‘Tis the season to jump into the holiday spirit and what better way than to kick it off by taking in a holiday classic. “It’s A Wonderful Life: The Radio Play”, now playing at American Theater Company, is a charming and fun-filled way to do exactly that. In this warm hearted production, the audience is taken to a live 1940’s radio broadcast when storytelling was a much different art and form of entertainment. As crowd members file in, a pianist plays Christmas classics while the cast strolls about the stage awaiting and preparing for  their “radio performance”.

Golden-voiced announcer Chris Amos finally takes to one of the four microphones stationed across the stage and starts the show, introducing the story while plugging an advertiser on occasion just as was done during such an era. Just before the cast goes into “It’s A Wonderful Life”, he instructs the audience to clap when the applause sign light up.

The 1940’s radio set is just as imagined it would be, propped with old time microphones, furniture and other 1940’s essentials. The set also included a Foley station operated by Rhapsody Snyder, where live sound effects were made to follow every detail of the story, which was very interesting and fun to watch.

Each cast member took on multiple characters, adding a comedic element at times, especially when outstanding actor Mike Nussbaum, went directly from mean old Mr. Potter to the loveable and naïve guardian angel, Clarence. Cliff Chamberlain was dynamic as the beloved George Bailey, while Sadieh Rifal, Tony Lawry and Tyler Ravelson added very solid performances for each character they played.

Another delightful blast to yesteryear came during the story breaks when the cast participated in quirky advertisements complete with corny jingles and campy one-liners. During these breaks the cast would also read aloud Christmas greetings from audience members submitted prior to the show’s beginning.

“It’s A Wonderful Life: The Radio Play” is the perfect show for the holidays and one that can be seen multiple times if you want to share the experience with others. “It’s A Wonderful Life: The Radio Play” is playing at American Theater Company (1909 W Byron St) through December 30thand tickets are a very reasonable $35-$40. For more show information or tickets, visit www.atcweb.org or call 773-409-4125.        

The play starts out with a poker game taking place in Oscar Madison’s living room. The place we can see is a mess, cigar smoke freely roams throughout and all the regulars are there – Speed, Roy, Vinnie and Murray – all but one – Felix Ungar. After much worry and time pass, Felix shows up dejected and frazzled. He had just been kicked out by his wife. With no place to go, best friend Oscar persuades Felix to move in with him. Good idea, right? Well, it seemed so at first, but when Oscar, an irresponsible slob who loves to drink, smoke and gamble is paired in a confined living space with Felix, an allergy ridden neat freak whose idea of fun is organizing and cleaning all things possible…well, maybe not such a good idea after all.

Neil Simon’s classic story, “The Odd Couple” is triumphantly delivered at Northlight Theatre and is cast with a slew of Chicago greats including Second City alumni Tim Kazurinsky, Peter Defaria, Phil Ridarelli and Marc Grapey. Grapey, incidentally carries out a terrific performance in the stead of George Wendt, who was scratched from the role of “Oscar” due to health issues. Phil Ridarelli gets a lot of laughs and immediately captures the crowd’s attention as the loud and sardonic “Speed”, showing great ability to command the audience with his great comedic expression, tone and body language.

Though initially disappointed that George Wendt was not playing the role of “Oscar”, Grapey quickly took command of the character and was a true pleasure to watch perform. Grapey is certainly well suited for the role and displayed a tremendous rapport with co-star Tim Kazurinski, who also gave a top-notch performance. Of course it wouldn’t be “The Odd Couple” without Murray and the Pigeon sisters and Peter Defaria, Katherine Keberlein and Molly Glynn really add the perfect touches to each character.  

“The Odd Couple” is flat out funny. It is the perfect getaway if you are looking for a brief retreat from the humdrums of daily life. Located just next door to Jameson’s Steak House, what better way to spend an evening than dinner and a show. Northlight Theatre is located at the North Shore Center for Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie. For tickets and/or more information visit www.northlight.org or call 847-673

If you’ve recently had the odd inclination to see a play that revolves around an Uptown donut shop –good news! You will be pleased to know that Tracy Letts’ “Superior Donuts” is not only currently playing at the Cabaret Theatre inside the Royal George Theatre, but is also a sweeter treat than any Krispy Kreme fried dough concoction. Funny and thoroughly engaging, “Superior Donuts” centers around a donut shop in the midst of Uptown that has been in the family for sixty years – but there’s so much more.

