akimbo
“It's an auspicious opening for what promises to be an ambitious season of well-regarded recent plays. With this level of craftsmanship, Cadence is well positioned to bring challenging theater to Richmond audiences.” — Susan Haubenstock, Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 18, 2011)
“Director Anna Johnson, the driving force behind Cadence Theatre Company has put together all the ingredients for a challenging, thoughtful, funny, and ultimately sweet play.” — John Porter, WCVE (October 21, 2011)
Rich Griset, Style Weekly (October 25, 2011)
August: Osage County
“Cadence Theatre's production of August: Osage County is stunningly realized, an experience of outrageous comedy and visceral pain.” — Susan Haubenstock, Richmond Times-Dispatch (February 20, 2012)
“Keri Wormald's direction of the 13-member cast is excellent and manages to keep the humor of Letts' script intact even in its most dramatic scenes. . . . Intense and angry, August: Osage County is an epic and devastating drama, and this performance does it justice.” — Rich Griset, Style Weekly (February 21, 2012)
In the Next Room, or the vibrator play
“Put this one down in the Must See column.” — John Porter, WCVE (August 30, 2012)
“What’s even more surprising about In the Next Room, produced in partnership with Virginia Rep, is that beneath the obvious shock value of a story about vibrators used in medical practice in 1880s’ American society, is an often touching and consistently beautifully written story told from a profoundly female point of view.” — Rich Griset, Style Weekly (August 21, 2012)
Liz Jewett, Richmond Times-Dispatch (August 30, 2012)
2010–2011
Godspell
“Under Anna Johnson's direction the production is well-produced, especially considering that everything takes place in the spare room of a church. All aspects of the set, lighting and sound have to be brought in from elsewhere. Given the show's subject matter, it might not be a favorite of the more secular, but in its purpose of celebrating the teachings of Jesus, Cadence's production does it justice.” — Rich Griset, Style Weekly (February 16, 2011)
Oleanna
“See this intense and well-acted drama that quite intentionally raises more questions than it answers.” — Julinda Lewis, Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 31, 2010)
2009-2010
The Fantasticks
“In its first shot at a musical the fledgling Cadence Company breathes new life into this old classic.” — David Timberline, Style Weekly (August 25, 2010)
John Porter, WCVE (August 23, 2010)
Fool for Love
“Director Anna Senechal Johnson has assembled a great cast and a very strong design staff… Cadence Theatre Company is off to a great start.” — John Porter, WCVE (January 19, 2010)
Rich Griset, Style Weekly (January 20, 2010)
Susan Haubenstock, Richmond Times-Dispatch (January 16, 2010)