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CONVERSATIONS|PicksInSix®Reviews featuring short form critical reviews and podcasts with authors and influential leaders in the arts, media and business.
In memory of Rich Hein aka “Liz Lauren” whose decades-long contribution to Chicago theatre is immeasurable, we include here over 100 images of shows reviewed by PicksInSix® Reviews that have featured his extraordinary work over the last decade.
Read More“A Raincoat Made Out of Love.”
PicksInSix Review | Ed Tracy
Porchlight Music Theatre is celebrating their 30th Anniversary with an exhilarating revival of the 2015 Tony award-winning musical “Fun Home,” based on cartoonist Alison Bechdel’s 2006 groundbreaking graphic memoir, now playing at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts.
Directed by Stephen Schellhardt with music direction by Heidi Joosten, the show stars Alanna Chavez as Alison, Patrick Byrnes as Bruce and Neala Barron as Helen who lead a stellar cast in bringing the moving Lisa Kron/Jeanine Tesori score to life.
Kron’s book follows Bechdel’s conflicted relationship with her gay father as she discovers and comes to terms with her own lesbian sexuality. Chavez’s Alison serves as a 43-year-old stage voyeur looking back on her life growing up in the family funeral home, her sexual awakening in college and facing the inevitable truth of her father’s destructive behavior, all the while capturing the drama in her artwork. Moving in and out of the scenes with versions of herself as a child—alternating roles for Tess Mae Pundsack and Meena Sood as young Alison and Z Mowry as Middle Alison—Chavez expertly navigates the transitions, never leaving the stage for the entire 100 minute runtime of the piece.
Byrnes is a commanding force as Bruce, sheltering his true nature behind the veil of dutiful teacher, husband, father and community mortician while fighting to control an inner rage that will ultimately tear the family apart. Early on, his efforts to shield Alison and her siblings—Eli Vander Griend and Charlie Long alternating as Christian, and Austin Hartung and Hayes McCracken alternating as John—plays out as a domineering perfectionist but not without a sensitivity to literature, art, culture and a flair for restoration projects like the funeral parlor coined the ‘Fun Home’ by his children.
As Bruce’s anguished wife Helen, Barron gives an outstanding, multi-layered performance culminating in the heart-stopping ballad “Days and Days.” Among the other memorable numbers in the melodic score are the musical commercial “Come to the Fun Home” delightfully showcasing the young talent; Mowry’s “Changing My Major,” the touching anthem to her lover Joan (Dakota Hughes); the poignant “Ring of Keys” duet; and Byrnes “Edges of the World.” Lincoln J. Skoien rounds out the cast playing multiple roles and leads the lively company number “Raincoat of Love.”
Scenic designer Jonathan Berg-Einhorn has transformed the Ruth Page stage into an exquisite and intimate multi-level interior that allows Schellhardt the ability to transition effortlessly between scenes. Denise Karczewski’s lighting design and costumes by Marquecia Jordan complete the visually stunning production. With Matthew R. Chase’s pitch-perfect sound design and Joosten’s five-piece band hitting the right notes all night long, Porchlight’s memorable “Fun Home” is not to be missed.
PHOTO|Liz Lauren
Editor’s Note: Longtime photographer Rich Hein, who published his work as Liz Lauren, passed away on Sunday, January 19. 2025. Rich’s matchless photographic contributions will be sorely missed by the entire Chicago theatre community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends. and colleagues. et
Porchlight Music Theatre
presents
FUN HOME
Ruth Page Center
1016 N. Dearborn St.
through March 2, 2025
WEBSITE
PROGRAM
PARKING
For more reviews, visit: Theatre In Chicago
PicksInSix® is a registered trademark of Roxbury Road Creative, LLC
Tip The Hat. Turn The Page.
Memorable Performances for 2024
PicksInSix® Review | Ed Tracy
Singling out six of the most memorable performances of artists we covered in 2024 who turned heads and left lasting impressions long after the final bow was a daunting task. So difficult, in fact, that there is also special mention to others who have had terrific years on multiple Chicago stages.
