James Fitzsimmons

Off-Broadway Review: “Vladimir” at New York City Center Stage I (Through Sunday, November 10, 2024)

At first glance, Manhattan Theatre Club’s “Vladimir,” currently at New York City Center Stage I, might receive a “what’s new” reaction from the audience. But the importance Erika Sheffer’s well-constructed play takes us far beyond the boundaries of Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin’s Russia. “Vladimir” focuses on the enduring themes of love and relationships, the dichotomy of freedom and oppression, and the…

Off-Broadway Review: “Translations” at Irish Repertory Theatre (Closed Sunday, December 31, 2023)

Language and translation serve as powerful tropes for colonial ownership in Brian Friel’s “Translations” currently playing at Irish Repertory Company through Sunday. December 31, 2023. Headmaster Hugh (Sean McGinley) of the hedge-school in the townland of Baile Beag/Balleybeg the Irish-speaking community in County Donegal and his eldest son Manus (Owen Campbell) teach Irish, Latin and Greek to the local students….