TheatreInChicago – Chicago Theater and Arts

Fool for Love questioned at Steppenwolf

Nick Gehlfuss and Caroline Neff in “Fool for Love” at Steppenwolf Theatre

Somewhat Recommended

Full of potential, the set design by Todd Rosenthal is the highlight of this drama by playwright Sam Sheppard at Steppenwolf.

A sparsely furnished motel room dominates the stage. Along the perimeter an empty swimming pool, an imposing neon MOTEL sign, a massive telephone pole and bits of scrub grass suggest this is essentially the bottom of the barrel in the middle of nowhere somewhere at the end of the line.

The massive sky in the background adds to the idea that this is a story of two people stuck in a small room focused on their problems while there is a whole big world outside that really doesn’t care.

As the lights come up, Eddie (Nick Gehlfuss) is fussing with a bit of some kind of saddle gear as May (Caroline Neff) sits despondently at the edge of the bed.

Decked out in a western shirt, jeans, cowboy hat and boots and the ensuing dialogue all suggest that he is a semi-accomplished rodeo stuntman. She is a lost-soul living in squalor trying to disappear.

Eddie quickly reveals he has travelled more than two thousand miles because he cannot live without her. May lets him know she does not care and is not going to be sucked in once more to this on-again, off-again relationship that includes his wild dreams of a home in the country which she does not desire.

Outside, an old man (Tim Hopper) sits in a chair silently listening to their story unfold. Who are they? What is their previous relationship? Why is it so intense and volatile? Who is the old man?

These are the intriguing devices setup to draw us in, but I simply did not care about these ill-behaved, self-indulgent, self-obsessed characters.

I quickly felt they deserved whatever mess they were in, derived largely by their inability to communicate effectively with each other and to resolve their prior history. Move on.

Is this the best either of them can do? Apparently not because in a poorly developed subplot, Eddie is being pursued by an unseen “Countess” in a Mercedes limo who, in a fit of jealousy, has tailed him across half the country to destroy his pick-up truck and burn his horse trailer outside this remote dump. Really?

May is developing a perfectly normal dating relationship with Martin (Cliff Chamberlain), a respectable local man who wanders into this chaos for no good reason other than to bear witness to their madness and provide Eddie an opportunity to spill his guts about the secret behind the long-term affair.

In the end, Martin is left alone in the motel room presumably as bewildered as I am.

Since the truth involves the identity of the old man outside and is something of a spoiler, I will not reveal it here. After all it is the turning point of all the fuss and bother and I suppose might be or have been shocking at some point.

Making it more confusing is that the dialogue is vague about at what point May and Eddie understood the secret truth.

The purpose of the old man’s presence is unclear but he speaks to us of reality and fantasy. It is my opinion that the entire scene is an attempt for him to resolve the events that he put in motion through his own actions and misdeeds. He is the reality, the rest is his fantasy. The ambiguity might be related to the fact that old man does not really know if this relationship is resolved or not.

There is a sort of mythic tragic quality to the whole thing but not nearly as interesting.

The performances by this capable cast were fine. At best this is a mildly interesting character study involving two basically shallow people trapped in a relationship from which they feel unable to escape. It involves emotional highs and lows which might be useful in an acting class but which are not all that compelling as a full-blown production.

Forty years ago when it was first produced, this story might have been a bit more edgy, but I’m not sure it feels fresh today. Perhaps we are exposed to too much. I do not feel a sincere bond between Eddie and May or an intense compulsion to be together. There is no real heat. It is implied but does not have the fire.

Steppenwolf is the very pinnacle of dramatic theater in Chicago and I was excited at the prospect of seeing something thought provoking and memorable. Of all of the plays in the world including those of Sam Sheppard, why this? At seventy-five minutes it did not even satisfy as a night out.

If you are interested in the history and craft of playwriting, you might find some value, but I cannot in good conscience suggest that this is where my readers or podcast listeners should invest what might be limited theater dollars. Wait for a better production here, which will undoubtably come along soon.

