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Showing posts with label Sister Act. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sister Act. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

REVIEW: Sister Act at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre On Stage Through August 27th, 2022

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

Sister Act 

at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre 

in Arlington Heights


Review:

By Guest Critic Catherine Hellmann

“This is a beautiful theater! Everything here looks new,” marveled my sister and burgeoning theater critic. We made the trek to Arlington Heights for a performance of Sister Act. Having been raised in a big Catholic family and attending parochial schools, we knew the topic would be something we could relate to. (Well, ok, beides being a nightclub singer hiding in a convent from her murderous boyfriend…) Natalie “Nat” Renee Savoy has a blast as Deloris Van Cartier, the singer-in-disguise-as-a-nun. She seems more comfortable in the role of Sister Mary Clarence (“patron saint of prisoners!”) than as Deloris, even if she does want to accessorize her black and white habit.  :-) 

Monsignor O’Hara (Christopher Johnson, having fun in the role) convinces Mother Superior (a great Lauren Miller) that Deloris will be joining the order. Mother isn’t thrilled and questions the decision. Father reminds her that she took a Vow of Charity. 

“I take it back!” she yells. 

The women’s choir at the convent is terrible; it’s laughable and impressive how bad their singing is. To describe the atrocious choir, Mother Superior says, “There are no words.” Sister Mary Clarence is given the challenge by Mother Superior of improving the choir; Deloris is to use her talents as a performer to elevate their singing. Under her guidance, the sisters bond, the Church’s finances turn around, the two “bachelors who liked the ‘gothic look’ of the church” and want to buy it end up declining, and an offer is extended to sing for the Pope. Sister Mary Clarence is making her mark. 

The breakout role was Sister Mary Robert played by understudy Athena Kopulos. She was so sweet and charming as the very shy novice who finds her voice and her courage. I love when understudies get a shot and shine. 

We assumed we’d recognize the songs from the Whoopie Goldberg movie. But all the songs were unfamiliar, penned by Alan Menken (“Little Mermaid,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” and “Newsies”) and Glenn Slater. Of course, the songs help with the characterizations and move the plot along. 

The choreography by Jen Cupani was clever and fun. The costumes were perfect by Sara Morrison; I especially liked the sparkled nun costumes at the end of the show. 

Sadly, I also want to address performance etiquette. An audience member next to me asked at intermission if children are allowed into the theaters in Chicago. I said most venues prohibit children under five. It’s very rare to hear a baby in the theater. But there was a toddler who kept making noise during the performance; I kept waiting for parents to remove her, but they never did. Plus, cell phones went off at least three times during the show. Ugh. It is so frustrating and distracting. I admire when the actors are able to continue on without being thrown off. 

The cast looked like they were having such a great time, which adds to the atmosphere. 

After the show, we had a delectable dinner at Carlos & Carlos Restaurant. Lobster ravioli, fresh bread with butter and olive oil, shrimp scampi, generous pours of wine. We enjoyed our lovely day in the ‘burbs. 

Catherine Hellmann loves her family, theater, and a good Chardonnay. 




HIT BROADWAY MUSICAL 
SISTER ACT 
MAKES A JOYFUL NOISE
AT METROPOLIS THIS SUMMER
 
Musical comedy smash Sister Act brings the hit film of the same name to life onstage at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre through August 27, 2022.
 
Based on the hit film, Sister Act is the musical smash that has audiences jumping to their feet. Featuring music by Tony and Oscar winner Alan Menken, this uplifting comedy was nominated for five Tony Awards. When wannabe diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a crime, she’s put in protective custody where she won’t be found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, Deloris finds herself at odds with her rigid new lifestyle. On a mission to bring new life into the church, Deloris introduces disco moves and powerhouse singing to the choir. The group’s unexpected popularity attracts newfound attention – blowing her cover. Sister Act brings a unique mix of Motown, soul, funk, and disco to the stage. A sparkling tribute to the power of friendship with glorious music and dazzling dance numbers, Sister Act is a reason to rejoice.
 

COVID Protocols: Metropolis COVID protocols continue to evolve as federal and state mandates relax and conditions improve. For current information on COVID protocols visit Metropolis’ website. Metropolis thanks you in advance for helping to provide the safest environment possible for the return to live indoor entertainment.
 
Regular Run Performances of Sister Act are July 21 – August 27, 2022. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online at MetropolisArts.com, via phone at 847.577.2121, or via email at customerservice@metropolisarts.com. The Metropolis Box Office is currently open Monday-Saturday 12:00-4:00pm. On performances Monday through Saturday, the Box Office will remain open from noon through at least the start of the performance. On Sunday performances, the Box Office will open one hour prior to show time.

