REVIEW: The Wizard of Oz Via The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences Now Playing playing Through August 7th, 2022

ChiIL Mama’s ChiIL Picks List

A musical adventure for all ages!

Theatre for Young Audiences returns to the Marriott Theatre.

The Marriott Theatre for Young Audience’s production of the Wizard of Oz transported three generations of my family to a just-dangerous-enough world of magic and brought us safely, satisfyingly home.

My mom, I, and two of my kids, ages 12 and 7, were immediately drawn into Campbell Krausen’s sincere and engaging Dorothy. We were quickly introduced to the Kansas crew; an adorable, living and breathing Toto; and ensemble players Laura Savage, Mandy Modic, and Matthew Bettencourt who created, with the surrounding screens and inventive costuming, a very convincing tornado.

When Glinda (Harriet Nzinga Plumpp, who also plays Aunt Em) appeared along with her shower of bubbles, my 7-year-old was not alone in leaping out of his seat and exclaiming, “Joy, joy, joy!”

Jacquelyne Jones as the Wicked Witch of the West (and Miss Gultch) was a perfect villain for the beloved crew to conquer. We all appreciated the non-traditional casting of Allison Sill in the role of the Scarecrow (with very entertaining physical comedy), the heartfelt performance of Michael Turrentine as Tin Man (his excellent tap skills were a super fun dynamic for his character), and Lorenzo Rush Jr.’s “Cowardly” Lion, who is very funny and, of course, courageous in the end. Kevin McKillip was the perfect well-intentioned bumbler as the Wizard of Oz (and Uncle Henry).

All production photos by Liz Lauren

Artistic Director Peter Marston, props and scenic designer Sally Zack, costume designer Amanda Vader Byl, lighting designer Jesse Klug, sound designer Brandon Reid, and media designer Tony Churchill—along with other tech and stage pros—made this an experience that held my digital-native kids captive.

The Wizard of Oz is playing through August 7th. Don't miss this!

 Kimberly Robb Baker is a Chicago based writer, blogger, consultant, story teller, and mother. You can find her worky stuff here: ThisLittleBrand.com and her artsy fartsy stuff here:  DisruptiveMama.com.

The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences returns this summer with THE WIZARD OF OZ! Families will relive this beloved tale of four unlikely friends on the adventure of a lifetime at the Marriott Theatre, located at 10 Marriott Dr. Lincolnshire, running July 8, 2022 through August 7, with a press opening on July 16 at 10:00AM. The production returns November 15 through December 31. THE WIZARD OF OZ features the classic musical score that has entertained audiences for generations including "Follow the Yellow Brick Road," "Ding Dong the Witch is Dead," and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." This special one-hour presentation is directed by Johanna McKenzie Miller and choreographed by Tiffany Krause. Musical Direction is by Cameron Miya with Musical Supervision by Jeff Award winner Ryan T. Nelson.

“I am so thrilled to be a part of this special production of THE WIZARD OF OZ in the round,’’ said Johanna McKenzie Miller. “With the eve of Judy Garland’s 100th birthday this year, we thought this would be the perfect time to bring back this classic tale and relive the special moments that will continue to bring generations together and have the whole family humming along.”

THE WIZARD OF OZ tells the classic tale of young Dorothy Gale and her dog Toto who are swept away by a tornado from their Kansas farm to the colorful and enchanting Land of Oz. To get back home, Dorothy must first embark on a journey to the Emerald City, where the Wizard of Oz resides. On the way down the Yellow Brick Road, Dorothy and her dog are accompanied by three new friends they meet along the way– a Scarecrow who wants a brain, a Tin Man who wants a heart and a Cowardly Lion who wants courage. All on the quest to have their wishes come true, they come across the Wicked Witch of the West out on her own quest for revenge.

This production of THE WIZARD OF OZ stars Campbell Krausen as “Dorothy,” Lorenzo Rush Jr. as “Lion,” Michael Turrentine as “Tin Man,” Allison Sill as “Scarecrow,” Harriet Nzinga Plumpp as “Auntie Em/Glinda,” Jacquelyne Jones as “Miss Gultch/Wicked Witch” and Kevin McKillip as “Uncle Henry/Oz”. The ensemble features Laura Savage, Mandy Modic and Matthew Bettencourt, with understudies Isabella Abel-Suarez, Grace Bobber, Emily Ann Brooks, Jake Elkins, Michael Earvin Martin, Jenna Napolitano, and Nolan Fizoires Robinson II.

