GRAND HOTEL
"Two who merit special mention are Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III, as Jimmy 1 and Jimmy 2, who brings the house down with their dancing every time they have a number. And deservedly so." - MD Theatre Guide
"The most memorable characters in Grand Hotel are the bookkeeper, the secretary and two singers known as the “Jimmys” (Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III). For much of the musical, the latter provide comic relief, and their entertaining zingers hold a running commentary about class that resonates today. Coleman and Parker also perform dynamic dance moves, particularly as they lead their own number, “The Grand Charleston.” - The Beacon
"Additionally, I want give shout outs to Lawrence Redmond who is totally convincing as the menacing morphine-addicted Colonel-Doctor Otternschlag, and who acts as the narrator, as well as the fabulous dancing “Jimmys” (Ian Anthony Coleman as Jimmy 1 and Solomon Parker III as Jimmy 2), handsome in their stunning black and white art deco jackets. The production takes on a high sheen when these young men take the stage." - The Zebra
"The two “Jimmy’s” (Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III) are charming as American bellhops and jazz aficionados who lighten the mood with upbeat song and dance numbers and silly lobby antics." - DC Theatre Scene
"A strange bright piece of punctuation is The Two Jimmys (Ian Coleman and Solomon Parker III) in their highly carbonated and infectious song and dance “Maybe My Baby Loves Me.” - Inside Nova
"Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III sparkle in their high-spirited dance numbers." - Talkin' Broadway
"And, not to be understated, is the sensational dancing of the two Jimmys in Act One’s “Maybe My Baby Loves Me” - Whisk & Quill
"Then there’s the choreography by Kelly Crandall D’Amboise, particularly for “Maybe my Baby Loves Me” and “The Grand Charleston,” featuring the two Jimmys (Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III) that alone are worth the price of admission." - Woman Around Town
"Other company members who caught my notice attention are Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III, Gregory Maheu, and Maria Rizzo." - DC Metro Arts
I loved so many of the performances in Grand Hotel, but my favorites were Nkrumah Gatling (Baron Felix von Gaigern), Ian Anthony Coleman & Solomon Parker III (Jimmy 1 and 2), Bobby Smith (Otto Kringelein), and Natascia Diaz (Elizaveta Grushinskaya). - TheHeSaidSheSaidExperience
"...and the two Jimmys from America—one from North Carolina and the other South Carolina. Solomon Parker III and Ian Anthony Coleman’s high-spirited performance of the jazzy number “Maybe My Baby Loves Me” with Elledge is a fun treat." - Fredericksburg.com
"Art Deco patterns dominate the floor, often to be lit up for Broadway numbers of the show such as “Maybe My Baby Loves Me” (danced superbly by Ian Anthony Coleman, Solomon Parker III, and Nicki Elledge)." - Fairfax News
"Jimmy 1 and 2 are played with panache and haughty flair by Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III. Their "Maybe My Baby Loves Me" sizzles." - JK Theatre Scene
THE WILD PARTY
"Black, as a man who is neither conflicted nor inauthentic, is, if not the person we wish we were, then at least the person we wish we knew. Coleman is never anything but that, nor should he ever be, and in addition has about a five-octave voice. When he takes it to bass he gives his voice an authoritative rumble, much in the same way that a bass will anchor a band, or a church organ, hitting the bass notes, adds a patina of gravity to religious services." - DC Theatre Scene
"The alluring lower register sung by Ian Anthony Coleman (Black) pulsated throughout the intimate theater, bringing chills and goosebumps to everyone’s skin." - On Tap Magazine
"Kate has brought Black (Ian Anthony Coleman) with her and he quickly becomes transfixed by Queenie. Poor Child introduces us to Coleman’s smooth vocals and when he drops into his lower register it’s like being wrapped in a warm blanket. The climax of the song, featuring Queenie, Burrs, Kate and Black is perhaps the musical highlight of the whole night" - Theatre To The Point
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER
"Other notable performances include Alex Vernon as Molly’s redoubtable father, Lord Aster; Ian Anthony Coleman as the mercenary Capt. Slank; and Keith Richards as a blithe, weathered, accordion-playing sailor." - The Washington Post
