Tom Williams

REVIEWSTheatre ReviewsTom Williams

It’s A Wonderful Life: 2010 Live at the Biograph

The 2010 has the same dedicated cast as last year (with the exception of James Joseph now playing Uncle Billy). These polished actors play multiple characters with a simple twist of their bodies or a different vocal inflection. As I stated last year, Kevin R. Kelly, as George Bailey and John Mohrlein as Clarance and Mr. Potter lead the talented cast in a spirited presentation of the radio play. The only thing lacking here is an actual broadcast on WGN or WFMT so thousands can enjoy this wonderful, tear-jerking sho

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REVIEWSREVIEWS BYTheatre ReviewsTom Williams

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

Full of wry bitterness with a bizarre sense producing black humor both funny and tragic, Virginia Woolf’s dialogue is razor-sharp and facetious, often at the expense of anther’s feelings. It is a deeply cynical play about the lack of human communication in the most basic of relationships: marriage. Disappointment and melancholy overpower the characters as they continue to place their faith in their imaginary worlds. Dissatisfaction and depression grips them.

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The Mikado

Sullivan’s wonderful melodic score is rich in motifs and references to European opera, British lullabies, contemporary music hall songs with hints of Oriental sounds suggesting Japan. The genius of Gilbert and Sullivan is demonstrated on who well the music and libretto work together to produce the desired effects in a given aria whether that aria be whimsical or serious.

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Muerte Del Maestro

Muerte Del Maestro has moments of theatrical innovation – a 2-person bull costume comes to life and shadow puppets added flavor to the show despite the constant blackouts that slow the pace of the show. My biggest complaint – and this one is easily corrected – is why the actors feel they need to shout at the top of their lungs on such an intimate stage?

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REVIEWSREVIEWS BYTheatre ReviewsTom Williams

The Nativity

Based on Langston Hughes’ African American classic Black Nativity, McKinley Johnson’s takes on the birth of the Christ child is most African-Middle East oriented with five new gospel/blues songs by Jaret Landon. This well song show also features Kevin lega Jeff’s sensual traditional choreography and movement. The show is rooted in its unique perspective and solemn, emotionally rich songs.

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REVIEWS BYTheatre ReviewsTom Williams

Wicked 2010 National Tour

As an arts reporter, let me say that the national tour of Wicked has fabulous production values and enough energy to makes for a stimulating evening of musical theatre. Barbara Robertson, as Madame Morrible and Gene Weygandt, as the Wizard of Oz demonstrated the deep talent pool in Chicago. The dazzling look, lighting, costumes, and special effects propel the show as a commercial treat. The show is fun and light weight entertainment

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