The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences team will be led by Artistic Director Peter Marston Sullivan, with artistic associate Emily Marso, props and scenic design by Sally Zack, costume design by Amanda Vander Byl, wig design by Megan Pirtle, lighting design by Jesse Klug, sound design by Brandon Reed, projection and media design by Tony Churchill. The stage manager is Jessica Banaszak.

Marriott Theatre is committed to providing healthy and safe facilities for audiences, performers, and staff. Please check www.MarriottTheatre.com prior to your visit for the most recent COVID-19 protocols.

THE WIZARD OF OZ plays most Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10am, Fridays at 6pm, Saturdays at 10am and 12.30 pm and Sundays at 10am. Visit MarriottTheatre.com or call 847.634.0200 for exact schedule, as show times and dates vary. Tickets are $15, excluding tax and handling fees. Call for group discounts over 20 tickets. Free parking is available at all performances. To reserve tickets, please call The Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or visit www.MarriottTheatre.com.

HELP OUT: GLOBAL ARTISTS FOR PEACE Benefit Concert at Marriott Theatre July 15

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

Musical theater artists from Poland, Germany, and Bosnia and Herzegovina to tell their stories through song in GLOBAL ARTISTS FOR PEACE benefit concert at Marriott Theatre July 15

Broadway Across Borders, a non-profit organization dedicated to cultivating and connecting emerging artists across borders and empowering their artistic and social entrepreneurship, will present its first Chicago-area benefit concert on Friday July 15 at 8 pm at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire. Broadway Across Borders co-founder Aaron Thielen, who is also Marriott Theatre’s former Artistic Director, announced the event today. The 75-minute multi-media concert featuring musical theatre artists from Poland, Germany, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, will tell the stories of the life experiences of these central and eastern European artists through a program of musical theater numbers as well as original songs written and composed by the artists. The musical performances will be enhanced by video projections and the singers will be accompanied by a five-piece band. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the charitable organization Global Citizens and their program “Stand Up for Ukraine,” to provide grants to help Ukrainian artists tell their stories.

Marriott Theatre’s Aaron Thielen and Ryan Nelson are co-founders of sponsoring organization 

Broadway Across Borders

The featured performers are Adrian Kieroński of Warsaw, Poland; Nikolina Vujić and Sanjin Arnautović of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; and Lucia Miorin of Augsburg, Germany. Repertoire will include songs from the musical HAIR (which Broadway Across Borders will present in concert in three cities of Bosnia and Herzegovina in June 2022), from SPRING AWAKENING (produced by BAB online during the COVID lockdown in October 2020), the musical film THE GREATEST SHOWMAN, and original songs written by the artists. While these performers have previously collaborated with each other in virtual productions, the July 15th concert will be the first time the four will have performed together in person.

Arnautović is a musical theater actor and singer and a teacher at the Academy of Performing Arts in Sarajevo. Vujić is one of the leading musical theater performers in Sarajevo and has performed on television, in theatre at the Sarajevo War Theatre, and in films. She has studied at the Sarajevo Music Academy. Miorin has trained professionally in schools in Augsburg and Berlin, Germany. Kieroński is a graduate of the Fredryk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw, Poland, where he studied voice and acting. He has performed in musical theater productions in Warsaw, Lublin, and Lodz, Poland.

Tickets are $55 (plus tax and service fee) and are on sale now at http://broadwayacrossborders.org/, MarriottTheatre.com, or the Marriott Theatre Box Office (847-634-0200). VIP tickets, which include after-performance reception with champagne and desserts, and intimate conversations with the artists, are also available for $150 (plus tax and service fee).

Broadway Across Borders Presents

GLOBAL ARTISTS FOR PEACE

Friday, July 15, 2022, 8 pm

Marriott Theatre, Ten Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire, IL

Tickets: $55 (plus tax and service fee), VIP Tickets: $150 (plus tax and service fee)

VIP tickets include after-performance reception with champagne and desserts, and intimate conversations with the artists.

