Join Court Theatre “Out Here”

By Wes Hessel with D’Arcy Mies

“Out Here” is a delightful show, with fourth wall breaks from the very beginning – the audience is acknowledged and part of the show. I always say Court is theater for theatre people; this play is very self-aware, the characters saying things like, “I’m aware it’s a metaphor!”

A great cast, with many Chicago scene favorites – honestly every actor is great, and as someone who has seen many of them in other roles, I was so happy to get to enjoy them in these totally different parts. In particular, Bethany Thomas, who is always a powerhouse, proves it with her vocals. And the two “young people” characters are awesome, too – I’ll be keeping my eyes out for them in the future, especially Z Mowry who plays a charismatic, natural role that will stick with me as “Jet”.

The set is always clever and well done at Court, and this is no exception – the stage looks like a cutaway dollhouse that combines the realistic with the symbolic. This is coupled with contemporary clothing and definite refers to our current times, such as noise cancelling headphones and work from home parents.

The on-set music is very much integrated into every part of the show in a unique and charming way. That said, it’s not necessarily a musical in the sense of “Cats”, “Hamilton”, or “A Chorus Line” – I’d almost call it a contemporary operetta, rather than a Broadway type musical.

I can’t say enough good things about “Out Here” – there is drama, emotional strife, and complications, but at the same time, it brings an overall happy and hopeful message.  No “bad guy” –  instead all the characters are striving to do their best; I very much empathize with Dawn, the lead, in her motherly angst. It is a likeable show with great acting and a fun, bright score – I highly recommend it. “Out Here” runs until May 10th, so please see www.courttheatre.org for tickets or more information.

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