Arts

Current Shows

A A A Comments By Ronald Mangravite Thursday, Feb 26 2004

Chekhov in Repertory: Actors engage in a battle of egos as they struggle through an ill-fated production of Anton Chekhov's Three Sisters; presented in rotating repertory with The Cherry Orchard. Through February 28. University of Miami Ring Theatre, 1312 Miller Dr., Coral Gables. 305-284-3355.

M Ensemble's Strands

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The Drawer Boy: Watching Florida Stage's new production is a bit like observing a bumblebee in flight. Based on evidence, it shouldn't fly, but it does anyway. Set in Canada in the early Seventies, the play tracks a young actor who encounters two bachelor farmers and their long-buried secret. Michael Healey's 1999 script may be weak on internal logic and thematic inspiration, but its gentle humor and poetic power is strong enough to beguile nonetheless. Through March 7. Florida Stage, 262 S. Ocean Blvd., Manalapan. 561-585-3433.

The Shrinkand Highways for Harriet: House Theatre of Miami and PS 742 present original works by two Miami playwrights, Cameron Rabie and Jeff Telofski. Through February 29. PS 742, 1165 SW Sixth St., Miami. 305-324-0585.

Strands: The M Ensemble's dazzling new production is one of those rare shows that makes an impact on several levels -- as an emotional statement, as sheer entertainment, and as a daring display of artistry. Playwright Eric Wilson has set his sights on a huge subject: tracing the entire journey of the African-American man, from the preslavery cultures of Africa on through the present day. Director Jerry Maple has a field day with the visually striking, emotionally explosive material. The production combines the power of the spoken word, dance, ritual, song, and rhythmic drumming to create a powerful, not-to-be-missed theatrical event. Through February 29. M Ensemble Actors Studio, 12320 W. Dixie Hwy., North Miami. 305-895-8955.

Ten Unknowns: Reviewed in this issue. Through March 7. GableStage at the Biltmore, 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables. 305-445-1119.

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