Tickets and further info available at http://broadwayacrossborders.org/, or at Marriott Theatre Box Office 847-634-0200 or MarriottTheatre.com.

Four Broadway Across Borders alumni artists from Poland, Germany, and Bosnia and Herzegovina come together for one night to share their stories, talents, and their passion for connecting with artists from around the world. A portion of the proceeds from this concert will be donated to the charitable organization Global Citizens and their program Stand Up for Ukraine to help refugees from Ukraine and around the world.

ABOUT BROADWAY ACROSS BORDERS

Broadway Across Borders is a non-profit arts organization that builds international and cross-cultural collaborations through musical theatre performance that create a shared understanding of humanity by cultivating and connecting emerging artists across borders and empowering their artistic and social entrepreneurship. Broadway Across Borders was co-founded by former Marriott Theatre Artistic Director Aaron Thielen and Ryan T. Nelson (Marriott Theatre Resident Music Director).

OPENING: THE SOUND OF MUSIC at The Marriott Theatre April 13-June 5, 2022

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

Terry James, Executive Producer 

Aaron Thielen, Artistic Director 

Peter Blair, Associate Producer      

Peter Marston Sullivan, Associate Artistic Director 

  Presents 

  

One of the most beloved musicals of all time!  

The Marriott Theatre, located at 10 Marriott Dr. Lincolnshire, welcomes spring with THE SOUND OF MUSIC, previewing Wednesday, April 13, opening April 20 at 7:30 p.m., and closing June 5, 2022. THE SOUND OF MUSIC features the Tony, Grammy, and Academy Award-winning Best Score composed by Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein II, including "My Favorite Things," "Do-Re-Mi," "Climb Ev'ry Mountain," "Edelweiss" and the iconic title song. Experience this classic family favorite directed by Nick Bowling, the recipient of eight Jeff Awards for Outstanding Direction. Musical direction is by Jeff Award winner Ryan T. Nelson with choreography by William Carlos Angulo.   

“It’s a pleasure to direct a long-standing favorite such as The Sound of Music, right here at the Marriott Theatre,” said Nick Bowling. “This heartwarming story continues to resonate with so many across the world, and that’s what makes this musical truly stand the test of time and something I am truly honored to be a part of.”  

THE SOUND OF MUSIC tells the tale of young nun-turned-governess Maria Rainer, whose free spirit has trouble fitting into the rules and regulations of the monastery. Commissioned by the Mother Abbess to serve as the governess for seven motherless children, Maria transforms the Von Trapp family home from a place of stern obedience to one filled with joy, laughter and music. Based on the true story of the Von Trapp Family Singers, this play captures a personal tale of growth and hope amidst the horrors of World War II.  

THE SOUND OF MUSIC first appeared on Broadway in 1959, starring Mary Martin and Theodore Bikel. After winning five Tony Awards including Best Musical, the film adaptation was released in 1965 starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plumber, and would go on to win five Academy Awards including Best Picture. This musical was the final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein, and was destined to become the world’s most beloved musical.  

This production of THE SOUND OF MUSIC is led by Addie Morales as “Maria Rainer” (Marriott Theatre debut! Regional: Maria in West Side Story, and Susan in Tick, Tick… Boom!, Maria Elena in The Buddy Holly Story, and Eva in Evita), Erik Hellman as “Captain Georg von Trapp” (Marriott Theatre debut! Regional: Lindiwe, Familiar, and The Burn at Steppenwolf; Othello, Mousetrap, One Man Two Gov’nors, The Misanthrope, Proof and The Mystery of Irma at Court Theatre; Miss Bennet, Shining Lives, and Lost in Yonkers at Northlight Theatre), Daniella Dalli as “The Mother Abbess” (Marriott Theatre debut! National tour: The Phantom of The Opera, The Sound of Music), Heidi Kettenring as “Elsa Schraeder” (23 shows at Marriott Theatre! Nessa in Broadway in Chicago’s Wicked; National Tours: Disney’s Beauty and The Beast), Rob Lindley as “Max Detweiler” (Marriott Theatre mainstage debut; Monsieur André in Phantom of the Opera National Tour), Laura T. Fisher as “Frau Schmidt,” Mark Ulrich as “Franz,” Susan Moniz as “Sister Berthe,” Lydia Burke as “Sister Margaretta,” Ana Silva as “Sister Sophia,” and Emmet Smith as “Rolf Gruber.” The von Trapp children are played by Campbell Krausen, Brody Tyner, Milla Liss, Archer Geye, Omi Lichtenstein, Olivia O’Sullivan, and Reese Bella; with Brandon Dahlquist, Terry Hamilton, Elaine Cotter, Mitchell J. Fain, Nancy Voigts, Joe Capstick, Tafadzwa Diener, Dan Gold, Maya McQueen, Amanda Walker, Isabella Andrews, Corey Atkinson, Audrey Edwards, Asha Dale Hopman, Aaron M. Nixon, Tommy Thurston and Clare Wols. 

