Top 10 Most Memorable Locally Produced Live Performance Offerings That I Chanced to See in 2006 (A Hierarchical List)

1) American Fiesta (State Theatre Company) Steven Tomlinson's theatrical ode to cookware and relationships was hands down the best production I saw last year. Directed by Christina J. Moore.

2) The Nutcracker (Ballet Austin) This traditional Christmas production of Tchaikovsky's ballet about a child's Christmas fantasy was brought to breathtaking life. Choreographed by Stephen Mills.

3) Static (Salvage Vanguard Theater) Brent Werzner's solo performance and a spooky technical design stood out in this play produced entirely in an actual hotel room. Directed by Jason Neulander.

4) Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Zilker Theatre Productions) With Robin Lewis' never-say-die choreography, the best Zilker Summer Musical I've seen in 10 years. Directed by Ginger Morris and Lewis.

5) The Intergalactic Nemesis: Twin Infinity (Salvage Vanguard Theater) The most pure fun I had in one place all year was at this live radio play. Directed by Jason Neulander.

6) The Rocky Horror Show (Zachary Scott Theatre Center) Songs for rock musicals don't get much better than this, and Joe York out-Curried Tim Curry as Frank N. Furter. Directed by Dave Steakley.

7) Dance Carousel (Spank Dance Company) Ten choreographers did four original dances that lasted one minute each, and the results were mysterious and delightful. Conceived by Ellen Bartel.

8) Not Clown (Physical Plant Theatre) When this evil clown story worked, which was often, it was stunning in both its clarity and its theatricality. Directed by Carlos Treviño.

9) In On It (dirigo group) Every once in a while, if you're lucky, you're struck speechless experiencing a moment when art and life become one. This production had just such a moment. Directed by Lowell Bartholomee.

10) Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh! (Theater at the J) A low-budget musical that was unabashedly, lovingly true to its origins and sung expertly by an ensemble of five. Directed by K.C. Gussler.