Monthly Archives: October 2025
All For the Best
Godspell
Welcome to contemporary coffeehouse where, in addition to a cup of Joe, patrons can enjoy some tasty baked goods, log onto their electronic device of choice and enjoy some music at the open mic venue. But as we observe the patrons and employees doing their thing, we begin to hear the prerecorded voices of cast members, spouting ideas from various famous world philosophers. Suddenly, John the Baptist appears at the microphone, interrupting the cacophony with three blasts of electronic feedback. This is the modern version of the shofar call to worship that always opened earlier productions. After watching the entire cast being baptized at the cafe’s water cooler, we’re treated to improv-inspired performances of the parables of Jesus. Every song and each dramatized story will soon be presented “All for the Best.”
Read MoreRed Theater debuts The Pilon – and reminds us what “home” looks like.
The set for the excellent Red Theater’s latest production, The Pilon, directed by Jessica Love and written by Zach Barr, is the Wax Harvest Card Shop, in Seattle. The audience sits on three sides, and smack in the middle is the kind of small business that a certain, idealistic image of America conjures up: it’s run by a family (with an eccentric elder at the head), the customer base is small but loyal and the neighborhood has changed around it while the interior has stayed exactly the same. It’s like the bar in Cheers or Central Perk in Friends – well worn, well-loved and welcoming.
The welcoming bit is important because Wax Harvest Card Shop specializes in trading and basketball cards, a thing I know next to nothing about, nor did my sidekick. Luckily, we didn’t need to be up on basketball card minutia, or even basketball itself, to be sucked into the enthusiasm and gentle rhythm of the lives of the characters. Afterall, fandom is fandom, whatever the subject. Wax Harvest is run by proprietor Rhonda (Delia Kropp, with a grizzled, kind weariness that makes you want to buy her a beer) and her nephew, Corbin (Rio Soliz Ragazzone, bringing “still water runs deep” to life). The year is 2019, and in a reflection of what is to come, Corbin has begun running a Twitch stream for “case breaks” (open box videos with trading cards that people pay for), to encourage sales and keep the lights on. He is assisted by Marc (Josh Razavi, with a look that could burn holes into the cardboard he covets), an intense card enthusiast and unabashed capitalist tech bro. The cast is rounded out by Griffy (an endearing Harper Levander), a 13-year-old trans kid who has recently embraced a love of trading cards, and Lex (a limpid-eyed and buoyant Jordan Tannous) a regular, non-sports related card enthusiast and torch-bearer for the unassuming Corbin.
On the technical production side, the shop feels lived in – the sound and light design provide atmosphere and color without being overbearing, and the set and props do just enough to keep you engaged without distraction. Special mention goes to the individual running the sound cues: every time someone left the shop, the little bell over the door chimed it – with no bell in sight. This leaves the cast and production staff of the Red Theatre Company to concentrate on what they do best: create a feeling that the audience has found itself magically eavesdropping on real people in a real, lived in world. The majority of the play takes place in the shop, with a few important exceptions that are created with the placement of chairs to which the shop is a backdrop, a constant reminder of the trading cards that bring all the characters together. The cards mean different things to each person, and that meaning, the search for it, the explanation of it and what it provides, is the central theme of the show.
The play opens with young Griffy watching a basketball game alone – wholly concentrated on it, and cheering for the players he has a parasocial relationship with, players who can make or break his day, without ever having met him. Watching the game of the fantasy Seattle NBA team The Emeralds is for Griffy what reading a good book might be for someone else – he isn’t alone as long as he has the team and their exploits for company. Griffy’s sense of belonging to the world he is learning to be a part of is facilitated by The Emeralds trading cards. He’s a regular at the shop, where he gets a weekly set of trading cards. It’s immediately obvious that the cards themselves are less important than the relationships Griffy has with the people in the shop, and with the team. He’s found a place where he can be himself – whoever that turns out to be.
Corbin meanwhile, is working on keeping the shop afloat with his Twitch streams while searching for a way to infuse more of his love of the cards themselves, such as their design and history, into the work he is doing with Marc, who is driven almost completely by the quickly rising market in tradeable cards. Ragazzone’s Corbin is the sort of warm, low-key dude who can get along with just about everyone. This comes in handy with Razavi’s Marc, a slightly off-putting, self-important guy who has zeroed in on the monetary gains that rare trading cards can produce. Tannous’ Lex isn’t a fan of Marc, he loves the design and history of trading cards in general so much that he participates in the basketball cards mostly to have other people to talk to about them. After all, his favorite card is a Shirley Temple playing card from the 30’s – because it’s beautiful. However, it soon becomes clear that the other reason Lex is a regular is that he is secretly in love with Corbin. Tannous walks the delicate path of unrequited love beautifully here. He is wholly himself with Corbin but also keeping a secret so big from his best friend that you can practically see his seams bursting with it.