It was a year that included the Royal Shakespeare Company’s return with “Pericles” at Chicago Shakespeare Company, pre-Broadway runs of “Death Becomes Her,” Steppenwolf’s “Purpose” directed by Phylicia Rashad—and, we expect, Sam Hunter’s “Little Bear Ridge Road,” a compelling new work starring Laurie Metcalf—and touring productions like the sensational “Harry Potter and The Cursed Child,” among others. While all deserving of mention, you will find others on the 2024 PicksInSix Year in Review list, our first post-pandemic yearend review.
A special note of thanks to every theatre company, their dedicated boards, administrative, artistic and technical teams, and the unending support of publicists who invest their time and talent in support of the Chicagoland theater community and made it possible to review these shows. It’s an honor to be invited and a responsibility that we take very seriously.
CONVERSATIONS|PicksInSIx® celebrates 10 years in 2025 and owes much to writers like Ronald Keaton, Scott Gryder and Kaitlyn Linsner who have contributed mightily to our archive of Chicago theatre during that time. Thank you!
And, a deserved tip of the hat to the brilliant Chicago theatre photographers Michael Brosilow, Liz Lauren, Brett Beiner, Joe Mazza and videographers HMS Media, among many others, whose expertise and professionalism continues to document these productions and preserve the image archive for future generations.
So here we go in alphabetical order and with a link to the PicksInSix Review (P6):
Sarah Bockel—Falsettos - TimeLine & Court Theatre - The critically-acclaimed co-production of director Nick Bowling’s “Falsettos” featured an ensemble of superb actors and singers in one of two sung-through shows on this list. In the role of Trina, Bockel delivered an extraordinary performance, navigating a delicate emotional path with heartfelt passion and homespun humor. Stunning! P6
Mark David Kaplan—Fiddler on the Roof at Drury Lane Theatre - In the little town of Anatevka, director Elizabeth Margolius’s ‘memory play’ was, according to Kaitlyn Linsner, an opportunity for Kaplan to display “excellent comedic timing and whimsy” in the critically-acclaimed turn as Tevya. L'Chaim! P6
Beth Stafford Laird—FROZEN at Paramount Theatre - In an epic production directed by Trent Stork that includes several of Disney’s most popular songs and beloved characters, you just might take for granted a character whose youthful exuberance is at the heart of the story. The multi-talented Laird exudes unmatched charm in a rich performance as Anna that is marked by superb vocals, effortless company dance numbers and a shimmering presence all her own. Spellbinding! P6
Meghan Murphy—Anything Goes at Porchlight Music Theatre - Even a blizzard could not keep us away from director Michael Weber’s “Anything Goes” starring the captivating Meghan Murphy in a commanding performance as the seaworthy siren Sweeney. A topflight, take-no-prisoners, star turn. Anchors Away! P6
Aurora Penepecker—Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 at Writers Theatre - The other sung-through musical/pop opera on this list—one of the most ambitious all-around artistic undertakings of the year by any theater directed by Katie Spelman—featured an extraordinarily multi-talented ensemble of players. And there, at the center of this glorious production, was Penepecker whose lyrical voice and pristine talent was simply intoxicating. Magnificent! P6
Sawyer Smith—Little Mermaid at Drury Lane Theatre - When you hear the term “over the top” in stage performances, it is often afforded to a performer who has elevated their role beyond the script and score to a new level of excellence. The showstopping turn for Smith, in the Scott Weinstein directed “Little Mermaid,” set a new standard that is certain to change the trajectory of Smith’s exceptional career. Wowza! P6
There are six other artists who excelled in multiple productions deserving of special mention:
Jackson Evans displayed his wide range for musical comedy in four critically-acclaimed roles: Porchlight’s “Anything Goes,” Drury Lane’s “Guys and Dolls,” Paramount’s “Full Monty” and the Timeline/Court production of “Falsettos.”
Heidi Kettenring delivered her special brand of star power to Drury Lane’s “Guys and Dolls,” Marriott’s “1776,” “Cinderella” and her concert performance of “Something Wonderful.” A true Chicago stage treasure!
We have been watching Evan Tyrone Martin for years and his compelling and beautifully sung Pierre in Writers “Comet” was central to the overwhelming success of this challenging production.