The artistic team, led by Associate Artistic Director Peter Marston Sullivan, includes set design by Collette Pollard, costume design by Sally Dolembo, lighting design by Jesse Klug, sound design by Michael Daly, wig design by Miguel A. Armstrong, projection and media design by Anthony Churchill, properties design by Sally Zack, alongside artistic associate Christopher Chase Carter, assistant director Emily Marso, stage manager Jessica Banaszak, intimacy coordinator Kristina Fluty, and musical supervisor Patti Garwood.  

Marriott Theatre is committed to providing healthy and safe facilities for audiences, performers, and staff. Please check MarriottTheatre.com prior to your visit for the most recent COVID-19 protocols.  

THE SOUND OF MUSIC is scheduled for performances at 7:30pm Wednesday and Thursday, 8pm Friday, 4pm and 8pm Saturday, 1pm and 5pm Sundays, with select 1pm shows on Thursdays. Ticket prices range between $50 and $60, excluding tax and handling fees. Call for student, senior, and military discounts. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings there are a limited number of dinner-theatre packages available for purchase through the Marriott Theatre Box Office. To make a restaurant reservation, please call 847.634.0100. Reservations strongly recommended. Free parking is available at all performances. To reserve tickets, please call The Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or go to www.ticketmaster.com. Visit www.MarriottTheatre.com for more information.  

  

REVIEW: THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND at The Marriott Theatre Now Playing Through November 7th, 2021

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

Terry James, Executive Producer 

Aaron Thielen, Artistic Director 

presents 

The Songs of Kander and Ebb 

Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, one of the most subscribed theaters in the nation, is re-opening with THE WORLD GOES ROUND, a musical revue featuring the songs of Kander and Ebb, the legendary musical duo. The cast includes several Broadway veterans as well as a host of talented Chicago favorites, so don’t miss this!

 All Production Photos by Liz Lauren unless otherwise noted

REVIEW:

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

Photo by B Kenaz-Mara

As the masked Marriot Theatre audience tentatively ventures out for an experiment in non social distancing, a lone steamer trunk and a ghost light grace a barren stage, an apt visual as Chicago area stages have been dark for over two years now. Audiences and actors alike have a lot to unpack, emotionally and physically, as we negotiate the new reality of theatre openings in the waning days of covid and this was a lovely way to begin again. The energy and happiness was palpable as the stage lights came to life and colorful costumes, props, and actors again populated the stage. 

Meghan Murphy

Things feel a bit daring with a packed house and no possibility of six feet of space between neighbors. Yet some experiences are worth a risk, and with vaccines and mask mandatory, a good portion of the theatre loving populace is tired of staring at their own walls and ready for some soul filling song and dance numbers. Marriot Theatre delivers. The World Goes Round is just the tonic for a pandemic weary populace. 

Even in a COVID-abridged version with no intermission, to reduce movement in and out of the theatre, this show packs an impressive score of toe tapping favorites as the audience is taken on a journey through Kander and Ebb’s virtual hit parade of songs including showstoppers “Cabaret,” “New York, New York,” “All That Jazz,” and “Maybe This Time.” The revue also covers numbers from Chicago, Funny Lady, Kiss of The Spider Woman, Woman of The Year and more. 

Photo by B Kenaz-Mara

Meghan Murphy, AKA: Big Red, has long been a favorite of ours here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows. It's such a joy to see her in a role where she's free to belt out the powerhouse vocals she does so well, and showcase both her range, and her iconic, retro style. The entire cast is top notch and a joy to see in action. 