Run by son, Arthur Przybyszewski (just like it sounds), now an aging Jerry Garcia-alike, Superior Donuts holds onto to the comforts of routine, and unchanging ways where the same handful of regulars make most of its customer base. When Franco Wicks, a young visionary and dreamer, comes knocking for a job opening behind the counter, Arthur reluctantly hires him. Franco is filled with energy and new ideas and continues to hammer Arthur with creative proposals to attract a new crowd – bran muffins and bananas for the healthy minded individual, poetry night… Though the two couldn’t be more opposite, they begin to click, learning from, and about, each other as outer layers are slowly peeled away. In the meantime, neighboring businessman, Max, is trying to buy the donut shop from Arthur to expand his electronics business. Arthur is not willing to sell.

Arthur is such a wonderful character. Slow to speak with simple, direct and thought out words, he is extremely laid back, outwardly set in his ways, though at times also shows glimpses of excitement to explore new directions. Still, at the end of Arthur’s day it’s all about complacency, familiarity and relaxing with some weed in his bowl at closing time. As the play moves on, we learn about Arthur’s background  - Polish heritage, raised in Jefferson Park, and like many, past ghosts are revealed, in his case a lost wife. Richard Cotvsky is simply terrific as Arthur, really making the character easy to relate with.

What makes this play so entertaining is the connection and interactions between Franco and Arthur. As every bit as engaging as Arthur was made to be, the same can be said about Franco. Kudos to the director for casting Preston Tate, Jr. to play the role of Franco, who was not only outstanding as Franco, but couldn’t have been more perfect to craft a fun, and meaningful, relationship with Cotvsky. The chemistry between the two is magical and is completely enjoyable to watch from any theatre seat in the house. I want to also acknowledge Paige Smith for his exceptional work in the role of Max and express appreciation to him for providing some of the show’s biggest laughs.

“Superior Donuts” is a perfect dose of Chicago evening theatre and contains all the ingredients of an intriguing story from loan shark thugs to the perpetual ambitions of a dreamer, complete with big laughs and its share of sticky moments.   

“Superior Donuts”, A Mary-Arrchie Theatre Company production, is playing at The Royal George Cabaret (1641 N Halsted St.) though November 25^th. For more information call 312-988-9000 or visit www.maryarrchie.com. 

The Neo-Futurists aptly celebrate our nation’s leaders in their current production of “44 Plays for 44 Presidents”. Finding both tragedy and humor in each president from George Washington to Barrack Obama, the show gives you a quick look into each leader and also presents some little known facts about some. Cast members take turns donning the presidential jacket in chronological order from first to current all the while completing a map of the United States as each state becomes part of the nation.

Yes, you will be sure to see all your faves come to life including Zachary Taylor and Millard Fillmore. Joe Dempsey leads an outstanding cast that somehow successfully captures the mistakes and achievements of each president while spending an average of just a few minutes on each, paying tribute to those deserved and criticizing when necessary no matter the represented party.

Halena Kays directs this production well, as it moves at a prefect pace to tickle one’s interest throughout. As with many Neo-Futurists productions, the audience comes into play when cast members ask for volunteers, adding some very funny and embarrassing moments. A few audience members are also selected to share memories of John F. Kennedy in a more moving segment.

“44 Plays for 44 Presidents” is part of the ongoing Plays for Presidents Festival taking place throughout the country (www.playsforpredsidents.com for more info). Playing through November 4^th, this is a great show to take in just before the election. Tickets are just $20 ($10 for students and seniors) for 7:30pm shows on Fridays and Saturdays and 3:0pm on Sundays, and 7:30pm Thursday shows are listed as pay-what-you-can. The Neo-Futurarium is located at 5153 N. Ashland. For more information call 773-275-5255 or visit www.neofuturists.org.            