"There were so many wonderful performances. With an ensemble this strong, everybody stood out... Ian Anthony Coleman is a great angry Captain Slank who is actually far scarier than Black Stache." - MD Theatre Guide
DORIANS CLOSET
"Ian Anthony Coleman’s severe and slinky portrayal of Amazing Grace will put you in mind of Grace Jones in her glory days." - DC Theatre Scene
"And steely, statuesque Amazing Grace (Ian Anthony Coleman) is too busy being amazing and, quite simply, Doesn’t. Have. Time. For. Your. Bull. Shit." - Bmore Art
"Amazing Grace (a confident Ian Anthony Coleman), who believes she is the club owner Sal’s (a tough as nails Keith Richards) favorite because of her brains and talent, but “mostly the drag.” - MD Theatre Guide
URINETOWN
"A similar flip occurs with Ian Anthony Coleman, who although he spends far less time as Old Man Strong than he does as Caldwell B. Cladwell, is still distinctively present in both characters. With a robust voice that works exceptionally well, particularly in its lowest range, for numbers like “Don’t Be the Bunny,” there is a sense of fetid villainy burbling inside both Coleman’s voice and posture early on. Swanky and unctuously charismatic, Coleman lends his rich vocal abilities to transitioning the character from one of congealed sleaze to that of a boiling hot bad-guy by the time act two unfolds. Cutting an imposing figure riding astride his ladder tower, Coleman is a pillar of fear and a force to be reckoned with when it comes to keeping the rabble poor in their place." - Theatre Bloom
"Love a good villain or two -- Ian Anthony Coleman, a viable king gliding majestically on his ladder throne, will have you begging him to serenade you. Did I mention this boy can sing? The intensity and delicious vocal control in his rendition of “Don’t Be the Bunny” paired with the superb dancing of the ensemble will make you wish you could DVR the entire experience." - Monumental Blog
"Mr Caldwell (Ian Anthony Coleman), who runs Urine Good Company, is ruthless and slimy. His song, “Don’t Be the Bunny” is fantastically disturbing and, with Dolan’s choreography, also simultaneously hilarious." - DC Metro Theatre Arts
LOOKING FOR ROBERTO CLEMENTE
"Joe is parroted by his second in command, Noah, played by the feisty and hilarious Ian Anthony Coleman and Sam is forced to choose between being a “winner” and his friend." - DC Metro Theatre Arts
"While the stereotypically drawn character of Noah bothered me it didn’t stop me from enjoying Coleman as a performer. In other words, don’t shoot the messenger." - MD Theatre Guide
FATHER COMES HOME FROM THE WARS (PTS 1, 2 & 3)
"As a Greek chorus of plantation slaves, Jefferson A. Russell, Jon Hudson Odom, Stori Ayers and Ian Anthony Coleman are incisive commentators. Blazingly original.. [a] daring, challenging epic [that] ignites the mind!" - The Washington Post
"It all starts with a question: who is Hero? A chorus of his fellow slaves (Jefferson A. Russell, Jon Hudson Odom, Stori Ayers, and Ian Anthony Coleman, altogether excellent) place bets among themselves as to whether he is the kind of person – the kind of slave, the kind of friend, the kind of lover and son and dreamer – to go off with his master to fight in the Civil War, or to stay home." - DC Theatre Scene
"The production of Suzan-Lori Parks’ acclaimed three-part saga now having its regional premiere at Round House Theatre is some of the most amazing storytelling I’ve seen on stage. Amazing on account of the stories themselves, and equally amazing on account of how they are told." - DC Metro Theatre Arts
"While Father Comes Home is arguably Hero’s story, the beating heart of this play lies within the powerful ensemble. The chorus of slaves, played by Jefferson A. Russell, Jon Hudson Odom, Stori Ayers, and Ian Anthony Coleman, often move and speak as one unit, but each actor manages a clear individual identity.. Roundhouse’s production of Father Comes Home from the Wars will demand your attention and you will be glad that it has." - DCist
OLIVER
"Was there anything not to like? Not really. Anyone who is thinking about buying a ticket to a blockbuster musical like Oliver! generally knows what they are looking for: athletic dancing, familiar songs, funny comedic bits and a few tugs at the heart-strings. Arena Stage delivers all of these and a little bit more with its 21st century spruce-up of a 20th century musical based on a 19th century classic novel. Whether you’re looking for a traditional musical to bring your parents to or a more hip musical to bring your kids along, Oliver! is a great bet and is sure to be fun for everyone." - DC Theatre Scene
