Thu. May 1, 2008
By Michael J. Roberts
Make no mistake; this one man show is not a cabaret act. This is a book musical if there ever was one and director Mark Waldrop has masterfully kept the production tight and fluid, which is a difficult undertaking in any one person show. From the opening "Tchaikovsky" song to the closing number ‘Next' by Stephen Sondheim (Pacific Overtures), the show is a triumphant showcase of Mr. Nadler's talents which includes being a phenomenal pianist, vocalist and dancer. What might not be obvious at first is that you are also watching a great actor who can one second have you belly laughing and in the next wiping a tear from your eye.
Ultimately, Russian On The Side is the realization of how we all need to be mentored in our lives and how our mentors shape who we become. Producers Michael Alden and Karen Lotman are to be commended for trusting in this rare and magical type of theatre which marries man and show. With Russian On The Side, Chicago audiences are in for a wonderful history lesson taught by the most preeminent showman of our time.
Russian On The Side plays through June 15, 2008 at the Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted, Chicago, Illinois. For tickets an show times please visit www.RussianOnTheSideOnline.com or the Royal George Theatre Box Office (312) 988-9000.
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