I thoroughly enjoyed Drury Lane's enchanting stage production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid from start to finish. While few are overly familiar with Hans Christian Andersen’s original, darker tale of ill-fated romance, the Disney animated film and this stage adaptation, with a book by Doug Wright and music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, beautifully transform the fairytale into a heartwarming story of love and triumph for the heroine, Princess Ariel.

The mermaid Ariel, portrayed with sunny enthusiasm and skillful vocal stylings by Sarah Kay, is a Princess and the beloved daughter of King Triton, convincingly played by Anand Nagraj. Ariel is captivated by the world above the waves, yearning to experience the sunshine and the joy of walking through green fields. Her fascination with the human world deepens when she falls in love from afar with a human prince.

During a fierce storm, Ariel saves the Prince from drowning, and in that moment, she finds herself falling for him. The Prince, portrayed with sensitivity and earnestness by Patrick Johnson, is captivated by the voice of his rescuer, though he never sees her face as Ariel swiftly returns to the sea, hiding her mermaid identity.

The chemistry between Kay and Johnson enriches their characters, making their blossoming romance both believable and heartfelt. Kay's Ariel exudes innocence and curiosity, while Johnson's Prince captures sincerity and a deep longing to find the mysterious singer who saved his life.

King Triton, wary of humans and deeming them dangerous, has commanded his daughters to stay away from them. This forces Ariel to make a desperate deal with Ursula—her powerful, estranged, octopus-like aunt, who was once banished by King Triton, her brother.

Anand Nagraj as King Titan and Michael Earvin Martin as Sebastian. 

Ursula, portrayed by Sawyer Smith, casts a spell on Ariel, compelling her to give up her extraordinarily beautiful voice in exchange for a chance at love. Ariel must win the heart of the Prince, who must love her so deeply that he is compelled to kiss her. Only True Love's kiss can break Ursula's twisted spell. If Ariel fails to find true love and receive the Prince's kiss, she will be banished to the underworld, and Ursula will claim her soul. Sawyer Smith, as Ursula, is a showstopper! Smith's costumes, makeup and movements are menacing, powerful, yet glamorous all at the same time. Smith’s talent is fully on display during a commanding rendition of “Poor Unfortunate Souls.”

The cast delivers uniformly strong performances throughout. Matt Edmonds also stands out with his impeccable comic timing as Chef Louis, eliciting plenty of hearty laughs with his hilarious solo number “Les Poissons.” 

I valued the emphasis placed on the power of a single woman’s voice and the profound impact of a young woman losing her voice, especially in today’s context. It was heartwarming to see so many young girls in the audience, their faces glowing with delight. They were captivated by the show's humor and romance, yet also deeply moved to tears by the poignant theme of Ariel sacrificing her voice to win the love of a man.

This production, under the skillful direction of Scott Weinstein, with choreography by Kasey Alfonso and a vibrant set designed by Tijana Bjelajac, excels in providing delightful musical theater entertainment for both children and adults. It is truly a pleasure to watch.

Patrick Johnson as Prince Eric and Sarah Kay as Ariel.

The puppetry in this production was extraordinary, among the finest I've seen on a Chicago stage. For instance, the two eels, Ursula’s sinister accomplices, glide gracefully through the audience and across the stage with glittering lights encased in sheer black chiffon, creating an absolutely magical effect. The puppet characters were all exceptionally well played and designed. Notable performances include Sebastian (Michael Earvin Martin), Scuttle (Landree Fleming), Flounder (Maya Lou Hlava), Jetsam (Ryan Michael Hamman) and Flotsam (Leah Morrow). The impressive puppet design was crafted by Chicago Puppet Studio, Caitlin McLeod, and Zachary Sun. 

The set design, featuring the imaginative light projections by Anthony Churchill and the atmospheric lighting by Ryan O’Gara, brilliantly conveyed the sensation of being under the ocean. Their work uniquely and creatively transported the audience to an enchanting underwater world, making the experience both magical and mesmerizing.

The Little Mermaid is a fantastic ensemble piece, and the entire cast brings the house down with their rousing, colorful, and energetic group number in “Under The Sea.” This performance beautifully captures the splendor of the mermaid's underwater home and castle, making it a mesmerizing highlight.

I highly recommend this colorful, ingenious, and lively production for audiences of all ages who wish to experience one of their favorite Disney fairytales come to life! 

Disney’s The Little Mermaid is being performed at Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook through January 12th. For tickets and/or more show information, visit https://drurylanetheatre.com/the-little-mermaid/.

I've always had a deep fondness for the two timeless films Holiday Inn and White Christmas. These movies feature outstanding soundtracks composed by the legendary Jewish American immigrant Irving Berlin. With a repertoire of 1,500 remarkable songs, including the iconic 'God Bless America', Berlin also sparked a Christmas revolution with his deeply emotional and sentimental classic, 'White Christmas'. Few are aware that Irving Berlin experienced a personal tragedy when he lost one of his children to sudden death on Christmas Day in 1928. Despite this, Berlin, an immigrant, always conveyed his profound love for America through his music. Like in 'God Bless America,' he consistently expressed his deep belief in the nation's potential for goodness, unity, and global leadership. Marriott Theatre's White Christmas is a heartfelt tribute to Irving Berlin and offers a wonderful opportunity for audiences to embrace the Christmas spirit.

