Follow Us On Twitter
Chicago actor Sean Allan Krill turned down an opportunity to recreate the same role in "Thoroughly Modern Millie" that he played on the National Tour for the Marriott Theatre's local regional premiere. It seems he will be counting his "Money, Money, Money" by starring in the ABBA song and dance sensation "Mamma Mia." Krill, whose many Chicago credits include roles at Court, Marriott and Drury Lane Oakbrook, among others, has signed a 1-year contract with the National Touring Company. No word yet on whether Sean has any aversion to Spandex costumes.
The musical revue "Respect" closed abruptly over Thanksgiving Week at the Chicago Center for the Performing Arts. The show had reportedly been doing comfortable business, which raised industry insider speculation about what went wrong. "Bark" continues its open ended run at the CCPA. Another musical revue, the Marc Robin-helmed "Come Fly With Me" is keeping the lights on in the lovely little Mercury Theatre, which has itself in the past struggled to keep its doors open.
Another familiar face, the award-winning actress Carmen Roman is spending her December far from the Chicago snow, playing the role of Grandma Kurnitz in a Florida engagement of Neil Simon's Pulitzer Prize winner "Lost in Yonkers." The comedy continues at Fort Lauderdale's Coconut Grove Playhouse through December 24. A multiple Joseph Jefferson Award winner for her work at the Goodman, Northlight and American Theater Company, Ms. Roman has received raves for her starring roles in Chicago productions of "Wit" and "Master Class," among others.
-Joe Stead
Theatre In Chicago News Contributor Joe Stead has spent over 20 years as a critic, director, designer and performer. His reviews currently appear online at www.steadstylechicago.com.