One day, Rhonda, Lex and Griffy open a pack of “commons” to discover a limited edition, high value card, “The Pilon.” The scene where it is unveiled is all kinds of boisterous glee and confusion, and sets the plot in motion, testing the individual relationships of each of the characters. I don’t want to go into the plot too deeply after that, because the twists, turns and surprises are so much fun to live through.
Stand out scenes include Kropp’s Rhonda offering encouragement and support to Levander’s Griffy. Rhonda has come by her wisdom the old-fashioned way, through hard experience, and she is passing it on to the generation after her, lifting young Griffy up, to make his road a little easier than hers was, when she herself came out as trans. Kropp does the same in a scene with Ragazzone, gently guiding him towards a truth he’s been avoiding. At some point in the story, she reminds each character that living ones’ truth is the best thing they can do for themselves, and for the people around them.
One aspect of the writing and acting in this production that really stood out for me is the ongoing, nuanced conversation around identity and belonging. Even to those of us who lean in a certain direction, discussions on the topic can often feel preachy. In The Pilon, identity is explored and a need for belonging is emphasized, but each character’s gender, sexuality and presentation is merely one aspect of who they are. Their identities are not what bring them together, it is their love of trading cards and community. It’s a beautiful way to engage the audience: we watch these characters make decisions, go on adventures and grow as people. They make mistakes, they try to do better and they love each other through it all.
The question of identity and what we do to fit in comes to a head when Griffy confronts someone important to him. It’s a conversation many have had with a loved one, albeit with different details, and it ends with a reminder that under those details, love remains – and love is what makes a home.
Highly Recommended!
Reviewed by Alina C. Hevia
Presented The Edge Off Broadway, 1133 W. Catalpa Ave.
October 25- November 23. Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM. Sundays at 3:00 PM
Tickets for The Pilon are $30.00 online at www.redtheater.org.
Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com.
Let’s Do the Time Warp Again!
The Rocky Horror Show
Many theatergoers will remember those low-budget black & white horror and science fiction movies that reined supreme at the box office during the 1930’s through the 1960’s. Targeting teenage audiences, the movies all followed a similar formula, were quite gimmicky and featured some sort of invasion or threat to humanity. B-Films like “Zombies of the Stratosphere,” “Invaders From Mars,” “The Brain Eaters,” “How to Make a Monster,” “Plan 9 From Outer Space” and “Planet of the Vampires,” were popular double features at the local movie palace or drive-in.
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Secrets and Lies
Four Places
Everyone has his own secrets that he keeps buried deep inside. When someone else catches on to this hidden or unexplained bit of knowledge in their friend or family member, an untold mystery begs an explanation. Thus, when Ellen and her brother Warren take Peggy, their elderly mother, to lunch, their goal is to unearth a disturbing truth about their parents. The lunch date at Peggy’s favorite restaurant will also serve as a neutral space for Ellen and Warren to share some important news with their mother and spring their solution to their parents’ problem. But along with the daily specials, a generous portion of lies are also served.
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The Hills are Alive
The Sound of Music
The theatre darkens and, out of the darkness, a brilliant chorus of heavenly-harmonic nuns, bathed in shadows and the light of a colorful rose window, opens the show with breathtaking brilliance. This moving and magnificent “Preludium” sets the bar high for this five star production. The talented women’s ensemble is led by talented Broadway actress, the miraculous Christiane Noll, as the Mother Abbess. The ensemble raise their angelic voices in a resplendent praise of God that bookends this musical. Most definitely, “The Hills Are Alive!”
Directed by three-time Tony Award-winner, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Tony Award recipient, Jack O’Brien (SHUCKED, THE FULL MONTY) instills this new Touring production with great determination and a contemporary feel. Every line, every song feels like we’re hearing them for the first time, as if they’re coming straight from the heart of each character. There’s never a moment when the story isn’t moving forward. Gifted Musical Director and Orchestra Conductor Jonathan Marro’s talented pit musicians fill the gorgeous Nederlander Theatre with Richard Rodgers‘ rich, romantic Alpine-flavored score.