Details: “Fool for Love” is at Steppenwolf Theater, 1650 North Halsted Street, Chicago through March 23, 2025. Tickets and other information available at steppenwolf.org or by calling (312)335-1650.

Reno Lovison

For more shows visit TheatreInChicago

Exceptional performance helps us know Frida Kahlo

Vanessa Severo is Frida Kahlo at Writers Theatre (Photos by Zach Rosing taken at Indiana Rep)

4 Stars

You don’t often see costume changes right on stage against a backdrop of apparel hanging on clothes lines. But then, you don’t often see a highly charged, exceptional, one-person performance such as the one that opened in Writers Theatre on Jan. 31, 2025.

It is Frida-A Self Portrait directed by Joanie Schultz and written and performed by Latino actress Venessa Severo.

You may start off thinking you know who Kahlo is. But by the end of the show you will also think you understand how this famed Mexican artist saw herself.

Upon entering the lobby look at the board near the entrance to the Alexandra C. and John D. Nichols Theatre, Writers’ main show space, to read the happenings and accomplishments chart during Kahlo’s short life.

Born July 6, 1907 to Guillermo, a German father, and Matilde, a Mexican-Purepecha-Spanish mother, she died July 13, 1954.

During that time she married artist Diego Rivera in 1929, painted, tried to carry their offspring (see tiny clothes on the line), painted, divorced, remarried Diego and painted.

The show’s premise is that Kahlo is being interviewed by a writer from an architecture magazine. (The house later became a museum)

You hear her explain her life but Severo also speaks to the audience. She shows her left hand with its missing fingers (a congenital disorder), as a way to express how she relates to Kahlo. (Kahlo had polio that affected her legs and also survived a bus accident that left her severely injured.)

However, by the show’s end you really do feel you have met Kahlo and better understand her life and how she saw herself.

BTW, in 1990 Kahlo’s painting Diego and I became the first work by a Latin American artist to sell for more than $1 million ( US dollars). In 2001, Kahlo becomes the first Hispanic woman on a U.S. postage stamp.

DETAILS: Frida-A Self Portrait, is at Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Ct. Glencoe, IL now through Feb. 23, 2025. Running time: about 75 plus minutes. For tickets and more information Visit Writers Theatre or call 847-242-6000.

Jodie Jacobs

For more shows visit Theatre in Chicago

Love is fragile and often transparent

Recommended

Is love like glass? Can you recognize and embrace love when you see it? This is a story about getting in touch with our better nature, rejecting a poor self-image, self-doubts, negative inner dialog and indeed the opinions of others based on their view of us.

Also, what are you willing to sacrifice to be the light in someone else’s life? Are you able to look past the superficial and artificial barriers that cause us to disregard and reject those who may be deserving of affection?

These themes are wrapped in a fantastical dramady written by Chicago-based playwright Reina Hardy and directed by City Lit Executive Artistic Director Brian Pastor.

Now on stage at City Lit Theater, “Glassheart” is a modern-day reimagining of the well-known tale of Beauty and the Beast.

Aiofe (Cailyn Murray) is a young woman from Michigan newly arrived in Chicago. She’s moved into an apartment managed by Elaine Carlson who, unbeknownst to her new tenant, happens to be a witch.

Aifo’s new neighbors are a cheerful woman about her own age living with a disagreeable, reclusive and unsightly brother.

In actuality, the brother or “the Beast” (Mark Pracht) is a European prince who has been put under a spell that has resulted in his overall repulsive countenance and behavior. The sister aka “Only” (Kat Evans) is in fact a former lamp that has been animated with human qualities to act as his servant and overall caregiver.

Only has taken it upon herself to move them to America in order to seek a fresh start in finding someone who might love the prince, thus freeing them both from the curse they are under.

City-Lit has assembled an all-star cast to introduce this Chicago Premier.

