I am now using star ratings in my theater reviews.

A Guide:

Four stars is the highest rating. It signifies excellence in the writing, acting, and directing, as well as technical aspects of the production, such as set design, costumes, sound, lighting, etc.

Three stars means a production is good, not great. The quality of the acting, writing, etc. are all satisfactory.

Two stars means fair. There might be good performances but the script may have weaknesses.

One star is the lowest rating. Subpar performances, a weak script, or technical deficiencies are to blame.

Sometimes, a great performance can be found in a bad show. There can be a great performance in a mediocre show as well.

Shows I have seen this year that I have awarded four stars: “A Doll’s House”, “The Getaway Driver”, “Titanic,” “Talk Radio,” “Clyde’s,” “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” “Primary Trust”, “Girl from the North Country,” and “Ghosts.”

An extra half-star is awarded when I’m divided on a particular rating. I gave “Wonder of the World” two and a half stars for this purpose. A one and half star rating can be for a show which is generally poor but has a redeeming quality.

Clyde’s – Burbage Theatre Company.