Meghan Murphy

Break out your theatre garb and head on out for The Happy Time and All That Jazz. 

Isn't This Better than sitting around the house? Highly recommended. 

Free parking is available at all performances. To reserve tickets, please call The Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or go to www.ticketmaster.com. Visit www.MarriottTheatre.com for more information. 

Bonnie is a Chicago based writer, theater critic, photographer, videographer, actress, artist and Mama. She owns two websites where she publishes frequently: ChiILLiveShows.com (adult) & ChiILMama.com (family friendly). 

Check Out The World Goes 'Round Promotional Video Here

Tony & Drama Desk Award-nominated Director and Choreographer Marcia Milgrom Dodge (Ragtime 2009 revival) will direct and choreograph the Marriott Theatre production.  Milgrom Dodge recently appeared on 2 episodes of Disney+ ENCORE!. She says, “In our newly reimagined production, five friends meet in an abandoned theatre after almost two years of not being able to do what they love most – Perform! The company reflects on what they’ve lost, re-visits meaningful relationships, re-creates their favorite numbers--with choreography that tips its bowler-hat to the great Bob Fosse--and sings their hearts out, as souls are restored with renewed hope for the future.” Associate Director/Choreographer is Josh Walden, who also served with Milgrom Dodge as Associate Director and Associate Choreographer for the Tony nominated Broadway revival of Ragtime and has choreographed many productions at the Kennedy Center, The Muny and more. 

The Artistic Associate for the production is Jonathan Butler-Duplessis. Musical Direction is by Jeff Award winner Ryan T. Nelson. The production will feature Set Design by Christopher Rhoton, Costume Design by Sully Ratke, Lighting Design by Jesse Klug, Sound Design by Michael Daly, Wig Design by Miguel Armstrong, and Properties Design by Sally Zack. Intimacy Consultant is Charlie Baker, Stage Manager is Michael Hendricks, Assistant Stage Manager is Richard Strimer and Musical Supervisor is Patti Garwood. 

Allison E. Blackwell & Joseph Anthony Byrd

Allison E. Blackwell

Allison E. Blackwell, a Marriott Theatre newcomer, returns to the Chicago area after playing Violetta in the World Premiere production of Pretty Woman: The Musical at the Nederlander Theatre. Allison has appeared in numerous Broadway productions including A Night with Janis Joplin (Aretha Franklin), Pretty Woman: The Musical (Violetta), The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess and Disney’s The Lion King. 

Joseph Anthony Byrd

Joseph Anthony Byrd is thrilled to be back at the Marriott Theatre where he was last seen as Jacob in La Cage Aux Folles. Joseph also appeared as Lola in Kinky Boots on Broadway and in the Broadway tours of The Lion King and Mamma Mia! 

Kevin Earley

Chicago native and Broadway veteran Kevin Earley has also appeared at the Marriott Theatre in productions including City of Angels, Pirates of Penzance (Jeff Nomination), La Cage Aux Folles, and many more. Kevin earned a Joseph Jefferson Award for The Balladeer in Assassins and played Tommy in Goodman Theatre’s production of Brigadoon. 

Meghan Murphy

Meghan Murphy has lit up the Marriott Theatre stage many times, most recently in Mamma Mia! (Tanya, Jeff Nomination), City of Angels (Oolie/Donna, Jeff Nomination), Sleeping Beauty (Magenta), & Footloose (Betty Blast). 

Amanda Rose

Amanda Rose & Joseph Anthony Byrd

Amanda Rose, also a Marriott Theatre newcomer, appeared in the Broadway and National Tour productions of Holiday Inn (Linda u/s), Wicked (Nessarose), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Mrs. Bucket), Dr. Dolittle starring Tommy Tune, and Oklahoma! (Laurey).  

The performance schedule is as follows: Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.,with select Thursday 1:00 p.m. shows. Ticket prices range from $50 to $60, excluding tax and handling fees. Call for student, senior, and military discounts. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings there are a limited number of dinner-theatre packages available for purchase through the Marriott Theatre Box Office. To make a restaurant reservation, please call 847.634.0100. Reservations strongly recommended. Free parking is available at all performances. To reserve tickets, please call The Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or go to www.ticketmaster.com. Visit www.MarriottTheatre.com for more information. The Songs of Kander and Ebb 

 

The cast includes Allison E. Blackwell, Joseph Anthony Byrd, Kevin Earley, Meghan Murphy, and Amanda Rose; with understudies Christian Denzel Bufford, Alanna Lovely Alexandra Palkovic, Allison Sill, and Trevor Vanderzee. 