Mark Pracht’s beastly performance was perfectly sorrowful and requisitely aggressive providing much needed contrast in volume to the otherwise mostly conversational tone.

Kat Evans literally lights up the stage with her ebullient optimism and pleasing nature. Generally, I was not sure about the need for two short songs she sings, which seemed a bit out of place in this non-musical. But Evans’ angelic voice make the interludes more than worthwhile.

Cailyn Murray, new-to-Chicago having moved from Washington DC in 2023, is hereby invited to stay. Though I hope she has found, less eccentric lodgings.

Elaine Carlson as the witch was both humorous and menacing, think Aunt Clara (Bewitched) meets Rosemary’s Baby.

By the way this is not a child’s version of the popular tale.

“Glassheart” is a bit cerebral as it does not hit you over the head with its message. Indeed, I overheard two attendees saying, “I am not sure what it was all about” as they exited the theater. The other commented they were not certain of the name “Glassheart” and why it was not revealed until the end. I have my own thoughts on that, but it might be a criticism worth reflecting on as the writer and production team take notes.

This is essentially a one-set drawing room production, well written and well directed with solid performances by everyone.

Details: GLASSHEART at City Lit Theater, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr, Chicago, now through February 23, 2025 (on the second floor accessible via elevator of the Edgewater Presbyterian Church). Running time: about 2 hours with one 10-minute intermission. Tickets available online at www.citylit.org or by phone at (773) 293-3682.

Reviewer: Reno Lovison

For more theater reviews and info visit Theatre in Chicago

White Christmas soothes the soul

Kelly Felthous as Judy Haynes and Tyler Johnson-Campion as Phil Davis pair well as dancing partners in Marriott Theatre’s “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” (Photo by Liz Lauren)

Three Stars

“Irving Berlin’s White Christmas,” an old fashioned song and dance musical, seemed just the right antidote opening night following the more than a month of high pitched and sometimes contentious presidential and legislative campaigns.

Songs such as “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep,” “Blue Skies” and “White Christmas” lifted the spirits. The costumes designed by Sally Dolembo were integral to the show and beautifully enhanced the spare scenic design.

Perhaps you have seen the 1954 movie with Bing Crosby or the show performed before now but if not you should know that it revolves around the entertainment scene and a post WWII general who now has a Vermont ski vacation. It originally was written for a 1942 film called Holiday Inn.

Tyler Johnson-Campion is outstanding as Phil Davis, the dancing half of a popular song and dance pair with Bob Wallace as the songster. It’s just hard to believe that Johnson-Campion, a very talented actor/dancer from Disneys “Aladdin” is just now making his Marriott Theatre debut.

Kelly Felthous as Judy Haynes is a good romantic dance partner of Phil Davis. She is also have of the Haynes Sisters that also features Jaquelyne Jones as Betty. Felthous has appeared in Marriott’s “Music Man” and GoodmanTheatre in Roxie Hart in Chicago.

Also shout outs to Robin R McGee who as inn keeper Martha Watson, is also making her Marriott debut. and Olivia Grace O’Sullivan, the General’s granddaughter from the International and Marriott’s run of “The sound of Music.” Both actors are really enjoyable mainstays of this show.

Well directed and choreographed by Linda Fortunato, artistic director of Peninsula Players Theatre in Door County Wi, she previously choreographed Marriott’s “Into the Woods.” Music Direction is by Brad Haak. Music and lyrics are by Irving Berlin with book by David Ives and Paul Blake”

On a sad note:This production is dedicated to former Executive Producer Kary M. Walker (1944-2024). I remember him fondly.

Details: “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” is at Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire, IL now through Dec 29, 2024. For tickets and more information visit Marriotttheatre/ irving-berlins-white-christmas

Jodie Jacobs

For more shows visit Theatre In Chicago

Superb voices and music plus creative staging make Rigoletto a must see

Igor Golovatenko sings the title role in "Rigoletto," with Mané Galoyan as Gilda, in Lyric Opera's current production of the Verdi classic.

