A Beautiful Tribute with The Pianist of Willesden Lane

By Lazlo Collins

Recommended

Mona Golabek is a treasure for the ages. Her current appearance in “The Pianist of Willesden Lane” is an amazing story of survival and love.

The audience is curiously drawn in to her story. The story of her own mother, Lisa Jura, and her search for family and freedom in Europe during World War II is a remarkable one. Her love of her mother moves over the audience like a comforting blanket during the show.  Ms. Golabek moves from place to place and character to character with ease. It feels as if she needs to tell this story or she will burst. Her passion for her heritage is clear.

See this Sea. Deep. Blue and Moving

Danny and the Deep Blue Sea

By Lazlo Collins

“Danny and the Deep Blue Sea” is beautifully acted and a simple quiet treat.

It is indeed quiet, dim, and tense at the bar where our two characters first meet; setting the tone for this dark drama of lives thrown together for a twisted connection.

A popular 1983 play (by Doubt playwright John Patrick Stanley) that has had longevity among acting competitions. This intense two person drama gets a new life line with Kokandy Productions at the Athenaeum Theatre.

Danny (Brandon Galatz) and Roberta (Jodi Kingsley) are two angry people who cannot seem to move on, or around, or go anywhere really. As they begin to talk and jab at each other, one thing is clear; their choices may not always have been great. They come together in a desperate dance of yearning for a connection they both so desperately want and need.

He agrees to come to her room she shares with her family. After some awkward lovemaking, the road to just a one night stand is interrupted by conversations of discovery and common pain. Their revelations sting with the bitterness they have endured, but draw each one close to each other with a common bond.

Tenderly, before they fall asleep, they talk of marriage and the promise of the new day. As the light changes from night to day, Roberta must face the reality of her life with her parents and her child. Danny is not so eager to let it go. They spar like the fighters they are with emotional punches coming fast and furious.

Should these two characters make a decision about any sort of life together, the road ahead is uncertain and will take all their focus.

Mr. Galatz as Danny was predictably intense, but showed a great sense of tenderness and emotion. He brought likeability to this troubled and confused man. As an audience member, I wanted to reach out make sure he would be okay. As Danny, Mr. Galatz moves this character through his emotional paces with ease. He was comfortable to watch and was ultimately engaging. His performance was rare and touching for this play. It’s usually over played like a character from “Wiseguys”.

As Roberta, Ms. Kingsley is remarkable. Her subtle and internal rhythms are lovely. Her sweet, yet cat like switches in tone are fun to watch. She is fearless and also fearful of what will become of her. She shows us the depths of Roberta as the story unfolds. It is beautifully painful to watch her comfortableness as Danny begins to warm up to her. Her performance is varied, sweet and sad; with a glimmer of hope in her eyes.

Wonderfully directed by K. Hannah Friedman and simply setting by Zachary Gipson, this black box beauty is perfectly crafted.  The lighting by Mac Vaughey is a superb contribution to this show’s success.

“Danny and the Deep Blue” runs through 28 April on Thursday through Saturdays at the Athenaeum Theatre on Southport. For tickets go to the Athenaeum Theatre box office or call 773-935-6875. Also at www.anthenaeumtheatre.org

For more information on this and other shows please visit theatre in Chicago. The  website is www.theatreinchicago.com

Goodman Measure's Up!

By Lazlo Collins

Recommended

Goodman’s “Measure for Measure” is grimy, gritty, uncomfortable, and downright sinful; not to mention the most intriguing Shakespeare you have seen in a while. With the opening strains of Donna Summer’s sexy “Love to Love You Baby”, the audience immediately knows this is not going to be your grandma’s bard.

This new production directed by Artistic Director Robert Falls, is a story of moral ambiguity, of sacrifice of self for a greater good, and navigating the politics of love.

Set in New York City in the 70’s, this interpretation is perfectly matched with the setting. The darkly comedic story of a Duke’s (expertly played by James Newcomb) departure from a city already beset with corruption, filth, and moral decay; but leaving Angelo (superb Shakespeare pro, James Whittaker) in charge, with not so successful results.

A young citizen, Claudio (Kevin Fugaro in a thankless role) has impregnated his fiancée Juliet (the lovely Celeste M Cooper). In the Duke’s absence, Angelo must enforce the moral law and Claudio must be hanged.

Enter Claudio’s sister, Isabella (the convincing and likeable Alejandra Escalante) and with the help of man about town Lucio. Played by Jeffery Carlson, Lucio was the perfect notes of hapless standby and loving cad. He really brought this character to life for me.

Postulant Isabella, with the coaxing of Lucio, goes to Angelo to plead for her brother’s life, and let’s just say with some potential sexy results. Angelo has suggested that he might in fact spare her brother’s life by, well…having his way with her. Did I mention she is a virgin nun?