In addition to all of the projects the busy Ron OJ Parson has been delivering, Ronald Keaton noted that “East Texas Hot Links” at Court Theatre “bears the unmistakable stamp of the great director Ron OJ Parson, who has a relationship with this piece that forces us, in its sheer professionalism alone, to see an unencumbered view of what Jim Crow has done to our world and continues to do today.”
And as much as we never really give credit to the people who support everyone else, the masterful career of Nick Sula has been elevating the work of Sondheim enthusiasts throughout Chicago. Sula followed last season’s stellar production of “Kokandy’s Sweeney Todd” with the unique two piano presentation of Kokandy’s “Into the Woods.” We can hardly wait to see what the next project will be.
Last, but not least, a tip of the hat to Charles Newell whose long-standing career as Artistic Director has come to a close at Court Theatre, You can be sure we have not heard the last from him. The Newell directed “An Iliad” starring Timothy Edward Kane returns in early June 2025. Bravo!
Happy Holidays!
See you on the other side of the aisle!
For more reviews, visit: Theatre In Chicago
PicksInSix® is a registered trademark of Roxbury Road Creative, LLC
“A Man’s Actions Foreshadow Certain Ends”
PicksInSix Review | Ed Tracy
The corner of Randolph and Dearborn was abuzz Sunday afternoon with the thriving Christkindlmarket on Daley Plaza and patrons, all decked out for the holidays, pouring in and out of Petterino’s that has a festive seasonal atmosphere all its own this time of year. And next door at Goodman Theatre, carolers entertained the crowd and lit the Goodman tree prior to the press opening of the 47th annual production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”
If you are counting, that’s a magnificent accomplishment. Presenting a timeless classic for nearly five decades—over 20 of them in the Goodman’s elegant Albert Theatre—takes some inventive twists and artistic turns to keep it fresh and engaging for multiple generations of returning audiences and edgy enough to attract newcomers. The Goodman, now under the artistic leadership of Susan V. Booth, succeeds again on both counts.
In Director Jessica Thebus’s delightfully haunting new offering of Tom Creamer’s adaptation with contributions from Neena Arndt, Christopher Donahue wraps his own distinctive style of demonic humbuggery around Ebenezer Scrooge as he transforms from an embittered loner to the toast of the town after facing three spirits who show him the implicit error in his ways. Right from the start, Donahue infuses Dickens erasable miser with a dark and heavy dose of disgust for all things Christmas, from chastising his earnest clerk Bob Cratchit (Anthony Irons) over a lump of coal and dismissing the loving affection of his niece Frida (Dee Dee Batteast), to summarily rejecting the appeals for support from Mr. Ortle (Wai Yim) and Miss Crumb (Penelope Walker). The levels of meanness in Donahue’s Scrooge appear to have no bounds early on and provide the brilliant actor a wide range of emotions for the transformative scenes that follow.
The story—which is smartly narrated throughout by the charming Kate Fry—follows Scrooge and the spirits in a trip to his own past, present and future, foretold in the chilling visitation from his dead-as-a-doornail partner Jacob Marley (William Dick). In Scrooge’s high-flying encounter with the Ghost of Christmas Past (Lucky Stiff) a visit to his former school and sister Fan (Tafadzwa Diener) is followed by a vision of his apprenticeship with Fezziwg (Robert Schleifer) who communicates with sign language and the aid of his interpreter Max (Mark Bedard). The festive Fezziwig party atmosphere is shrouded by the ambitious young Scrooge (Daniel José Molina) and Marley (Arash Fakhrabadi) who hatch a devious plot at the expense of any future relationship that Scrooge might have had with the lovely Belle (Amira Danan).
The Ghost of Christmas Present (Bri Sudia) drops Scrooge in to observe Bob Cratchit’s family and the plight of Tiny Tim (Ava Rose Doty) which leads to the dark predictions of the Ghost of Christmas Future (Danan). It’s then all up to Donohue’s masterfully jubilant self-realization and redemption in understanding the true spirit of Christmas.
There are supreme elements of joy for everyone in Goodman’s fine production of “A Christmas Carol”—the superb on-stage musicians, long a distinctive element of this show, here performed by Hillary Bayley, Brian Goodwin, Malcom Ruhl and Gregory Hirt; Todd Rosenthal’s arresting scenic design colorfully awash with Keith Parham’s lighting; elegant period costumes by Heidi Sue McMath; and, a multi-talented ensemble playing many roles—all making this satisfying and heartfelt show a perfect family destination for the holiday season.
