The stage of The Goodman Theatre in Chicago is currently aglow with a soaring production of “The Color Purple: The Musical.” The production runs through Aug. 3 at Goodman's Albert Theatre.
**** Recommended Canterbury Summer Theatre’s second production of the season, "Baby," is a charming story. Three couples, a college town and pregnancy - plenty of material there. The story is funny, upbeat, poignant and personal. "Baby" resonates with audiences. 3 ½ Spotlights
‘Love's Labour's Lost” proves entertaining choice for outdoor theater viewing
Climb into this time machine and glide back to the 50’s and ‘60s with "Forever Plaid."
‘Dhaba on Devon Avenue’ an enchanting serving of food for the soul -- and potential second chances
Chef Neeraj’s world is closing in on him in more ways than one. And, despite his talented daughter and sous chef Rita’s tireless efforts to update and enhance the traditional Sindhi menu to revive their decades-old Devon Avenue restaurant in Chicago, Neeraj is having not having it.
**** I really enjoyed Dunes Arts Summer Theatre production of "Outside Mullingar," a fascinating family drama set in Ireland. The characters are argumentative, contrary, negative in outlook, and they can hold a grudge for a lifetime. "Outside Mullingar" is a poignant love story about two lonely people who find each other in spite of themselves. 4 Spotlights.
**** Recommended As I watched "Always Something There …", Marriott Theatre’s time-traveling jukebox musical, I was hit with a case of déjà vu. My daughter graduated from high school in 1989, so I totally recognized those clothes, those hairdos and those songs. The story’s been done before – "Peggy Sue Got Married" comes to mind – but this ensemble cast makes the difference. They are young, talented and enthusiastic, combine that talent with something like 23 hits of the 80s, the result is an outstanding production. 4 Spotlights
**** Recommended Canterbury Summer Theatre’s production of "A Year with Frog and Toad" is a charming little family-friendly musical. Both adults and children will enjoy it. The songs are clever and light-hearted, with just enough humor to keep the adults in the audience awake. I really enjoyed it. 3 ½ Spotlights
**** Highly Recommended Drury Lane’s production of "Always… Patsy Cline" is absolutely fabulous! Aja Alcazar is brilliant as Patsy! Her voice just fits. Add in Bri Sudia’s comedy and you get a hit! You can’t help but tap your toe to the music. I really enjoyed the show, and so will you! 4 BIG Spotlights
Recommended I’m not quite sure where Steppenwolf’s latest, "You Will Get Sick," fits on the quirkiness scale, but it must be close to the top. My friend and I walked out trying to figure out just what we’d seen. We had questions, so many questions! No kidding, all the questions aside, "You Will Get Sick" is a very good play. 4 Spotlights