Igor Golovatenko as Rigoletto and Mané Galoyan as his daughter, Gilda, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. (Photos here by Todd Rosenberg)

Four Stars

Even non-regular opera goers would recognize “La donna è mobile.” Among the genre’s most famous arias, it is sung by acclaimed Mexican tenor Javier Camarena making his Lyric Opera debut as the Duke of Manua in Verdi’s Rigoletto. It translates as “Woman is fickle.”

But audiences have to wait for it. The opera has several good arias appreciated by the audience. However, “La donna è mobile” comes in Act III.

Instead of fully turning the lights on and off, director Mary Birnbaum, artistic director of Opera Saratoga and also new to the Lyric, has divided Act II into basically two scenes.

That works beautifully with the dark and tense mood she has created in what is an exceptional Lyric production. The second scene becomes Act III which takes place at a dwelling owned by an assassin.

The aria sums up one of the opera’s two main themes – the duke’s attitude towards women and that vengeance is dangerous.

(The Duke’s palace)

They bring down Rigoletto, the Duke’s hunchback jester sung by Russian baritone Igor Golovatenko who appeared at Lyric as Rodrigue in Don Carlos, and Rigoletto’s daughter, Armenian soprano Mané Galoyan who makes her Lyric debut as Gilda, the lass who falls for the Duke when he comes to her disguised as a penniless student.

Both are outstanding in their vocal and acting interpretations. Plus, Gilda gets her own aria, “Caro nome” in Act I, (“Caro nome che il mio cor” (Sweet name that made my heart) that sets her character in spite of the Duke’s later betrayal of her love.

Originally a Victor Hugo play called Le roi s’amuse (“The King Amuses Himself”) Verdi turned the story into a drama-tragedy that moves back and forth between the Duke’s frivolous loves and lifestyle and Rigoletto’s hatred of that lifestyle and his worries about the previous Duke’s curse. Indeed, one of the early titles to this opera referred to the curse.

Add in Rigoletto’s over-protected, naive daughter and audiences know this can’t end well.

Conducted by Music Director Enrique Mazzola with superb insight and shading, the Lyric Orchestra skillfully brought out Verdi’s perfectly colored contrasts in mood during the story’s fateful progress. Kudos also to the entire company

In addition, the opera’s contrasting atmosphere was enhanced by costume designer Jane Greenwood and set designer Robert Innes Hopkins.

Details: “Rigoletto” is at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, 20 N. Wacker Dr., Chicago specific times now through Oct. 6, 2024. Language: Sung in Italian with projected English titles. Running Time:2 hours and 35 minutes, including 1 intermission. For tickets and more information visit Lyric Opera.

Jodie Jacobs

For more shows visit Theatre in Chicago

Love and marriage are all in an extended family in the hilarious ‘The Cottage’

L-R Joel Ottenheimer, Shannon Bachelder, Melody Rowland, Elizabeth Bushell (Standing), and Philip J. Macaluso. (Photos by North Shore Camera Club)

Four Stars

You practically need a score card to keep track of who is doing “it” with whom even though two brothers and their current and past lovers and spouses all makeup somewhat of an extended family. They all pop into “The Cottage,” a small but attractive country house 90 minutes outside of London.

The year is 1923. The tone is that of a British farce but don’t expect a strong English accent or a lot of popping in and out different doors. Guests properly enter from the front door.

What we have is a very funny play by Glenview native Sandy Rustin that has come to Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest straight from its Broadway run.

At first, we see the morning after a once-a-year affair between Sylvia (Elizabeth Bushell) and her brother-in-law, Beau (Philip J. Macaluso). Before Beau can dress and leave for his office others in this casual, but unanticipated gathering come knocking at the door.

