Chicago Theater Beat

Review: What’s the T? (About Face Youth Theatre)

Scotty Zacher — Thu, 23 May 2013 04:58:51 +0000

Though at times a rather unfocused cross-section of lavender life in the big city, this high-energy ensemble is too driven to be dull. No question, these mainly teen players are paying their dues in life as much as anything they show on stage. It’s that authenticity that makes this a YouTube video you can live in. (read more...)

Review: The Marvelous Land of Oz (New American Folk Theatre)

Scotty Zacher — Thu, 23 May 2013 03:20:36 +0000

Anthony Whitaker’s original songs are well sung and fit nicely into the story and Jamal Howard’s choreography is snappy and fun. The result is a charming production that holds true to the spirit of the L. Frank Baum's base story. There's a definite sense of energitic fun that keeps the kids in the audience enthralled. (read more...)

Review: The Timey Wimey Fantastic Brilliant Extravaganza – Geronimo! (Right Brain Project)

Scotty Zacher — Wed, 22 May 2013 22:03:14 +0000

Surprising, campy, fun, and interactive - in short, it has all of the necessary elements for a fitting Doctor Who celebration on this 50th anniversary year of the greatest science fiction series ever. (read more...)

Review: The Electric Baby (Rivendell Theatre)

Scotty Zacher — Wed, 22 May 2013 19:44:56 +0000

The Electric Baby is illuminating, and you truly care about these strangers’ lives as they intertwine with others. As the drama unfolds, you'll no doubt get misty for their losses and their inspirational gains. (read more...)

Review: Reverb (Redtwist Theatre)

Scotty Zacher — Tue, 21 May 2013 04:32:24 +0000

Despite some distractions, it’s Peter Oyloe and Mary Williamson that make this show worth a visit. More than just a reflection on wrath, Reverb is a meditation on that shameful aspect of a culture that gladly allows a few sad souls to plumb deeper depths of despair to let us vicariously experience their bruises but come out unscathed. (read more...)

Review: The Misanthrope (Court Theatre)

Scotty Zacher — Tue, 21 May 2013 00:34:43 +0000

Played out on a simple, yet elegant set by John Culbert, Court Theatre's production as directed by Charles Newell is both entertaining and respectful of the piece’s classic status and heritage. (read more...)

Review: Speech and Debate (American Theater Company)

Scotty Zacher — Sun, 19 May 2013 22:02:27 +0000

It's hard to deny the entertainment value of Speech & Debate. PJ Paparelli’s straightforward direction allows his energetic cast to execute a script teeming with humor. Add in Andrew Wheatley’s thumping sound design and there need be little debate as to whether this production is worth seeing. (read more...)

Review: Fight Girl Battle World (Infusion Theatre)

Scotty Zacher — Sat, 18 May 2013 18:07:19 +0000

This show is is “Kill Bill” meets “Battlestar Galactica” - with a side of “Space Balls.” And the stage combat is just as fun as the special effects! Infusion Theatre's large ensemble works hard to deliver the comedy, the humor and the heart while killing off their enemies. (read more...)

Review: In the Company of Men (Profiles Theatre)

Scotty Zacher — Sat, 18 May 2013 04:57:14 +0000

Neil LaBute’s brand of gutsy, in-your-face, confrontation-theater can quickly get under your skin and into your blood, and this play doesn't stray from these qualities. This must-see show depicts male bonding as a race to the bottom.

Review: Ganesh Versus the Third Reich (Back to Back Theatre and MCA)

Scotty Zacher — Sat, 18 May 2013 01:43:16 +0000

Back to Back Theatre’s exploration of power and narrative is like nothing I have ever seen before, or will ever see again. I was confused, then transfixed, then moved. To say that this piece is unique and transformative is an understatement. (read more...)