White Christmas revolves around two talented entertainers, Bob Wallace (Ben Mayne) and Phil Davis (Tyler Johnson-Campion), who form a successful song-and-dance duo after World War II. They encounter singing sisters, Betty and Judy Haynes (Jacquelyne Jones and Kelly Felthous), and follow them to a Vermont lodge owned by their former army commander, General Waverly (Rom Barkhordar).

With the lodge facing financial difficulties due to a lack of snow, the group decides to stage a spectacular show to attract guests and save the establishment. Along the journey, romance blossoms between Bob and Betty, as well as Phil and Judy. The film is filled with memorable musical numbers, including the iconic "White Christmas," and concludes with a heartwarming and festive celebration.

Linda Fortunato directs and choreographs this dynamic in-the-round production, seamlessly transitioning from one spectacular showstopper to the next throughout the evening. The show is further elevated by its four exceptionally talented leads, who bring delightful moments of romance, dancing and humor to the stage.

Ben Mayne initially portrays a slightly stoic Bob Wallace, the character originated by Bing Crosby in the 1954 film. However, as the performance progresses, Mayne’s sensitive acting beautifully reveals Wallace’s transformation from a man guarded and wary of love to one who is deeply and undeniably in love. Meanwhile, Tyler Johnson-Campion dazzles as Phil Davis, a role originally brought to life by Danny Kaye. His immense talent as a singer and dancer repeatedly brings the audience to their feet, with tap-dancing performances that seem to defy gravity and overflow with the exuberance of newfound love. 

Jacquelyne Jones, playing Betty Haynes—a role famously portrayed by Rosemary Clooney—delivers a poignant and heartfelt performance in 'Love, You Didn’t Do Right By Me,' capturing the depth of female grief with striking authenticity. Together, Mayne and Jones enchant the audience as their characters fall in love, beautifully showcased in their renditions of Berlin's exquisite love song, 'How Deep is the Ocean.' While Jones treats the audience with a wonderful performance, Kelly Felthous shines as Judy Haynes, a role played by Vera-Ellen in the film version, bringing an infectious joyous energy and singing with great glee and charm. Felthous and Tyler Johnson-Campion, both exceptional dancers, leave the audience in awe with their expert hoofing in the hugely romantic and fun number 'The Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing.'

Jacquelyne Jone and Ben Mayne in Marriott Theatre's 'White Christmas.'

Rom Barkhordar shines as General Henry Waverly, Wallace and Davis’s retired commander, bringing a blend of humor and warmth despite his gruff exterior. Meanwhile, Robin R. McGee delivers a truly breathtaking performance as Martha Watson, Waverly’s dedicated helper and hotel manager, with her rendition of 'Let Me Sing and I’m Happy.' McGee possesses an indescribable vocal range, delivering her performances with the power and grace of a seasoned star who dazzles brighter than ever. 

White Christmas is a delightful musical, brimming with wit and fun, featuring memorable song and dance numbers that truly leave a lasting impression. Among the numerous standout moments, the entire cast's rendition of “Blue Skies,” set against the breathtaking backdrop of real snow falling in Vermont, is a spectacular and uplifting highlight that will stay with me throughout the winter season.

I wholeheartedly recommend this timeless yet refreshingly vibrant production, brimming with Irving Berlin's endlessly inspiring and romantic music. It's perfect for audiences of all ages who wish to take a joyous journey into the past and fully savor the upcoming Holiday Season.

"Snow, snow, snow, snow, snow!"

White Christmas is being performed at Marriott Theatre through December 29th. For tickets and/or more show information, click HERE.

Music Theatre Works’ Little Shop of Horrors, featuring music by Howard Ashman and a book and lyrics by Alan Menken, is the ultimate Halloween and fall musical for cult hit fans. This spooky, yet fun production captures the essence of the beloved story, making it a must-see for the season.

It all began in 1982 when the off-off-Broadway performances first took place, before moving off-Broadway to Orpheum Theater. But most probably remember the 1986 film adaptation of Little Shop of Horrors, directed by Frank Oz and based on the off-Broadway musical, starring Steve Martin, Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene and Vincent Gardenia. The musical centers on Mushnik’s Flower Shop, a struggling business in a shabby neighborhood. Here, Seymour, a nerdy employee, discovers and nurtures an alien carnivorous plant, which he names Audrey II, after his co-worker Audrey, who he is crushing on. Driven by his love for Audrey and the desire to boost the shop's dwindling sales for Mr. Mushnik, Seymour helps the unidentified plant grow with steadfast dedication. Unfortunately, the food that the plant needs to grow is human blood, and the musical becomes a lesson in being careful what you wish for!

Kayla Shipman truly excels as Audrey. With her lovely presence and remarkable singing voice, Shipman captures the audience's hearts with her sweet and caring personality. This makes the revenge against her abusive, violent dentist boyfriend, Orin Scrivello, all the more satisfying. One of Shipman’s notable numbers is "Somewhere That's Green,” a touching ballad where Audrey shares her dreams of leaving behind her bleak, urban life. She envisions finding happiness in a serene, suburban setting with a home, a yard, and a family filled with love and contentment. This poignant moment unveils her vulnerability and longing for a brighter future. 

