Reviews by Carol Moore

**** Highly Recommended  Chicago Shakespeare’s "Henry V" is a fast moving action-filled production. It is martial, violent, nationalistic and very loud, but it still manages to include a bit of comic relief as well as moments of introspection.  I remember the first time I saw "Henry V," back in 2014, I said it was like watching the Military Channel, all war, all the time – and I just couldn’t get involved.  This production had me from the moment the ensemble cast marched into the Courtyard Theatre singing "A Pair of Brown Eyes" (by the Pogues) – and as the Chorus, deliver the Prologue – until the Chorus returns at the end.  4 Spotlights

**** Recommended  Towle Theater’s latest production, "Slow Food," is a stupidly funny little comedy about a restaurant patron’s worst nightmare, a passive-aggressive waiter. It’s totally predictable yet laugh-out-loud funny.  The talented cast makes the most of the story.  Don’t miss this one.  3 ½ Spotlights

**** Highly Recommended  Janet Ulrich Brooks performance as Queen Elizabeth II in Drury Lane Theatre’s production of "The Audience" was a tour de force.  You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy this historical drama, but it’s fun to imagine being in the room and listening in on conversations in the Audience room. The set was gorgeous, the costumes – especially that iconic white ball gown and crown – were authentic. The only criticism I have to offer – I had a hard time hearing some of the dialogue.  4 Spotlights

**** Recommended  "1776" is one of my least favorite musicals, so I wasn’t looking forward to seeing this musical about the founding fathers again. However, I did like the  Marriott Theatre production which is so timely in light of these stressful times.  Marriott’s in-the-round staging brought everything closer to the audience making viewers feel more involved. Their non-traditional casting (black actors and female actors – both of whom would have been excluded in 1776) was also spot on. If you’re interested in history, you’ll enjoy "1776," especially the solemn role call as they sign the Declaration of Independence.  4 Spotlights