***** Recommended I really enjoyed the Goodman Theatre’s production of Ashland Avenue written by Lee Kirk, a comedy filled with family angst. Kevin Depinet’s amazing set is part of the fun. How many TV sets can you count? And then there’s the cardboard cutout. The story wasn’t that original but it worked. It’s a little on the long side, however. 3 ½ Spotlights
Ashland Avenue stars one of my favorite Chicago actors, Francis Guinan, as Pete, a TV store owner famous for his commercials and customer care. As I watched, I was reminded of someone from northwest Indiana – Fred Halpern, the owner of Albert’s Diamond Jewelry. He really was famous for his commercials – which he always ended by saying “See you at Albert’s.” Fred’s son Josh runs the store today, but if his health were better, Fred would be on the sales floor today.
Pete used to have stores all over Chicago, but times are tough, and he’d down to just one location, Ashland Avenue, and even that store is struggling. People today just don’t stop at a neighborhood store to buy a television. Due to his long history in the city, Pete’s about to get an award from the city which he thinks will improve business.
No matter how hard Pete pushes, he can’t get his daughter, Sam (Jenna Fischer), to commit to taking over the store. And yes, that is Pam Beesly from The Office! Even though she pretty much grew up in the store, Sam doesn’t want to sell TVs, she wants to write a book. Her husband, Mike (Chiké Johnson), is a graphic designer but he hopes for more. They’re moving to California but Pete refuses to believe them, but they’re so serious they’re in escrow for a condo.
While Pete is trying to write a speech, a young woman, Jess (Cordelia Dewdney) hurries into the store looking for someone. Pete drops his speechwriting to sit with Jess and learn her story. He shows great compassion to her and later to a young man (Will Allen) who stumbles into the store in a fog.
The world premiere of Ashland Avenue has been extended through October 19th in the Albert Theatre, Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn, Chicago. Most reasonable parking option for the Goodman is the Government Center garage (entrance on Lake Street between LaSalle and Dearborn), online advance payment at www.interparkonline.com/goodmantheatre.
Running time is about two hours, 30 minutes, with an intermission. Performances are Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 pm; Wednesdays & Saturdays at 2:00 & 7:30 pm; and Sundays at 2:00 pm. Tickets range from $44-$159. FYI (312) 443-3800 or www.goodmantheatre.org.