PHOTO|Liz Lauren
Goodman Theatre
presents
Charles Dickens’
A Christmas Carol
through December 30
WEBSITE
(312) 443-3800
TICKETS
For more reviews, visit: Theatre In Chicago
PicksInSix® is a registered trademark of Roxbury Road Creative, LLC
Pure, Timeless Dickens Magic and Merriment!
Guest Contributor | Scott Gryder
With over 100 different versions of this classic story available, I was ready to enjoy the popular Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol,” but I was nowhere near prepared for the magic that Goodman Theatre would bring to its 44th annual production! With the entire house packed with families and friends of all ages on Thursday night snuggled into the Albert Theatre, enjoying the soft, welcoming glow of the stage’s London street scene, it warmed the heart to see the return of this beloved holiday tradition.
After over four decades of performances, you’d expect a production to show some wear and tear, but Goodman Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol” ages like a fine gluhwein. Chicago favorite Jessica Thebus, co-adaptor/director of Goodman’s superb 2020 audio streaming version, creates directorial magic onstage. Thebus masterfully presents flawlessly flowing stage pictures, especially considering the could-be intimidatingly large ensemble, peppered with delightful surprises. The famous plot focuses mainly on Ebenezer Scrooge’s personal reflection and growth; however, the theme that rings truest reminds us to be kind to everyone, for you never know where they’re coming from, nor what they’re going through.
As for Goodman’s Scrooge, Larry Yando delivers a masterclass in performance. Returning for his 14th year, Yando incorporates delightfully shifting vocal stylings and physical energy that keeps the audience continually falling in love with the antagonist. From a graveled character voice, reminiscent of a barren tree branch scratching across a wintery windowpane, to his spontaneous celebratory gyrations, comparable to a joyful toddler learning to walk, Yando’s ability to balance moments of sinister humbug with physical comedy are remarkable. Contrastingly, Thomas J. Cox amuses and captivates with a mousy timidity and enthusiasm as the underpaid clerk Bob Cratchit. And the epic ensemble doesn’t waste a beat onstage. Whether filling a London street scene or attending a private party, each cast member brings a fully developed character, nuanced and alive to every moment. Particular standouts include Gayatri Gadhvi’s stirring and poignant Tiny Tim Cratchit and the silver-and-gold vocals of Bethany Thomas’ Ghost of Christmas Present.
The show starts unexpectedly small, using the concept of intimate fireside storytelling; however, it doesn’t take long for the stage to hustle and bustle with an ensemble that glides so meticulously into stage pictures as if choreographed. Although slower paced and delivered in a more formal language style than I’d expected of a family-centric production, Thebus’ casting admiringly celebrates gender, color, and orientation, and the audience is captivated throughout as the multitude of cast members and mammoth set pieces continually dissolve and materialize before our very eyes as we weave through the time-honored plot. The subtle, natural use of performer amplification was also greatly appreciated.
The true abracadabra comes from the combined design genius of “A Christmas Carol.” Set designer Todd Rosenthal’s use of nearly invisible multi-layering and floating sets, along with staggering control over special effects, breathtakingly recreates the realistic and idyllic scenes of a Thomas Kinkade painting. In perfect complementarity, Keith Parham’s lighting wizardry only further illuminates Rosenthal’s sets, providing secret passageways for sudden reveals and visual trickery. The charming mix use of muted and lush palettes of Heidi Sue McMath’s costume designs provided just enough visual punch without losing the traditional touch of Victorian England garb. Contrastingly delving fiercely into the realm of Scrooge’s visiting spirits, McMath assembles looks of a Lady Gaga/Liza Minnelli red carpet affair; a personified, propagating Tannenbaum; and the soul-sucking menace of a Rowling-Dementor-meets-Henson-Skeksis. And the cinematic sound design of Richard Woodbury creates palpable layers of emotional sustenance, fervidly transporting the audience from beginning to end.