(L to R) Kayla Shipman and Jimmy Hogan in Little Shop of Horrors from Music Theater Works.

Jimmy Hogan portrays Seymour as a likable character who must muster more courage to handle the plant's demands. His grounded performance provides a perfect counterbalance to the rest of the cast's comedic extremes. Hogan really shines in his powerful number with Shipman, "Suddenly Seymour.” The song signifies a pivotal moment in Audrey and Seymour's relationship. Audrey comes to see that Seymour genuinely cares for her and offers a brighter future. It's a moment of revelation and reassurance, with Seymour vowing to protect her and demonstrating that she deserves love and happiness. Themes of love, support, and newfound confidence shine through in this heartfelt duet.

The plant comes alive thanks to Najee Musiq Rawls, who voices Audrey II and really impresses during “Feed Me (Git it!).” "Feed Me (Git It!)" is a crucial song in Little Shop of Horrors. Here, the carnivorous plant Audrey II insists on more human blood to grow stronger, luring Seymour with promises of fame, fortune, and love. This song spotlights Seymour's moral struggle, caught between his conscience and the plant's insatiable hunger, heightening the story's tension and propelling the plot forward.

Sam Nachison delivers a standout performance as Orin Scrivello, particularly shining in the number “Dentist!” This song, which hilariously recounts how his sadistic tendencies drove him to dentistry, showcases Nachison's talent and darkly comedic flair. The cast is bolstered by a talented ensemble who deliver strong performances in both dance and song numbers while Thomas M. Shea does an admirable job in his portrayal of store owner, Mr. Mushnik. The show gets an additional lift from its excellent set design, lighting, costumes, and puppetry. Music Theatre Works never fails to produce vibrant and captivating productions.

Although the set begins with a dark and somber feel, it brightens considerably with lighting effects and vibrant costume changes as Audrey II's fame and popularity grow, captivating audiences worldwide. The company excels in strategically staging this wild musical in the intimate North Theatre at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in nearby Skokie. 

Little Shop of Horrors is expertly directed by Producing Artistic Director Kyle A. Dougan, with choreography by Reneisha Jenkins and musical direction by Linda Madonia. I recommend this show for audiences aged 13 and over. Though an entertaining story with plenty of humorous moments, the themes in Little Shop of Horrors, such as domestic violence, a sadistic dentist who tortures his patients, and a plant that grows by devouring humans, are questionable for younger viewers, despite the show's renowned puppetry.

Music Theatre Works’ Little Shop of Horrors is currently being performed in the North Theatre at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts through November 17th. For tickets and/or more show information, click HERE. 

Brightside Theatre’s rendition of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, adapted by Stephen Dietz, captivates from the opening scene to its climactic finale. Ever since the 1992 Francis Ford Coppola film with Gary Oldman, Bram Stoker’s Dracula has fascinated me. It was a delight to see Brightside Theatre’s cast and crew brilliantly capture the excitement, romance, and terror of this classic tale. Each professional performer brought their unique talents to the show, creating an unforgettable experience.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula is a gothic horror story that follows Jonathan Harker, a young lawyer, who travels to Transylvania to help Count Dracula purchase a London estate. Harker soon discovers that Dracula is a vampire intent on spreading his undead curse to England. Meanwhile, Dracula's sinister influence spreads, threatening Harker's fiancée Mina and her friend Lucy. While Renfield eagerly awaits his master’s arrival, a group led by Professor Van Helsing joins forces to thwart Dracula's plans, resulting in a thrilling battle between good and evil. The tale explores themes of fear, seduction, and the clash between modernity and ancient evil.

Lucy (Julia Hope Budd) and Seward (Adam Boczar) in Dracula

The entire cast is excellent. Greg Kolack shines as Renfield, bringing immense energy and pathos to the role of Dracula's insane, bloodthirsty slave. Caitlin Wolfe captures Mina's innocent charm with a thoughtful and intelligent grace, making her the perfect target for Dracula's dark desires. Brady McNeil delivers a compelling performance as Jonathan Harker, convincingly portraying his transition from a rational businessman visiting Dracula's castle to a broken, mentally disturbed soul after enduring the bloody, sexual rituals of Dracula’s vixens. Julia Hope Budd delivers an exceptional and multifaceted performance as Lucy, the innocent victim who succumbs to Dracula's bloodthirst and transforms into a vampire. Budd lights up the stage with her sensuality and humor in scenes where she's pursued by suitors. As she transforms into a vampire, she remains equally compelling and thrilling to watch.

Also delivering a strong performance is Mike Boyna, who excels as Van Helsing, bringing a mature presence and delivering words of wisdom that resonate deeply with the audience in Steven Dietz's well-written adaptation. Seward is superbly played by Adam Boczar. His deep love for Lucy is clear, despite her referring to him as a "true friend." Seward's love and respect for Lucy is palpable, especially in the way he gently touches her wrist to take her temperature, as if overcome with emotion at the honor.

