42nd Street
“MacTheatre’s production of 42ND STREET exudes pure Broadway bliss from the moment a massive line of energetic tap dancers greets the audience from behind a rising curtain. Come along and listen to the lullaby of Broadway...only it won’t lull you to sleep.”
— MADELYN GEYER, BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“This exuberant show knows what it is and allows the audience to care for its characters, rejoice in their victories, and believe in their dreams.”
— MADELYN GEYER, BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Almost every aspect of this production, under the direction of Joshua O’Daniel Denning, possesses a level of professionalism and talent rarely seen in most high school productions. Glittering backdrops, a robust orchestra, impressive sets, and brightly colored costumes enrich the delightful performances.”
— MADELYN GEYER, BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Act One
"Director Joshua O'Daniel Denning has done a wonderful job with this sprawling work. It is tremendously entertaining and touching and major kudos must be extended for giving these young performers such juicy material to stretch them. This Fine Arts Academy has tackled a show that few professional companies in this town could even touch. Also, I applaud him for using two pianists, on stage, to recreate the original music by Louis Rosen that was used in the Broadway production. The staging, on the dazzling two story set, by Technical Director Laura Kieler, moves from locale to locale with ease and style. The lighting design by Sarah Kay Stephens is near perfect. The costume designs, by Skel Gracie, were all period perfect. "
- BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
"In all, I was greatly amused and moved at all the right moments by this solid production. McCallum Fine Arts Academy may be High School Theatre, but it is not your average High School theatre. McCallum challenges the young artists of today on their journey to becoming the theatre professionals of tomorrow... and Austin is all the richer for this valued institution."
-BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
A Kid Like Jake
“A finely crafted and extremely well-executed drama.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Praise must also be given to director Josh Denning and his talented cast. Denning places the small, 50 seat audience on stage with the actors, creating an extremely intimate and intense experience.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Riveting.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“The dialogue and action feels so organic and real that it’s sometimes easy to forget that you’re not watching a real-life couple going through a real-life situation.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Smart and powerful.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Beauty and the Beast
“I was completely awestruck by the talent and professionalism of these high school students."
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Bob: A Life In Five Acts
“Crisply comic.”
— CENTRAL TEXAS LIVE THEATRE
“[An] epic tribute to consumerism and broken dreams”
— CENTRAL TEXAS LIVE THEATRE
“Contemporary San Francisco playwright Peter Sinn Nachtrieb’s quirky comedy clicks nicely into the Austin aesthetic.”
— CENTRAL TEXAS LIVE THEATRE
“Hip, upbeat, funny and intriguing.”
— CENTRAL TEXAS LIVE THEATRE
“Bob, a sort of Bildngsroman in theatrical form, is performed in a style best described as living comic book.”
— CENTRAL TEXAS LIVE THEATRE
“Half and Half Productions has put Nachtrieb’s Bob, A Life in Five Acts together with a lively cast and a venue that in itself says worlds about the play’s message.”
— CENTRAL TEXAS LIVE THEATRE
“Swift and vivid.”
— CENTRAL TEXAS LIVE THEATRE
“Endlessly ironic, told in [a] satisfyingly lively style.”
— CENTRAL TEXAS LIVE THEATRE
“Lively and often gleeful.”
— CENTRAL TEXAS LIVE THEATRE
Bonnie & Clyde
“Daring, bold and fearless as it breaks from the status quo.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Director Joshua Denning does a fantastic job of bringing the characters and dustbowl setting to life. The characters and relationships are pinpoint sharp, and as scenic designer, Denning has created a claustrophobic environment which constantly traps Bonnie and Clyde.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Clear and strong.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“While it may be unconventional for a High School to receive the Texas Premiere of a new Broadway musical, McCallum Fine Arts Academy is by no means a conventional High School. Their student performers and designers as just as professional as anyone else, and as complex and difficult as Bonnie and Clyde is, the cast and team at McCallum pulls it off.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Carousel
“Joshua Denning is commanding in his role as the troubled barker Billy Bigelow.”
-THE AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN
“This Billy Bigelow is Joshua Denning, the lean, earnest muscular actor who swept 'em away last summer, playing prancing transvestite Angel in the lengthy run of RENT at the Zach Theatre. I didn't make the association until intermission, for here Denning creates the inverse of Angel. He makes Billy Bigelow blunt, tough, not terribly smart, and unable to express emotion...Denning puts his enormous, moving voice to thrilling use in the Soliloquy that ends Act I.”
