We’re delighted to share that the Woodland Opera House will feature theatre reviews by TJ Fassler on our website—an addition that reflects something meaningful about how we aspire to show up in our theatre community. When I first encountered TJ's reviews, they reminded me of reviews by beloved LA theatre reviewer Steven Stanley, who publishes StageSceneLA, and is famous for his generous reviews that are always positive. I initially found Steven Stanley’s always-positive approach puzzling—where was the critical edge? He explains that this is by design: when he can't honestly celebrate a production, he simply won't publish a review for it. He is intentional about how he uses his voice to impact the artistic community, preferring to elevate the works he appreciates rather than tear down. Most of all, he genuinely admires theatre-makers and recognizes that the work is hard and for many it is a labor of love. This resonates with something I noticed shortly after joining the Opera House two years ago. At the Theatre and Dance Annex (TADA) where we hold our classes, affirmative messages line the walls and mirrors for our young students. One that particularly moved me (and remains today) is the "THINK" poster asking: "Before you speak, THINK—are your words True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind?" It suggests that sometimes the most courageous act is withholding words that fail these criteria.
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