Blog: A View from the Cliff


A View from the Cliff

A View from the Cliff continues to be a frequent, upbeat visit to live, family entertainment in Queens. My reviews began close to 20 years ago. This blog is a chance for readers to praise or pan our local performers. It’s also a venue for uncovering hidden talent in our borough.


Tablao Flamenco electrifies in Astoria
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 5/20/2013 at 11:13AM

The daily commotion on Astoria’s workday boulevards is challenged each spring by a different kind of rhythm. It’s the proud, powerful, passionate lure of Flamenco!  The American Bolero Dance Company’s 2013 performances led by Gabriela Granados, continue to reinforce their well earned reputation. At Friday evening’s presentation, a combination of comedy, drama, dazzling dances and [...]

“Hound of the Baskervilles” in Douglaston
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 5/09/2013 at 2:41PM

No, the malevolent Moriarty won’t be masterminding malicious mishaps in Douglaston.  Instead, the ominous fog of the British moors will creep across the stage. Yes, it will carry a deadly secret–the fiery “Hound of the Baskervilles”! On opening night, the audience was extremely enthusiastic. Their catcalls and loud applause demonstrated their approval. Once again Sir [...]

‘Camelot in Concert’ in Bayside
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 5/03/2013 at 4:00PM

The mythical kingdom of Camelot and its noble characters are celebrated by Beari Productions with their version of“Camelot in Concert” at 214-35 40th Avenue (All Saints Episcopal Church) in Bayside. At Sunday afternoon’s performance, the bright sun and warm winds of spring carried a mellow mood into the theatre. Even Director Debbie Bendana sighed, “If [...]

Killing Kompany kontinues komedy
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 4/24/2013 at 12:49PM

No matter what challenges face us, it is our sense of humor that helps keep us strong. Just ask Jon Avner and his Killing Kompany comedy theatre troupe. Since the early 1990s, he and his revolving cast of characters-all professional actors– have entertained throughout the greater metropolitan area; In fact, anywhere they can get away [...]

Talented teens rock Bayside
Talented teens rock Bayside
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 4/18/2013 at 3:27PM

It’s a chilly spring night in Bayside. An unmistakable sense of anticipation fills the air. Blackout. Lights! Anchored by experienced musical veterans, a group of teens and young adults are making an unmistakable impression in Queens. Their confident onstage intensity, sincerity and genuine talent are acknowledged by an appreciative opening night audience at Theatre Time’s [...]

1960s musical nostalgia at Queens College
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 4/01/2013 at 12:27PM

Hundreds of baby boomers enjoyed a nostalgic Sunday afternoon at Kupferberg Center (Colden Auditorium) at Queens College. Two mega acts from the 1960s sang their most popular tunes and musically honored some other stars as well. The Happenings sold millions of records around the world in the late 1960s. Their two biggest hits were upbeat [...]

The Pajama Game at Marathon Little Theatre Group
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 3/14/2013 at 11:36AM

Everybody’s a winner when labor battles management in the beloved musical comedy; “The Pajama Game”. The Marathon Little Theatre Group completes their 23rd year with their latest lighthearted production. The story focuses on a serious situation between garment factory workers and their employers in the late 1950s. Instead of drama, the audience is treated to [...]

‘Joseph’ is amazing at Rockaway Theatre Company
‘Joseph’ is amazing at Rockaway Theatre Company
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 3/07/2013 at 1:59PM

The resilient performers of the Rockaway Theatre Company (RTC) have teamed with the Gracian Players for “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Despite the devastation inflicted by Sandy, the troupes are determined to rebuild. Their strategy includes one final weekend of fundraising performances in Howard Beach. Director Chazmond J. Peacock has moved behind the scenes [...]

The Wizard lands in Bay Terrace
The Wizard lands in Bay Terrace
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 3/05/2013 at 10:36AM

You might as well just “follow the yellow brick road” to Theatre by the Bay. Then find a seat with your children and grandchildren for a slightly different and extremely family friendly version of the beloved classic, “The Wizard of Oz.” Director and producer Larry Bloom with co-producers Barbara Koenig and Martha Stein has selected [...]

‘Much Ado About Nothing’ in LIC
‘Much Ado About Nothing’ in LIC
A View from the Cliff Cliff Kasden 2/22/2013 at 1:52PM

Although the mere mention of Shakespeare often draws yawns from those who should know better, the current version of “Much Ado About Nothing” continues to attract enthusiastic audiences at The Secret Theatre in Long Island City. Director Richard Mazda has snared talented performers, musicians and designers for his resident troupe, The Queens Players. At Friday evening’s performance, they delivered a very unique interpretation of [...]