The Vortex Theatre

Size doesn't matter, they say. Which I think is total hog wash when it comes to the size of my candy bar, and I'd have to say I feel the same about theatre. Size is everything. A production in a huge theatre leaves out that intimate experience with the stage, the set, the tiny yet beautiful team effort and transition between acts; the things you wouldn't usually get to notice. I absolutely love the heart and soul I see behind a small theatre; throw in the raw skill of these locals and you wonder why you haven't escaped your typical night from Albuquerque to join the buzz of the Vortex more often. I have been here a few times, back when located on Carlisle, but this was my first time at the new location. The production: "The Real Thing"! I had heard tale of accents and from that alone I was sold ;) There were struggles of relationships (the monotony, infidelity, - real things, indeed) as well as a bit of insight into the writer's mind. What I personally took from the play was that without continuing affection/appreciation, love can easily wither, and you or your lover may find yourself in the arms of another, but even at that point, if you both fight back hard enough for your love, you can reclaim it. I will say that the theatre was quite ablaze on this particular Friday night - some issues with the cooling, causing our poor little programs to be beaten and destroyed back and forth for that teensy ounce of a breeze it may provide. After intermission they had the cooling situation under control thank gourd, and I was able to really give the dialogue my full attention. They have waters for a buck, sodas for a buck, reasonable and nice little refreshments. Believe you me did those come in handy after the first half :PThis was an extremely talented set of people for this production and I was delighted to be a part of their audience. I have special kudos to give out to the lad who played Henry, for the ridiculous amount of lines he memorized was downright crazy. Sometimes I could barely keep up, let alone imagine remembering and delivering all of those words. Whew! Way to go!See ya again soon, Vortex!

Community theaters own a sacred realm in my soul. The celebrated, iconic American playwright, David Mamet, famously wrote that "the theatre is always dying", a truism that both bemoans the struggles of grassroot companies like The Vortex, and celebrates their grit. Indeed, community theatre is always dying. Every month, the bills barely get paid. Every month, heavy decisions by the board must be made, where to cut costs, where to invest, how to lipstick the pig of the next production and somehow suspend the disbelief of an audience. In short, community theatre -- the real thing, crafting a universe within four walls -- is flat broke, forever. Always. As far as The Vortex is concerned, they've been promising to pay the rent to the landlord since 1976, and they've somehow, forever, managed to scrape up the money, thanks to a dedicated, unpaid, evolving cast of talent and unwavering support from a local audience that cares about keeping this beast alive.Know this: if you're going to see a show at this theatre, you're purchasing a ticket for passion. I'm doubting I'm wrong about the longevity of the company, but at 40+ years of age it's likely the oldest troupe in town. Thus it's no surprise that the move to a new space a couple years ago was dutifully followed by their fans. The new(ish) black box performance arena suffices, it appears that the seating can switcheroo for theatre in the round or proscenium, the show I caught was Alice in Wonderland, there wasn't a bad seat in the house. But the new space also provides something the old venue couldn't: a waiting area. An audience hangout between acts, for set changes and refreshments (a major source of theatre revenue). Not surprisingly, the 2017 season looks like it's offering some lengthier productions that demand a break in the action, The Iceman Cometh a notable example. I'm liking where this company is headed, and I enjoyed the recent show. Thinking of checking 'em out? Go.

We got out of work late and rushed downtown to catch "Shakespere in the Plaza" we were 6 minutes late.We were told they "held the show as long as they could" with a bit of annoyance. They had open seats, and, after we went back down to the parking garage, paid the parking and came back up, 10 min later they had still not started.Perhaps they do something special that no other production does, that absolutely requires people be exactly on time. Or maybe it's ran by pretentious so-and-so's. Who knows.**note: I was asked about the location. This review was in reference to a production they were putting on down town**

We saw and highly recommend a creative rendition of Alice In Wonderland. A very unique theatre and such an enjoyable experience. Kudos to the director. We are looking forward to spending more date nights here! There were also a lot of children in the crowd who you could tell were having a ball!

The summer plaza performances are great! Local talent is incredible; great productions.

I've been going for years and have always enjoyed the performances. The new location is roomier.

Saw All's Quiet... Very moving. Well done. This was a short play with no intermission. Very intimate. See this before it's gone