Side by Side by Side

By Cate Rees-Hessel

Oil Lamp Theater is Glenview’s gem – this charming, intimate venue brings the best in theatrical productions. They are a community-oriented, thought-provoking, and principled institution. “Side by Side by Sondheim” is an ambitious undertaking for a small house, but Oil Lamp pulls it off with aplomb. Classic piano, pleasant vocals, fun costumes, and the genius of Steven Sondheim make for a fabulous and entertaining musical review.

This show has something for everyone, including some romantic ballads. Music from “Company”, “West Side Story”, “Follies”, and other productions are featured. Classics like “Let me Entertain You”, “Send in the Clowns”, “I’m Still Here”, “Together (Wherever We Go)”, and a bevy of other beautiful songs bring the house down. The cast of two gentlemen and two ladies, Tommy Wells, Jacob Alexander, Abbey Loria, and Alondra Rios, are very talented, full of stage presence and personality. As a woman with partial Latinx roots, I really enjoyed hearing Ms. Rios’ related stories of her Latina household.

I especially love the set – its pub-like atmosphere has an eclectic collection of everything from books and a glitzy shoe to a skull grace the back of the stage. An interesting assortment of pictures line the walls, including a fun vintage radio poster depicting Fibber McGee and Molly. A beautiful pink chaise, suitcases, and bar stools are put to innovative use throughout the performance. Cell phone use by two cast members in a number is a cute anachronism.

“Side by Side by Sondheim” is a wonderful night of pure entertainment and heartfelt emotion with plenty of “Comedy Tonight” and a cabaret feel. This is a must-see collection of musical theater history. But the show only goes on until September 14th, so please hurry to www.oillamptheater.org for tickets or more information.

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