Articles
“The Flying Dutchman” – Stark, Stormy, Spellbinding…
By Flo Mano with Wes Hessel Lyric Opera opens the 2023-24 season with Wagner’s most haunting opera, “The Flying Dutchman”. One of his early great works, it is the story of a man looking for love, until he finds one woman who is willing to die for him. In nautical folklore, the Dutchman is condemned […]
Couple Gets “Welcome to Matteson!”
By Flo Mano with Wes Hessel Congo Square Theatre Company is part of a rolling world premiere of a dark comedy, “Welcome to Matteson!”, which the ensemble is presenting at Abbott Hall on Northwestern University’s Chicago Campus. A longtime resident couple, hosts another pair, recently relocated, for a dinner party – what’s really on the […]
Look for Something “Next to Normal” By Anna Hessel
Copley Theatre’s production of the musical “Next to Normal” is a stellar opening to what promises to be another amazing season of thought provoking and edgy theater. This show handles the subject of mental illness and loss beautifully. It’s very intense, but the excellent vocals and music lighten the mood at times, as does the […]
Franklin Park Street Dance
Here are a few photos and video from the Franklin Park Street Dance that was held in July.
Be Their Guest Before the Last Petal Falls…By Anna Hessel with Wes Hessel
Chicago Shakespeare’s production of the classic “Beauty and The Beast” is seventy-five minutes of pure enchantment. The very innovative sets and projections are extremely well done, especially a magical moment when Belle’s dinner is served. “Be Our Guest” features adorable dancing utensils and plates with a rose motif – the great choreography and direction of […]
Franklin Park’s Memorial Day Ceremony a video recap.
Here is a video recap of this years Memorial Day Ceremony held in Franklin Park.
Another video of the Franklin Park Memorial Day Ceremony.
With the Ripl app and the photos that I took with my iphone 11 I created a video for Memorial Day 2023.
Memorial Day Observance in Franklin Park
On Memorial Day I covered the Memorial Day Observance for People and Places Newspaper. I took photos of the event as well as some video clips.
“A Distinct Society” is a Distinct Success
By Anna Hessel Writers Theatre’s stellar production of “A Distinct Society” is extremely dramatic with sharp comedic moments, and has the most charming set. A realistic small library, complete with an adorable childrens’ area, brings the scene to life. Such amazing attention to detail with the props gives the illusion that the audience is in […]
Big River Runs Deep
By Anna Hessel Mercury Theater’s Jeff-recommended production of “Big River” tells the classic tale of Huckleberry Finn and Jim, as well as buddy Tom Sawyer. This musical, with its delightful sets, is a must-see. A wooden “raft” on wheels moves around the stage, allowing the audience to feel they are part of the journey. At […]
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