 
Metropolis’ cast for Sister Act includes Henry Allan (Pablo; Ensemble), Justine Cameron (Sister Mary Robert), Jonathan Cortez (Curtis; Ensemble), Valerie Gorman (Sister Mary Theresa), Natalie Henry (Sister Mary Patrick; Ensemble), Mary Heyl (Sister Mary Martin-Of-Tours; Ensemble), Bob Hussey (Joey), Christopher Johnson (Monsignor O’Hara; Ensemble), Ania Martin (Tina; Nun; Ensemble), Natalie Mattson (Nun; Ensemble), Kedar Miller (Eddie), Lauren Miller (Mother Superior), Amber Parker (Michelle; Nun; Ensemble), Tuesdai B. Perry (Nun; Ensemble), Barb Rieger (Nun; Ensemble), Natalie “Nat” Renee Savoy [they/them] (Deloris Van Cartier), Michelle Tibble (Sister Mary Lazarus; Ensemble), and Brenden Zwiebel (Ernie; Ensemble). Understudies include internal members of the cast, Athena Kopulos and Daniel Rausch.
 
Sister Act has Music by Alan Menken; Lyrics by Glenn Slater; Book by Cheri Steinkellner & Bill Steinkellner; with Additional Book Material by Douglas Carter Beane. Directed by Sade’ May, Assistant Directed by Mikee Parangalan, Music Directed by DeMario Tribett, Choreographed by Jen Cupani. Designers are Jenna Houck (Scenic Designer), Patrick McGuire (Properties Designer), Christopher Moore II (Lighting Designer), David Moreland (Technical Director), and Sara Morrison (Costume Designer). Metropolis Production Manager is Chris Causer.
  
Supporting Show Sponsor for Sister Act is HKM Architects + Planners; Costume Sponsor is Marty Pfister & Maria Bradley; Season Costume Storage Sponsor is Jennifer Burnidge, State Farm, CLU, CHFC; Season Paint Sponsor is Marc Poulos Painting. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is partially supported by grants from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and Ecolab Foundation.

 
Sister Act is the final show of The Metropolis 2021-2022 subscription series. The 2022-2023 subscription series includes Cabaret (September 15 - October 22, 2022), The Legend of Georgia McBride (January 26 – March 4, 2023), Ragtime (May 4 – June 10, 2023), and Xanadu (July 13 – August 19, 2023).
 
Metropolis is located in the heart of Chicago’s northwest suburbs in downtown Arlington Heights at the intersection of Campbell and Vail Avenue (111 West Campbell Street). Street parking is available. Due to Arlington Alfresco, there is modified street access and parking on West Campbell Street. Please allow extra time for arrival before your show. Free parking is available in the public garage behind the theatre. For more information about Metropolis and a complete performance schedule, visit MetropolisArts.com or call the Box Office at 847.577.2121.
 
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre provides professional entertainment and arts education, enriching our community.



Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Mercury Theater Chicago Grand Re-Opening Season to Include Diversity and Feel Good Fun

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar:

 



SISTER ACT
WOMEN OF SOUL
PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT
CLUE

Here at ChiIL Live Shows, we've been reviewing at Mercury Theater for years, and we were devastated during the pandemic when it looked like they were going dark for good. Happily that's not the case and their upcoming season looks like a fun one. Check back with us early and often for updates. Tickets are on sale now for their first show opening November 5th through January 9th. We're crossing our fingers that Delta will be done with us by then and we can get back to in person theatre, with all the joy and energy of live performances. 

Artistic Director Christopher Chase Carter and Managing Director Shane Murray-Corcoran announced the 2021-2022 Mercury Theater Chicago season. Mercury Theater Chicago welcomes audiences back in November to its beautiful home in the Southport Corridor with the feel-good blockbuster hit SISTER ACT directed by Reneisha Jenkins, featuring Chicago favorites Alexis J. Roston and Hollis Resnik.  The season continues with a tribute to WOMEN OF SOUL, written and directed by Daryl D. Brooks.  A spectacular musical based on the movie PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT, will celebrate PRIDE Month directed by Artistic Director Christopher Chase Carter and features Honey West; and the Chicago Premiere of the hilarious murder mystery CLUE, directed by Executive Producer Walter Stearns. 

“As Mercury Theater Chicago prepares for its joyous reopening, I am ecstatic and energized by the season we have assembled. Our goal was to program diverse productions that provide an entertaining experience for all as we gather together again,” comments Artistic Director Christopher Chase Carter.

Memberships and tickets for Sister Act are on sale now at www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.


The Mercury Theater Chicago 2021/22 Season:

SISTER ACT November 5, 2021 to January 9, 2022
Music by Alan Menken, Lyrics by Glenn Slater
Book by Bill and Cheri Steinkellne, and Douglas Carter Beane
Directed by Reneisha Jenkins
Music Direction by Diana Lawrence
Choreography by Christopher Chase Carter
Featuring Chicago Legends Alexis J. Roston (Deloris) and Hollis Resnik (Mother Superior)

This feel-good musical comedy is based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet!  Featuring original music by Tony and Oscar winner, Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors), this uplifting musical was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical.  When disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won't be a found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but, in doing so, blows her cover.  Sister Act is reason to rejoice!



