One Mann's Opinion: Assassins at Revolution Stage

In his latest review for NBC Palm Springs, critic Kevin Mann takes audiences to the "nightmarish carnival" of Stephen Sondheim’s cult classic, Assassins, currently playing at the Revolution Stage Company. This bold, non-linear concept musical gathers history’s most notorious presidential attackers to explore the dark, distorted corners of the American Dream.

Mann praises director Gary Powers for masterfully navigating the show’s challenging, satirical tone. Despite the difficult subject matter, the production excels musically under the direction of Kurt Kelley. Anthony Nannini delivers a standout, "heart-wrenching" performance as John Wilkes Booth, while Fuz Edwards provides a comedic highlight with the high-energy "Ballad of Guiteau." The "wonderfully weird" pairing of Nicole Kennedy as Squeaky Fromme and Heather Joy as Sara Jane Moore also earns high marks for their unsettling chemistry.

The technical elements—including a "simple and effective" set by Joyanne Tracy and a striking video display designed by Nathan Cox—punctuate the surreal atmosphere. While Mann noted minor opening-night technical glitches and the use of recorded tracks over a live band, he emphasizes that the cast’s vocal talent easily carries the show. Ultimately, Mann recommends Assassins as essential, thought-provoking theater that is particularly timely in today's political climate.