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Feathers In The Wind
Book & Lyrics by David Rush
Music by Errol Pearlman
Directed by Kevin Heckman
At Chicago Jewish Theatre
5123 N. Clark
Chicago, IL
Call 773-728-0599, tickets $25
Thursdays and Saturdays at 8 PM
Sundays at 2 & 7 PM
Running time is 2 hrs with intermission
Through April 16, 2006
Beloved Jewish fables come to life
Chicago Jewish Theatre clings to their roots with a cute musical about the charming tales of Chelm which occupies a beloved place in Jewish literature. Playwright David Rush wrote the book and lyrics with Errol Pearlman composing the music. The result is a warm, light musical steeped in the rich folklore of Eastern European Jewish traditions.
With hints of Fiddle On The Roof’s and traditional Jewish musical styles, Feathers In The Wind (world premiere) has a whimsical, celebratory feel that is enjoyable. Filled with those mythical “wise fools” from the mythical village of Chelm and lead my their Rabbi Itzik, played by Kenneth Z. Kendall with charm to spare, sprinkling eyes and fine voice, the show is a showcase for nine young talented performers. The rich harmonies, nice vocals add up to a fun, light show that pleases.
From the opening number, “The People of Chelm,” the Fiddler model is apparent as the whimsical and humorous folk tales come alive in song and dance. The haunting “Stand Forever” and the duet, “Ester/Berel Everywhere” standout as lovely tunes. The foolishness and naiveté of these rural villages gives fine material for a musical. With “Freylach,” and “A Barrel of Soup,” we experience clever, witty songs that enhance the humor of the tales.
The comic ‘Looking for Rothschild” numbers carry the second act. Anthony Apodaca, Michael Bradley, Ehren Fournier, Jessica Fry, Jocelyn Fultz, Matthew Holzfriend, Amy L. Morgan and Justine Serino were terrific working together to make this show an ensemble based musical that sings, moves well and has many funny moments. The show has an appeal to musical lovers, those who like folk tales and those who enjoy energetic, spirited live entertainment. You don’t have to be Jewish to relate and enjoy this show.
Recommended
Tom Williams
Tom99@chicagocritic.com for comments
Talk Theatre in Chicago podcast
Date Reviewed March 15, 2006
Jeff Recommended
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