Mary Zimmerman, an auteur-director with a career as epic as the myths she adapts, remounts her Tony Award-winning “Metamorphoses” as part of Lookingglass Theatre’s 25th season. Six Greek myths are performed by an ensemble of ten, wading through timeless themes of sex, love, and death. The stories - featuring famous mortals and gods like Midas, Eurydice, and Aphrodite - are staged in an iconic pool whose water adds weight to each step and gesture. Over the watery course of 90 minutes, the modernized myths effortlessly ebb and flow between tragedy (a deceased husband appears to his wife in a dream) and comedy (Sleep is rotund yawner with Zs floating around his head). While a few referential transitions will fly over the heads of those who didn’t study the Greeks, the bulk of Metamorphoses requires only an understanding of two great subjects of Western storytelling: sex and death. Water becomes the bed for both in “Metamorphoses.”

So why remount it? King Midas would touch on the financial gain (the production is already set to transfer to the Arena Stage in D.C.), while Narcissus would stare at the piece’s technical beauty. This critic is simply fortunate to experience a play originall conceived eight years after he was conceived; older now, he can take in the beauty, cleverness, and majesty of these staged dreams that soak you in their truth.

“Metamorphoses” is making a splash at Lookingglass through November 18. Tickets at http://lookingglasstheatre.org

Saturday night was a night of mystery, intrigue and illusion as young master magician and mentalist, Luis Carreon, amazed with one mind boggling trick after another. Aptly named “Bending Minds and Bending Dreams”, The Amazing Luis uses a unique blend of original magic with fun scenarios to wow his audience and bring them to a world where the impossible is the norm.

Appearing in front of an intimate crowd at the Bughouse Theater (2054 W Irving Park Rd), Luis regularly used participants from the audience to assist in his feats of magic, making it an up close and personal experience to remember for a long time to come. Luis’s show flowed nicely with an element of humor incorporated into the act and each trick was more unexplainable than the last. The show also ends on a dramatic note when it appears Luis confronts death in the face by putting himself at the great risk of consuming a glass of Drain-O. Luis did survive to put on another show, but the trick was well-staged and evoked a good amount of anticipation from show-goers.

From card tricks and astonishing slight of hand to fascinating demonstrations of mentalism, Luis captured his audience from the show’s beginning and never let go. Winner of the Harlan Tarbell Close-Up Competition and 3^rd place finisher in the Chicago Magic Competition, Luis is a genuine talent that has a bright future in front of him. Luis can also be seen as the head demonstrator at the legendary Magic Inc at 5082 N Lincoln.

For more information on The Amazing Luis, visit www.facebook.com/BendingMindsandBendingDreams         

“Godspell” is a musical for everyone. Now that that has been stated, everyone should see this particular production by the Brown Paper Box Company. Creatively directed by M. William Panek, “Godspell” is fun, lively and has the audience captured from the first number “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord”.

Originated in 1970 by director/writer Michael Tebelak for his master’s thesis project, “Godspell” is the Jesus story based on the Gospel according to Saint Matthew, though it takes place in a modern, urban environment and has dance-craved, colorfully-dressed kids taking on the roles of the apostles. In this adaptation, Panek superbly captures the youthfulness and energy of the original with well cast roles and is also able to successfully convey meaningful messages throughout by way of parables in the midst of humorous punch lines and physical comedy.

Doubling as “John the Baptist” and “Judas Iscariot”, Jake Mahler excels in both roles thanks in part to a strong vocal performance and finessed guitar playing. While Andrew Lund was aptly cast as “Jesus” and performs the role wonderfully with heart, passion and vocal prowess, the ensemble as a whole really brings the show to life. An all-around outstanding performance by Stephanie Rohr epitomizes the essential of “Godspell”, blending earnest fervor with joy, bliss, eagerness and curiosity. Rohr strengthens an already strong cast, but is not the only star to shine in this production as each member in the ensemble has something to offer and does so when given the chance during their own numbers.

From the classic “Day by Day” to such songs as “O Bless the Lord” and “Save the People” the live instrumentation is every bit as impressive as the cast.