"As has come to be expected at Arena Stage, the high caliber of acting in Oliver! brought the show to life. Most impressive was how young, yet still professional, some of the actors were. " - MD Theatre Scene
"Molly Smith and her cast and crew can be justly proud of what they’ve created—a production that fully captures the heart and energy of Dickens’s and Bart’s work, while infusing a fresh vitality and passion all its own. No matter how many times you’ve seen Oliver! in the past, you should not miss this version." - DC Metro Theatre Arts
ONCE ON THIS ISLAND
"The object of Ti Moune’s desire, Daniel, is played with endearing earnestness by Anthony, who convincingly conveys a wide range of emotions from curiosity to lust to passion with just his striking dark eyes." - DCMetroTheatreArts
Meet the Cast of ‘Once on This Island’ at Creative Cauldron: Part 2
WILEY & THE HAIRY MAN
"Coleman leads a strong cast as Wiley, capturing the innocence of the character and remaining fluidly engaging for young viewers..If you love a show with creative music, dynamic staging, and a story and cast that will keep your kids (dancing) in their seats, then hurry over to Imagination Stage. It's worth it, and it certainly isn't a trick." - Broadway World, Washington DC
"Ian Anthony Coleman is perfectly cast as the sleepy, reticent Wiley prone to having nightmares about a huge scary Hairy Man who lives in the backwoods.. Coleman plays Wiley with sweet irresistible charm and tender expressions. When he walks through the audience seeking help and advice, we all become his best buds and root for him. He’s got great chemistry with the other characters." - DC Theatre Scene
"I loved everything about this show, from the concept itself (have any children who are afraid of monsters in their closets? This show is for them), to the performances and technical elements. The song-and-dance numbers range from upbeat and exciting (“I’m a Conjuring Man” sung by Coleman, is particularly good) to downright chilling, like the somewhat grave “When the Hairy Man Gets Mad.” - DCMetroTheatreArts
"Ian Anthony Coleman as Wiley is sweet, and watching him grow into a brave young man is charming." - MD Theatre Guide
A FEW GOOD MEN
"Of the supporting players, the declamatory cadences of Ian Anthony Coleman, as the accused Lance Corporal Dawson, strikingly articulates his character's commitment to a strict code of honor." - The Sunday Business Post. Cork, Ireland
THE 27 CLUB
"The most developed dramatic moments come in the sequences following Amy Winehouse because they delve the deepest into her human core. We see 12-year-old Amy (Ian Anthony Coleman), with all the hope in the world ready to make a splash someday on London's West End and later see her crash and burn at a concert (Tina Ghandchilar) and see her dad for the last time (Paige Taylor). This arc is among the most affecting because of the observable transitions." - Broadway World, Washington DC
"Though difficult to discern a standout among the talented cast, Jade Jones’ “Piece of My Heart” sets the small and intimate space ablaze, while Ian Anthony Coleman’s rendition of “Lithium” is as strong as it is disquieting. The ensemble leads the charge with an inspired mashup of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Sympathy for the Devil,” and all work together to bring the piece to its \moving conclusion with “Mercedes Benz” and John Craige’s “28.” Knowing when to raise the stakes or pump the brakes, Agan and Null have created a rhythmically conscious and invigorating musical experience." - DC Theatre Scene
"The songs, as is necessary, are incredible. From Taylor standing on a box belting “Smells Like Teen Spirit” until the whole house was screaming to Coleman lurching onstage as Hendrix and then absolutely killing “Fire,” the whole piece had the feel of a rock concert with the vocal quality to match." - DCMetroTheatreArts - Named Best Of Capital Fringe
"Other tearing the roof off the place performances include the always energetic and intense Tina Ghandchilar with another Janis Joplin classic called “Mercedes Benz” and a lovely solo feature called “What is it About Men” made famous by Amy Winehouse. Then there is Kurt Boehm’s superb feature “Peace Frog” by The Doors and “Lithium” made famous by Kurt Cobain and performed beautifully by Ian Anthony Coleman." - MD Theatre Guide
