It’s No Lie: Writers’ “The Liar” is Must See Theater
After a spate of very fine, but intensely serious plays, I needed a rollicking night of theatrical fun.
NU Theatre: How Would You Spend a $1,000?
Someone sets $1,000 on a stage and says, “How should we spend it?” What would you decide? Here’s your chance to find out. This year’s theme for Northwestern University’s theater program is poverty. With that in mind, veteran Sojurn Theatre director Michael Rohd was asked to bring his brand of theater programming—that of a dialogue […]
Lyric's 'Oklahoma!' is more than OK
It’s hard to imagine a finer performance of “Oklahoma!” Lyric Opera of Chicago uses its world-class resources to give this production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Broadway musical a perfect 70th anniversary presentation. It has solo voices that won’t quit, Lyric musicians in the pit and chorus members on the stage, a set that […]
Marriott Theatre: “South Pacific”
Going to Marriott’s Theatre’s, “South Pacific,” to enjoy a timeless, classic love story amidst Rodgers and Hammerstein’s fabulous music is perfectly legitimate. But leaving with only the simple thought of shampooing an irksome someone out of one’s life is to do this production a gross injustice. The impeccable casting of Elizabeth Lanza as Ensign Nellie […]
Drury Lane Theatre: “Oliver!”
Sometimes, it’s all about punctuation. To many, hinging a professional musical-theatrical production on the abilities of a bunch of children would be a huge question mark. Not to folks in Oakbrook Terrace. At least, not when they have director/choreographer extraordinaire Rachel Rockwell at the helm. Drury Lane’s current production of “Oliver!” doesn’t include an exclamation […]
Warm-Weather Workout Playlist
Summer is here! Which means it’s time to take your workout outdoors. Since the start of a new season demands a hot playlist, we rounded up a few tracks to help you push through the heat. Here are the best pump-up jams, chart-toppers and pop-rock anthems that are guaranteed to take your workout to the […]
May Theater Highlights: Spring Stage Blooms
Summer is just around the corner, and Chicago-area theaters are pulling out all the stops with their big spring shows. The themes on display include French comedy, Chicago history, a neighborhood tavern and Hollywood’s treatment of black actors. Stella & Lou May 3–June 9 Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie 847-673-6300 Four-time Emmy winner Rhea […]
Joffrey Ballet: "Othello"
We all know how “Othello” ends. The love story between the mighty Moor of Venice and his gentle Desdemona comes to the same tragic conclusion in Shakespeare’s 1693 drama, Verdi’s 1887 opera, the 1995 Hollywood film and in the ballet, choreographed by Lar Lubovitch for American Ballet Theatre in 1997. A revival of that story […]
Citadel Theatre: "Enchanted April"
Clap if you believe in enchantment! Audiences are certainly enjoying “Enchanted April,” the final production of its 10th season. Keep in mind, for it to work you need to suspend disbelief when you take in this tale of two women who flee London rain and neglectful husbands for a month of sunshine and wisteria at […]
Mercury Theater: "Barnum"
There’s no love/hate conundrum when it comes to the circus; everyone seems entrenched in one of two distinct tents. Tent One inhabitants count down the days until the Bulls and Blackhawks vacate the United Center to make room for the “Greatest Show on Earth.” Those in Tent Two see the circus as a sketchy entertainment […]
