Everybody Say Yeah!

Kinky Boots – Paramount Theatre

Have you ever heard the term “triple threat” used when in describing theatre talent, and wondered what exactly that meant? It’s a multi-skilled actor, who’s at the very top of his game. He’s an artist who is unrivaled and has mastered the skills of acting, singing and dancing, all equally excellent. Well, Chicagoland, get ready to offer standing ovations every night to an entire company of triple threats, all poised to knock your socks (or pantyhose) off!

The Truth Hurts

The Things I Could Never Tell Steven – Pride Arts

Oscar Wilde once wrote that “the truth is rarely pure and never simple.” The Bible says that “the truth will set you free.” And someone quite wise once wrote that “the truth may hurt for a little while, but a lie hurts forever.” All of these quotations could aptly apply to this chamber musical by Aussie writer and composer, Jye Bryant. Although we never see Steven, by the end of this 75-minute one-act, the audience will have heard all the lies the young man has told to everyone who was important in his life…including himself. Those lies will have injured many and will, indeed, hurt forever.

Live Musical Theatre is Back, Baby!

Mamma Mia! -Music Theater Works

Accomplished actor, singer and member of the Columbia College’s Musical Theatre faculty, multitalented Justin Brill has staged a faithful new production of the 1999 smash hit musical, a show that became a cult classic for Baby Boomers over twenty years ago. It’s one of Broadway’s original jukebox musicals. Taking almost two dozen hit tunes from the ABBA songbook, this Musical Theater Works’ production is one of the first live stage presentations since the pandemic. In its joy and optimism, “Mamma Mia!” makes Chicagoland audiences almost forget the long theatrical hiatus of almost two years. But finally, at long last, we have the opportunity to revel in a live, professional, musical production again. Decked out in shiny spandex, platform heels and lots of glitter and glitz, this production is a feast for both the eyes and ears.

Well Worth the Wait

School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play – Goodman Theatre

With an affectionate nod to such films as “Heathers,” “Legally Blonde,” “Mean Girls” and even “Cinderella,” actress/playwright Jocelyn Bioh’s funny and often touching new play heralds a joyful return to live theatre in Chicago. It’s a comic drama that’s inspired by a real-life incident, and it’s also prompted by her own mother’s schooldays at the real Aburi Girls High School, the Ghana boarding school where this play takes place. Bioh’s comedy is a delicious 85-minute one-act that brings joy, entertainment and a powerful message to Chicago audiences.