HAIR
"These two are the show’s tentpoles, but they get great vocal and physical backup from Ian Anthony Coleman as Hud, who heartily blasts through African American stereotypes in “Colored Spade” and “Abie Baby." - Washington Post
"By turns they each belt out a solo or more, and all sing gorgeous backup like the sustaining support system everyone longs for. Every moment onstage, they seem to genuinely enjoy one another, and their spirited mutual admiration is irresistible." - DCMetroTheatreArts
"KEEGAN THEATRE'S CURRENT PRODUCTION OF HAIR also features an acting champion -- specifically the entire ensemble cast of 20-something actors. Surely, many of the 22 singing actors just starting their careers here will become champions" - Metro Weekly
Hair Apparent - Metro Weekly Feature Story
URINETOWN
"Among other cast members, Ian A. Coleman stands out as the mincing Mr. McQueen, Cladwell’s assistant, in a noticeably different take on a role that can sometimes fade into the background." - ShowBizRadio
"Another who drew lots of laughs whenever he pranced (he did) on stage was Ian A. Coleman, McQueen, a dashing assistant, among one of his roles. Several actors shouldered multiple parts. More applause." - Washington Speaks
PARADE
"The most versatile performer in the show is Ian Coleman, taking on three different characters with major songs and making them uniquely distinguished from one another. Coleman starts the show as Newt Lee, the night watchman — giving a spine-tingling rendition of “I Am Trying to Remember,” filling this number with the essence of an eerie soul creeping out the truth from amidst the shrouds of mystery that surround the murder. He later takes on the role of Jim, a much more flavorful and bumptious character that intends to make his version of the truth known. Coleman’s soulful voice duets well with Eben Logan, playing Minnie/Angela, during “A Rumblin’ and a Rollin’.” - DCMetroTheatreArts
"Also memorable is the colorful and animated Ian Coleman. As Newt Lee, an African-American caught in the crossfire of Leo Frank’s salacious murder trial, Coleman is energetic and committed. In “I Am Trying to Remember” he is smooth, bluesy and poetic as if performing at an intimate jazz lounge. However, his duet with Eben Logan in “A Rumblin’ and a Rollin’” is a better showcase of his emotional range and depth. Together he and Logan adeptly divulge the Black perspective of the turn of events." - MD Theatre Guide
"Having the task of representing the African-American element in the story are Ian Coleman and Eben Logan. Coleman is triple cast as Newt Lee, the watchman who discovers Mary Phagan’s body; Jim Conley, another worker who is coerced into lying to incriminate Frank; and Riley, a generic servant. Coleman’s Lee and Conley characters are not as clearly differentiated as one might wish, though their musical numbers (“I Am Trying to Remember” and “That’s What He Said,” respectively) are well delivered." - ShowBizRadio
"And yet the full cast is in fine voice for the opening and closing anthem “The Old Red Hills of Home.” And the show is dotted with strong supporting roles: Catherine Callahan as a flirtatious Mary Phagen, Ian Coleman as the suspicious Jim Conley, and Patrick McMahan as the Governor trying to do the right thing in a very tough situation. " - MoCoVox
THE WIZ
"Tinman, aka Ian Coleman, not only sings the blues with “If I Could Feel,” but gives a performance to rival that of Marcel Marceau. From metal-locked to lean and limber, he comes alive in “Slide Some Oil to Me,” and that’s no mime." - Montgomery Mag
"He takes us down the yellow brick road only to meet up with the Tinman (Ian A. Coleman) who’s in-need-of-Rustoleum costume and quirky/jerky dance moves make you think you are really looking at a man made out of tin. “If I Could Feel” is sung with such passionate appeal that you realize right then and there that Tinman already had the heart he so desperately desired." - DCMetroArts
LES MISERABLES
"Opposite Felton is Ian Coleman as Javert. He is an intelligent young actor, with the talent to steal scenes from a professional actor. His voice fills the space with the gravity of a seasoned performer, and you saw and heard this in his performance of ‘Stars.’ There is a bright future in store for him as a performer." - DCMetroArts
