**** Highly Recommended Hymn is the play I never saw coming! I knew it would be a good play. After all, it’s a Chicago Shakespeare production – and it’s directed by Ron OJ Parsons, a terrific director. I just didn’t know it would be that good! I laughed, I cried, I even danced in my seat. Kudos to everyone involved! By the way, although the actors aren’t wearing microphones, I heard every word they said – even sitting in the dress circle! Hurry and get your tickets now. 4 BIG Spotlights
Hymn is the story of two men born six days apart. Gil (James Vincent Meredith), who grew up as the youngest child and only son in a loving family; and Benny (Chiké Johnson), who spent a lot of time in foster care while his mother was in and out of psychiatric facilities. What could these two men possibly have in common?
Just after Gil has given the eulogy at his father’s funeral, before he can leave for the funeral lunch, a stranger accosts him. He listens impatiently as the man asks a couple of questions, then a couple more. Just as he’s definitely leaving, the man blurts out his news, “I think you’re my brother.”
Painful revelations follow but a DNA test is proof. Gil and Benny spend the next year getting to know one another. Benny, who works in logistics, has a wife and kids whom he dearly loves. Gil feels like he was the victim of expectations. He runs the family dry cleaning business but he’s frustrated because he could never explore his potential. As they spend time together – working out, sparring, sharing the past, even dancing and singing – they grow closer.
Hymn runs through May 25th in the Jentes Family Courtyard Theatre at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre on Navy Pier, Chicago. Parking in CST’s designated area in the Navy Pier Garage is available at a 40% discount with validation from CST.
Running time is 1 hour, 40 minutes, no intermission. Performances are Tuesdays at 7:30 pm; Wednesdays at 1:00 & 7:30 pm; Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 pm; Saturdays at 2:30 & 7:30 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm. Audio-described performance with optional touch tour – Sunday, May 18th at 2:30 p.m. Tickets range from $52-$95. FYI (312) 595-5600 or www.chicagoshakes.com