Daily Archives: October 16, 2011
Blue Skies Above Steep Theatre
By Devlyn Camp
Steep Theatre Company is presenting a three-act play in its Midwest premiere to launch their eleventh season. Under the Blue Sky is set on an interesting three-part stage including a functional kitchen, large bedroom and patio, with the audience at each side. The play by David Eldridge covers moments with six British schoolteachers in their romantic entanglements together and the controversy following. It’s a bit soapy, which can be a bit fun. At points, the plot feels slow and drags, but this is the dramatic build to the next knife brandishing or fantastically articulated monologue. Julia Siple’s wacky boozer character hilariously stomps all over her seemingly unimpassioned lover in a messy sex scene. There are loud fights, lots of wine, and some pretty exceptional acting from these sex-crazed teachers. The big issue: a two-hour play, three rather long scenes, and no intermission. Luckily enough, the talent of good actors can upstage that desire for overpriced concessions.
UNDER THE BLUE SKY
Steep Theatre Company
Now through November 19th
Tickets $20-22, available at steeptheatre.com
or call (866) 811-4111
Photo courtesy Lee Miller
Contact critic at devlynmc@yahoo.com
The Boy in Black at Royal George Theatre
By Devlyn Camp
Chicago Fusion Theatre at the Royal George Theatre is presenting a season of works by Tony Meneses, beginning with The Boy in Black. Their black box production is quirky and cute, but overall sits at average. The play follows a boy who is surrounded by people whose names and personalities are based on the colors they wear. Those who wear colors have found love, and the boy in black, obviously, has not. It’s easy to see that this particular production isn’t at fault for an average show; the story is less than subpar. Fusion’s production probably improves on the unfortunate script. There’s some decent acting and funny jokes here and there. In fact, the best part of the show is a running gag that has little to do with the plot, in which a pretty woman named Ms. Pink and her large Hispanic lover Mr. Pink keep popping up to do cute couple things and rub their puppy love in everyone’s faces.
The cast pushes through, whether the set is falling down or props are misplaced. Sometimes the best part of black box theatre is watching crew and cast recuperate from mistakes, especially if they can acknowledge it and make it a joke. Among other shows opening, The Boy in Black is certainly not the worst. This production takes what they’re given and has the most fun they possibly can with college-level talent.
THE BOY IN BLACK
Royal George Theatre
Now through November 12th
Tickets $25, available at chicagofusiontheatre.org
or call (312) 988-9000
Contact critic at devlynmc@yahoo.com
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