-THE AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN
Cyrano The Musical
“The McCallum Fine Arts Academy mounts a strong production and the cast is chock full of talent... In fact, as one would expect from Austin’s Fine Arts Academy, the entire huge cast holds promise.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“I invite you to be just like a friend who I ran into on opening night. I asked her if she knew someone in the show and she said “No, we just come see the shows because they’re good.” And they are.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Dogfight
“I found the staging, choreography and setting by Joshua Denning to be smart and sharply executed and he drew fine performances from this hard-working and very talented cast.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Powerfully sung and acted and absolutely soars.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Smart, edgy musical entertainment.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Hairspray
"I confess I actually lurked in the lobby post-show hoping to get a picture taken with Denning (not my typical style to stalk performers) who also was beyond astounding in Zach's RENT-- there is something so charismatic about this gorgeous, talented man that watching him perform makes me want to beg him to be my friend, or at least let me wash his car."
-SPIKE GILLESPIE, SPIKE SPEAKS
“ With performers such as Joshua Denning at their most dazzling, you not only can't stop the beat, you don't even want to try.”
-THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE
Jekyll & Hyde
“In its strongest moments, MacTheatre’s JEKYLL & HYDE boasts imposing sets, eye catching technical effects, and an atmosphere inspired by the dark alleys of 19th century London...These inspired details highlight the Director’s bold vision... There’s no doubt MacTheatre possesses some serious talent behind the curtain as well as on stage.”
— MADELYN GEYER, BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Les Miserables
“McCallum Fine Arts Academy doesn’t do High School theater. They do Theater. With a capital T. The quality of the work from these young performers and designers is just as strong as what you’d find from other Austin-based theater companies, and that tradition of quality continues with their current production of Les Miserables.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“McCallum puts its own stamp on it, largely due to director Joshua Denning’s interesting and unorthodox vision for the show. Denning, who starred as Enjolras in Zach Theatre’s recent production of the musical, takes a darker, edgier approach with this production.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“The set, with its clear nods to German Expressionist films like The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, is particularly unexpected but effective, but what is more extraordinary is that the work of these student designers is as clear, polished, and focused as the work of professional designers in the area.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“As Valjean, Connor Barr gives a performance that is (there’s no nice or diplomatic way to say this) better than Zach Theatre’s Valjean, Pat McRoberts. While I criticized McRoberts’ “thin, frail voice,” Barr’s voice has a blend of power and gentility. I also said that McRobert’s acting was “bizarre and awkward” and “punctuated with strange facial contortions,” while Barr on the other hand gives a constantly present, believable, and engaging performance.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Every full cast number looks and sounds exquisite, and that is a testament to the hardworking ensemble of over 60 young performers.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Les Miserables
"Oh, Joshua Denning surely stokes the revolutionary flames as student rebel Enjolras, and when he tears into "Do You Hear the People Sing?" – which, if you can't have "The Marseillaise," is as irresistible as populist anthems get – you'll find his fervor igniting your own egalitarian zeal."
-THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE
"As Enjolras, Joshua Denning showcases his booming baritone voice to great effect."
-BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Me and My Girl
“Multi-talented director Joshua Denning proves to be one of the most detail-oriented high school directors that I’ve come across. As a highly trained performer, Denning knows exactly what audiences react to. He is known for creating larger shows, and his tastes tend to lean towards the larger, more dramatic sets that feel quite operatic in nature. His staging has an operatic flair, as well, as his large casts are skillfully placed within each ensemble scene, creating beautiful tableaus time and time again. This is certainly one of the most challenging skills for any director, and Denning excels in this regard.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Another new faculty addition this year, accomplished choreographer Natalie Jolly-Uehara is one of the stars of this production, as she has worked with Denning to create some of the finest choreography that I’ve seen in any high school musical. In scenes such as the joy-infused, full-ensemble number “The Lambeth Walk,” the cast was so thoroughly rehearsed and well-choreographed, that I was reminded once again that McCallum raises the bar on high school musicals in this city; there was not one single weak link.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“It is no wonder that director Joshua Denning enjoys the larger shows; he has the ability to do them well. Denning and the rest of this impressive faculty have achieved new heights with ME & MY GIRL; their cast has spoiled me for all others. Run, don’t walk...catch one of the final performances before they abscond back to Lambeth!”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Moon Over Buffalo
“The McCallum Fine Arts Academy’s production of MOON OVER BUFFALO is a fast-paced, delightful situation comedy that I highly recommend.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“But make no mistake; the young artists at McCallum are not typical teenagers, but well-trained raw talent that audiences will most certainly hear from in the future.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Priscilla Queen of the Desert
”Josh Denning is sweet, touching and utterly charming as Tick and possesses a beautiful singing voice. His rendition of "I Say a Little Prayer" is simply stunning.”
-BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Josh Denning is an earnest and charismatic everyman in his portrayal of Tick.”
-AUSTIN CHRONICLE
“Joshua Denning is a charming, likable, leading man as Tick/Mitzi”
-THE AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN
Rent
"Joshua Denning and Roderick Sanford absolutely shine as Angel and Collins. As the dying drag queen, Denning animates the show with his unstoppable goodwill and impressive acrobatics. Sanford’s voice pulls us in and won’t let go, and his sincerity hits home. The two actors bring energy, devotion, and sensitivity to the roles, and their performances will bring you to tears (in the good way)."
