Tom Williams

Lookingglass Theatre sure knows how to mount a little show – a two-hander actually into a complex superbly staged piece of emotional storytelling. Credit playwright/director Doug Hara’s love of the basic nature of theatre-that is storytelling into a captivating 85 minutes of stage craft. This two person show is called (by the playwright0 ” A love story…and a murder mystery…and a science-fiction fantasy…and a fairy tale adventure.” Hara also sees it as a philosophical exploration of what it means to be “alive.”

The Phantom of the Opera overwhelmed me once again with its stagecraft, its melodic score and its wonderful singing. I enjoyed this production. The opening night audience gave it a roaring standing ovation that was amazing since it was playing Chicago for the eight time! Worldwide, over 130 million people have see Phantom of the Opera in the more than 90,000 performances; there are currently 6 productions running worldwide.

The story, part fable, part frontier ghost story and parable, takes us from a campfire to wondering through the woods as the group fears a bear attack. When Tobias, the pragmatic hunter, decides to protect the community from the bear, he ventures into the woods in search. His imaginative son Elliot, who loves storytelling, wonders out into the forest to aid his father, he disappears.

The dazzling costumes, the fabulous set design and the vivid video projections are a refreshing addition to the world-class dances that The Jeffery always provides. At about two hours, this fast-paced whimsical ballet is kid-friendly and adult approved. If you are worn-out by the old version of The Nutcracker, take heed, the world premiere Chicago based concept will blow you away.