Reviews Category
God’s Favorite
Jacob – Provisions Theatre
In the finale of Provision’s 10th season, Artistic Director Timothy Gregory displays his versatility by wearing three hats. As playwright, he’s
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The Kindness of Strangers
Vieux Carre – Raven Theatre
Of all Tennessee Williams’ plays, this may be his most autobiographical drama since “The Glass Menagerie.” Ironically, it’s probably his
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Found in Skokie
Lost in Yonkers – Northlight Theatre
Neil Simon is noted for his bright comedies, resplendent with loveably kookie characters and overflowing with sharp, funny one-liners. In
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From Rags to Riches and Back Again
Juno – Timeline Theatre
Life is seldom a bed of roses and Sean O’Casey’s 1924 play, “Juno and the Paycock,” upon which this musical is based, illustrates the full
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Hello, Gorgeous
Buyer & Cellar – Broadway in Chicago
Imagine being a struggling young, gay actor in LA trying to find enough work to pay the bills and maybe some artistic fulfillment along the
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Chris Lemmon in JACK LEMMON RETURNS
Jack Lemmon Returns – Royal George
It is said that imitation is the highest form of flattery. When a family member remembers a beloved parent who has died it is wonderful.
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No Men, No Meat, All Manners
5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche
It’s been said that real men eat quiche, and while that may be true it would definitely be frowned upon at the annual breakfast meeting and
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Dancing in the Street
Motown the Musical – Broadway in Chicago
One of the hottest tickets last season on Broadway (and it continues even today) is destined to become another best-selling show in Chicago,
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A Flash from the Past
Hair – American Theatre Company
Motivated by their popular, critically successful production of “The Original ‘Grease’”ATC’s decision to conclude their 29th season with a
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There No Place Like Home
WIZARD OF OZ – BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Reviewed by: Frank Meccia
“ We’re off to see the wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz”. This classic book/movie has finally come to Chicago, after being in London, Toronto, and NYC. The Frank L. Baum tale was transformed to a movie in 1939, and has spent the last 75 years as a classic. Andrew Lloyd Weber and Jeremy Sams took this MGM classic and re-adapted it for the stage with some of the original songs that were left out for the movie and new songs added by Tim Rice.
As one lady sitting next to me said, “In a world of crisis it’s so nice to escape for 3 hours and remember an easier time in life”. And she was so right. With the modern use of digital and video projections, everything you remember about this classic came to life. And with a national 
touring cast straight from London and Toronto Starring Danielle Wade as Dorthy, Jay Brazeau as the Wizard and Jacquelyn Donovan as the Wicked Witch you have a tight and wonderful cast.
I have to admit the the scene stealer in this show was Toto played by Nigel a rescue from the Northeast Humane Society, who spends a great deal of time on stage and has his acting down to a tee. The next big plus is the 12 piece orchestra who bring all the music to life and make for one great enjoyable evening.
The Wizard of Oz is only playing till May 11, although I do wish it was playing longer. But for a Mothers day treat bring mom and the whole family to a theatre classic that everybody can enjoy. And remember “there’s no place like home.”
***** HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
For further information visit www.broadwayinchicago.com
Further information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com
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