We see Venus as a exploited soul duped by her handlers until she ends up in the hands of the French doctor Baron Docteur (Jeff Parker) -who falls in love with the Hottentot beauty. The Baron also wants to research and measure every unique physical attribute of Saartie. While playwright Parks fictionalizes Saartie’s life choosing to emphasize her intelligence, acumen for language, and her sexuality.
Read MoreThe ArchiTech Gallery is one of many art galleries located in the River North neighborhood, but is really the only one of its kind in the city. David Jameson, owner/collector, has painstakingly assembled a unique collection of rare prints, drawings, plans, and concept models created by some of the greatest modern architects and designers the city, and the country, has ever seen.
Read MoreRavinia is the perfect venue for Wynton Marsalis, who has concentrated his career on education and outreach almost as much as on music. Jazz at Lincoln Center has a year-round education & outreach program, geared towards giving children opportunities they would not otherwise have.
Read MoreWe see the five living in frustration as their alienation fuels their basic need for connection on several levels consumes them. The tedious first act so over states that concept that I quickly became as frustrated with the play as they were with their isolation. The irritating videos only added to the weirdness of this work.
Read MoreUtilizing Adam Lucas Venes’ back porch-backyard set aptly depicting an aging bungalow, we find John Patrick Moore (Boyd Harris), a third generation Chicago Police officer drinking beer with his cop partner Terry Donnelly (James D. Farruggio). Tension between the two revolves around loyalty, trust and honesty as a work incident strains their relationship.
Read MoreAnton Chekhov is arguably the best playwright since Shakespeare; he is unequivocally one of the great playwrights of history. The Raven Theatre, with Michael Menendian at the helm, has decided to try their hand at his last, and (according to Chekhov himself) funniest play – with mixed results.
Read MoreThe ensemble was the finest I’ve seen dancing Ann Reinking-Bob Fosse style numbers. “Roxie,” “Tap Dance” and the show stopper “Razzle Dazzle” were slick and flawless. I’ve not witness Fosse dances better performed. The ladies justify their crimes with the haunting “Cell Block Tango.”….John O’Hurley brings a fine voice and a commanding, self-aware presence to the shyster Billy Flynn.
Read MoreJEFF NON-EQUITY AWARDS PRESENTED FOR THE 2010 – 2011 SEASON Redtwist’s “Man from Nebraska” and The Hypocrites’ “Cabaret” Take Top
Read MoreCome to Cahn Auditorium to see a lush, lovely and lively Light Opera Works production of Brigadoon. You’ll see and hear the entire score without any cuts and you’ll witness expert dance numbers filled with grace and charm. This wonderful show is in good hands with Rudy Hogenmiller and the creatives at Light Opera Work
Read MoreThe work drones on with more and more depressing situations until strong feels of self-hatred dominates. Talk about a “downer” of a play – there is no one to relate toward – no one to cheer for – and there is no satisfactory resolution for these miserable souls. I felt like I was in theatre hell for two hours viewing this negative work.
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