Of course, Danny Parrott excels as Dracula, bringing a spooky energy to the role. Parrot's strong, graceful, and sensual portrayal as he stalks his victims showcases both sides of Dracula—the powerful, commanding seducer and the violent, selfish monster capable of great cruelty and murder.

The vixens, portrayed by Erica Harrington, Daria Koon, and Kirstin Palatinus, were each sensuous and frightening, draped in beautiful silk robes.

The cast of Bram Stoker's Dracula

Throughout the play the production's lighting and sound effects, crafted by set designer Jeff Sand, Jay Fontanetta, and Kurt Ottinger, were exceptional, including its clever use of multimedia. I also thoroughly enjoyed Cheryl Newman's well-fitting and multilayered period costumes. Each outfit perfectly suited both the actors and the era, particularly the women's intricate, corseted silk ensembles.

During the play’s intermission, I spoke with Jeffrey Cass, Brightside’s Artistic Director, and Julie Ann Kornak, the company’s Executive Director and co-founder, praising their excellent work in creating the space—a delightfully intimate three-quarter thrust theater with comfortable seating, great sight lines, and effective special effects lighting. I was thrilled to learn that their upcoming season will feature more exciting productions like Dracula, including Jekyll and Hyde the Musical, the ever-romantic Midsummer Night’s Dream, and the uplifting musical comedy Pippin!

Skillfully directed by Jay Fontanetta, this thrilling, scary, and sensual production of Dracula is a must-see for audiences of all ages. It's the perfect Halloween treat for adults looking to celebrate the holiday without the usual haunted house fare!

Dracula is being performed at Brightside Theatre in Naperville through November 3rd. For tickets and/or more show information, click HERE.

I look forward to every Hell and a Handbag production - because I know they’re always a great time. The company’s spot-on takes on adored characters, from those in the Golden Girls to Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer, always blend high camp humor with a warm, heartfelt touch. 

In Handbag’s latest offering, the world premiere of The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of The Haunted Bush, we get a brilliant mash up of beloved characters from the Golden Girls and Scooby Doo. Does it work? It absolutely does. This new comedy, penned by the immensely talented David Cerda, and directed and choreographed with flair by Frankie Leo Bennett is one of the team’s best yet.

The adventure kicks off when Rose spots a leafy, brush-covered monster—dubbed the “haunted bush”—lurking around the complex where she, Dorothy, Blanche, and Sophia live. "The haunted bush"... you can already imagine the fun to be had with that one. As the monster sightings increase and the girl’s fear escalates, Rose calls in her nephew, Fred, and his Skooby Don't Gang of crime solvers to investigate. And just like that, these two worlds collide in a side-splitting adventure, which only gets wilder when Nancy Drew joins the team. Yes, the famous girl detective, Nancy Drew! As with any Handbag production, the laughs in this comedy-mystery are as outrageous as they are plentiful. Packed with cartoonish chase scenes, snappy one-liners, well-timed slapstick and a hefty dose of innuendo-driven humor, this new production at Chopin Theatre’s mainstage is a hilariously bold comedy with all the right twists and turns.

Tyler Anthony Smith as Fred in The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of The Haunted Bush 

This cast is packed with all your favorite Handbag stars. The Golden Girls are back! Yay! Ed Jones shines as the naive but loveable Rose Nyland, while Grant Drager is a tour de force as flirty Blanche Devereaux, delivering one witty remark after another. David Cerda reprises his role as Dorothy Zbornak, commanding the stage with every line and Sophia Petrillo is wonderfully portrayed with grit and sass by Ryan Oates. Dorothy’s ex, Stan is riotously played by Scott Sawa, drawing several big laughs while also interacting with the audience throughout the show for Golden Girls trivia, with the winners (everyone who plays) getting to reach in and choose a prize from the mystery bag. I won a Handbag magnet! Woot!

The Skooby gang is also superbly cast, led by Tyler Anthony Smith as Fred. Smith absolutely crushes the role and delivers one funny scene after another from the moment we are greeted by his ass as Rose opens the door to welcome her nephew. Elizabeth Lesinski is delightful as Daffy while Caitlin Jackson is just perfect as Velva, the two heavily crushing on each other throughout the play. The gang is rounded out well with stellar performances from both Ben Meneses as Skooby and Josh Kemper as Skaggy, cracking voice and all. Michael S. Miller is funny in his dual roles as Miles and Rita Claxton and Danne W. Taylor gets some hearty laughs in taking on the role of Nancy Drew, especially in a love scene that no one could have seen coming. But all is possible in the Handbag multi-verse.

Handbag’s talented cast has perfected the art of camp humor, skillfully addressing and laughing at the subjects of sexuality, while also evoking compassion —all within a familiar, friendly, and entertaining environment.

While the cast is exceptional, the creative team also does a tremendous job in putting together a set that brings the audience into the center of the mystery. Marcus Klein (Scenic Design), Liz Cooper (Lighting Design) and Danny Rockett (Sound Design) team up to deliver a visual and audio experience that uniquely pulls in each and every audience member while Sydney Genco (Make-up Design), Keith Ryan (Wig design) and Madeline Felauer (Costume Design) seamlessly bring the characters to life.