About Mercury Theater Chicago
The beautifully renovated Mercury Theater Chicago is in the heart of the Southport Corridor at 3745 North Southport Avenue, within a sophisticated neighborhood of restaurants and boutiques just steps from Wrigley Field. A delightful destination, Mercury Theater Chicago is a live-theater seating 280 people, adjoining Venus Cabaret Theater (seating 80). 

The building that houses the Mercury opened in 1912 as a silent film nickelodeon, named The Blaine Theatre after actor and former Senator and Secretary of State James G. Blaine. The Blaine became obsolete when talking pictures became popular nationwide in 1928. The building served a variety of uses until 1994, when it was purchased by theater producer Michael Cullen and transformed into a live theatre, named the Mercury Theatre.

In 2010 the building was sold again and reopened as Mercury Theater Chicago under the direction of Walter Stearns, a veteran theater director and producer. Mercury Theater Chicago is thrilled to be part of the city's vibrant theatre community, boasting record-setting long runs, employing hundreds of artists and recognized with dozens of award nominations. Mercury Theater Chicago's team includes Christopher Chase Carter (Artistic Director), Shane Murray-Corcoran (Managing Director), Walter Stearns and Eugene Dizon (Executive Producers) and Honey West (Cabaret Director). Visit www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.


Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Fall Into Fabulous Fun With Broadway in Chicago #BroadwayinChicago

Fall means crisp leaves under foot, chilly nights and great theatre.   Live plays and musicals are great family fun, adult nights out, and an excellent clutter busting gift that leaves lasting memories.




Check out this sizzle reel for hot, Broadway in Chicago shows, to warm your heart this fall and winter.   Then check back with ChiIL Mama/ChiIL Live Shows for reviews, photo filled features and the heads up on upcoming shows, ticket sale dates, specials and more.

Of course, we've been promoting these shows below for months, but they're finally HERE!   If you haven't booked your tickets yet, don't miss you chance.














Tonight:  We'll be catching opening night of Sister Act


Theatre : Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, Chicago Illinois
Dates :


November 13, 2012 - December 02, 2012
Running time:  
Two hours, 30 minutes with one intermission

SISTER ACT is Broadway's feel-amazing musical comedy smash! The New York
Post calls it "RIDICULOUSLY FUN," and audiences are jumping to their
feet in total agreement! Featuring original music by 8-time Oscar®
winner ALAN MENKEN (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Little
Shop of Horrors), SISTER ACT tells the story of Deloris Van Cartier, a
wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a
crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would think to
look—a convent! Under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris
helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly
rediscovers her own. A sparkling tribute to the universal power of
friendship, SISTER ACT is reason to REJOICE!

Ticket prices are $28 to $103.

Groups of 15+ now on sale! Call 312-977-1710. 



 

Potted Potter


We're also super stoked to see Potted Potter!   We're going Sunday the 18th and will have a full review for you.   

Theatre : Broadway Playhouse, Chicago Illinois
Dates :  
November 13, 2012 - December 23, 2012
Running time:  
70 minutes, no intermission

 
A Critic's Pick by the New York Times, New York Magazine and Time Out London, Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Experience — A Parody
by Dan and Jeff, won the prestigious 2012 Olivier Award nomination for
Best Entertainment & Family Show;
playing to sold-out houses
worldwide. Written and performed by former BBC Television hosts Daniel
Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, the play takes on the ultimate challenge
of condensing, or "potting", all seven Harry Potter books into 70 madcap
minutes, aided only by multiple costume changes, brilliant songs,
ridiculous props and a generous helping of Hogwarts magic. The show also
invites audiences to engage with a real life game of Quidditch, but
according to Clarkson and Turner's unique set of rules.

Whether you camped outside a bookstore for three days awaiting the
release of the Deathly Hallows or you don't know the difference between a
horcrux and a Hufflepuff, the comedy, magic and mayhem of POTTED POTTER
makes for an entertaining and hilarious visit to the theatre. The
fast-paced show, which has made audiences aged six to Dumbledore (who is
very old indeed) roar with laughter all over the world, is perfect for
the entire family.



"A fabulously funny parody…will tickle the funny bone of every age group." - The Daily Telegraph,


"Breathless and…HILARIOUS! -The New York Times


"…a zany hoot!"-The New York Post


"...an AWESOME show!" - Time Magazine for Kids


Ticket prices are $39.95 to $84.95.






