PURE ENTERTAINMENT
The Three Musketeers
We had almost front row seats for the Asolo Theatre’s action-packed performance of Ken Ludwig’s The Three Musketeers. The early 17th century was the era of duels and only the slightest of slights could result in being called out. Thus, there’s plenty of slashing and smashing of swords, leaping, and jumping about, and even the occasional fisticuffs. This adaptation of Alexander Dumas’ work re-envisions and strengthens the role of women, especially Sabine. This Sabine, D’Artagnan’s sister, is herself an accomplished swordswoman and won’t surrender to just attending a convent school. She’s in there with the guys.
King Louis is ineffectual, his queen is clever, and arch enemy Cardinal Richelieu is conniving, while the musketeers, along with the exuberant D’Artagnan, are ever ready to defend and serve. It’s rollicking, fun, and even funny! Performances run through March 26.
MURDER IN THE AGE OF FREUD
Vienna Blood (Prime Video, 3 seasons)
In 1906, the work of Sigmund Freud was the subject of debate and controversy in the Viennese medical world. Young doctor Max Lieberman, a disciple of Freud, applies his theories and analyses to his patients and then to coming up with psychological profiles of murder suspects. Shadowing a very reluctant detective Inspector Oskar Rheinhardt, Max’s insights help solve a case, and the two become “partners in crime.” The murder scenes are graphic and even gruesome, and the crimes often revolve around religion, art, or the occult.
Over the course of three seasons, the relationship between Max and Oskar evolves from strictly professional to comrades to a genuine friendship. The title refers not only to the victims’ blood, but also to Viennese high society. Great attention is paid to, and great concern is evinced about one’s standing and one’s reputation in the community.
It took me a few episodes in Season 1 to become immersed in the series, but once I did, the Chief Penguin and I made it our focused viewing every evening. I also enjoyed seeing the evolution of Clara Weiss, Max’s former fiancée, from society belle to emerging career woman. Recommended!
DINING OUT—STEAK & MORE
Modern Chop
Modern Chop is a welcome addition to the west Bradenton dining scene. Located close to Blake Hospital, it bills itself as a steakhouse, but it’s much more. Yes, several cuts of beef are on offer, but also seafood, pasta, and vegetarian dishes.
The bar area was lively with lights and sound when we entered, initially giving me pause, but the hostess then led us to a slightly removed space with nicely spaced tables, large comfortable chairs, and quiet.
Our waiter was pleasant, and our foursome enjoyed everything we ordered. We shared an appetizer of fried calamari which was excellent, and then individually we sampled the impressive short rib with truffled potatoes and carrots, almond crusted rainbow trout with Béarnaise sauce, and bucatini with chicken in a gorgonzola sauce. It was an experience well worth repeating!
Note: Header photo of Manatee County Map courtesy of whereig.com. Unattributed photos ©JWFarrington (some rights reserved.)