Let the fun ensue. The Duke disguises himself as an Irish priest and finds out about Angelo’s advances to the lovely Isabella. He is angry and he plans to bring Angelo’s discretion out in the open.

This show, with its inevitable twists and turns and mistaken identity, serves the audience with questions of one’s self; moral or otherwise.

There was not one week link in the casting. Some notables were also A. C. Smith as “Provost”, Aaron Todd Douglas as “Pompey”, and Sean Fortunato as “Elbow”.

The scenic design (Walt Spangler) and lighting design (Marcus Doshi) were hand in hand knock outs at recreating the gritty feel of a city overrun with corruption and vice. It seemed all too familiar and far away at the same time. Well done gentlemen. The costume plot was daringly purposeful and familiar also.

Mr. Falls with the Shakespearean “problem play” will be forever debated in theatrical circles. Was the soundtrack too distracting and over the top? Did the modern spin on sex and morality hit too close to home? Was the ending just the right foot note or a scintillating add on?

I think Goodman’s “Measure for Measure”

will keep the audiences entertained and thinking and the Bard of Avon proud of this productions bold excess.

The only thing missing from the set design was a water cooler; if there are any left today, those that experienced this “Measure for Measure” would most certainly be around it. Debating, recalling, and sharing the virtues of this production.

“Measure for Measure” at the Goodman Theatre runs through 14 April 2013.

For tickets call 312-443-3800 or visit GoodmanTheatre.org

For more information on this and other shows please visit theatre in Chicago at www.theatreinchicago.com

"Jackalope Theatre presents the Road to Stardom"

By Lazlo Collins

Somewhat Recommended

Jackalope’s “Rich and Famous”, now playing at The Den Theatre, is a show that presents lessons of success and relationships, as one character moves through his life and career.

This 1974 play/musical by John Guare, was remounted in San Francisco in 2009. Even with the updates this play seems dated and forced. It struck me that this play’s take on the wanting of the human condition was an interesting historic perspective when put against the ennui of fame today.

I love the incidental music as you entered the theater and the set-up of the scenery and props, as the actors prepare to share the story with the audience. It signals we are in for a tuneful vaudevillian romp with the actors. It seemed chaotic, but choreographed.

We find Bing Ringling (Andrew Burden Swanson) at the opening night of his play. With his girl on his arm, his play is a flop. His girl leaves, his producer pulls out, and Bing sets out on a journey to discover why? Through some clever songs and some excellent staging, Bing journeys to his producer, his parents and ultimately to his creative nemesis; this story moves fast and furious.

Mr. Swanson as Bing does an excellent job. He is just the right sad and confident. His energy and dedication to this role were admirable.

The other three actors cover all the other characters in the show. In the female roles, Baize Buzan does a lovely job moving from girlfriend, backer, and mother. She is fresh and energetic.

Torian Miller as the pissed off, downtrodden, cross dressing hooker was excellent. He has a great sense of theatricality through all his roles provided for our enjoyment.

I especially liked Bernard Balbot in his roles as composer Anatol Torah and Bing’s father. Mr. Balbot is very talented actor I am sure we will see around for years to come.

The direction

by Nate Silver moves the story well. The action is nicely moved around the clever set and the scenes flow nicely.

The band was a great asset to this show. They added the right touches to the show. They helped the show move along, even pitching when a gun did not go off.

This show, although pleasantly executed, seemed dated. I couldn’t decide whether it was homage of times remembered, or a quirky look at the past.

“Rich and Famous” runs through 16 March 2013 at The Den Theater. For tickets contact Jackalopetheatre.org

Enter Noir at Den Theatre's "City of Dreadful Night"

By Lazlo Collins

Recommended

“City of Dreadful Night” now playing at the Den Theatre is beautiful homage to film noir of the 40’s.  The story of mystery and intrigue plays out through several Edward Hopper paintings; complete with all the lighting you remember from the “B” films of yesteryear.

The “reel” feel of this play starts right away with the opening credits presented to the audience. This sets the tone for this dark and mysterious story of love, betrayal and surprising discoveries.

The two, lone, appropriately garbed, gentlemen appear on city bench. They begin a conversation that will set the stage, and the quest, for one suspicious girlfriend. The twists and turns that follow are numerous and intriguing.

The Tiger at Lookinglass, Not Cagy Enough

By Lazlo Collins

Somewhat Recommended

Enter the tiger at Lookingglass Theatre for this serious and searing look at the war in Iraq and its effects on solider, civilian, and animal alike. The story is both surprising and confusing.

“Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo”, written by Rajiv Joseph, begins with a tiger in a cage. It is man as tiger. The tiger (Troy West) tells the story from the tiger’s point of view. He editorializes about all he sees through his cage bars. The soldiers guarding the zoo (Kev-JJ Philips and Tom- Walter Owen Briggs) make some stupid mistakes and the tiger is killed.

A Magical Man's Story

By Lazlo Collins

Somewhat Recommended

There are magical moments in The House Theatre of Chicago’s “Magnificents”, now playing at the Chopin Theatre.

With the fabulous set design and period newspaper as program, the theater takes you back to 1933 almost immediately. This sets the stage for the story of an aging magician-Magnificent. He is husband, performer, and mentor to the group of artists he moves across the landscape. He traveling show includes his lovely assistant and wife-Rosie, a strong man-Harley, a trapeze artist-Honeydew, and a clown-Chase. This family, of sorts, is close and it is obvious they have traveled many miles together.

The Aliens are already among us.

By Lazlo Collins

Somewhat Recommended

“The Aliens” now playing at A Red Orchid Theatre are not all together unrecognizable. It’s the people you know that you cannot connect to. Or the people you are just slightly afraid of.

This three-character driven drama is slow to the punch, and long on the pace.

Written by Annie Baker, the style of this play is slow and deliberate. Her careful crafting of, three- characters-just-hanging-around-a-dumpster-in-the-back-of-a-coffee-shop, is deliberate.  At times the pace is glacial and repetitive. I realize this is a convention of the story and its style; however, I

thought it just made the pace of the show slow down and nearly come to a complete stop. As a matter of fact, I think at one point, it actually did. I feel a little uncool.

Pace and script withstanding, the actors did a fantastic job putting their mark on this ultimately frustrating play.

"Skylight" Lets in Some Thought Provoking Sunbeams

By Lazlo Collins

Recommended

Where do you fit in the world? Who are the people in your “neighborhood”? The thoughtful and well directed chamber play, “Skylight”, is now at the Court Theatre; and may help you answer these simple, yet divisive questions.

The setting is a London flat in a questionable neighborhood. We meet Kyra Holis (ravishingly played by Laura Rook). She is a dedicated teacher living in her flat with few amenities.  Kyra is a dedicated teacher that has chosen a simpler life from the one she grew up with; and the one she has most recently fled. To be left to her own devises in her quiet ample setting would have pleased her just fine. Instead, the story begins with a visit with a friend from the past. It is her past lover’s son. He is here to say hello, and to begin with her again.

Chalk Up Another One for Promethean Theatre Ensemble

By Lazlo Collins

Recommended

The Promethean Theater Ensemble’s “The Caucasian Chalk Circle “is a visual and auditory delight! The baby is never thrown out with the bathwater in this inventive telling of this well-trod Bertolt Brecht classic.

With lovely original music by Matt Kahler moving the tale along; this classic tale of a government’s fall, a servant’s journey, and love reunited is high energy fun. Director Ed Rutherford’s clever staging and new vision keep this story relevant.

The play is as relevant today as when it was written in 1944. Keeping all the socially relevant aspects, but keep the action moving was a great move for director and company. This is the story of an abandoned child of the wealthy rulers who is raised by a servant on the run. Ultimately, through time and troubles, the now toddler is brought to the court to determine who’s child it REALLY is (or should be). Is it the one who bore the child, or the one who brought up the child? The results will “tug” at your heartstrings.

A strong beginning and pleasant thread through the play was the likeable Cary Davenport as the Lead Singer. He has a lovely voice and gets the ball rolling and keeps things moving.

The talented cast of young energy and commitment was impressive. I loved the multi-player and multi orchestral aspect of the show. I was impressed with the acting and the musicianship that was displayed throughout the show.

Sara Gorsky as “Grusha” was an exceptional stand out. With a just a few moments to breathe throughout the show, Ms. Gorsky moves through her songs and story with ease and admirable commitment.

Also, Teddy Lance as “Azdak” was another high energy stand out. His delivery of the judge and other characters was unique. His tongue twisting prose kept me engaged during his turn on stage. His confidence was palpable.

“Corporal”, Alex Mauney, was great to watch and fear.

All the designers of the show should be very happy with all their efforts. The puppetry, props, and set design worked well. The wall of goods was especially effective. My kudos to the actors on opening night who improvised a hilarious bit of replacing a coffee pot that had fallen off the wall; well done.

Although the show moved swiftly and with high energy, the second act feels a little slow. I hope this cast keeps up the pace throughout the run of this sweet inventive offering from Promethean.

“The Caucasian Chalk Circle” runs through 9 February 2012 at City Lit Theater Space. For tickets go to www.brownpapertickets.com or call 1-800-838-3006.

For more information on this and other shows please visit theatre in Chicago at www.theatreinchicago.com