Alene Robertson

Two years ago, Chicago actress and singer Alene Robertson suffered a life-threatening brain aneurysm that sent shock waves through the theatre community.  When Theatre in Chicago reported the news, we were inundated with e-mails from friends and fans of the plucky musical theatre star, who was in the midst of starring in a 30th Anniversary Tour of Annie in a role she was quite familiar, the orphan-hating meanie Miss Hannigan.  But with the guts and spirit of so many of the larger-than-life ladies she has portrayed onstage, Alene bounced back and was able to re-join the cast in time for the show's Broadway in Chicago performances.

The e-mails have continued to pour in, and with Alene's return to the Marriott Theatre, you can bet there will be lots of support for her in the audience.  Currently starring as the wisecracking, chain-smoking, "been there, done that" piano accompanist Jeanette in The Full Monty, Alene just completed a revival of the perennial Nunsense as the Mother Superior, spiritual leader of the "Little Sisters of Aptakisic".  Moving from such distinctly diverse characters is nothing new for this Cincinnati native whom the Chicago region has called its own for three decades.

Alene has been a mainstay at the Lincolnshire playhouse, with roles ranging from Dolly and Rose to Lalume, Mrs. Lovett, Aldonza and, of course, Reverend Mother in both Nunsense and The Sound of Music.  Even with her specialty for the brassy Merman and Channing type roles, versatility has always been Robertson's calling card, and has netted her an impressive nine Joseph Jefferson awards.  

Her powerhouse singing style may have "Broadway" stamped all over it, but Alene Robertson is a true Midwesterner at heart. She's worked throughout the country, on and off Broadway, but she always returns to the Windy City.  Chicago Tribune theatre critic Chris Jones once labeled her "the grande dame of the suburban musical theatre".  And to coin a lyric from one of her most popular hits, it's so nice to have Alene back where she belongs. Watch Alene Robertson go for The Full Monty at the Marriott Theatre July 23-September 1. Call 847-634-0200 or visit www.marriotttheatre.com.

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.