| Chicago Sun Times - Highly Recommended
"..."Plaid Tidings" is a delicious and hilarious stroll down memory lane. Fans of Perry Como will love the video projection of the crooner's Saturday night television special. Como is more handsome than I remember, and his standards, "Strangers in Paradise" and "Dream Along with Me" never sounded so good. An homage to the iconic "Ed Sullivan" television show, delivered at breathtaking speed, is a comedic riot. Indeed, while the four performers croon with velvety smoothness, they also offer spirited laugh-filled antics. A prime example is Thomas's funny bit on the sociological significance of "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," pointing out that the outsider wasn't appreciated until other reindeers could make use of him."
Read Full Review
Chicago Stage Review - Somewhat Recommended
"...I wanted this show to put me in a festive holiday spirit, but Theatre at the Center’s current production of Plaid Tidings brings its audience somewhat pallid tidings of the holiday season.Some strong performances and one outstanding dance number just don’t have enough combined oomph to overcome a silly script and songs where the vocal harmonies are completely drowned out by the accompaniment. If you are a Jack Black superfan, however, then Jonathan Wagner is awesomeness."
Read Full Review
Around The Town Chicago - Recommended
"...Many people remember the musical entertainment "Forever Plaid" , the story about a singing quartet who was killed in an accident while on a bust trip to see a live "Ed Sullivan Television show", who are stuck in "purgatory" having never completed their mission to do a "really big show" themselves. In the sequel, which I find more entertaining although limited in timing of when it can be staged, "Forever Plaid Tidings", now being revitalized at Theatre at the Center in Munster,Indiana ( just a hop skip and jump from downtown Chicago), these four men are prompted by Rosemary Clooney, they are transported back to perform a special holiday program for the world-weary mortals of Earth. Kind of silly right? But under the direction of veteran William Pullinsi, with four dynamite performers, this production is one that will take you away from the troubles of your life. Not just for the two hours they bring you oldies but goodies and then a second act filled with Holiday merriment, but probably enough cheer to get you through the holiday season…and more!"
Read Full Review
|