By Joey Gonzales for PPAG

"Fright Night" presented by PCC's Theatre Department is well worth the fair and full of frills with three thrilling tales and a magnificently staged version of Edgar Allen Poe's "The Raven."  Each in their own accord was an exciting edge-of-your-seat story with creative technical support, costuming, make up and good acting. Without giving away any of the twist so loved by true horror fans sharing highlights is difficult but deserving of this well put together montage.

"The Tell-Tale Heart" shares the balance between insanity and darkness of humanity.  Kudos to the supporting cast for their attempts of understanding the insanity of Mr. Blackwood a cold-hearted killer well portrayed by Skye Salazar and the manipulative Lawyer effectively played by Matt Noble. Prosecutor Blood (Jessica Fahmie) appropriately adorned in red helped break the lunacy with humorous antics and sarcasm.  I found it interesting to see what ultimately prevails and was impressed by Skye's portrayal of the killer both to the audience, cast and a camera capturing the whole façade.

Grupo Folklorico del Pueblo

by Joey Gonzales, PPAG Reviewer

To begin, I would like to say that the 4th annual Dia de Los Muertos celebration presented by Grupo Folklorico del Pueblo had an exceptionally diverse atmosphere along with supporting prose by "Nanita" played by Adele Duran who guided the audience through the various regions of Mexico, styles of dance and musical heritage.  It brought to mind stories told to me by my own Nana, as Adele lit up the stage with credible character, educational narrative of the tradition and occasional humorous moments. Her introductions effectively segwayed to an array of impressive dance performances that gave the evening a much appreciated life.

From toddlers to adults and in between, each dancer spilled their joy and well trained talent with strong well-synchronized heel work, flowing movement and celebratory "gritos" typical of a Mexican Celebration. Each number showcased vibrant energy, sparkling smiles and a level of passion for dance that was easily and justifiably recognized and appreciated by the audience.

As with any performance there were highlights and outstanding performances. The evening would not have been complete without "La Bruja" a traditional dance with candle adorned dancers and the Ritualistic "Blessing of the 5 directions" with impressive performances by Brenda Alanis, Misha Izotov and Monica Suarez who exemplified grace and skill. The highlight of the evening and most well received performance bringing audience members to their feet was by the "Jovenes" group of young dancers during their "Norteno" region performance. The energy and sheer gusto given out by this group of girls was quickly contagious and spread through the art center like wild fire. Especially young Isabella Montoya, who shined with virtual perfection.

John Valdez, PPAG Reviewer

When Bram Stoker wrote his Gothic Novel “Dracula” back in 1897 he might never have pictured his story done on a stage full of graceful ballet dancers. However, I’m guessing he would have been greatly pleased with the Premier Ballet’s production. The sparse Friday night crowd filling the Central High School auditorium was very excited, this despite the confusion regarding the assigned seating. Even the poor ushers seemed to struggle to know which row was which. But that was all forgotten once the lights came down and the music began.

Review by Joey ‘just j” Gonzales, PPAG

Amid joining onlookers in the open-aired natural setting of  PCC’s Summer Theater Production of  “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” opened with fancy-free fairies of all ages and sizes providing programs and joy to the our hearts. After a short prologue and mention of cast substitutions dictated by the ever courageous substituting Director, herself, Karen Foglesong, the ever familiar prose of the world’s favorite Avonian commenced to much delight.

An extremely strong and keen Egeus, played by Walter Glass, an appropriately beautiful and fluid Hermia, portrayed by Diomara Balbuena and the humorous physical and verbal characterization of Helena by Sara Nyenhuis proved that there was much consideration taken into account in the casting of these lead characters. Joined by the strong-verbed and poised Thesus (Derik Dubbel) and Hipolyta (Stephanie Zuniga), Mathew Novle as Lysander and the substitutes…an ironically cross-dressed Demetrius played by the Director and Assistant Director Rebecca De la Rosa playing Philosotrate rounded out the primaries.