“Godspell” is playing at Collaboraction Studio 300 (in the historic Flat Irons Building - 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave) through October 7th. Parking can be challenging in the heart of Wicker Park so public transportation is a great option. For more information or tickets, visit www.brownpaperbox.org.

*top photo - Andrew Lund and Jake Mahler

*right side photo - Stephanie Rohr with ensemble

1970’s magic is in the air as the highly entertaining musical, XANADU, makes a stop at Drury Lane Theatre. Based on the film starring Olivia Newton John, Gene Kelly and Michael Beck, the show parodies the original every chance it gets from Newton John’s Australian accent to its cheesy love story.

Beginning September 13^th, the show will run through October 28th. XANADU opened at Broadway’s Helen Hayes Theatre to critical acclaim on July 10, 2007 as the first new musical of the 2007/2008 season. Since the 2007 opening, the award-winning musical garnered the best reviews of the season, with critics and audiences celebrating its cheeky humor and far out music. Winner of Best Musical (Outer Critics Circle Award) and Best Book (Drama Desk Award), The New York Times raves XANADU is “heaven on wheels,” and the Washington Post says this musical is “a triumph!” I would tend to agree. This production is especially wonderful thanks to its amazingly talented cast, especially Gina Milo who sings eerily like Olivia Newton John in the role of Kira.

This wildly funny musical delivers a surprisingly touching story about the nine magical muse-daughters of Zeus, who come to earth in 1980 (disguised in roller skates, leg warmers and Australian accents) to inspire humans to create truly great work and discover the meaning of the universe's greatest secret: the Gift of XANADU. Zeus' most important decree is they can’t fall in love with any mortals! But all that changes when the young Kira (Gina Milo) meets the handsome artist Sonny (Chris Critelli), who needs her help in achieving his greatest dream. It is only when Sonny teaches Kira the true meaning of inspiration, that the secret of XANADU is divulged.

XANADU stars Christine Sherrill and Nancy Voigts as the evil Muses Melpomene and Calliope and Gene Weygandt as Danny (played in the film version by Gene Kelly). The cast also includes Stephanie Binetti, Gary Carlson, Tammy Mader, and Sean Blake – all outstanding in their support roles for leads Critelli, Weygandt and Milo, who are each as funny as they are vocally talented.

With a book ingeniously adapted (New York Times) by Douglas Carter Beane, and a score by Jeff Lynne (writer and producer for the Electric Light Orchestra (E.L.O.) and John Farrar (responsible for most of the hits performed by Olivia Newton-John in the 1970’s), XANADU features the top 20 Billboard hits, “Magic”, “Xanadu”, “All Over the World” and “Alive.”

XANADU ticket prices range from $35 to $45 and may be purchased at the Drury Lane Theatre Box Office at 630-530-011, Ticketmaster at 800-745-300 or by visiting wwwdrurylaneoakbrook.com. 

In the tradition of the great voices that have given Chicago its musical backbone such as Mel Torme, Nat King Cole, Koko Taylor, Steve Allen and so many more, Mayne Stage Theater served as home for an incredible night of song and tribute that will not soon be forgotten. From March 2^nd through March 3^rd, audience members were treated to three nights of Chicago’s best vocal talents, as they performed songs referencing their hometown. Daryl Nitz hosted and performed in the thoroughly enjoyable three-hour event that featured Chicago’s top nightclub vocalists and touched on the many great music genres we have come to love from lounge to jazz to blues to soul.

What took place on these three nights was nothing short of tremendous with each talented performer making the most of their slot. On favorite, Mark Madsen, a Gale Street Inn resident performer, displayed his signature pipes to the tune of the sweetest jazz guitar I have heard in recent years. And there was plenty more… Denise Tomasello, looking dazzling in her long blue dress and diamond-studded shoes, floored guests with her rendition of “My Kind of Town” while, not so long after, Isiah Mitchell was a ball of energy while showing off his vocal range with flattering renditions of Lou Rawls “You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” and Stevie Wonder’s “For Once in My Life”.