(left to right) Caitlin Jackson as Velva and Elizabeth Lesinksi as Daffy in The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of The Haunted Bush

For those Chicagoans lucky enough to have been watching Handbag productions for the last 22 years, going to one of their shows is like being at a party with a bunch of your best old friends. With this show, it’s a place to sing the Golden Girls theme song, laugh at bawdy jokes, and just let your heart breathe free for a while, even though it seems like chaos and unfriendliness are raging all around the globe. 

I highly recommend this final production of Hell in a Handbag’s 22nd season for audiences who want to have a good hard laugh, a nice drink and a solid night of fun, hilarious entertainment.

The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of The Haunted Bush is being performed at Chopin Theatre through November 3rd. For tickets and/or more show information, click HERE.

I am delighted that Northlight Theatre chose to produce The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk, penned by Daniel Jamieson and expertly staged and directed by Elizabeth Margolius, especially given the alarming rise of antisemitism currently sweeping the country.

The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk is a play that tells the love story of the famous Jewish artist Marc Chagall born Moishe Shagal and his wife, writer Bella Rosenfeld. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Vitebsk, the narrative explores their relationship as they navigate significant historical events such as the Pogroms, the Russian Revolution, and the rise of fascism in Europe. Marc Chagall, a renowned painter born in the small town of Vitebsk, where he met his wife Bella, lived to the age of 97. Such a ripe old age, despite the harrowing events depicted in the play, where he and Bella flee the brutal pogroms in Russia and the Nazi atrocities in Europe, Chagall’s resilience and longevity stand out. The play masterfully intertwines dance and music along with gripping dialogue to narrate the couple’s journey through some of the most turbulent periods of the 20th century, leading up to the Nazi occupation of France while focusing on the couple’s strong relationship and strength. 

Jack Cahill-Lemme portrays Chagall with a focused optimism and an unwavering devotion to his Jewish bride, Bella, capturing the essence of love at first sight from their very first encounter. As Cahill-Lemme follows and admires Bella moving across the stage, his unwavering pursuit of her love is evident. His character’s elegant movements, captivating smile and dreamy expression reveal that his attention is entirely devoted to her. Cahill-Lemme’s longing  gaze envelops Bella, reflecting his profound love, devotion, and undeniable attraction. Interestingly, during their first encounter, he asked her to pose nude for him, a common practice among painters of that era. Jack Cahill-Lemme is a rising star who was most recently seen on Broadway in the National Tour of Moulin Rouge alongside Boy George and has taken on roles at Marriott Theatre and Paramount Theatre among many other Chicagoland theaters. Rosenthal has also made her mark in the theater world, appearing at Drury Lane Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre and Writers Theatre.

Emma Rosenthal portrays Bella, the love of Chagall’s life with a tremendous amount of energy and childlike wonder. Her character is a fiery, headstrong, and intelligent woman deeply in love and devoted wholly and joyously to her passionate and genius husband, and their child. Rosenthal’s performance radiates with the spirited energy of a Jewish woman who has found both her true love and her destiny as his inspiration, especially evident in their numerous dance numbers and songs together. 

It was fascinating to see that instead of using the stained glass painting of the flying lovers as a backdrop, the simple yet modern set allowed each dance number between the two lovers to evoke the painting’s uplifting joy and the lifelong physical attraction that inspired the most famous painting by Chagall of all time.

The live music for the show, performed by musical director Michael Mahler and Alyssa Carlson, featured a mix of new and old instruments, including the piano. Their performances added depth to the many wonderful song and dance numbers, which were delivered in various languages, including Yiddish, Russian, French, and English, creating a powerful emotional impact.

Marc Chagall was ahead of his time in many ways and faced rejection in his Russian homeland despite his worldwide acclaim as a pioneer of the art movement now known as Impressionism.

Under the guidance of Artistic Director BJ Jones, The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk captivates audiences with its compelling narrative that holds their attention from start to finish. The production is brought to life with its talented cast along with music by Ian Ross, stage and movement direction by Elizabeth Margolius, and musical direction by Michael Mahler.

I highly recommend this beautiful, moving, and joyful 80-minute one-act production for audiences of all ages. It offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about Jewish history and the arts in a setting that celebrates the relationship between artist and muse.

The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk is being performed at Northlight Theatre in Skokie through October 6th. For tickets and/or more show information, click HERE. 

South Pacific, with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein, is undoubtedly one of my all-time favorite musical theater pieces. This beautiful, lengthy show features some of the most enduring and heartwarming classic Broadway hits of romance ever written, including “Bali Ha’i,” “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I’m in Love With a Wonderful Guy,” “Happy Talk,” “Younger than Springtime,” and the heartbreakingly wistful “This Was Nearly Mine.”

Directed by Pat Henderson with musical direction by Jeremy Ramey, this MadKap production at Skokie Theatre managed to fit a large cast of talented players into a small space, telling a big story with many levels of relevance to today’s events. The musical explores themes of finding a second chance at true love later in life and the challenges of sexual and racial prejudice against women and Polynesians during wartime.

Most theater lovers have seen South Pacific at some point, but if not, the main plot revolves around Navy nurse Nellie Forbush, considered an old maid in the United States, who is sent to the South Pacific during World War II. There, she falls in love with a widower and expat from Paris named Emile De Becque.

