Chicago Shakespeare “Measures” Up By Wes & Anna Hessel

Chicago Shakespeare “Measures” Up

By Wes & Anna Hessel

 

Another stellar production, as we have come to expect from Chicago Shakespeare. A classic with a twist, “Measure for Measure” is set in Cuba in the 50’s. The costumes are fabulous, the lighting extraordinary, and the sets realistic, with incredible use of subdued backdrops of projection. Don’t miss the setup of the pre-show, set in a Havana nightclub where the music throbs and so do the hearts in the glitter, glamour, and grit. The Rio-like beautiful, sensual, over the top ensembles of the show girls illustrate the sybaritic vibe.

 

Cruz Gonzalez-Cadel delivers an emotionally riveting performance, flawlessly portraying the nun Isabel. Her brother Claudio, a nice turn by Andrés Enriquez, intensified with a passionate verisimilitude, is caught by police on a morals sweep, and must then deal with the consequences, as Mr. Enriquez well builds. Chicago favorite, the talented and versatile Elizabeth Ledo, can play any roll and make it her own, here the clown Pompey. Comedy or drama, she is a fine actor, one of the best. We love the irony of a female playing a man in a Shakespearean work.

 

Gregory Linington brings impeccable comic timing – his Lucio well demonstrates the juggling act of a man who is a friend to some, less to others, but no doubt looking out for himself. Adam Poss’ Angelo is a sultry and foreboding performance, just sinister enough for believability, as the man left in charge by the absent Duke, who executes his authority with moralistic zeal.  That Duke, played admirably by Chicago Shakespeare stalwart Kevin Gudahl, is the somewhat stern but feeling father figure who thought he had left the principality in good hands, but comes to regret Angelo’s menacing minding of the store.

 

Mariana, done nicely by the very capable Alejandra Escalante, is the lovely and realistic jilted fiancé of Angelo, who exacts a price for his disloyalty and dishonor.  Lanise Antoine Shelley quite credibly, with excellent stage presence, makes the Duke’s right hand woman Escalus strong in her own definition, putting pressure where she knows she can. Ana Santos presents the fall of Mistress Overdone, owner of the nightclub, with allure, dignity, and backbone.

 

Robert Schleifer as the Provost adds the exceptional dimension of a hearing-impaired character – so much is said by the emotion of his signing work, as well as the informative translation by Kidany Camilo’s interesting Espuma, who apparently has become a prison trusty in their ability to “speak” for the officer. Felicia Odoh’s characterization of Julietta’s pregnancy and charm is true to life. The rest of the outstanding supporting cast of Debo Balogun (Barnadine), Kierra Bunch (Francesca), Joe Foust (Elbow), and Sándor Menéndez (Abhorson) add notable work to this magnificent production.

 

Henry Godinez’s skillful direction harnesses this pool of talent into a play which speaks volumes through the ages, even now.  “Measure” your time to make some available and go see this intriguing work; for tickets or more information, visit their website at www.chicagoshakes.com.

 

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