Along with a growing coalition of leading Chicagoland performing arts venues, for the health and safety of our audiences, artists and staff, face masks and proof of COVID-19 vaccine or appropriate negative test are required for all patrons during the run of THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND. Additionally, to reduce movement in and out of the theatre, THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND will be presented by special permission in a COVID-abridged version with no intermission. Protocol details are available at MarriottTheatre.com. 

The Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr. in Lincolnshire, presents THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND, the delightful musical revue featuring the works of John Kander and Fred Ebb, considered one of the most prolific and acclaimed Broadway musical creative teams of all time. The production will preview Wednesday, September 15th, open September 22nd, and close Sunday, November 7th. 

 All Production Photos by Liz Lauren unless otherwise noted 

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: WIN a Family 4 Pack of Tickets ($73 Value/4 winners!) to THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA at Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:
Family Friendly Theatre Fun

A New Musical of the Classic Tale Now Playing 
at the Marriott Theatre!

THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA 

at Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences

Enter Below for your Chance to WIN

a Family 4 Pack of Tickets ($73 Value) to 

THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA 
at Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences (4 winners) 

Winners' choice of dates through April 19 (pending availability). Enter through midnight March 4, 2020.
*Winners will be asked to share e-mail/phone/mailing address with The Marriott Theatre box office 

Guest Review:

by Kimberly Robb Baker

If you’re looking for a fun new take on a story your little ones are familiar with, you’ll find it in the Marriott Theatre’s production of The Princess and the Pea. Children and their grownups will appreciate the clever script, entertaining musical numbers, multimedia presentation, and gorgeous costumes. (Thanks to the Saturday morning show’s Q&A, we got some insight into how the costumes were designed and built!)

Photo Credit for all Production Photos: Amy Boyle

And did I mention the cast? No fairytale can function without a villain you love to hate, and Jenna Coker-Jones delivers with so much charisma and diva energy, it’s hard to take your eyes off her. She certainly makes a formidable adversary for her son, Prince Wellington, portrayed with appropriate royal comportment, innocence, and courage by Trevor Venderzee whose vocal performance was a standout. Ruth, the prince’s love interest, is brought skillfully to life by Marielle Nada Issa. One of my favorite parts of the play is the sweet relationship between her and her Papa, actor Mark David Kaplan who shows extraordinary range, also jumping in as the larger-than-life media presenter.

Also doing double-duty—as the bride favored by the queen and a “cloudy” meteorologist—is Allison Sill, who fits both bills perfectly and uses her powerful singing voice to much hilarity.

A live musical trio and wondrously imagined set round out this experience and make it a must-see for families.

Kimberly Robb Baker is a Chicago based writer, blogger, consultant, story teller, and mother. You can find her worky stuff here: ThisLittleBrand.com and her artsy fartsy stuff here:  DisruptiveMama.com.

"Hear ye, hear ye...Prince Wellington is seeking a bride." The classic fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen comes to life in a new musical THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA at Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive in Lincolnshire, from February 8 to April 19. This new spin on the classic tale features music by Marc Robin, book and lyrics by Rick Boynton, and additional lyrics by Curt Dale Clark and Marc Robin. THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA is directed and choreographed by Artistic Director Aaron Thielen, with musical direction by Patti Garwood. 



“I'm excited to get the opportunity to direct this production of THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA, written by such talented and dear friends,” says Thielen. “It’s a wonderful story about staying true to who you are and not letting others tell you who you are supposed to be; the lesson is that you get to write your own story.”

Queen Evermean decides it’s time for her son, Prince Wellington, to get married. She creates a reality game show called the “Princess Test” to find the Prince the “perfect” bride. But the Prince doesn’t want to marry someone picked for him from a game show, he wants to marry for love. He escapes to the royal forest where he comes face to face with the girl he knows is the one. But will the Queen allow them to marry? Will she have to pass the Princess Test? Will a tiny pea and a stack of mattresses stand between her and true love? THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA runs one hour and all performances are followed by a question & answer session with the cast. 