"Two who merit special mention are Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III, as Jimmy 1 and Jimmy 2, who brings the house down with their dancing every time they have a number. And deservedly so." - MD Theatre Guide
"The most memorable characters in Grand Hotel are the bookkeeper, the secretary and two singers known as the “Jimmys” (Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III). For much of the musical, the latter provide comic relief, and their entertaining zingers hold a running commentary about class that resonates today. Coleman and Parker also perform dynamic dance moves, particularly as they lead their own number, “The Grand Charleston.” - The Beacon
"Additionally, I want give shout outs to Lawrence Redmond who is totally convincing as the menacing morphine-addicted Colonel-Doctor Otternschlag, and who acts as the narrator, as well as the fabulous dancing “Jimmys” (Ian Anthony Coleman as Jimmy 1 and Solomon Parker III as Jimmy 2), handsome in their stunning black and white art deco jackets. The production takes on a high sheen when these young men take the stage." - The Zebra
"The two “Jimmy’s” (Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III) are charming as American bellhops and jazz aficionados who lighten the mood with upbeat song and dance numbers and silly lobby antics." - DC Theatre Scene
"A strange bright piece of punctuation is The Two Jimmys (Ian Coleman and Solomon Parker III) in their highly carbonated and infectious song and dance “Maybe My Baby Loves Me.” - Inside Nova
"Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III sparkle in their high-spirited dance numbers." - Talkin' Broadway
"And, not to be understated, is the sensational dancing of the two Jimmys in Act One’s “Maybe My Baby Loves Me” - Whisk & Quill
"Then there’s the choreography by Kelly Crandall D’Amboise, particularly for “Maybe my Baby Loves Me” and “The Grand Charleston,” featuring the two Jimmys (Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III) that alone are worth the price of admission." - Woman Around Town
"Other company members who caught my notice attention are Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III, Gregory Maheu, and Maria Rizzo." - DC Metro Arts
I loved so many of the performances in Grand Hotel, but my favorites were Nkrumah Gatling (Baron Felix von Gaigern), Ian Anthony Coleman & Solomon Parker III (Jimmy 1 and 2), Bobby Smith (Otto Kringelein), and Natascia Diaz (Elizaveta Grushinskaya). - TheHeSaidSheSaidExperience
"...and the two Jimmys from America—one from North Carolina and the other South Carolina. Solomon Parker III and Ian Anthony Coleman’s high-spirited performance of the jazzy number “Maybe My Baby Loves Me” with Elledge is a fun treat." - Fredericksburg.com
"Art Deco patterns dominate the floor, often to be lit up for Broadway numbers of the show such as “Maybe My Baby Loves Me” (danced superbly by Ian Anthony Coleman, Solomon Parker III, and Nicki Elledge)." - Fairfax News
"Jimmy 1 and 2 are played with panache and haughty flair by Ian Anthony Coleman and Solomon Parker III. Their "Maybe My Baby Loves Me" sizzles." - JK Theatre Scene
THE WILD PARTY
"Black, as a man who is neither conflicted nor inauthentic, is, if not the person we wish we were, then at least the person we wish we knew. Coleman is never anything but that, nor should he ever be, and in addition has about a five-octave voice. When he takes it to bass he gives his voice an authoritative rumble, much in the same way that a bass will anchor a band, or a church organ, hitting the bass notes, adds a patina of gravity to religious services." - DC Theatre Scene
"The alluring lower register sung by Ian Anthony Coleman (Black) pulsated throughout the intimate theater, bringing chills and goosebumps to everyone’s skin." - On Tap Magazine
"Kate has brought Black (Ian Anthony Coleman) with her and he quickly becomes transfixed by Queenie. Poor Child introduces us to Coleman’s smooth vocals and when he drops into his lower register it’s like being wrapped in a warm blanket. The climax of the song, featuring Queenie, Burrs, Kate and Black is perhaps the musical highlight of the whole night" - Theatre To The Point
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER
"Other notable performances include Alex Vernon as Molly’s redoubtable father, Lord Aster; Ian Anthony Coleman as the mercenary Capt. Slank; and Keith Richards as a blithe, weathered, accordion-playing sailor." - The Washington Post