Nellie Forbush is portrayed with great depth and emotional range by Willow Schneider. Schneider has a wonderful voice and is a talented actress. I truly appreciated her ability to capture both the responsible, respectable American professional nurse and the love-struck, happy young woman who has found true love later in life. Schneider really shines vocally, expressing the true excitement and joyousness of spirit in the songs “I’m in Love with a Wonderful Guy” and “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair.”

The character of Emile De Becque is wonderfully played by Tony Calzareta. Calzareta brings mature, compassionate energy to the character and his amazing singing voice to the classic songs “Some Enchanted Evening” and the heartbreaking “This Was Nearly Mine.” Calzareta truly conveyed the depth of love he found in this young woman—and nearly lost—during these songs and in the scene where Army officials try to get him to risk his life on a mission against the Japanese. He declares that nothing is more important to him than having her love now that he’s finally found her - not any war or request to endanger himself from any government.

Islander and trader Bloody Mary, played by Mariel Saavedra, was a delight with her rich, warm voice and motherly take on having to protect and, at the same time, try to marry off her young daughter to any soldier or islander who has enough money to take care of her. Mariel sang a great rendition of “Bali Ha’i,” the ultimate island siren song, and also “Happy Talk,” where she encourages her daughter and soldier boyfriend to chat about happy things they’d like to do together so that their dreams can come true.

Max Perkel as Lieutenant Joe Cable also displayed his vocal prowess in his segment of “Bali Ha’i” and his finely finessed performance of “You’ve Got To Be Carefully Taught”. 

Luther Billis, the fast-talking, somewhat sleazy purveyor of women and cigarettes who operates a secret laundering side-business, was artfully played by Andrew Buel. Buel managed to get some very funny takes in while also conveying the deep loneliness and hopelessness that a lower-level soldier must have faced while scraping by on an island in the Pacific without much respect for their lives. The entire supporting cast of nurses and soldiers had great voices too, and I thought they worked well together, bringing humor and energy to this wonderful musical classic.

I have to give special acknowledgment to the talents of the live musicians working as the orchestra for the play: Musical Director and keyboardist Jeremy Ramey and Andrew Millikan on the second keyboard. As soon as the overture for the play began, it was clear that the music for this production was going to be outstanding. Despite the small number of musicians on stage, I could’ve sworn there was a full orchestra hiding somewhere behind them at times. Ramey and Milliken are exceptionally talented musicians, and every note they played from the beginning to the end of the show soared with the deep romantic and dramatic emotions that a great production of South Pacific deserves. Their musical accompaniment was so captivating that I could have listened to them play the songbook all evening.

My only note regarding production value is that the stage setting could have been a bit more tropical and elegant, with a little more detail in the backdrops and set pieces. However, the creative team was resourceful in its staging considering the smaller stage area for such a large production, so that the aisles and stairs leading up to the stage were used effectively to expand the space.

All in all, the combined talents of this maturely cast production created a wonderful full night of entertainment with a classic, romantic, and enduring Rodgers and Hammerstein musical.

I highly recommend you and your family attend this enlivening production, suitable for audiences of all ages! There is ample free parking across from and next to the theater.

For tickets and more show information, click HERE.

I was thoroughly captivated by the remarkable dancers and musicians brought together by Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater’s Artistic Director, Irma Suarez Ruiz, and Executive Director, Jorge Perez in their latest production Flamenco Passion at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts. 

The entire company of dancers were of the highest quality and training and the three 2024 guest stars, Raquel Gomez, La Lupi and Antonio Najarro proved that mature dance professionals in their prime (not just in their 20’s) can deliver dance delights that wow an audience and leave them breathless. 

Raquel Gomez was a towering vision of strength and drama in her solo piece, the world premiere of “Resilience.” Antonio Najarro turns up the steam heat with the most spectacular solo display of dance and wildly complicated castanets playing I have ever seen in the world premiere of “Flamenco Tango”.  The entire company came to life in the sexy, smokey and modern “Aries/Flamenco Tango” and company dancers Sammi Micklewright and Jonathan Pacheco shone as the sexiest, most fluid pair of lovers.

Raquel Gomez performing her work Resiliencia. 

But the night was brought to glorious fulfillment by the life changing talents of guest star La Lupi (Susana Lupiañez Pinto). La Lupi, a mature virtuoso of the art form, takes the stage with the fury of a tornado, and at times bends that fury into the grace of a bouquet of modest pink flowers bending in the wind. 

The interchange of these talented musicians on stage with the dancers was electric. Their wonderful soaring, and sometimes moaning voices, their rhythmically clapping hands and incredible guitar work was the impetus and background of La Lupi movements in particular. We were shown how live music literally creates and motivates the great flamenco dancer La Lupi the way stars in the sky affect the tides of the ocean. 

I was completely inspired by La Lupi’s amazing strength as a dancer. La Lupi’s dancing is acting, and dance combined, and the audience was able to see all of the pain and joy of life itself in her movements.  All of a woman’s life, her sex, birth, death, marriages and betrayals are clearly visible in her face and body - something that one normally only sees in a Broadway stage actor.  In La Lupi, these emotions extend to every move of her agile fingertips, every slap of her hands against her own body and every stomp of her heels - precise and exacting as knives. 