First to pop in is Beau’s regular lover, Dierdre (Melody Rowland) because Beau’s office told her he could be found at the family Cottage. Next to stop by are Beau’s brother, Clarke (Joel Ottenheimer), with his sister-in-law, Beau’s wife, Marjorie (Shannon Bachelder). Sylvia, who’s slightly ditsy, thinks she may have sent a telegram to Clarke about wanting a divorce.

They hear Diedra’s husband, Richard (John Dooley), knocking on the door. The problems now is that Sylvia said her first love was called Richard but she believes he died and Diedra admits that her Richard keeps killing her lovers.

And so, Act I ends with everyone hiding and Richard coming in with a gun.

Well directed by Jack Hickey, the entire cast is terrific. In addition, there is superb scenic design by Eric Luchen and properties design by Audrey Tieman. The house is charming and those cigarettes that Beau keeps snagging turn up everywhere.

No letting on here what happens in Act II. Go see this wonderful, comic play but don’t tell anyone else what happens.

Details: “The Cottage” is at Citadel Theatre, 300 S. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest, IL now thro0ugh Oct. 13, 2024 Running Time: Two hours. For tickets and other information visit Citadel Theatre.

Jodie Jacobs

For more shows visit Theatre in Chicago.

Independence brilliantly portrayed

L-R Tyrick Wiltez Jones as Samuel Adams, Lucy Godinez as Richard Henry Lee and Richard R. Henry as Benjamin Franklin in “1776” at Marriott Theatre. (Photo by Liz Lauren)

Four Stars

The first act of “1776” at Marriott Theatre merely sets the scene for this Broadway hit that has music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and book by Peter Stone. But then comes Act II.

It’s magnificent. Audiences might wonder what there is to say about the Declaration of Independence, a document written by Thomas Jefferson of Virginia, modified by some of the delegates to the Continental Congress and whose wording we presumably learned in elementary school. But under Nick Bowling’s direction the scene comes alive with terrific acting by a well-chosen cast and Tanji Harper’s choreography.

Marriott’s in-the-round stage is perfect for the scenery design by Regina Garcia. Not least is the period’s costume design by Theresa Ham.

In one corner of the stage, the names of the original 13 colonies are listed as delegations on a board, ready for a vote. They are the members of the Continental Congress who are meeting in Philadelphia at what would become knowns as Independence Hall.

A date calendar is hanging on a post at the opposite corner. Congressional custodian, Andrew McNair, (played by Karl Hamilton) usually brings in liquid refreshment for the delegates and changes the date. It’s countdown time.

As mystery books often say when a situation sounds almost easy – “what can go wrong?” After all, we know the outcome.

L-R Tyrick Wiltez Jones as Massachusetts delegate John Adams confronts Heidi Kettenring as the staunch British loyalist and anti-independence voter from Pennsylvania named John Dickinson. (Photo by Liz Lauren)

Early on, the delegates vote. Coming from different backgrounds and different viewpoints, six are for independence from Great Britain and six appear to be against, with New York politely passing on the vote.

However, even if a majority is obtained, John Dickinson throws out what may become the most important obstacle to overcome. Dickinson says the vote for independence must be unanimous.

Kudos to popular Chicago theater actor Heidi Kettenring who shoulders the vociferous Pennsylvania delegate John Dickinson’s anti-independence stance. She does her usual exceptional acting in a tough role that makes no friends among the Marriott audience.

Wiltz, who is making his debut at Marriott, may not be familiar to its audiences. He has mostly been in regional productions and on Broadway. But after his commanding performance as the “difficult” John Adams, he is likely to be back.

Audiences may remember Richard R. Henry in Marriott’s Man of La Mancha.” As a Massachusetts delegate, he delightfully replicates Ben Franklin’s humor.

Chicago and Regional actor Erik Hamilton returns to Marriott as the brilliant but reluctant writer, Thomas Jefferson, a role he underplays rather than dominates.

Mathew Hommel as South Carolina delegate Edward Rutledge becomes a pivotal vote for independence but will be remembered in this production for his “Molasses to Rum” song rendered in a “Les Mis” operatic style.

