Marrakesh Express - Review by Nancy Henke-Konopasek
Fans of folk-rock group Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young were transported back to the late 60s by the Marrakesh Express tribute band on March 8 at Theatre at the Center.
Fans of folk-rock group Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young were transported back to the late 60s by the Marrakesh Express tribute band on March 8 at Theatre at the Center.
Towle Theater’s first production of their 22nd season did not disappoint. The musical, “The Mad Ones,” tells the story of 18- year-old, Sam ( played by Lauren Reece), who loses her impetuous best friend, Kelly (played by Madison Meeron), who is killed in an accident.
Theatre at the Center was rocking on February 22nd, with Heartless bringing the heavy metal sound of Heart to the stage. The high energy concert featured Lynn Lupo as Heart’s lead singer, Ann Wilson, Julie Bittner as Heart’s rhythm guitarist and back-up vocalist, Nancy Wilson.
**** Highly Recommended I didn’t know anything about Harold Pinter’s play, "Betrayal," before I saw the Goodman’s revival recently. A friend had mentioned that there was a small controversy over Director Susan V. Booth’s decision to cast older actors – over twenty-somethings – but I never even thought about age as I was drawn into the human drama unfolding on that stage. That a character could maintain that very British stiff upper lip, even while receiving devastating news delivered in the calmest of tones, was a revelation. Kudos to Director Susan V. Booth for a theatrical gem! 4 BIG Spotlights
One set, two actors and three words describe “I and You”. It was amazing! Better yet…it’s a masterpiece. And Citadel Theatre gets a big pat on the back for playing it.
***RECOMMENDED*** "Hedda Gabler" In a punchy new adaptation by Mark O'Rowe, which feels both deferential to Ibsen's original text while also being extremely modern, several company members of The Artistic Home give credible performances under Monica's Payne's solid direction. 3.5 SPOTLIGHTS
**** Recommended Steppenwolf Theatre’s production of "Fool For Love" is a perfect gem. It has more angst packed into 68 minutes than you’ll find in plays far longer. Although younger audiences might not be familiar with Sam Shepard, his work stands the test of time. It’s intense, gripping and great theater! 4 Spotlights
**** Recommended It was an absolute pleasure to see Hubbard Street Dance Chicago performing their Season 47: Winter Series at the Harris Theatre. The three-part program (with two intermissions) featured pieces choreographed by Ohad Naharin, FLOCK: Alice Klock & Florian Lochner, James Gregg and Johan Inger. I was in awe of the grace and strength displayed by the entire ensemble. 4 Spotlights!
**** Highly Recommended "Golden Hour" is a demonstration of all that makes the Joffrey such a leader in contemporary ballet. The performance included two recent pieces from the Joffrey repertoire and two world premiere pieces. The Joffrey’s classically trained, incredibly talented dancers execute the most complicated choreography with flawless technique and timing – and they make it look easy! 4 BIG Spotlights
**** Highly Recommended "Circus Quixote" is quite simply the most fascinating show of the season, and exactly the pick-me-up we need! Forget that gloomy Quixote in the musical, he takes himself entirely too seriously. This Quixote tilts on his rocking chair, climbs/rides that windmill, and climbs a rope like a circus star. I love this whimsical show produced by Lookingglass Theatre in association with The Actors Gymnasium. I was enthralled from start to finish. 4 BIG Spotlights