The Chicago Children’s Theatre brings in the New Year with the Chicago premiere of the international sensation 4- ISH. The Amsterdam based performance troupe combines Acrobatic stunts, street and break dancing, dancing on inline skates, video art, a live DJ and more. I was really impressed by their ability to utilize such an amazing array of diverse and unique talents and marry them in a way that eloquently showed off each person’s total uniqueness.

The Snow Queen is a lovely Holiday production that tells the story of two childhood sweethearts- Gerda and Kai, who grow up in love together but are separated for a time as they grow into adulthood by the lonely and powerful Snow Queen. This production really reminds me of the old Chicago theatre days with its minimalist, modern and sparing production but which packs a lot of punch. The entire ensemble cast sings beautifully with many of the characters playing their own instruments as well.

As I was thoroughly enjoying the many wonderful themes in this show I couldn’t help but feel a tiny pang of jealousy for all the little girls who are growing up with this musical as part of their psychological repertoire. I really wanted to be a witch when I was little. I wanted to be a good witch who casts spells to bring baby birds back to life when they fell from their nests. I wanted a magic spell to put the lizard’s tails back on when my brothers pulled them off,

Colin Quinn packed 'em in and delivered a fantastic hour plus set at the Lakeshore Theater last weekend. Colin talks fast and delivers joke after joke with such rapidity that I couldn't hear everything he said over the laughter. I loved his stuff about Brad Pitt traveling the world in designer duds, with a tired, stunned look on his face, and so...

There is a certain kind of poise I look for in a seasoned comic, the kind of relaxed rhythm that professional musicians also have that lets you know right from the start, this guy is going to be funny and this guy is going to control the audience with ease. Jamie Kilstein definitely has this rhythm and poise. It is a pleasure to watch as Jamie riffs...