"There were so many wonderful performances. With an ensemble this strong, everybody stood out... Ian Anthony Coleman is a great angry Captain Slank who is actually far scarier than Black Stache." - MD Theatre Guide
DORIANS CLOSET
"Ian Anthony Coleman’s severe and slinky portrayal of Amazing Grace will put you in mind of Grace Jones in her glory days." - DC Theatre Scene
"And steely, statuesque Amazing Grace (Ian Anthony Coleman) is too busy being amazing and, quite simply, Doesn’t. Have. Time. For. Your. Bull. Shit." - Bmore Art
"Amazing Grace (a confident Ian Anthony Coleman), who believes she is the club owner Sal’s (a tough as nails Keith Richards) favorite because of her brains and talent, but “mostly the drag.” - MD Theatre Guide
URINETOWN
"A similar flip occurs with Ian Anthony Coleman, who although he spends far less time as Old Man Strong than he does as Caldwell B. Cladwell, is still distinctively present in both characters. With a robust voice that works exceptionally well, particularly in its lowest range, for numbers like “Don’t Be the Bunny,” there is a sense of fetid villainy burbling inside both Coleman’s voice and posture early on. Swanky and unctuously charismatic, Coleman lends his rich vocal abilities to transitioning the character from one of congealed sleaze to that of a boiling hot bad-guy by the time act two unfolds. Cutting an imposing figure riding astride his ladder tower, Coleman is a pillar of fear and a force to be reckoned with when it comes to keeping the rabble poor in their place." - Theatre Bloom
"Love a good villain or two -- Ian Anthony Coleman, a viable king gliding majestically on his ladder throne, will have you begging him to serenade you. Did I mention this boy can sing? The intensity and delicious vocal control in his rendition of “Don’t Be the Bunny” paired with the superb dancing of the ensemble will make you wish you could DVR the entire experience." - Monumental Blog
"Mr Caldwell (Ian Anthony Coleman), who runs Urine Good Company, is ruthless and slimy. His song, “Don’t Be the Bunny” is fantastically disturbing and, with Dolan’s choreography, also simultaneously hilarious." - DC Metro Theatre Arts
LOOKING FOR ROBERTO CLEMENTE
"Joe is parroted by his second in command, Noah, played by the feisty and hilarious Ian Anthony Coleman and Sam is forced to choose between being a “winner” and his friend." - DC Metro Theatre Arts
"While the stereotypically drawn character of Noah bothered me it didn’t stop me from enjoying Coleman as a performer. In other words, don’t shoot the messenger." - MD Theatre Guide
FATHER COMES HOME FROM THE WARS (PTS 1, 2 & 3)
"As a Greek chorus of plantation slaves, Jefferson A. Russell, Jon Hudson Odom, Stori Ayers and Ian Anthony Coleman are incisive commentators. Blazingly original.. [a] daring, challenging epic [that] ignites the mind!" - The Washington Post
"It all starts with a question: who is Hero? A chorus of his fellow slaves (Jefferson A. Russell, Jon Hudson Odom, Stori Ayers, and Ian Anthony Coleman, altogether excellent) place bets among themselves as to whether he is the kind of person – the kind of slave, the kind of friend, the kind of lover and son and dreamer – to go off with his master to fight in the Civil War, or to stay home." - DC Theatre Scene
"The production of Suzan-Lori Parks’ acclaimed three-part saga now having its regional premiere at Round House Theatre is some of the most amazing storytelling I’ve seen on stage. Amazing on account of the stories themselves, and equally amazing on account of how they are told." - DC Metro Theatre Arts
"While Father Comes Home is arguably Hero’s story, the beating heart of this play lies within the powerful ensemble. The chorus of slaves, played by Jefferson A. Russell, Jon Hudson Odom, Stori Ayers, and Ian Anthony Coleman, often move and speak as one unit, but each actor manages a clear individual identity.. Roundhouse’s production of Father Comes Home from the Wars will demand your attention and you will be glad that it has." - DCist
OLIVER
"Was there anything not to like? Not really. Anyone who is thinking about buying a ticket to a blockbuster musical like Oliver! generally knows what they are looking for: athletic dancing, familiar songs, funny comedic bits and a few tugs at the heart-strings. Arena Stage delivers all of these and a little bit more with its 21st century spruce-up of a 20th century musical based on a 19th century classic novel. Whether you’re looking for a traditional musical to bring your parents to or a more hip musical to bring your kids along, Oliver! is a great bet and is sure to be fun for everyone." - DC Theatre Scene