After witnessing the transformation from holiday hooey to pure childlike innocence, I left the Goodman Theatre filled with Scrooge’s (or should I say Yando’s?) contagious holiday gratitude and cheer. It’s no wonder it’s been a Chicago holiday tradition now in its fifth decade, Goodman’s “A Christmas Carol” triggered the start of the holiday season in my heart!
PHOTO| Liz Lauren
Goodman Theatre
presents
Charles Dickens’
A Christmas Carol
through December 31
WEBSITE
(312) 443-3800
TICKETS
For more reviews, visit: Theatre In Chicago
PicksInSix® is a registered trademark of Roxbury Road Creative, LLC
What’s it about... this is the 40th anniversary production of Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre, adapted by Tom Creamer and directed by Henry Wishcamper about the life and times of Ebenezer Scrooge and the very special Christmas eve journey he takes with three spirits who show him the errors of his way and a path to salvation.
Why You Should Go... Larry Yando is brilliant as Scrooge, transforming from miser to free spirit in a masterful performance. Ron Rains is a perfect fit for Bob Cratchit and steller turns by Ali Burch (Frida), Molly Brennan (Ghost of Christmas Past), a chilling Joe Foust as Jacob Marley, and Lisa Gaye Dixon (Ghost of Christmas Present) stand out in the sterling supporting cast.
Who to Watch and Wait For... Paris Strickland makes a very moving debut as the first female Tiny Tim... the entertaining party scenes with your hosts, Penelope Walker(Mrs. Fezziwig) and Jonah D. Winston(Mr. Fezziwig).
Music and Merriment is Everywhere especially in the strolling musical transitions provided by Justin Amolsch, Andrew Coil, Greg Hirte and Malcolm Ruhl. With one of the most impressive scenic and lighting displays you will ever see, this high-flying show is a surefire, whimsical adventure.
A Holiday Tradition... there is something very satisfying about returning to the Goodman Theatre during the holidays. For the young at heart, who may be experiencing Scrooge for the first time, it is a truly magical evening. For the rest of us, it is a chance to escape to another time and be reminded that, no matter what, we can all change for the better.
A Special Night... the opening night audience was filled with cast and crew members from previous productions in celebration of the 40th anniversary. The Goodman Theatre, like others throughout Chicagoland, are now taking donations for Season of Concern, to support those suffering from catastrophic illness.
Photos|Liz Lauren
Related: Listen to our 2016 PODCAST with Steve Scott
40th Annual Production
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Goodman Theatre
through December 31, 2017
170 North Dearborn
Chicago, IL 60601
Website
Tickets
(312) 443-3800
SEASON OF CONCERN
ARCHIVE
What’s it about ... a musical set in New York City and inspired by events leading to the 1899 newsboy strike. Meeting the challenge of bottom-line economics, orphan/artist Jack Kelly takes a stand against Joseph Pulitzer’s publishing empire leading a rag-tag band of newsies to organize as a union and, ultimately, to inspire everyone to unite in the common cause.
Why you should go ... the hit Disney Broadway Musical NEWSIES (Alan Menken music, lyrics by Jack Feldman and book by Harvey Fierstein), moves into the Marriott for a holiday run with a terrific, high-energy ensemble. Director/Choreographer Alex Sanchez expertly combines Kevin Depinet’s imaginative stage design, Jesse Klug’s lighting and Sally Dolembo’s costumes with power-packed performances under the superb musical direction of Ryan T. Nelson. It all adds up to a rhythmic, rough house wallop from beginning to end.
What stands out ... rising up from the stylized urban street scenes, brothels, sitting rooms and theaters of the day, Patrick Rooney gives a multi-layered gem of a performance as Jack Kelly. The story unfolds in Jack's burgeoning love for Elizabeth, played beautifully by Eliza Palasz, his brotherly bond with Crutchie, a moving turn for Matthew Uzarraga and his face-offs with Kevin Gudhal's stirring offering as Joseph Pulitzer. The union organizer Davey (Nick Graffagna), his little brother, Les (a wily Carter Graf) and the amazing Stephanie Pope as Medda Larkin are perfect.
What to watch and wait for ... the exceptional vocal balance of the 19-member ensemble, enhanced by Patti Garwood's top flight musicians, gives this production a full, rich tone. A rugged New York landscape, constantly in motion, propels the story forward, high praise to Ravenswood whose scenic abilities shine. In every borough, all night long, Newsies delivers, way above the fold.