- THE AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN
"But the number that really rocked the socks off the sold-out house was the kickass "Today 4 U," with Joshua Denning as Angel. In heels big enough to shoe a couple of horses, Denning was all man and all woman – at the same time!"
-THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE
"A visually stunning street celebration of a landmark piece of theatrical history, with Joshua Denning and Ginger Leigh stealing the show."
-THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE
Sondheim On Sondheim
“Director, Choreographer and Set Designer Joshua Denning has done a remarkable job here. The evening flows beautifully and is staged impressively. I especially loved the set which was part back stage, part costumer shop, part prop room and still its own creation.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“I am very impressed with the quality of these young performers. With a cast of thirty, one expects that there will be a range of ability. Not the case here. These young performers have polish, style and presence.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“A maturity of approach and seems to really understand the emotionality and levels present in Sondheim. ”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Exciting musical theatre done well.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
Starmites
“McCallum Fine Arts Academy has mounted a major musical of inter-stellar proportions worthy of a good run with packed houses.”
— JESSE GRIFFITH, BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Special Effects abound in this “teen love story meets science fiction fantasy” - lasers, strobes, fog, along with head-pounding music, fantastic sets, lights and costumes and a cast and crew of Austin’s finest young performing artists. Triple-threats abound in this adult-sized, fully-formed Broadway musical. There are NO shortcuts taken here.”
— JESSE GRIFFITH, BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
The Lion King
"The American Joshua Denning vocally mastered the most widely differing of roles from shows like Aida to Copacabana and The Lion King."
-MUSICALS- DAS MUSICALMAGAZIN
The Producers
“Joshua Denning, who recreated Susan Stroman’s original direction and choreography per the Broadway production, deserves the same standing ovation the cast received Thursday evening. The energetic, triple-threat ensemble contributed immensely to the wow-factor of the show, pulling off arguably difficult choreography as if it were easy. ”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“I was blown away by these talented high schoolers.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“The passion these kids have for musical theatre is amazing, and their dedication to putting on another impressive show was obvious. Not perfect, but not lacking much, the kids at McCallum Fine Arts Academy are Exhibit A when it comes to keeping arts in schools, and keeping talented students on the track to Broadway.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
The Sound of Music
“And as Captain Georg von Trapp, Joshua Denning gives the best performance of the evening. His Captain is cold, calloused, and stoic in Act I, but there always seems to be this desire underneath to connect with those around him, particularly Maria and the children. He also plays the role as if von Trapp’s harsh exterior is a fragile mask of a man who fears the future as the Third Reich becomes more powerful. Mr. Denning also has a rich Baritone voice, and his “Edelweiss” is a chilling highlight of the evening.”
-BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
The Wiz
“EXCELLENT - Wow, wow, wow! When I think of perfect high school musicals, THIS is what I think of.”
“Overall the direction was great! There was a clear vision and the actors were strong in their commitment to the story and the world. There were so many dynamic moments. I thought that everything was cohesive and made sense. Bravo!”
“Grab factor was through the roof. While the storytelling was clear and thoughtful, it was also exciting and dynamic. I was excited just watching it.”
“EXCELLENT - I absolutely loved the direction and vision for this show. Truly, I left the theatre feeling joyful and excited and that is something that isn’t easy to come by after a high school musical.”
-THEATRE UNDER THE STARS TOMMY TUNE AWARDS
Titanic
“On a simple, yet amazingly versatile, set by director Joshua Denning, Denning staged the show with fluidity, invention and dramatic power featuring clever choreography. The lighting by Scott Vanderberg was immensely effective and the projection work was the finest I have ever seen in town. Technically, the show was a knock-out.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“Rich and complex.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“I was simply swept away by the grandeur of the performance as a whole.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“TITANIC is engaging, entertaining and deeply moving... and you really can’t ask more of a musical than that. While McCallum Fine Arts Academy is, in essence, high school theatre; it is first and foremost theatre that is as fine as anything being produced on any stage in Austin... and that is high praise indeed.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
“In the impressive production staged by Joshua Denning at McCallum Fine Arts Academy, it reveals itself to be a show of great musical complexity as well as being a show capable of stirring the heart and mind simultaneously, a welcome antidote to all the overblown mega-musicals of today.”
— BROADWAY WORLD AUSTIN
West Side Story
"What were the show's greatest strengths? What were the most
enjoyable aspects of the show?
The greatest strengths were the direction, which had real vision, included some inventive
staging, and created a strong sense of the conflict that serves as the foundation for this
musical, and the choreography, which did so much to expand the emotional quality of
what was felt on both the sides of the Puerto Ricans and the Americans. The dance work
was really ambitious, but it was also executed with tremendous energy and finesse by
everyone in the cast."
- GREATER AUSTIN HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL THEATRE AWARDS