Wednesday, 10 May 2023 13:41
What Makes a Man? ‘Antonio’s Song’ at Goodman Theatre Takes a Very Real Look
Written by Bill Esler
Striking and enveloping, “Antonio’s Song/I Was Dreaming of my Son” is the most honest and accurate portrayal of how men are formed emotionally that I have ever seen. While it’s the particular story of Antonio Edwards Suarez, its authenticity raises it to the universal, in my view. Saurez is a…
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Theatre in Review
Sunday, 07 May 2023 12:37
Mind blowing 'FAIRVIEW' By Definition Theatre at The Revival
Written by Wesley David
I’m going to do my best to not provide any spoilers in my review of “Fairview” the 2019 Pulitzer Prize winning play by Jackie Sibblies Drury. It’s going to be hard. Definition Theatre’s production under the direction of Tyrone Phillips will certainly challenge its audience. This production starts in heightened…
Published in
Theatre in Review
Thursday, 04 May 2023 14:33
'TV Land' an Irreverent Look at the Screens Dominating our Lives
Written by Bill Esler
“TV Land,” a sextet of short comedies playing May 6, 7 and 8 at The Vault on Fulton Street, is a bit like the television that inspired it, with highs and lows but enough hearty laughs to recommend it. An immersive theater event, "TV Land" puts the audience in the…
Published in
Theatre in Review
As we drove away from Lifeline Theatre I asked my companion what she thought of From the Mississippi Delta. “I have no words yet,” she said. “I’m still just reveling in delight.” This play is indeed delightful. Even when eleven-year-old Phelia is raped; even when she and Aunt Baby are…
Published in
Theatre in Review
Ever since my folks saw the Tony-winning production of Big River on Broadway when I was little and brought home the soundtrack on vinyl, the Roger Miller-penned musical has been my favorite. It not only acted as a gateway for young me to become a fan of Broadway, but it…
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Theatre in Review
Friday, 28 April 2023 15:11
‘In the Back on the Floor’ — Work, Pain and Corporate Slaying
Written by Bree Samani
“We make the most money and take the most shit.” I’m sure most of us can relate to this line. We've all been there, working a minimum-wage job and getting nothing in return. Written by Ken Green and directed by Rachel Van, In the Back/On the Floor accurately portrays the…
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Theatre in Review
Friday, 28 April 2023 14:32
Review: 'Into the Woods' at James M Nederlander Theatre
Written by John Accrocco
Stephen Sondheim warns to be careful what you wish for in one of his most beloved musicals, Into the Woods. The 2022 New York City Center Encores! Broadway revival became a revolving door for some of today’s biggest musical theatre stars. The run included Sara Bareilles, Cheyenne Jackson, and Brian…
Published in
Theatre in Review
Monday, 24 April 2023 15:58
'Panther Women – An Army for The Liberation' An Empowering Evening
Written by Wesley David
Stepping into the entrance of this 79th Street storefront immediately transports you to the 1960’s. You quickly realize you are in the headquarters of the Black Panther Party. Brothers and sisters, both Black and white, are in conversation with each other speaking about liberation and freedom. There is anticipation in…
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Theatre in Review
Grease has always been, first and foremost, a stage show. And while the 1978 movie with John Travolta and the late Olivia Newton-John is what lives on in pop culture (as it should), Grease arguably works better on the stage, and this version should get more credit. Drury Lane Theatre’s production…
Published in
Theatre in Review
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Friday, 21 April 2023 09:59
The Devil Makes Em Do It in Excellent Revival of Musical Classic 'Damn Yankees'
Written by Bill Esler
“Damn Yankees,” the vintage 1955 musical comedy at the Marriott Theatre in suburban Lincolnshire, has it all: a witty book, delicious songs, great choreography, and an excellent chorus. From the days when musical comedies were still rooted in operetta, it is truly musical, packed with memorable songs arranged in beautiful…
Published in
Theatre in Review
Tuesday, 18 April 2023 13:06
Steppenwolf’s “Last Night and the Night Before” is just life
Written by Wesley David
In the dark of night, a man is digging a hole. Once the hole is deep enough he drops a bundle into it and covers it with dirt. Behind him a little girl looks on. After re-filling the hole, he walks off. Scene. It is early morning. We are in…
Published in
Theatre in Review
Friday, 14 April 2023 11:27
Don't Miss Alanis Morisette’s Striking "Jagged Little Pill” at Broadway in Chicago Thru April 23
Written by Bill Esler
“Jagged Little Pill,” Alanis Morisette’s 1995, 16X platinum album, with 33 million copies sold, is her declaration of the terms of her self-emancipation. Timelessly truthful and inspirational, it remains an emotional catalyst for generations of people. The album is at the core of Broadway in Chicago’s “Jagged Little Pill,” which…
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Theatre in Review
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Wednesday, 12 April 2023 12:47
Review: 'The Cherry Orchard' at Goodman Theatre
Written by John Accrocco
Robert Falls is back! Well, for a short time at least to direct his adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s “The Cherry Orchard.” Falls retired as the Goodman Theatre artistic director in 2022, but his productions of Chekhov’s classics have become events to anticipate. “The Cherry Orchard” is the endcap to Falls’…
Published in
Theatre in Review
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Written by Kimberly KatzI 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,…
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