Daryl Nitz, who also performed beautifully, did a fantastic job in putting such a memorable evening together by arranging such top caliber talent to appear under one roof and making it flow so well together. The list of talent was as rich as banana cream pie with appearances also by Liz Mandeville, Kimberly Gordon, Lynne Jordan, Jeff Hedberg, Skip Griparis and Beckie Menzie, who also played piano for most performers. 

Still, as amazing as the night would have been with each of the above-mentioned performers alone, it was the appearance of legendary singer Audrey Morris that really put the stamp on the evening. With the poise, grace and beauty that holds true to her celebrated 50-plus year run, the 83-year-old recording artist manned the piano to play charming interpretations of “Chicago” and “Lush Life”. Gentle and precise were each key struck and velvety and timeless each note sung.

Just before Audrey took her place at the piano onstage, Daryl mentioned to the audience how influential her music had been in his life, giving due thanks to such a special performer. Daryl mentioned his favorite Audrey Morris recordings, “Film Noir” and “The Voice of Audrey Morris” as two albums that shaped not only his own musical path, but also plenty other of today’s marquis singers.

After Audrey’s performance the capacity crowd rose to their feet in standing ovation – a sign of true respect for someone so deserving.        

As the show came to an end, each performer took their place onstage joining together for a big-ending rendition of the blues classic “Sweet Home Chicago”, capping off what was already a perfect evening.  

Most people have never been audience to a radio show, let alone a radio show set in the 1940s. Well, here’s your chance. Set in 1944 as a live broadcast at Chicago’s legendary Biograph Theater, spectators are able to capture an enjoyable and entertaining glimpse of yesteryear. American Blues Theater's “It’s A Wonderful Life: Live at the Biograph!’ is original, fun and heartwarming, but most of all it is a true experience.

As we walk into the theatre there is already a festive feel in the room with the sound of singing as cast members are leading the participating crowd in holiday classics. Between songs it is explained to us how radio shows work. We are shown an overhead sign and instructed to be quiet when the “On Air” light is on and to applaud when we see “Applause”. Cast members rotate from the three microphones stationed up front, a couch in the rear a chair to the side and a piano. They are having pleasant conversations with each other and laughing, reminiscent of a holiday gathering while taking turns addressing the audience.

Once the show actually begins we are already acquainted with the cast and primed for more holiday fun. Soon after, the curtains are drawn, shutting out the outside world, the house lights are turned down and the story of “It’s A Wonderful Life” commences.

The story begins, like in the film, with a conversation in heaven between “Joseph” (James Joseph) and “Clarence” (John Mohrlein) discussing the life of “George Bailey” and his need for help. From there the play continues to follow the classic story, as we know it. Each cast member takes on multiple roles, barring Kevin R. Kelly who has his hands full as “George”, in which he does a stupendous job. Zachary Kenney is fantastic as brother “Harry”, son “Tommy”, bartender “Nick” and “Ernie”, everyone’s favorite cab driver, while Gwendolyn Whiteside handles to perfection the voices of “Mary” and “George’s” mother. Like the others, Dara Cameron is also terrific in handling multiple roles, as is James Joseph, especially as “Uncle Billy”. As truly wonderful as each and every cast member is in this production the sheer brilliance of John Mohrlein is a true jewel to behold. So spot on is Mohrlein’s impression of Lionel Barrymore’s “Mr. Potter” that it actually prompts occasional laughs of disbelief and joy from the audience.

Rounding out the sensational cast is Michael Mahler who mans the piano, but also takes on a few characters himself, and Shawn J. Goodie who handles the show’s Foley, creating genuineness to the radio show.

It’s even fun when the show pauses for commercial breaks. Customized corporate jingles are sung as a product or service is being pitched just as done in the 1940s. At this time messages are also read to the crowd submitted by other audience members.

The show ends in its tremendous feel good fashion and the audience is then invited to have cookies and milk with the cast. Fun, fun, fun - Can you say "Must See"?

For more information, visit www.americanbluestheater.com.

*Featured in photo - Kevin R. Kelly (left) and John Mohrlein