"'Til Death" by Bucket Brigade at Art House North

Bucket Brigade's original "marriage musical" 'Til Death returns for its 13th season! This was my 5th time seeing the show (counting a virtual version during the pandemic), and I was happy to spend a little time with old friends. Written by Bucket Brigade's married co-founders Vanessa and Jeremiah Gamble, and starring them and another married couple of #TCTheater artists (Anna and Damian Leverett whom I saw, alternating with Stephanie and Nathan Cousins) it's silly and sweet, over-the-top yet grounded in the reality of relationships. And while it would be (and has been) a perfect 90-minute-no-intermission show if not for the intermission, when they give me a cupcake and host a mini-concert* during said intermission, I'll allow it. 'Til Death plays Fridays and Saturdays through February 15 (plus one Monday night pay-as-you're-able performance featuring the full cast) at the charming and cozy Art House North in St. Paul's West 7th neighborhood, with two great restaurants within walking distance - Mucci's Italian and A-Side Public House (tip: make reservations).

"The Gospel According to Thomas Jefferson, Charles Dickens and Count Leo Tolstoy: Discord" by Bucket Brigade at Art House North

My favorite kind of play is a two-hander - just two people sitting in a room talking. The awkwardly titled The Gospel According to Thomas Jefferson, Charles Dickens and Count Leo Tolstoy: Discord one-ups that model - it's just three people sitting in a room talking. Specifically, three historical figures, great writers and thinkers, who are discussing deeply philosophical issues. But despite the deep issues discussed, it's actually a very funny and light-hearted play. Deep thoughts, humor, great performances, 95 minutes no intermission, a cozy and intimate space, and free cookies and coffee before the show - what more could you ask for? See Bucket Brigade's production of this smart, funny, thought-provoking, and engaging play now through October 14 at Art House North in St. Paul's West 7th neighborhood.