** Somewhat Recommended ** I was really disappointed in “August Rush: The Musical”, the new production at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Although the music was gorgeous, the story was curiously unfinished and confusing. It wasn’t a big, showy, ‘ready-for-Broadway’ premiere, it was more like the first workshop of a new musical. The cast made the most of what they had, so I give “August Rush: The Musical” 2 ½ Spotlights.
Highly Recommended **** One thing is for sure! When you go to a theatrical production at Timeline Theatre, not only will you be entertained, you will be educated! In their lobby, they always feature items and stories that help with the education portion of the evening ( or afternoon, for a matinée), but it is onstage where they shine. They are currently offering a Chicago “premiere”, a drama that goes back to the 1960’s and the Civil Rights movement. For many in the audience tonight, a time we lived through and for the younger audience members, a “message” in history that they may not have known about.
***RECOMMENDED*** There are certain drinking establishments that have a signature cocktail or are known for specializing in a specific type of alcoholic beverage. Upside-down margaritas in a barber's chair, anyone? Ray's, the Chicago tavern that is the setting of Leonard House's new play "One 4 the Road" and produced by MPAACT has one such tradition. Here, at this Southside bar, any patron who can stomach more than one shot of Malört, the extremely bitter liquor produced by Chicago's very own Carl Jeppson Company, gets to have their name proudly etched upon the wall of fame. 3 SPOTLIGHTS
**** Recommended **** “Chicago” is one of my absolute favorite musicals. I think I’d go almost anywhere to see it, so I was delighted that the tour came back to Chicago, this time starring former NFL star, Eddie George. I’m happy to say it did not disappoint – the music is sexy and jazz-y, the dancing is sexy and very ‘Fosse’, and the voices are gorgeous! 4 Spotlights.
**** Recommended **** When I saw “Matilda The Musical” the first time, I didn’t understand what all the buzz had been about. Child abuse as comedy just didn’t work for me. Since I really didn’t like touring “Matilda”, I couldn’t imagine a way I’d like Drury Lane’s production, but they proved me wrong. While it was still really, really mean, Mitch Sebastian’s vision was surprisingly funny and even kind of endearing – in an off-the-wall way! His choreography was spectacular, too. 3 ½ Spotlights
Highly Recommended ***** Over the years, we have seen many a story on stage depicting events of World War II and the “behind the lines” stories that are memorable and compelling. “Hannah and Martin” written by Kate Fodor, is based on the affair between German-Jewish political theorist, Hannah Arendt ( played by the glorious Christina Gorman) and her “teacher” Martin Heidegger ( played to perfection by the always powerful Lawrence Grimm). The story unfolds during the years from 1924 thru 1946 and is done with some flashbacks and forward movement to take us through the war and its residue.
When asked to review “Sentimental Journey” at the ‘Citadel Theater, I quickly looked up the story line. Initially my reaction was…”this is going to be a ‘ho-hum’ experience”.
At first it seemed like my expectation was right; it appeared a little hokey but Ross (Robby) Lehman, telling the story of his parent’s relationship before, during, and after World War 2, quickly won me over with his warmth, and pleasant singing voice.
**** Recommended **** The audience for “American Girl Live” seemed to be about 75% girls carrying American Girl dolls, with moms and the occasional dad making up the other 25%. Not surprising then, that the audience was totally into the story, cheering when something good happened, groaning when things went wrong. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a perkier show, but it was fun. 3 ½ Spotlights
**** Recommended **** I always have high expectations when I go to Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and they always meet or exceed them. Their latest production, “Hamlet” is no exception. I like my Shakespeare stripped down, so I can concentrate on the words, and Barbara Gaines has delivered exactly that. This “Hamlet” has modern dress and minimal scenery, drawing attention directly to the characters. Although I wish Hamlet had been a bit kinder to Ophelia, and that she’d had a little more backbone, they were real people dealing with real emotions – grief and anger and disbelief – and doing the best they could. 4 Spotlights
★★★★★ Broken Nose Theatre Company is geared for young theater-goers, with limited funds, who seek entertainment that is not what their parents viewed as “theater”. Their works strive to evoke and spark conversation, cultivate empathy and based on the productions I have witnessed in their home at The Den, they do this with ease for their actors and for their audience.