Moments to remember ... Rooney soars in ‘Santa Fe’ … Palasz in ‘Watch What Happens’ and together with Rooney ‘Something to Believe In’ … free-wheeling dance numbers are aplenty including a rousing opening ‘Carrying the Banner’… ‘The World Will Know’… ‘Seize the Day’ … Pope’s ‘That’s Rich’ and Uzarraga’s quiet ‘Letter from the Refuge.' I’ll wager you will be humming 'King of New York’ on the way home after this rollicking night of family entertainment.
The takeaway ... It is hard to imagine that there was a time when headlines were posted on a public board, or that news only came out in the paper. One has to think that the young newsies of this era had some genuine influence over the dialogue of the day and their story reminds us that there are many ways to inspire the masses and confront injustice. The lesson about how to reach a common ground of understanding might have been lost if not for this action-packed turn-of-the-century tale now playing at the Marriott.
Photos|Liz Lauren
What it's about ... an inspiring adaptation, originally staged in 2001, of the Charles Dickens classic by Lookingglass Artistic Director and Ensemble member Heidi Stillman, who also directs this story about the life and times, and the great divide between the upper class and working class of Coketown, a mining community in the grip of a powerful and arrogant owner who maintains benevolent control until the innocence of circus arts begin to turn widespread despair into hope.
Just the facts ... in and among Mr. Bounderby’s social circle is the upper crust Gradgrind family, a teacher, whose students include his daughter, Louisa, on whom Bounderby has affections, and wayward son Tom, and Sissy, a young girl raised in the circus who is taken in as a ward after being abandoned by her father, a circus clown. The story centers around Louisa’s evolving education and the unravelling of Stephen Blackpool, a common laborer whose morality transcends everyone else. As fate steps in, Blackpool becomes the unwitting victim of the power and greed of those who wish only to hide their darkest secrets from view at the expense of all others. All is not lost as love triumphs, and light, in the smoke-filled recesses of Coketown, ultimately shines through.
What stands out ... Dickens compellingly rich characters spring to life in Stillman’s absorbing production, which reunites many original cast members with gloriously talented actors who have extraordinary circus and acrobatic skills. The aerial artistry, staged seamlessly with the story in sweeping fashion by Sylvia Hernandez-Distasi, is flawless. The versatile set by Dan Ostling, allows our imagination to trip from classroom to sitting room, from the squalor of a shabby apartment through a busy street to the grandeur of an elegant dining room, and back again, in the blink of an eye, enhanced impeccably by Mara Blumenfeld’s costumes, lighting by Brian Sidney Bembridge and sound by Andre Pluess.
Who to watch ... David Catlin, returning to the roles of Sleary and Stephen Blackpool, Raymond Fox, back as Mr. Gradgrind, and, Louise Lamson, who created the role of Louisa but here plays Rachael, are inspiring to watch together, contributing mightily to the vibrant textural and visual masterpiece. Troy West, once again the irascible Bounderby, brings a chilling level of obstinate authority that is perfectly aligned with the powerhouse performances of Cordelia Dewdney, a sultry Louisa, and Amy J. Carle, the diabolical Mrs. Sparsit. The entire ensemble is superb in multiple roles, however, this story unfolds early on through the eyes of Sissy, played exquisitely by Audrey Anderson, an extremely versatile and captivating newcomer in a breakout role. There is no doubt you will be seeing a lot of performances by Ms. Anderson on and above many stages, but don't miss this one. It’s a gem.
A moment or two to savor ... if you have ever been transfixed by a roaring fire and wondered what you see in it, there is a beautiful moment between Ms. Dewdney and JJ Phillips where the answer is revealed. You will also be in awe of the multi-talented Raphael Cruz right at the top.
Why you should go ... Lookingglass Theatre Company is celebrating their 30th season and an on-going association with The Actors Gymnasium, collaborating to develop engaging, story-centered ensemble productions. Hard Times, first created and produced in 2001, is now presented for the first time in their home since 2003, Chicago’s landmark Water Tower Water Works. A perfect holiday treat for the entire family.
Photos|Liz Lauren
