My primary goal as a theater reviewer is to write an honest critique of a play that promotes interest in the production and/or theater company, and prompts conversation about the play's core themes. My approach is respectful, compassionate, and constructive. I try to be insightful and look for nuance. I do not believe in tearing down artists. I see theater critics as a bridge between artists and their potential audience. I want to encourage engagement between theater makers and theater goers. I want you to love theater as much as I do.

I have been reviewing plays for the Theater Mirror since 2019. Below is a catalog of those reviews. You may also find my reviews on Instagram: @ReviewsByJulie

Julie-Anne Whitney 10/12/25 Julie-Anne Whitney 10/12/25

Manual Cinema Brings Playful Puppetry to Wheelock Family Theatre

The versatile four-person cast is responsible for animating hundreds of illustrated paper puppets, dozens of two-dimensional props, and several hand puppets.

Julie-Anne Whitney 3/3/20 Julie-Anne Whitney 3/3/20

A Magical Theatrical Experience with Arlekin’s ‘The Fisherman and the Fish’

Ibragimov’s staging is inventive, lively, and joyful. He makes the puppets fly, he makes them dance, he makes them cry, he makes them real.

Julie-Anne Whitney 2/12/20 Julie-Anne Whitney 2/12/20

Imaginary Beasts Offers Fanciful Family Fun with ‘Hansel & Gretel’ Panto

Imaginary Beasts’ winter panto, Hansel & Gretel, loosely follows the German fairy tale with a few amusing alterations.