The lighting and costumes were fantastic as well throughout the show. In “Hidden Passion” for example, the female dancers appear in a smokey blue light, their beautiful faces hidden, wrapped in sheer blue material hoods, as they drape themselves around the bodies of their lovers who are dressed all in black. 

In another piece, the shawls or wraps that the female dancers traditionally wear are taken over by the male dancers and used as expressions of male sensuality and seduction in a joyous turnabout. 

I don’t often label a production as “must see” but this collection of dancers and musicians is without a doubt THE “must see” Chicago dance production of the entire 2024 season! With just a short three-day run at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts as part of the American Spanish Dance and Music Festival (June 7^th-15^th), we can only hope this production will be mounted again in the near future, perhaps at the company’s resident home at Northeastern Illinois University – so keep an eye open!

I highly recommend Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater’s Flamenco Passion for audiences of all ages who want to experience the true ballet of Spanish dance in its most exquisite and breathtakingly difficult expression.  

I’m amazed that it’s been 18 years or so since I first saw a Hell in a Handbag production. Though it seems like yesterday, my first experience with Handbag was taking in their production of The Poseidon Adventure at the cozy and artistic Chopin Theatre in Wicker Park. It was fantastic and it was funny - fantastically funny. The musical’s parody humor, clever innuendos and dry wit reeled me in immediately. I was instantly blown away by Founding Artistic Director and performer David Cerda and the company’s cast of very talented comedic singers and dancers - and I still am. Hell in a Handbag is a dependable theater company that consistently provides hilarious, high-quality productions of camp entertainment (i.e. Golden Girls: The Lost Episodes, Christmas Dearest, Caged Dames) to the appreciative Chicago community and, like so many others, I find myself always looking forward to their next production. 

Handbag’s current production is yet another gem. Also performed at Chopin Theatre, Poor People! The Parody Musical, was brilliantly written by Tyler Anthony Smith and is wonderfully directed by Stephanie Shaw. Poor People! is a dynamite brand-new production that creator Tyler Anthony Smith describes as being a tribute to the characters in shows like Annie and Les Miserables, “that despite dire circumstances, the characters were still belting their faces off and dancing in the streets. Anybody can be happy and sing but it takes something special to be on your deathbed and still be on key.”

In the gritty, smoke-filled streets of 1979 New York City, the story’s fiery-haired protagonist, Li’l Orphan Arnie (played by Dakota Hughes), is on the run. Escaping the clutches of a lascivious, meth-cooking, authoritarian head of the orphanage, Miss A (Sydney Genco), Arnie’s fate takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a mysterious feline dancer named Whiskers (Matty Bettencourt). Whiskers leads Arnie through a supernatural manhole, hurtling them back in time to 1815 Paris, France.

In this new period of time, Arnie trades one impoverished existence for another. The search for their birth parents takes a backseat as they join forces with a ragtag gang of pickpocketing prostitutes, masterminded by the enigmatic Fagin (David Cerda).

Life takes a darker turn when Mama Moneybags (Brittney Brown), a corrupt Republican hailing from the future, sets her sights on dismantling Fagin’s crew. But fear not! A motley crew of vibrant, down-and-out characters steps up to the challenge. Among them are the consumptive Pantene (portrayed by Caitlin Jackson), the wild and feral Beggar Woman (Elizabeth Lesinski), and Nance, the quintessential hooker with an unexpectedly golden heart (brought to life by Tyler Anthony Smith). 

Besides Annie and Les Miserables, the story also parodies a bevy of characters and songs from other favorite Broadway productions including The Phantom of the Opera (“The Groomer of the Flop’ra”), Oliver, and even a lampooned version of Mary Poppins’ “Feed the Birds (Tuppence A Bag)”.   

(front center) Sydney Genco with (back, l to r) Tyler Anthony Smith,Taylor Dalton, Caitlin Jackson and Patrick O'Keefe in Hell in a Handbag Productions world premiere of POOR PEOPLE! The Parody Musical.

So, let's get to the talented cast members…

Dakota Hughes plays Li’l Orphan Arnie with a childlike charm and sass. Not just gifted with comedic talent, Hughes has a tremendous vocal range and gets to show it off throughout the play. Caitlyn Jackson, who plays Pantene and Sydney Genco as Miss A have been longtime favorites of mine in the Hell and a Handbag Productions troupe throughout the years and were both very funny and also had great song and dance numbers, which I have come to expect and enjoy! Along with Genco and Jackson, Brittany Brown also gets to impress the audience with her sensational singing voice. Another favorite Handbag veteran of mine is Elizabeth Lesinski and she absolutely crushes in her role as the Beggar Woman, drawing laughs with just about each delivered line. She also shows us that she can manage a herd or ravenous squirrels while holding a tune. 

Warm, commanding, and consistently hilarious, David Cerda shines in his role as Fagin. Cerda’s presence exudes both comedy and a nurturing energy that envelops the entire cast. Audiences eagerly anticipate his every entrance. Meanwhile, Tyler Anthony Smith remains a beloved fixture from previous Handbag productions - and absolutely steals the show! Smith brilliantly adapted many numbers from well-known Broadway shows into rousing, funny, bawdy and touching ensemble performances that keep the entire audience laughing and cheering right up until the end of this wonderful full-length production.

