A Musical Morality Tale

The Emperor’s New Clothes

 

The Marriott, up in Lincolnshire, has a history of producing some of the finest theatre in the Chicago area, and that goes double for their theatre for young audiences. The current production is no exception. With an infectious score by Broadway composers Stephen Flaherty, and a whimsical book and lyrics by his writing partner, Lynn Ahrens, this is a musical that will charm and delight audiences of all ages. Developed at Kansas City’s Coterie Theatre, these composers have taken a refreshing, new look at Hans Christian Andersen’s 1837 cautionary tale. The creators of “Seussical,” “Once on This Island” and Marriott’s current hit production, “Ragtime,” have brought the old story of the clothing-obsessed young Emperor into the 21st century.

Beautifully directed and choreographed with sass and spirit by Amanda Tanguay, sporting crackerjack musical direction by Ryan T. Nelson, this musical morality tale is a reminder that clothes don’t necessarily make the man. Marcus is the 14-year-old heir to his father’s throne. On the day of his coronation, he’s understandably nervous about being an effective, well-loved ruler. Marcus has been studying books that advise how be a wise emperor; but the young man decides that he simply needs to be dressed in the right clothing and people will assume he has all the answers.

A self-serving  Swindler overhears the young man’s cries of insecurity and decides that this could be an easy way for her to make a quick fortune. She promises the Emperor-to-be that, for the right price, she will make Marcus a magical suit of clothing that will enable him to know everything. The young Emperor’s royal advisors, Deena and William, try to advise him otherwise, but they just can’t help. Only Arno, the kindhearted, honest palace mop boy, proves to be the Emperor’s true friend and the only person able to teach Marcus how to simply be himself.

Marcus is played by Declan Desmond, the shining co-star of Writers Theater’s recent pre-Broadway musical, “Trevor.” Just a few years older than his character, young Mr. Desmond is charming and sincere as the apprehensive ruler, a kid who only wants to be the best Emperor he can be. A likable actor and an accomplished song-and-dance man, Declan is vulnerable, candid and winning in this role.

Garrett Lutz, currently starring in Paramount Theatre’s “Cabaret,” is terrific as the Emperor’s new friend, Arno. This young actor has been seen in many recent Marriott productions and seems poised on the brink of stardom. He’s one of the most talented young actors in Chicagoland and always creates genuinely lovable characters in every show he’s cast. Together, the two young actors make an unbeatable duo and audiences cheer for them both.

As the Swindler Woman, the multitalented Johanna McKenzie Miller, a Marriott favorite, is absolute perfection. She creates an indulgent, conniving, selfish character who really knows how to work the crowd to get everything she wants. Ms. Miller’s villain isn’t exactly evil; she’s just despicable enough to make her an antagonist. As the Emperor’s advisers, another pair of Chicago’s favorite, uber-talented actors complete the cast. Christine Bunuan and George Keating are sensational, with Mr. Keating genially hosting the short, post-show talkback with the kiddie audience. Both actors are familiar faces to any area theatergoer and together they keep the show in motion, with their undeniable flair and panache.

The tech support for this show, as in all of Marriott’s productions, is topnotch. Theatre artist Jesus Perez has beautifully designed a wardrobe of sparkly, colorful costumes that add another dimension to each character. Christopher Rhoton provides the set and appropriate props, Lee Fiskness brilliantly lights this production and Robert E. Gilmartin’s sound design is great.

This new version of Hans Christian Andersen’s 19th century cautionary tale is about the dangers of becoming too vain. It’s fresh, animated and gets right to the point. Much credit goes to the team of Flaherty and Ahrens, for creating a lively, humorous, succinct musical that’s appealing to both kids and adults, alike. Directed with energy and earnestness by Amanda Tanguay, with an all-star cast and superb musical accompaniment, the Marriott Theatre offers another magical, marvelous production for young audiences.

Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

 

Presented February 24-May 12 by Marriott’s Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire, IL.

Tickets are available in person at the box office, by calling 847-634-0200 or by going to www.MarriottTheatre.com. or www.ticketmaster.com.

Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com.