**** Recommended **** “Chicago” is one of my absolute favorite musicals. I think I’d go almost anywhere to see it, so I was delighted that the tour came back to Chicago, this time starring former NFL star, Eddie George. I’m happy to say it did not disappoint – the music is sexy and jazz-y, the dancing is sexy and very ‘Fosse’, and the voices are gorgeous! 4 Spotlights.
**** Recommended **** When I saw “Matilda The Musical” the first time, I didn’t understand what all the buzz had been about. Child abuse as comedy just didn’t work for me. Since I really didn’t like touring “Matilda”, I couldn’t imagine a way I’d like Drury Lane’s production, but they proved me wrong. While it was still really, really mean, Mitch Sebastian’s vision was surprisingly funny and even kind of endearing – in an off-the-wall way! His choreography was spectacular, too. 3 ½ Spotlights
Highly Recommended ***** Over the years, we have seen many a story on stage depicting events of World War II and the “behind the lines” stories that are memorable and compelling. “Hannah and Martin” written by Kate Fodor, is based on the affair between German-Jewish political theorist, Hannah Arendt ( played by the glorious Christina Gorman) and her “teacher” Martin Heidegger ( played to perfection by the always powerful Lawrence Grimm). The story unfolds during the years from 1924 thru 1946 and is done with some flashbacks and forward movement to take us through the war and its residue.
When asked to review “Sentimental Journey” at the ‘Citadel Theater, I quickly looked up the story line. Initially my reaction was…”this is going to be a ‘ho-hum’ experience”.
At first it seemed like my expectation was right; it appeared a little hokey but Ross (Robby) Lehman, telling the story of his parent’s relationship before, during, and after World War 2, quickly won me over with his warmth, and pleasant singing voice.
**** Recommended **** The audience for “American Girl Live” seemed to be about 75% girls carrying American Girl dolls, with moms and the occasional dad making up the other 25%. Not surprising then, that the audience was totally into the story, cheering when something good happened, groaning when things went wrong. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a perkier show, but it was fun. 3 ½ Spotlights
**** Recommended **** I always have high expectations when I go to Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and they always meet or exceed them. Their latest production, “Hamlet” is no exception. I like my Shakespeare stripped down, so I can concentrate on the words, and Barbara Gaines has delivered exactly that. This “Hamlet” has modern dress and minimal scenery, drawing attention directly to the characters. Although I wish Hamlet had been a bit kinder to Ophelia, and that she’d had a little more backbone, they were real people dealing with real emotions – grief and anger and disbelief – and doing the best they could. 4 Spotlights
★★★★★ Broken Nose Theatre Company is geared for young theater-goers, with limited funds, who seek entertainment that is not what their parents viewed as “theater”. Their works strive to evoke and spark conversation, cultivate empathy and based on the productions I have witnessed in their home at The Den, they do this with ease for their actors and for their audience.
**** Highly Recommended **** When I was a child, I was positive I’d be a prima ballerina one day. The fact that I never had a ballet lesson was irrelevant. Alas, I grew up, and pursued another dream, becoming a writer. I still love ballet, and feel very privileged to be able to write about the Joffrey Ballet. Their spring engagement, “Across the Pond”, three contemporary pieces by three of the United Kingdom’s best choreographers, is absolutely brilliant. Again, the incredibly talented Joffrey dancers execute the most complicated choreography with flawless technique and timing. 4 Spotlights
****HIGHLY RECOMMENDED**** There is clearly no question that Porchlight Music Theatre's "A Chorus Line" is definitely one singular sensation. Director Brenda Didier has crafted a highly impassioned production, cast with a combination of plenty of spirited young talent mixed with some seasoned veterans that have given this legendary and iconic 1975 Broadway musical a very contemporary feel while being acutely aware of the sensibility of the original production's impact. The motivational force that was the genius of Michael Bennett -- who not only conceived this seminal work but also was the original director and choreographer -- can be found in many of this production's finest moments. Undoubtedly, "A Chorus Line" connects with its audience, as it ran on Broadway for over 15 years. Porchlight's version proves wholeheartedly just why this particular musical is so popular and essential. 4 BIG SPOTLIGHTS
**** Highly Recommended **** “Djembe!” (pronounced jem-bay) is an exuberant, joyful experience and I really enjoyed it! Who knew that by the end of the show, everyone in the building would actually be drumming? Even me? Amazing! I have absolutely no musical talent whatsoever but I was drumming by the end! I had so much fun! 4 BIG Spotlights