A note has to be included on Jay Westbrook as the Courier who quietly, sadly sings “Momma Look sharp.”

Fall 2024 is developing as a full theater season of excellent shows. However, Marriott Theatre’s “1776” should definitely be on that “don’t miss” list.

Details: “1776” is at Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire, IL now through Oct. 13, 2024. For tickets and more information visit Marriott Theatre.

Jodie Jacobs

For more shows and reviews visit Theatre In Chicago

Take a spin on this Carousel

Center, Maliha Sayed and Conor Jordan with cast of “Carousel.” (Photo by Brett Beiner)

Highly Recommended

Named the “Best Musical of the 20th Century” by Time Magazine, “Carousel” comes to life once again in the Music Theater Works production at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie.

With music by Richard Rogers and book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, this Golden Age classic continues to wow audiences with its beloved songs and heartfelt story.

Directed by Sasha Gerritson and choreographed by Andrew Waters, “Carousel” stands the test of time with such popular songs as “If I Loved You,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” “June is Busting Out All Over” and other favorites

Music Director Michael McBride conducts a live orchestra of 17 and a cast of more than 20 actors.

With plenty of New England warmth and charm, “Carousel” tells the love story between carnival barker Billy Bigelow and millworker Julie Jordan. When the jealous carousel owner fires Billy, he’s left without a job to provide for his family. He turns to crime and the results are tragic. Carousel is his story in search of redemption from beyond.

From the moment the curtain rises, Music Theatre Works has created an innovative approach to this timeless show with a fresh interpretation. It’s this new perspective blended with traditional tunes, enchanting, high-energy choreography, and a poignant plot that keeps the audience engaged.

The staging of the carousel is a remarkable feat showcasing the inspiration of scenic designer Shane Cinal.

Maliha Sayed as Julie has a beautiful voice and wistful expression that makes the audience fall in love with her, cheering her on. Conor Jordan as Billy Bigelow is handsome with a powerful, looming voice that carries the show.

What was unexpected were the strong performances of the supporting characters such as Will Koski as Enoch Snow who made the stage come alive with his operatic voice. Alicia Berneche as Nettie Fowler was excellent with powerful vocals that led the cast in the big musical numbers.

Kudos to costume designer Rachel Sypniewski for her colorful, authentic period costumes.

Not only was “this a real nice clambake,” but a spectacular show as well!

Next up for Music Theatre Works is “Little Shop of Horrors” from October 24 to November 17 and “Legally Blonde” from December 19 – December 29, 2024.

Details: “Carousel” is at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd. in Skokie. Running time: 2 hours and 45 minutes with one intermission. For tickets and information, call the Music Theater Works box office at the North Shore Center, 847.673.6300 or visit musictheaterworks.com.

Mira Temkin

For more shows visit Theatre In Chicago

Wells and Welles is a war of words

Wells & Wells

Highly Recommended

Two great minds collide over “A War of the Worlds.”

In 1938, twenty-five-year-old (George) Orson Welles became famous after his radio play based on this book shook the airwaves, purportedly nearly causing national panic.

The book’s seventy-five-year-old author, H.G. Wells, was not amused at how his intellectual property was, in his mind, misused without permission.

Based on an actual encounter in 1940 the two men, Wells and Welles, both happened to be on lecture tours finding each other in San Antonio, Texas on the same rainy night.

Done by Lucid Theater at City Lit, the production perfectly captures the moment in “Wells and Welles” when a young Orson Welles (Gerrit Wilford) arrives hat-in-hand at the motel room of H.G. Wells (Pete Blatchford) to – as he says – “bury the hatchet.”

The older Wells sees little need for further discourse as he has already agreed to drop any potential legal proceedings and makes it clear that, as the author of over fifty books, he considers the younger man’s endeavors in radio and film to be of little artistic value and simply sensational and crude.

Wells mentions in passing that he considers himself a journalist. Seizing on this insight Orson manages to get the author’s attention with a summary of a film he is working on called “Citizen Kane.”