Starring in THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA are Marielle Nada Issa as “Ruth,” Trevor Vanderzee as “Prince Wellington,” Jenna Coker-Jones as “Queen Evermean,” Mark David Kaplan as “Papa and Biff,” Allison Sill as “Buffy and Cumula,” and Ian Paul Custer as “Chester.” 



The production will feature set design by Patrick Ham, lighting design by Brian Elston, costume design by Jesus Perez, sound design by Robert Hornbostel, wig design by Megan Pirtle, and media design by Anthony Churchill and Peter Sullivan; with stage manager Tara Kelly and musical superviser by Patti Garwood.



THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA runs most Wednesdays through Sundays at 10 a.m. with certain performances at 12:30 p.m. Visit www.MarriottTheatre.com or call (847) 634-0200 for exact schedule, as show times and dates may vary. Single ticket prices are $18.23 per person. Groups of 20 or more receive a discount by calling (847) 634-5909. Free parking is available at all shows. To reserve tickets, call the Marriott Theatre Box Office at (847) 634-0200or visit www.MarriottTheatre.com.

Enter HERE for your Chance to WIN

a Family 4 Pack of Tickets ($73 Value) to 

THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA 
at Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences (4 winners)

Winners' choice of dates through April 19 (pending availability). 
Enter through midnight March 4, 2020. 
*Winners will be asked to share e-mail/phone/mailing address with The Marriott Theatre box office

ENTER HERE

GIVEAWAY and REVIEW: WIN a Pair of Tickets to Grease at Marriott Theatre Now Playing Through March 15, 2020

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar
Grease
It's the energetic and electric musical comedy tribute 
to the age of rock ‘n roll!



Terry James, Executive Producer
Andy Hite, Lead Artistic Director
Aaron Thielen, Artistic Director

Presents

WIN a Pair of Tickets to Grease 

(Up to $120 value/2 winners) 

at Marriott Theatre

Enter Below 

(Winners' choice of dates pending availability.)

Photo Credit for all: Liz Lauren

Unless Otherwise Noted

Review:

by Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

Rydell High may be a fond figment of the imagination of author, Jim Jacobs, but the actual inspiration is William Howard Taft High School on Chicago's north west side, where he attended. I was amused to see that Marriott gives props to Taft with a Bryn Mawr street sign, and an Eagles mascot banner, both of which are true, though their real school colors are blue and white. I'm quite familiar with this high school, as my daughter, Sage, tested in to their junior high Academic Center IB program as a 7th grader. She's now a Taft High Junior, where she's been a cheerleader, on poms squad, and in numerous plays. 






Much has changed since the 1950's, era of the fictional fav, Grease, that first opened at Chicago's Kingston Mines in 1971, yet much remains the same. There are still school dances, cliques, drama, dropouts, cheerleaders, gear heads, partiers, sleep overs and summer love. 



Hopefully, though, in 2020, girls aren't quite so quick to change their entire look and persona for a guy, like the cringeworthy climax of Grease. At least the show has fully fleshed out women characters with hopes, dreams, disasters, failures, unexpected pregnancies, and friendships/rivalries with one another, apart from the men they're dating. That's not always a given, especially in musicals. 



Marriott's period piece is sure to be a fan favorite, with big dance numbers, a talented ensemble, and plenty of eye candy. The Beauty School Dropout number is a particular standout with Jonathan Butler-Duplessis (“Teen Angel”). We also love that Greased Lightening, the beater/ race car wannabe, is actually drivable, and enters and exits the theatre in the round stage during scenes. 





On the down side, we're not crazy about Sandy (Leryn Turlington). Most of the women characters' dialogue and songs, with the exception of Rizzo's (excellently played by Jacquelyne Jones), tend toward a stylized, squeaky register which grates after a while. 



The only one who pulls it off exceedingly well is Landree Fleming as “Frenchy”. She's a joy to see in action. 



We were also a bit let down that Sandy is the only one doing the big transformation to "greaser gal". In other versions, Danny simultaneously alters his look and lifestyle to "square" to please  her, and that doesn't happen in Marriott's production.