 
  

Les Mis

Theatre : Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago Illinois



Dates : November 14, 2012 - December 02, 2012


Running time: 2 hours and 50 minutes, including intermission
 


We're also hoping to catch Les Mis at some point.   There is no official press night since the show is no stranger to Chi-Town.   I've seen it myself before, but the kids (9 & 11) are finally old enough to appreciate and understand it and Les Mis is one of my all time favorites.   We'll keep you posted if we have a chance to get there and review the remount.   I'm particularly interested in sharing the kids' take on the show.


DREAM THE DREAM 

Cameron Mackintosh presents a brand new 25th anniversary production of Boublil & Schönberg's legendary musical, LES MISÉRABLES, with glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. This new production has been acclaimed by critics, fans and new audiences and is breaking box office records wherever it goes. 

The New York Times calls this LES MISÉRABLES "an unquestionably spectacular production from start to finish." The London Times hails the new show "a five star hit, astonishingly powerful." The Star-Ledger says "a dynamically re-imagined hit. This 'LES MISÉRABLES' has improved with age" and NY1-TV proclaims "this new production actually exceeds the original. The storytelling is clearer, the perspective grittier and the motivations more honest. Musical theatre fans can rejoice: 'Les Miz' is born again." 

Based on Victor Hugo's classic novel, LES MISÉRABLES is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. The magnificent score of LES MISÉRABLES includes the classic songs "I Dreamed a Dream," "On My Own," "Stars," "Bring Him Home," "Do You Hear the People Sing?," "One Day More," "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables," "Master Of The House" and many more. 

Ticket prices are $23 to $120.

 
Coming Soon: 



 




Emerald City Theatre
Presents
CINDERELLA


Theatre : Broadway Playhouse, Chicago Illinois
Dates : November 23, 2012 - January 06, 2013




The holidays have arrived, and with them the anticipated Royal Ball! Cinderella's cruel Stepmother and Stepsisters are plotting to win the heart of The Prince, but a spunky and barefoot servant girl may just become the belle of the ball. This swashbuckling Cinderella just needs a little help from her Fairy Godmother and one ratty Footman to find her happy ending. Emerald City's adaptation of this favorite fairy tale is a musical holiday wish come true. 






Cinderella is best suited for ages 3-10. 

Ticket prices are $16 to $22. 

Groups of 10+ On Sale Now! Call 312-977-1710
 


We're also HUGE Dr. Seuss fans and can't wait to see this holiday classic at gorgeous Cadillac Palace Theatre!!   The show opens Dec. 5th.   Got your tickets?

Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Theatre : Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago Illinois
Dates : December 05, 2012 - December 16, 2012
Running time: 90 minutes with no intermission


Discover the magic of Dr. Seuss' classic holiday tale as it comes to life on stage. Featuring the hit songs "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" and "Welcome Christmas," The Grinch discovers there's more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming holiday classic. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is "two sizes too small", decides to steal Christmas away from the Whos, an endlessly cheerful bunch bursting with holiday spirit. Celebrate the holidays with this heart-warming holiday classic.

Ticket prices are $18 to $85.  




 I Love Lucy



We caught opening night of this interactive blast from the past and adored it!   Check out our show review here.   Want more of our past Lucy coverage...click here.   They've been extended by popular demand and tickets are now available through March 3rd.    This live version of the show is a hoot!   If you miss it, you've got some 'splainin to do!!

I Love Lucy® Live On Stage
Theatre : Broadway Playhouse, Chicago Illinois
Dates :


September 12, 2012 - March 03, 2013
Running time:  
95 minutes, no intermission


EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND!
TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR PERFORMANCES THROUGH MARCH 3, 2013.


I LOVE LUCY® LIVE ON STAGE
, the brand new hit musical stage show adapted from the longest-running and most beloved television program in history, starring Lucy, Ricky, Fred and Ethel: America's favorite foursome, is coming to Chicago for the very first time!

Imagine stepping back in time and into the Desilu Playhouse soundstage!
It's 1952 and you are a member of the studio audience awaiting the
filming of two hilarious and oh so familiar "I Love Lucy" episodes. A
charming host entertains and enlightens you to the behind-the-scenes
filming process, the1950's hi-fidelity technology, and this brand new
thing called 'television'. The episodes begin and you witness,
firsthand, the side-splitting antics of that crazy redhead in the
Ricardo's New York apartment and thrill to the Cuban sounds of "The
Ricky Ricardo Orchestra" at the famed Tropicana Nightclub. In between
scenes? The Crystaltone Singers perform live advertising jingles of the
show's newest sponsors in perfect 50s style harmony. Can you say
'Brylcreem'?!


Ticket prices are $35 to $85.
Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312)977-1710. 

Check out Broadway in Chicago's main site right here, to book your tickets and see their full season of upcoming shows.   We can't wait for The Book of Mormon!!!!   We're also stoked for War Horse, Cathy Rigby is Peter Pan, and more.

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