Ray Hollister
With a career beginning in 1997 on the stage as Stewpot in South Pacific in the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts summer musical, Ray Hollister has since evolved into a luminary of the local theatre scene. At the helm of JaxPlays as its creator and executive director, Ray is dedicated to enriching Jacksonville’s cultural landscape through preserving the past, promoting the present and propelling the future of live theatre in Jacksonville, Florida, and its surrounding areas. Ray is also a proud member of the American Theatre Critics/Journalists Association, further cementing his dedication to the art form and its critical examination.
Theatre reviews and articles by Ray Hollister
The 5 & Dime's 'Tick, Tick... Boom!' – An Intimate Masterpiece Capturing the Essence of the Artistic Struggle
In a beautifully intimate and vulnerable display that strikes a chord with the creative soul, The 5 & Dime’s rendition of Tick, Tick… Boom! at The Florida Ballet weaves ambition, ingenuity and a hint of despair into a rich tapestry of performance. From Jonathan Larson, the acclaimed composer and playwright best known for his groundbreaking musical Rent, this semi-autobiographical work springs to life with vibrant performances and inspired direction.
A Roof-Raising Performance: Alhambra Theatre & Dining's 'Fiddler on the Roof'
Any review of a show at The Alhambra Theatre & Dining must begin with a review of the food, because every dining experience is expertly paired to the production, and Fiddler on the Roof is no exception.
The dining experience at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining’s production of Fiddler on the Roof sets the stage for a delightful evening. The lentil and vegetable soup comforts you with its warmth and richness, while the salad offers a refreshing contrast, being cool, bright, and tangy.
Dangerous Love: 'Murder Ballad' Takes Center Stage at ABET
Murder Ballad, staged by ABET - All Beaches Experimental Theatre, delves into the tangled web of a love triangle between Sara, her husband Michael, and her old flame, Tom. Sara’s journey from reckless youth to the security of married life, and then back to the excitement of rekindled romance, leads to the unraveling of personal boundaries and morals. As the story unfolds, Tom’s relentless pursuit of Sara, coupled with her confusion of love and obsession, leads them into a dangerous dance filled with passion, betrayal, and ultimately, murder.
Behind the Curtains: Unveiling the Unseen Impact of Live Theatre in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida
'No Exit' - A Mystery Box You Can't Escape
No Exit, an adaptation of Jean-Paul Sartre’s Huis clos, by Lumen Repertory Theatre, is a disconcerting mystery box that traps you in its intrigue. This remarkable performance beckons you to delve into the human mind’s darkest corners as three newly departed souls are abruptly gathered in a solitary room.
'The Savannah Sipping Society': A Toast to Sisterhood and Laughter at St. Marys Little Theatre
This weekend, the St. Marys Little Theatre came alive with the vibrant performance of The Savannah Sipping Society. The play, a heartwarming comedy, revolves around four Southern women who, through unexpected circumstances, form a bond that transcends their individual struggles and differences.
Latest News
Hey folks,
Ray Hollister here, lead editor and developer of JaxPlays.
I started JaxPlays on January 9, 2020. Perhaps not the best timing. 🤷🏻♂️
Needless to say, things did not go as we expected for local, live theatre that year or the next.