And if the beauty and sheer power of a company of accomplished voices aren’t enough to impress, just wait. Douglas W. Schmidt’s elaborately elegant and detailed Scenic Design, as well as Jane Greenwood’s gorgeous, colorful palette of period Costumes, will absolutely clinch the deal. Never has this show looked and sounded more sumptuous, so beautiful to the eye and ear; Rodgers & Hammerstein would’ve been proud of what Director Jack O’Brien and his entire artistic team have accomplished. The show’s fresh, alive and actually feels like a brand new musical. It’s definitely one of “My Favorite Things.”
Making her Broadway National Tour debut as Maria, Cayleigh Capaldi (TITANIQUE, FROZEN) brings energy, charisma and a fresh interpretation to the role. This young actress isn’t just talented; she’s a revelation to be relished. Gifted with a clear and compelling vocal style, Cayleigh has a sparkling, endearing personality and great chemistry, both with the Captain and the seven von Trapp children. Ms. Capaldi makes us we feel as if we’re meeting this character for the very first time. Opening on a mountain path and singing the lovely title song with heartfelt clarity and passion, the actress immediately wins over the audience. Cayleigh Capaldi sings from her heart and gives the illusion that she’s thinking up each lyric herself.
When Ms. Capaldi reaches the office of the Mother Abbess, it’s obvious that she feels comfortable with her spiritual mentor. “My Favorite Things,” her lovely duet with the effervescent Christiane Noll (DEAR EVAN HANSON, RAGTIME), is natural and lighthearted, making both characters feel more realistic. Once Maria finds herself in the company of the seven adorable children entrusted to her care, Ms. Capaldi’s Maria portrays a believable young woman filled with insecurities, a love of life and a reverence for both God and music. She also possesses a huge sense of fun and sense of humor. By the time theatergoers witness Maria’s marriage to Captain von Trapp, or see her standing by her new family’s side in the musical festival, and finally Climbing Every Mountain to escape the Nazis, Cayleigh Capaldi has made Maria all her own.
As Captain Georg von Trapp, handsome and charming Broadway veteran Kevin Earley (OLD FRIENDS, LES MISERABLES) is one of the strongest leading men to play this role. Son of Chicago director Dyanne Earley, and a graduate of Mundelein High School, Kevin portrays a man who’s built a wall around himself since the death of his wife. The Captain’s prevented happiness, music and love from entering his life and the hearts of his children. His kids have even become little machines who answer to a boatswain’s whistle. But, under Maria’s magical influence, the Captain evolves into a far more likable, warmer character. By the second act, Georg is now a loving man, a caring father, an empathetic head of the household and a conscientious leader. This is the journey his character is destined to take, and Mr. Earley perfectly brings class and stature to Captain von Trapp. He eventually becomes even more lovable as Maria fills his life with music and love.
The seven von Trapp children are wonderfully cast and almost all of them are making their National Tour debuts. Ariana Ferch is a lovely, believable young Liesl, particularly in “Sixteen Going on Seventeen,” beautifully sung and danced with handsome Ian Coursey (ALWAYS SOMETHING THERE at the Marriott) as Rolf. He thankfully resists playing his role as an angry young man. Liesl’s budding trust in and love for Maria is one of the highlights of the musical.
Eli Vander Griend displays an accomplished soprano voice as Frederich and Benjamin Stasiek portrays Kurt as a lovable, realistic little boy. Ava Davis’ precocious book-obsessed Louisa, Ruby Caramore’s considerate and charming little Marta and eight-year-old Luciana Vandette’s sweet baby Gretl round out this artistic family of juvenile stars. Only Haddie Mac, as a candid, unabashed Brigitta, has toured before in a show—and she’s especially excellent in this role. Whether marching around the house singing and signing the infectious “Do Re Mi,” or bouncing on Maria’s bed while belting out “The Lonely Goatherd” to mask a frightening thunderstorm, these children are the real stars of this production.
In addition, the cast features several talented Broadway veterans, such as stunning vocalist Kate Loprest (HAIRSPRAY, XANADU) as Georg’s self-entitled would-be fiancee, Elsa Schraeder; and Grammy nominee Nicholas Rodriguez (COMPANY, TARZAN) nicely plays brown-noser, music agent and producer, Max Detweiler. Two familiar faces from several other National Tours, John Adkison (MY FAIR LADY, THE ADDAMS FAMILY) plays staunch butler Franz, and Jennifer Malenke (INTO THE WOODS, CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY) is superb as the von Trapp’s fussy housekeeper.
