It’s unlike any theatrical experience. Attending The Choir of Man is like going to the neighborhood pub (in Ireland or England, for sure) complete with beer, snacks, music and a really great time! Joining in the conversation are 5 of the 9 cast members all of whom can sing, dance and play a myriad of instruments: Chicago’s own RJ Griffiths (playing “Hardman”), Shane McDaid (playing “Poet”), Benji Lord (playing Joker), George Knapper (playing Handyman) and Paul Deegan (swing for Poet, Maestro, Hardman and others).

The show is scheduled to play through May 26th……and see my review of the show just below.

TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED AT: WWW.CHOIROFMANCHICAGO.COM

The Choir of Man – REVIEW: Paul Lisnek, WGNRadio.com

It’s like Hanging with your friends at the neighborhood Pub. Indeed, “The Choir of Men”, now enjoying what is sure to be a welcomed and lengthy run at the newly opened Apollo Theater is an evening of pure fun, music, beer (brought to many by the cast members themselves) and yes, newly found friends. It’s not easy to create an atmosphere which makes you feel like you are at the neighborhood tavern down the street, but after a few minutes of great fun with friends on stage and around you in the audience, you would indeed think you are just out for a great time right down the street. 

Cast members will catch your eye, may bring you up to join them for a dance or bring you a drink…or perhaps all three of these things! Truthfully, with a cast primarily from the London area (tho there is a wonderful nod to our home with Chicago’s Very Own RJ Griffith and Wisconsin’s Kevin James Sievert), the feeling of the environment is sure to feel like a visit to Ireland, maybe Scotland…maybe London, but in any case, we’re actually right at home….and that’s because while the characters have nicknames (From Joker and Swing to Poet and Beast) they are essentially playing themselves. Their stories told to us by the narrator, Shane McDaid, are indeed their personal stories. So we feel connected…it feels authentic…and it all feels like home.

You will recognize much of the music, from Paul Simon’s 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover to Adele’s Hello, but the non-stop music is upbeat and you are welcome to sing along! All of the high energy and positivity aside, the show recognizes that we’ve all just lived thru a difficult time worldwide and they are happy to be back, and back they are!  I dare you to feel more appreciative and grateful for life today than when the boys wrap it up with the prayerful “the Parting Glass.”

Choir of Man is a trip to the pub, an evening with friends….it’s just like being home….and is not to be missed! Cheers!

****/4

Paul Lisnek, “Behind the Curtain,” WGNRadio.com