Spotlight on Reviews

**** Highly Recommended **** Recently, someone asked me why so many theaters choose "The Sound of Music"?  Simply put – it’s one of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musicals, it’s family friendly and the love story is timeless.  As we were driving to Aurora to see the Paramount Theatre production, I learned that my friend Helen loved the music and knew the words to every song, but that she’d never seen the show.  Afterwards, she said she loved the show, and was glad to finally see how the songs fit into the story.  The music was glorious, the cast is outstanding and the children were delightful.  I give "The Sound of Music" 4 Spotlights

*** Recommended *** The first five or ten minutes of Court Theatre’s intense new production "The Island" are completely without dialogue.  Just two men walking, but how are they walking?  Although there were no actual chains on their hands or feet, they were definitely walking in chains.  That interval introduced the audience to some of the inhumane treatment – and sheer tedium – of life in prison.  Somehow, in spite of the horrific conditions, men are still capable of friendship – and theater.  3 Spotlights

***** Highly Recommended ***** To celebrate the holidays, Buddy the Elf and his good friend Santa, are back in town!  If you’re looking for a special outing for your children or and/or grandchildren, choose Drury Lane Theatre’s whimsical production of Elf-the Musical, a heartwarming, family-friendly, funny, delightful show.  4 BIG Holiday Spotlights

**** Recommend **** As I’ve come to expect, TimeLine Theatre’s intense production of Trouble in Mind is both historical in content and timely in impact.  Since it was based on playwright Alice Childress’s own experiences with racism and sexism in theater, it resonates as if it were true.  Powerful performances, particularly by Shariba Rivers as actress, Wiletta Mayer, and Tim Decker as Al Manners, a dictatorial director, bring depth to the story.  A back stage drama isn’t glamorous but it is definitely worth seeing.  3 ½ Spotlights