Thanks to Broadway in Chicago, Rodgers & Hammerstein beloved 1959 Tony Award-winning musical about the von Trapp Family once again graces a Chicago stage. A familiar show to most theatergoers, this SOUND OF MUSIC is like meeting a dear old friend once again, who’s changed for the better. Jack O’Brien’s production not only fills the stage with glorious sights and sounds, it feels realistic, intimate and particularly timely. Beyond all the spectacle, the fictional retelling is heartfelt and much-loved, mainly due to the popularity of the beloved Oscar-winning 1965 film.
But in this new National Touring production The Hills Are Alive, as it manages to capture the film’s big heart and overwhelming splendor. Featuring an unsurpassed cast, this sparkling musical returns to the Windy City. It’s a heartwarming family production that makes an excellent first theatrical experience for young audiences. Treat yourself and “Climb Every Mountain” to see this beloved production before it leaves town.
Highly Recommended
Reviewed by Colin Douglas
Presented October 21-November 2 by Broadway in Chicago at the James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph, Chicago.
Tickets are available at all Broadway in Chicago box offices, the BIC Ticket Line at 800-775-2000 or online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com
The Horrifying Legend of Dracula
Strange Cargo: The Doom of the Demeter
In 1897, Irish author Bram Stoker wrote a book that would become one of the bestselling classics of Gothic Horror. The legend of Dracula, or The Un-Dead, was creatively told through newspaper articles, invoices, telegrams, letters and diary entries by the various characters in the book. The novel begins when Jonathan Harker, a young English solicitor, journeys to remote Transylvania. He plans to meet one Count Dracula, in order to finalize the nobleman’s purchase of decaying property near London.
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Go With the Flow
Finding Nemo
Based upon the highly popular 2003 Disney/Pixar film, this spectacular, heartwarming musical comedy is a lovely story about a little clownfish named Nemo and her father. She is the only surviving baby guppy of Marlin, Nemo’s widowed, over-protective, “One Dedicated Father.” His sweetly devoted wife, Coral, along with all except one of her eggs, is devoured by a savage barracuda. In Coral’s memory, Marlin promises that he’ll never ever let anything happen to his little Nemo.
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Trying to Start Over Again
Ugly Lies the Bone
Jess is an American Hero. She served three tours in Afghanistan as a brave, dependable soldier in combat. But now she has returned to her small hometown in Florida, after enduring an explosion that resulted in severe burns all over her body, as well as suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Learning to cope with the many new changes in her life is far more difficult than can be possibly be imagined. Not only does Jess have to endure unbearable pain, as well as all the differences that have occurred in body and personality, but there are transformations that have taken place at home. This includes the people who used to be a part of her world.
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Places Aren’t Haunted, People Are
Paranormal Activity
A smart, attractive young married couple recently moved from Chicago to London. James had been so successful at his job that the company relocated him to their Great Britain office, and even provided the couple with a stylish two-floor flat. And, thanks to the internet, his wife Lou is able to continue with her own blossoming career via online videoconferencing on Skype. Even Jim’s religious, overly-possessive mother keeps in touch with her son by phone and on Zoom, as well. As with almost everyone, the young couple are also hoping to escape some dark moments from their past and begin a new chapter together. Life seems to be going so well that Jim and Lou are even talking about converting one of the upstairs rooms into a nursery. So what could go wrong?
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Family, Immigration and American Identity
Hundreds and Hundreds of Stars
TimeLine Theatre’s 29th Season kicks off with a captivating new play that feels especially important and of the moment. Multitalented Actress Sandra Delgado’s World Premiere of HUNDREDS AND HUNDREDS OF STARS is about the collision of motherhood, marijuana and the multiverse. And although the play is set in Chicago in 2015, the Playwright has penned a dramatic story that’s as timely as today’s headlines. It’s a moving, often humorous tale about family, immigration and American identity. But, true to TimeLine’s mission, this story demonstrates how history connects us with the social and political issues of today. HUNDREDS AND HUNDREDS OF STARS mirrors the many incidents from today’s news about immigrant families being heartlessly torn apart by the government.
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