Working!

A new musical has opened in Chicago in the New Broadway Playhouse which is just three blocks from the hotel. Locals and previous visitors will know the Playhouse as the former Drury Lane Theater located in the Watertower Place. With plenty of eating options around the theater, it would make a nice outing for someone looking for something a little different.

Working is a musical based of the writings of Chicago’s own Studs Terkel. It is based on interviews he held with everyday working people from a flight attendant to a construction manager. Although most of the interviews were done several years ago, the production has been updated for a more current feel. Almost everyone will be able to connect with one of the many characters portrayed throughout the one act show.

The talent is some of the best Chicago has to offer with three men and three women playing all the parts. The production is such that all of the crew members “working” are involved and shown throughout the scene and costume changes.

This show may not be for everyone and the language depicts several of the working class members. The music is a mixture of well-known song writers from “Wicked”s own Stephen Schwartz to James Taylor. The theater is one of my favorites because it is a little smaller and there is not really a bad seat in the house.

Enjoy!

Jeff