To complete the ensemble, Matty Bettencourt sizzles as Fosse Kitty, and special recognition is also due for the outstanding performances of Taylor Dalton as Epipen, Shane Roberie as The Groomer, Patrick O’Keefe as Twinky, and Tommy Thurston as Pretty Rich Boy. There is so much to love about this gifted ensemble. Truly, every cast member delivers an exceptional and delightful experience for the audience. 

Poor People! is a fun show filled with one hilarious moment after the next that does not mind pushing the envelope as far as it can. Yet, no matter how ribald or risque the show may be, a Hell in a Handbag production always includes a heartwarming message to the audience of support and acceptance to all people, regardless of their gender, race or age - and this show is no exception. Tyler Anthony Smith delivers the timeless message of wisdom in the uproariously funny and endearingly adapted finale, “We’re All Gonna Die Soon!” Embrace the present moment! We’re all here now, but who knows what tomorrow holds. So, let’s have fun and enjoy life! 

Poor People! The Parody Musical with musical direction by Andrew Milliken and choreography by Christopher Kelley is being performed at The Chopin Studio Theatre (1543 W. Division St.) through June 16th. For tickets and/or more show information visit https://www.handbagproductions.org/.   

Highly recommended.

*Extended through June 23rd!

If you appreciate classical music and captivating stories about brilliant artists from the past, Hershey Felder’s one-man show, Monsieur Chopin: A Play with Music, is an absolute delight. Felder, an accomplished pianist and composer, has previously wowed audiences with his portrayals of the magnificent music and talents of Irving Berlin and George Gershwin. Now, he turns his attention to the prodigious Polish composer, Fryderyk Chopin, and the result is equally compelling.

Set in post-revolutionary Paris in 1848, Monsieur Chopin runs for an uninterrupted hour and forty minutes. It seamlessly blends theater and concert, with Felder embodying Chopin as he shares personal stories and insights. The audience is transported into Chopin’s salon, where we become students listening to his rehearsals and teachings. Throughout the performance, Felder, still in character, engages in question-and-answer sessions as Chopin, creating an immersive experience that makes theatergoers feel like they are truly in the presence of the master composer.

The staging of the play is elegantly simple, yet haunting. A beautiful grand piano graces the stage accompanied by two candlelit salon tables. The backdrop features projections and archival video from the period, some of which were specially created for this production.

Felder’s talents are commendable. While many actors could portray Chopin or write a script about a famous musician, none can simultaneously play Chopin’s music with the same skill and authenticity as Felder. Conversely, although there may be numerous pianists capable of performing Chopin’s compositions for an hour and a half, none could inhabit the role of Chopin with the emotional depth and believability that Felder achieves.

In the captivating play about Chopin’s life, I discovered several intriguing and often tragic facts that were previously unknown to me, despite him being one of my favorite composers. For instance, Chopin’s renowned ‘Piano Sonata No. 2,’ commonly referred to as the “Funeral March,” was actually composed in response to the death of his younger sister, Emilia. This haunting piece has since become synonymous with funeral music worldwide.

Another revelation was Chopin’s deep affection for the brilliant French novelist George Sand. In the play, Chopin affectionately calls her ‘Madame’ and reveals that she was the true love of his life. Sand’s devotion to him and his music was so profound that she would recline on a chaise lounge directly beneath his piano, allowing her to experience the melodies ‘directly from his heart.’

Furthermore, I learned that Chopin’s musical journey began at an astonishingly young age—he made his debut as a pianist at just seven years old, showcasing his enormous talent. However, as he gained prominence, he grew disillusioned with public performances. Initial reviews criticized him for playing too softly, but the truth was that the enthusiastic upper-class audience drowned out his delicate playing with their chatter.

Monsieur Chopin weaves together many captivating stories, including the tragic childhood loss of his sister, the complexities of his love life, the challenges of safeguarding the women in his life across international borders, and his relentless battle with chronic illness. Sadly, Chopin’s untimely death at the age of 39 resulted from untreated health issues exacerbated by financial struggles. Despite his genius, he struggled to receive proper compensation for his work.

During my interaction with Chopin, I posed the question about the happiness he experienced in his life and whether there was a time when he felt successful and recognized as a genius.

Regrettably, as was often the case, Chopin responded with a resounding ‘No.’ He recounted how, after an initial reception that hailed him as a great talent, he faced subsequent criticism from critics. In response, he shifted away from live performances and instead focused on teaching music—a domain in which he excelled.

Allow me to wholeheartedly recommend this thoughtful, moving, and exhilarating musical theater piece to audiences of all ages. Hershey Felder has once again crafted a historically accurate and captivating portrayal of a brilliant genius brought to life. Throughout the performance, Felder’s intense portrayal, coupled with his remarkable pianistic skill, left the audience yearning for more of his exquisite piano playing.

Monsieur Chopin: A Play with Music, skillfully directed by Joel Zwick, is currently being staged at Writers Theatre until May 12th. For tickets and additional show information, please visit the official website.

Highly recommended.