"As has come to be expected at Arena Stage, the high caliber of acting in Oliver! brought the show to life. Most impressive was how young, yet still professional, some of the actors were. " - MD Theatre Scene
"Molly Smith and her cast and crew can be justly proud of what they’ve created—a production that fully captures the heart and energy of Dickens’s and Bart’s work, while infusing a fresh vitality and passion all its own. No matter how many times you’ve seen Oliver! in the past, you should not miss this version." - DC Metro Theatre Arts
ONCE ON THIS ISLAND
"The object of Ti Moune’s desire, Daniel, is played with endearing earnestness by Anthony, who convincingly conveys a wide range of emotions from curiosity to lust to passion with just his striking dark eyes." - DCMetroTheatreArts
Meet the Cast of ‘Once on This Island’ at Creative Cauldron: Part 2
WILEY & THE HAIRY MAN
"Coleman leads a strong cast as Wiley, capturing the innocence of the character and remaining fluidly engaging for young viewers..If you love a show with creative music, dynamic staging, and a story and cast that will keep your kids (dancing) in their seats, then hurry over to Imagination Stage. It's worth it, and it certainly isn't a trick." - Broadway World, Washington DC
"Ian Anthony Coleman is perfectly cast as the sleepy, reticent Wiley prone to having nightmares about a huge scary Hairy Man who lives in the backwoods.. Coleman plays Wiley with sweet irresistible charm and tender expressions. When he walks through the audience seeking help and advice, we all become his best buds and root for him. He’s got great chemistry with the other characters." - DC Theatre Scene
"I loved everything about this show, from the concept itself (have any children who are afraid of monsters in their closets? This show is for them), to the performances and technical elements. The song-and-dance numbers range from upbeat and exciting (“I’m a Conjuring Man” sung by Coleman, is particularly good) to downright chilling, like the somewhat grave “When the Hairy Man Gets Mad.” - DCMetroTheatreArts
"Ian Anthony Coleman as Wiley is sweet, and watching him grow into a brave young man is charming." - MD Theatre Guide
A FEW GOOD MEN
"Of the supporting players, the declamatory cadences of Ian Anthony Coleman, as the accused Lance Corporal Dawson, strikingly articulates his character's commitment to a strict code of honor." - The Sunday Business Post. Cork, Ireland
THE 27 CLUB
"The most developed dramatic moments come in the sequences following Amy Winehouse because they delve the deepest into her human core. We see 12-year-old Amy (Ian Anthony Coleman), with all the hope in the world ready to make a splash someday on London's West End and later see her crash and burn at a concert (Tina Ghandchilar) and see her dad for the last time (Paige Taylor). This arc is among the most affecting because of the observable transitions." - Broadway World, Washington DC
"Though difficult to discern a standout among the talented cast, Jade Jones’ “Piece of My Heart” sets the small and intimate space ablaze, while Ian Anthony Coleman’s rendition of “Lithium” is as strong as it is disquieting. The ensemble leads the charge with an inspired mashup of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Sympathy for the Devil,” and all work together to bring the piece to its \moving conclusion with “Mercedes Benz” and John Craige’s “28.” Knowing when to raise the stakes or pump the brakes, Agan and Null have created a rhythmically conscious and invigorating musical experience." - DC Theatre Scene
"The songs, as is necessary, are incredible. From Taylor standing on a box belting “Smells Like Teen Spirit” until the whole house was screaming to Coleman lurching onstage as Hendrix and then absolutely killing “Fire,” the whole piece had the feel of a rock concert with the vocal quality to match." - DCMetroTheatreArts - Named Best Of Capital Fringe
"Other tearing the roof off the place performances include the always energetic and intense Tina Ghandchilar with another Janis Joplin classic called “Mercedes Benz” and a lovely solo feature called “What is it About Men” made famous by Amy Winehouse. Then there is Kurt Boehm’s superb feature “Peace Frog” by The Doors and “Lithium” made famous by Kurt Cobain and performed beautifully by Ian Anthony Coleman." - MD Theatre Guide
