Margaret Eva Annie, played by Caroline Heffernan, seems slightly more modern than the era, slightly older than eleven, and sings some of her songs in a more modern pop style; but her acting fills the role very well. The other orphans, as well as butlers, maids and other adults do a superb job vocally.
Beginning with Poe’s character, Christian Gray’s gifted voice is beautiful for the gentle moments as well as the madness. He whispers, modulates and yet explodes passionately while crying out lines from his poems.
Xanadu is a mixture of the 1940’s and the 1980’s in song. It combines one swing number with hip hop that can open your eyes and ears to interesting musical possibilities both in song and dance. Gene Weygandt, who played the Wizard of Oz in Wicked in Chicago and Broadway provides the gravitas for the soft shoe numbers, yet the angst for his character.
This truly polished production highlights the strong emotions of the Chinese, their perseverance, playfulness, and love of pageantry. “Legend of the Sun” offers a rare opportunity for Americans to feel the spirit of China in a grand venue at modest pricing. It would be great to have them return again next year!
This delightful play about dying, yes I said dying, really speaks most about living. After all, why would anyone want to see a play about someone’s last days? Morrie Schwartz is in his final months, but the dialogue between him and Mitch Albom certainly creates a play worth our time. The comedy lightens the seriousness of the subject and balances the more poignant ideas about life. Based on a true story published in 1997 authored by Mitch Albom, the script shouts authenticity.
Some people summarize ballet as women dancing on their toes and men in tights. Tonight the world premiere of “Incantations” took the amazing musical notes right off the page and translated them onto the Auditorium stage.
Every principal carries their songs in character beautifully! While Sophie Gordeladze (soprano) is the voice of the state, she is also a sweet treat as Lusya. Sara Heaton (soprano) as Lidochka vocally conveys the skeptical female of the three and works very well with (baratone) Paul LaRosa’s Boris, the gadabout. (bass) Matt Boehler’s physical comedy plays with just enough of the required sleaze.
The major focus of the narrative for MeTube concerns Yuri’s wants and needs, especially for money, along with some Yuri Lane branding. At the beginning of the show you are encouraged to pull out your cell phones and cameras to video and photograph during the show and “share it with the world.”
Somehow the Joffrey dancers continue to get better and better each year, if that’s possible! Winter Fire is no exception with another amazing program that breaks new ground with two premieres for Chicago viewers; overflows with excitement and creativity; and feeds your soul with sumptuous beauty. If you can, do try to see this very special program.