On the up side, the costumes, choreography and casting are overall excellent, especially the men, headed up by charmer, Danny Zuko (Jimmy Nicholas). This retro romp makes for a fun filled evening. The set design, while not as elaborate as many of Marriott's past productions, is clever and provides a perfectly fine playground for this fifties reverie, complete with neon signs. All signs point to a great run and another hit for this stellar, suburban theatre. Recommended.

Bonnie Kenaz-Mara is a Chicago based writer-theater critic-photographer-videographer-actress-artist-general creatrix and Mama to two terrific teens. She owns two websites where she publishes frequently: ChiILLiveShows.com (adult) & ChiILMama.com (family friendly). 

Marriott Theatre is proud to present the electrifying smash hit GREASE
now playing through Sunday, March 15th.

The Tony Award-nominated musical is directed by four-time Jeff Award winner, Scott Weinstein (Something Rotten!, Murder for Two, Shrek), with musical direction by Jeff Award winner Ryan T. Nelson and choreography by Jeff Award winner William Carlos Angulo. 

“I grew up on GREASE and getting to direct it for the first time and at the Marriott Theatre is a real thrill,” said director Scott Weinstein. “It premiered here in Chicago nearly 50 years ago and still has so much to say about growing up, teenage rebellion, pop culture and of course, rock and roll. I can't wait to explore this timeless rock musical in the city for which it was meant."

GREASE follows the story of Sandy Dumbrowski, the new girl in town, and Danny Zuko, the school’s coolest greaser, who have a secret romance over summer break away from school. However, when the pair find themselves face to face upon returning to school, everything is different. Sandy attempts to navigate the tricky social circles of Rydell High School and reignite her summer romance, but bad boy Danny is more concerned with maintaining his tough-guy reputation. 

Join in the fun of the hilarious antics of Rydell High's class of '59 and rock to songs like “Beauty School Dropout,” “Summer Nights,” “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” and “You’re the One That I Want.”

GREASE stars Jimmy Nicholas in his Marriott Theatre debut as “Danny” (Broadway: The Book of Mormon) and Leryn Turlington as “Sandy” (Chicago Shakespeare Theater: The Wizard of Oz, Writers Theatre: Parade). The cast also features Curt Bouril (“Vince Fontaine”), Jonathan Butler-Duplessis (“Teen Angel”), Jack Cahill-Lemme (“Sonny”), Kelly Anne Clark (“Mrs. Lynch”), Kevin Corbett (“Kenickie”), Jake Elkins (“Roger”), Landree Fleming  (“Frenchy”), Jacquelyne Jones (“Rizzo”), Michael Kurowski (“Doody”), Michelle Lauto (“Marty”), Garrett Lutz (“Eugene”), Jessica Palkovic (“Cha Cha”), Billy Rude (“Johnny Casino”), Tiffany T. Taylor  (“Jan”), and Alaina Wis (“Patty”), with ensemble members Nicholas Haas, Allison Sill and Kyra Sorce. 

GREASE will showcase set design by Jeffrey D. Kmiec, costume design by Amanda Vander Byl, lighting design by Jesse Klug, sound design by Sarah Ortiz, wig design by Miguel A. Armstrong, and properties design by Sally Zack; with intimacy director Tonia Sina, stage manager Maegan Burnell and musical supervisor Patti Garwood.

The performance is scheduled to run most Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Ticket prices range from $50 to $60, excluding tax and handling fees. Call for student, senior, and military discounts. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings there are a limited number of dinner-theatre packages available for purchase through the Marriott Theatre Box Office. To make a restaurant reservation, please call 847.634.0100. Reservations strongly recommended. Free parking is available at all performances. 

To reserve tickets, please call The Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or go to www.ticketmaster.com. Visit www.MarriottTheatre.com for more information.

WIN a Pair of Tickets to Grease 
(Up to $120 value/2 winners) 

at Marriott Theatre

(Winners' choice of dates pending availability.)
*winners will be asked to share their phone #, address, and e-mail privately with Marriott Theatre's box office in order to redeem their $120 winning ticket voucher. Enter early and often through midnight 2/23/20. Winner will be announced here, on our social media channels and by private e-mail on 2/24/20.

ENTER HERE