HAIR
"These two are the show’s tentpoles, but they get great vocal and physical backup from Ian Anthony Coleman as Hud, who heartily blasts through African American stereotypes in “Colored Spade” and “Abie Baby." - Washington Post
"By turns they each belt out a solo or more, and all sing gorgeous backup like the sustaining support system everyone longs for. Every moment onstage, they seem to genuinely enjoy one another, and their spirited mutual admiration is irresistible." - DCMetroTheatreArts
"KEEGAN THEATRE'S CURRENT PRODUCTION OF HAIR also features an acting champion -- specifically the entire ensemble cast of 20-something actors. Surely, many of the 22 singing actors just starting their careers here will become champions" - Metro Weekly
Hair Apparent - Metro Weekly Feature Story
URINETOWN
"Among other cast members, Ian A. Coleman stands out as the mincing Mr. McQueen, Cladwell’s assistant, in a noticeably different take on a role that can sometimes fade into the background." - ShowBizRadio
"Another who drew lots of laughs whenever he pranced (he did) on stage was Ian A. Coleman, McQueen, a dashing assistant, among one of his roles. Several actors shouldered multiple parts. More applause." - Washington Speaks
PARADE
"The most versatile performer in the show is Ian Coleman, taking on three different characters with major songs and making them uniquely distinguished from one another. Coleman starts the show as Newt Lee, the night watchman — giving a spine-tingling rendition of “I Am Trying to Remember,” filling this number with the essence of an eerie soul creeping out the truth from amidst the shrouds of mystery that surround the murder. He later takes on the role of Jim, a much more flavorful and bumptious character that intends to make his version of the truth known. Coleman’s soulful voice duets well with Eben Logan, playing Minnie/Angela, during “A Rumblin’ and a Rollin’.” - DCMetroTheatreArts
"Also memorable is the colorful and animated Ian Coleman. As Newt Lee, an African-American caught in the crossfire of Leo Frank’s salacious murder trial, Coleman is energetic and committed. In “I Am Trying to Remember” he is smooth, bluesy and poetic as if performing at an intimate jazz lounge. However, his duet with Eben Logan in “A Rumblin’ and a Rollin’” is a better showcase of his emotional range and depth. Together he and Logan adeptly divulge the Black perspective of the turn of events." - MD Theatre Guide
"Having the task of representing the African-American element in the story are Ian Coleman and Eben Logan. Coleman is triple cast as Newt Lee, the watchman who discovers Mary Phagan’s body; Jim Conley, another worker who is coerced into lying to incriminate Frank; and Riley, a generic servant. Coleman’s Lee and Conley characters are not as clearly differentiated as one might wish, though their musical numbers (“I Am Trying to Remember” and “That’s What He Said,” respectively) are well delivered." - ShowBizRadio
"And yet the full cast is in fine voice for the opening and closing anthem “The Old Red Hills of Home.” And the show is dotted with strong supporting roles: Catherine Callahan as a flirtatious Mary Phagen, Ian Coleman as the suspicious Jim Conley, and Patrick McMahan as the Governor trying to do the right thing in a very tough situation. " - MoCoVox
THE WIZ
"Tinman, aka Ian Coleman, not only sings the blues with “If I Could Feel,” but gives a performance to rival that of Marcel Marceau. From metal-locked to lean and limber, he comes alive in “Slide Some Oil to Me,” and that’s no mime." - Montgomery Mag
"He takes us down the yellow brick road only to meet up with the Tinman (Ian A. Coleman) who’s in-need-of-Rustoleum costume and quirky/jerky dance moves make you think you are really looking at a man made out of tin. “If I Could Feel” is sung with such passionate appeal that you realize right then and there that Tinman already had the heart he so desperately desired." - DCMetroArts
LES MISERABLES
"Opposite Felton is Ian Coleman as Javert. He is an intelligent young actor, with the talent to steal scenes from a professional actor. His voice fills the space with the gravity of a seasoned performer, and you saw and heard this in his performance of ‘Stars.’ There is a bright future in store for him as a performer." - DCMetroArts
