Interludes

THE HANGOVER REPORT – The Goodman’s visually arresting WONDERFUL TOWN is tremendous fun

• By drediman
• October 12, 2016
• No Comments

The cast of “Wonderful Town” at the Goodman Theatre

Leave it to Mary Zimmerman to come up with a visual equivalent to Leonard Bernstein’s infectious and irresistibly fast-and-loose score. Her production of the classic musical Wonderful Town is a visual knockout and very, very funny. At every turn of the musical’s admittedly loosely-structured plot (the book is by Joseph A. Fields and Jerome Chodorov) about two sisters’ travails as New York City newcomers, Ms. Zimmerman has some sort of visual gag or trick up her sleeve (the eye-popping set and costume designs are by Todd Rosenthal and Ana Kuzmanic, respectively) – whether it’s a human-size cockroach, slowly moving clouds, an airplane, a speeding commuter train, zooming taxis, meta-theatrical scene changes, a scene-dominating cruiser, or what have you. It’s all a joy to behold.

The performances are mostly very good. As Ruth, Bri Sudia is exceptionally good, effortlessly playing the role with warmth, toughness, and vulnerability – often all at the same time. You can’t help but cheer her on yet chuckle at her misfortunes. Less successful is Lauren Molina’s Eileen; Ms. Molina, despite some hilarious bits, seems to be straining at points (including vocally). As Robert, Karl Hamilton is giving an effectively straightforward performance that rings true. The rest of the cast is inspired, totally in tune with Ms. Zimmerman’s vibrant vision for the musical. Lastly, Doug Peck’s musical direction is excellent; I don’t think I’ve heard Bernstein’s irrepressible score played so lusciously and full-sounding (here played by a luxurious 17-piece orchestra).

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

WONDERFUL TOWN
Regional, Musical
Goodman Theatre (Chicago, IL)
2 hours, 30 minutes (with one intermission)
Through October 23