“Royko” Rocks at Chopin
By Cate-Rees Hessel
“Royko: the Toughest Man in Chicago”, now playing in a return engagement at the eclectically charming Chopin Theatre, is absolutely magnificent. It is executive produced by Chicagoland native Lecy Goranson, who audiences will remember from Roseanne and The Connors as Becky, and is under the expert direction of Steve Scott. The legend of vertical prose speaks again.
As a newspaper columnist myself, I can certainly identify with him – my satirical words have on occasion perhaps irked a few folks. Although I am from Pittsburgh, I was still aware of Royko’s legendary reputation of excellence, boldness, and honesty. A fearless man of strong journalist integrity, opinion, and style, the Pulitzer winner is remembered with fondness. Once I moved to Chicago, my husband introduced me to Mike’s no holds barred writing style, and like most of our city, I was hooked. We might not have agreed about ketchup on hot dogs, but I have the utmost respect for Mr. Royko. This production brings him back to life with accuracy and artistic genius.
Mitchell Bisschop, the playwright and actor in this one-person show, is outstanding – his performance is nothing short of brilliant. I am sure Mike Royko is smiling down from heaven. This well-written theatrical work shows us not just the legend, but the man, who certainly was not all tough – he had his tender moments. The loving husband and father, friend, and dyed-in-the-wool Cubs fan that left this world too soon, Royko was Chicago in so many ways. The play touches on Mike’s relationships with John Belushi, Frank Sinatra, and local politicians, especially “the machine”, with humor and believability. The columnist/author actually auctioned off a most interesting letter he received from Ol’ Blue Eyes, with proceeds donated to the Salvation Army, demonstrating his caring nature underneath the gruff exterior.
Exceptionally funny moments occur with phone calls to Royko’s desk from irate readers that dare to disagree with the beloved voice of Chicago. I really like the set – the columnist’s desk and the bar at the Billy Goat tavern are nicely crafted in Eric Luchen’s design. Projections created by Smooch Medina are extremely well done, especially the mini-blinds with the slightly open slats, perhaps symbolic of a journalist’s glimpse of the world that surrounds them. Garrett Bell’s lighting is also well done, allowing a quick costume addition and set change to go seamlessly unnoticed. The first act ends with a beautiful image of Royko’s first wife, who passed away in 1979.
Photos and maps of Chicago’s iconic moments and places, such as Old Warsaw Restaurant, Wrigley Field back in the day, the unveiling of the famous Picasso sculpture, and Royko’s Rib Fest, to name a few, are used nicely within the writer’ tales. A story actually accompanies a picture of baseball great Jackie Robinson – Mike was paid ten dollars for a foul ball hit by the first African-American big leaguer that landed between the teen Royko and his buddy during Robinson’s debut visiting at the friendly confines. He walked out of the stadium, not knowing how to spend the most money he ever had in his pocket. Of course, memories of his fictional “friend” Slats Grobnick are extremely hilarious – Mr. Bisschop has tremendous comic timing.
This wonderful production is so full of amazing Chicago history, including Royko’s rise to fame, much humor and drama – there is something for everyone. Chopin has a friendly and professional staff, excellent acoustics, and a comfortable lobby, a delightful theater going experience. “Royko” turns in his last column December 22nd – grab your tickets for this second edition at www.chopintheatre.com.
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