Somewhat Recommend
Comical exploration of reality.
There are two good reasons to see Harvey, by St. Sebastian Players. One is the humorous quirky Pulitzer Prize winning script by Mary Chase and the other is the exceptional performance of Jeff Broitman as Elwood Dowd, the pleasant oddball fellow whose companion and best friend is a six-foot rabbit.
Elwood lives with his sister Veta (Julie Utrup-O’Nan) and niece Myrtle Mae (Claire Rutkowski) who have come to live with him after the passing of the family matriarch.
The problem is Elwood owns the house and the two women are mortified and generally disturbed by Elwood’s behavior especially as it relates to his peculiar friend. Consequently, they conspire to have him committed to the care of Dr. Chumley (Robert Dean) aided by Dr. Sanderson (Eric Prahl).
This story has a mid-century vibe that projects sensibilities which have evolved since that period when experimental medical concoctions and institutional confinement were the accepted treatment for those considered to be out-of-step with societal norms.
There is also a noticeable overtone of misogyny particularly between Dr. Sanderson and his nurse Ms. Kelly (Erin Gordon) which is offered tongue-in-cheek for comic effect but might be a bit cringey for some.
It’s clear that Elwood is not a threat to himself or others and in the end this story has us consider how real or unreal are other people’s reality, and whether every peculiarity requires intervention.
With a number of laugh-out-loud moments, it’s just good fun. Director Lisa Ramos has good control over the action and the hinged set design of Emil Zbella was commendable, while Broitman brings an engaging natural whimsical charm to the role of Elwood worthy of any stage.
Established in 1981, the Saint Sebastian Players, according to their website, is a membership-based theatre company that brings together actors, directors, writers and technical crews in a supportive environment that fosters learning and growth.
The venue is comfortable with tiered seating that accommodates about 75 in the basement of St. Bonaventure Church. There is no elevator so be prepared to navigate some stairs. Limited free parking is available in the back with plenty of additional street parking.
Details: “Harvey” by St. Sebastian Players is at St. Bonaventure, 1625 W. Diversey Parkway through March 8, 2026. Runtime is about 2 hours with one intermission. For ticket information and schedule visit saintsebastianplayers.org
Reno Lovison
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