Congratulations to the Paramount Theatre, their musicals just keep getting better and better. “The Music Man” is another Broadway caliber show. “The Music Man” is a definite must-see and I give it four Spotlights.

The press release used words like poignant, daring and provocative to describe a new one-man-show, “Side Effects May Include …” In fact, I would use all those words plus insightful, true-to-life, optimistic, factual, informative, gripping, and really, really funny. In short, I highly recommend “Side Effects May Include …”

Back in the 70’s, I received an invitation which read something like this … You and a guest are invited to be in the audience at the taping of a television program. In a fun twist, you are invited to join the audience at the Broadway Playhouse where they will be filming two episodes of “I Love Lucy.”

Love, loyalty and friendship are taxed to the max in Steppenwolf’s new production, “The Mother F**ker with the Hat.” Don’t let the language put you off this play, it’s very, very good.

An interesting new play set during World War II, “Allotment Annie” had its premiere at InFusion Theatre Company the other day. Although the first act is way too long (I saw a few people zoning out in the audience), it does end with a big bang. With a tighter script, I think “Allotment Annie” could be a real grabber!

There is no doubt about it, “Book of Mormon” is one of the funniest plays I’ve seen in years – but definitely for adults only. “Book of Mormon” hadn’t even opened when some ministers were objecting to the off-color and/or offensive content. Bawdy content aside, “Book of Mormon,” written by Trey Parker and Robin Lopez, the duo responsible for TV hit “South Park,” is a Broadway blockbuster musical, complete with a talented cast, sparkly costumes, snappy choreography, even a tap-dancing chorus line!

I am in awe! Although the premise of the story is kind of weak, “WarHorse” is still an amazing drama. If for no other reason (like your reviewer’s recommendation), you have to see the horses!

If you’re tired of all the shopping and hall-decking going on this week, take a little time off for fun. Fine Print Theatre Company’s “Christmas in Chicago,” a holiday satire, is waiting for you. I’m not sure what “Christmas in Chicago” is exactly. I guess I’d call it a political satire/sketch comedy/musical revue set to holiday music. Whatever you label it, it was fun!