The story is based loosely on the life of media magnate William Randolph Hearst. But in reality, it is about a man who seemingly has it all. However, in the process, has lost everything that is most dear to him.

The ensuing conversation involves the perception of age, youth versus experience, and using artistic expression to share a vision of the future but also as a means to fulfill one’s perceived personal destiny.

As the play progresses, we gain insight into the lives and minds of both men. We find Welles has an ulterior motive. Whether or not it can be fulfilled is where the tension lies in this soft-spoken clash of intellectual titans.

The exceptionally well written dialogue by Chicago playwright Amy Crider is superbly performed by Blatchford and Wilford. Produced by Lucid Theater, it is the type of smart, emotional, intimate theater that is particularly well suited to City Lit.

Nicely directed by Amber Mandley, the pacing is excellent and the players move thoughtfully and meaningfully around Kevin Rolfs’ set design depicting the motel room of H.G. Wells. Technical director Alvaro Ledesma’s lighting and sound design did an effective job of setting the rainy evening ambience.

Blatchford is a veteran Chicago actor who has performed in Scotland. His British accent is flawless.

Based on what I know of Welles, it is notable to say that the large fedora with matching topcoat, generally impeccable attire and the fastidious grooming of Wilford immediately made me believe I had encountered Orson Welles.

This world premiere play has national, indeed worldwide appeal and should be readily snapped up by other smaller theaters around the globe and acting pairs looking to showcase their abilities to embody two interesting and thought-provoking characters.

Details: “Wells and Welles” is at City Lit, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Chicago, through August 11, 2024. Running time is 70 minutes with no intermission. For tickets visit Eventbrite.

Reno Lovison

For more reviews visit Theatre In Chicago

Double the pleasure at Northlight

Matthew McGloin and Adam LaSalle as dueling musicians in “2 Pianos 4 Hands” at Northlight Theatre (Photo by Liz Lauren).

Highly Recommended

It’s a play. It’s a concert. It’s a little bit of both. Recently extended until August 11, 2024, “2 Pianos 4 Hands” is a satisfying romp through the lives of two ambitious musicians who long for stardom in a highly competitive industry.

Actors/musicians Adam LaSalle as Ted and Mathew McGloin as Richard, play a range of characters in this humorous, entertaining and poignant show. What they have in common is their quest for excellence on the keys.

The characters tell stories of pushy parents, maniacal teachers, and challenging professionals who bar their entry for further training.

In one scene, they’re both music students competing with each other for the top prize. In another, they act as piano teachers, complete with Italian and French accents.

In another scene, they play parents on both sides of the spectrum. One encourages his son to practice 30 minutes a day. The other criticizes his son for the amount of time he spends practicing at the risk of a normal childhood.

As someone who took piano lessons for many years, the play took me back to the long days of practicing scales and arpeggios, with hands cupped in the right position. And, banging on the piano when I couldn’t get it right, just like they did.

“2 Pianos 4 Hands” includes a treasure trove of classical music from Bach, Beethoven and Mozart as well as popular hits by Billy Joel, Elton John and John Lennon.

Luckily for the audience, their mastery of the piano is over-the-top and we get treated to an outstanding performance.

Written by Richard Greenblatt and Ted Dykstra, the show was directed by veteran actor/director Rob Lindley who says, “Sometimes you must adjust your dreams, never giving up on them. Be the best you can be today and keep working to be better.”

The play was originally produced in 1994 with the authors performing in their respective roles for more than 30 years. “2 Pianos 4 Hands” is simply timeless.

Details: “2 Pianos 4 Hands” is at the Northlight Theatre in the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd in Skokie. Running time: 2 hours, 30 minutes with one 15-minute intermission. For tickets and information, visit Northlight Theatre | 2 Pianos 4 Hands or call the box office at (847) 673-6300.

Mira Temkin

For more shows visit Theatre In Chicago.