**** Recommended Black Ensemble’s latest show, "That’s What Friends Are For: Gladys, Dionne & Patti," written and directed by Daryl D. Brooks, features the music of three musical icons. Although the plot is thin, the music is fabulous. 4 Spotlights
**** Highly Recommended There’s new revue on The Second City e.t.c. stage, "Chaos Theory of Everything." I can’t say this was the funniest e.t.c. revue I’ve seen but it was pretty darn funny. The beginning was a little low key, but the pace did pick up. It wasn’t too long before people were laughing and having a good time. By the way, in case you’re wondering, e.t.c. does not mean etcetera, rather it’s the stage where they can experiment, take chances. 3 ½ Spotlights
Although I didn't get a chance to see the Court Theatre's remount of their 2011 hit, "An Iliad," I thought I'd share my review of the 2013 remount.
The remount of the Court Theatre’s 2011 hit, “An Iliad”, is still amazing! Timothy Edward Kane’s performance as the Poet, a man who tells and retells the story of the Trojan War, is a ‘tour de force’. If you missed it last time – and even if you saw it then - make sure you see An Iliad this go round, it’s a 4 Spotlight play.
**** Recommended I enjoyed watching "Kimberly Akimbo." It was well-written, funny, and ultimately heart-wrenching. Carolee Carmello was brilliant as Kimberly who had to navigate her way through a new high school while managing a rare genetic disease, totally dysfunctional parents and a larcenous aunt. On the other hand, I was appalled when said larcenous aunt provided a step-by-step how-to-commit a crime in Act II. 3 ½ Spotlights
**** Recommended "42 Balloons," the new musical at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre is a terrific summer musical. The story is crazy but true – and straight out of the 80s, so it has some pathos too. The ensemble – an 8-person Greek chorus - is young, attractive and perky. The music is catchy, bright and kind of nonsensical – who sings about 42 balloons and a lawn chair? Loved the 80s choreography. The set and staging rates somewhere between cool and awesome! This was a fun show to watch. 4 Spotlights
Helen Shaw…You’re wrong! Prior to going to see this production at Theo Theater, I checked to see where it had played and looked at reviews. “Diana, The Musical” played in New York City just before the Pandemic closed down live theater. Helen Shaw, an NYC reviewer said this… “ “Diana The Musical” is almost as bad as her (Princess Diana) marriage!” I had low expectations after reading Ms. Shaw’s review. And, what a nice surprise… I loved it!
**** Highly Recommended For once, a play totally lives up to its name. "Iraq, but Funny" is a screwball comedy that had the opening night audience in stitches. I didn’t know what to expect, but this show was so funny I missed lines because people were laughing. Playwright Atra Asdou ties the stories of five generations of Assyrian women into the history of the area by using the British guy as narrator and comic relief to tie it all together brilliantly. 4 BIG Spotlights
**** Once again, I’m in awe of the Joffrey Ballet. Their whimsical, fantastical production of "Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland," choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon, is dazzling! I’m completely in love with this production! The music, the choreography, the costumes, the puppetry, the scenery – just wow! Then there’s the dancers – and in addition to executing the most complicated choreography with flawless technique and timing, they can act! Don’t miss it! 4 BIG Spotlights
**** Highly Recommended Who knew that Janet Davies could act? That genial ‘woman about town’ from ABC news is starring in "Misery," the first production of the season at Dunes Arts Summer Theater, and she’s killing it! Davies owns the part of Annie, the crazy stalker fan run amok. I really don’t like creepy thrillers - I didn’t read "Misery" and I didn’t see the movie – so I wasn’t looking forward to seeing this play. I have to say it caught me and never let go. Everything about this production is first-rate. Don’t miss it. 4 Spotlights
**** Highly Recommended I really enjoyed the Towle Theatre’s concert presentation of "Flight," an original musical. A cast of 14, all wearing black, sang the libretto with the accompaniment of a live orchestra. Although they were standing at music stands, they were using their faces and bodies to convey emotion. There was even a tiny bit of choreography. All in all, a really good time. I’m not sure why this little musical hasn’t gotten much exposure, but good news for the Towle. "Flight" deserves a chance to shine 4 Spotlights
