As recently noted,
We just saw the Circle Theater production of "An Ideal Husband"
where I was blown away by the costumes and sets,
and now the theater has been kind enough
to send me some pictures.
Unlike the elegant Sir Gawain
I am never going to devote more than a moment's thought
to whatever I throw on to hide my nakedness.
But I certainly appreciate it
when others take that time and effort!
Click on the above detailto get even more detail
of that incredible gown,
not to mention
the fireplace, the furniture, the clock,
the entire tableaux
(which is not to disparage the
utterly convincing performances of the actors -
Jonathan Nichols and Denita Linnertz
are shown above -
being the "Ideal Husband" and his devoted wifey)
I would have been thoroughly content
if Ms. Linnertz
had just planted her tall, stately self,
in that gorgeous gown,
stage center for a 90 minute pose.
Here's the complimentary matrimonial couple,(Bradford Lund and Catherine Ferraro)
in a more subdued,
but still enjoyable attire.
and needless to saythe floral arrangements
are an important part
of this production
which was indeed a fitting tribute
to the aesthetic-crazed playwright.
Why don't I go to this local theater more often ?
It's only about 100 yards from my front door.
I suppose it's because I just don't care for the
hairshirt of modern theater -- and music - and painting etc.
For example, this show seems rather typical:
"Introducing the Ledbetters, your average American dysfunctional family. Weaving together QVC, video game violence, drug addiction, a hopeful trip to New York, and familial relationships, this picture of American “anti-bliss” comes from the pen of acclaimed playwright Adam Rapp (Red Light Winter, Nocturne), Chicago and off-Broadway’s hottest commodity. Circle Theatre will present the Midwest Premiere of this quirky, cutting-edge, modern drama."
No thankyou -- I don't want to meet those damn Ledbetters!
(they live next door -- and they're always stealing our garbage cans)
(Costume design was by Elizabeth Shaffer,
scenic and graphic designer was Bob Knuth
-who also took the above photographs-
and the Scenic artist was Lori Willis)
Looks top-notch for "local" - a term that all too often has me repressing a shudder. I bet the set designer had a lovely time with his or her budget.
ReplyDeleteYes looks excellent. Met two friends of yours in London yesterday.
ReplyDeleteWe at Circle Theatre greatly thank you for your praise of Ideal Husband.
ReplyDeleteTake a look at our mission statement:
"Circle Theatre is an artist-based company whose mission is to produce exciting and innovative theatre accessible to our widely diversified suburban and city audience. Through variety-filled seasons including drama, comedy, musicals, and new works, Circle Theatre challenges, entertains, and educates audiences and artists of all ages."
As a company member, I would like to state my position on what and why we do the plays we do.
We like to take a look at all walks of life. Granted some of those walks are not pretty to look at, but warrant a closer look.
Stone Cold Dead Serious did not have a pretty family picture at the center, but it was given a wonderful production. From the acting to the design, everything was first rate. Most elements of the story were a bit unsettling, but the ending brought everything full circle. We are all in this together, whether is it good or bad. Gives a good message for the times we live in.
Again, I would like to thank you for this word of mouth advertisement. That is the best type of publicity a storefront theatre in the Chicago area can have. We love to see our theatres full, so come back again!
Thankyou, Circle Company Member, for a great show -- and I completely understand that not all of your shows have to please me !
ReplyDelete(as I hope you understand that I may continue to advocate that you get more that do)
I just read the Sun Times Review -- and I'm not surprised it's asserting that nothing currently on the boards in Chicago is of any higher quality.
I'm looking forward to your upcoming musicals.
I am sure you would look great naked, too. But we should think of getting you a nice dress to wear! :)
ReplyDelete"Introducing the Ledbetters, your average American dysfunctional family. Weaving together QVC, video game violence, drug addiction, a hopeful trip to New York, and familial relationships, this picture of American “anti-bliss” comes from the pen of acclaimed playwright Adam Rapp (Red Light Winter, Nocturne), Chicago and off-Broadway’s hottest commodity. Circle Theatre will present the Midwest Premiere of this quirky, cutting-edge, modern drama."
ReplyDeleteYeah, i had to put down On Beauty recently - i just cd not get interested in whatever happens to *those* actors....