The hill was alive with the sound of music in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion Aug. 18, when 15 Broadway in Chicago shows were featured in a free summer concert.
Million Dollar Quartet has rightfully earned its success at the Apollo Theater over the years and kicked off the night with a rollicking good time and a medley of classic hits.
First-timers The Illusionists appeared onstage soon after cutting a man in half then stapling him back together over gasps from spectators. Based on the fright flickm Evil Dead the Musical could have taken that cue and severed some heads afterwards but, sadly, there was no blood and gutsonly a campy song. Hopefully, some locally talented zombies will bring the show back to life during its run in September.
Prince Pippin made up for it and looked promising with a lively dance number that might make one run out and join the circus.
Unfortunately, an electric guitar player in the orchestra upstaged the "Amazing Grace" solo by making faces in the background that was projected on a large video screen to laughter; then, Sandy the dog upstaged Annie's "Tomorrow," although the little girl quickly drew back in the crowd. The world premiere of Grace gets another chance to teach the gospel in October; read Windy City Times for an upcoming interview with Tony nominee Josh Young from the show.
Dee Snider brought rocking renditions of Christmas tunes and captivated fans with sheer force of personality and stage presence that pleased '80s headbangers.
Young girls in the front rows squealed for Hansel of Hansel & Gretel and a fresh-faced Newsie taking pictures at their every turn.
Costumes were missing for Disney's Beauty and the Beast. We know it's a tale as old as time but the kids want visuals these days.
Cinderella gave them sparkles then Jersey Boys continued a retro reign that old time fans could not take their eyes off of.
Chicago is treated to another pre-Broadway engagement with the First Wives Club based on the popular movie and since it's not yet cast it was a pleasant surprise to see past Windy City Gay Idol judge Meghan Murphy belting out "I'll Be There." Bette Midler, eat your heart out.
The final big announcement was a twelve week run of Beautiful-The Carole King Musical finding a home at the Oriental Theatre from December to February. This will be the a rare opportunity for locals who have not had the chance to journey to New York to see the life story about the chart topping legend.
Millennium Park was full of musical magic that evening along with a strong seasonal lineup that had people rising to their feet full of applause by end of the program.
For tickets visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com .
Photos and text by Jerry Nunn