War Paints a Pretty Picture

Many young people may not know who any of the women involved in the Goodman Theatre's production of War Paint. Helena Rubinstein played by Patti Lupone and Elizabeth Arden played by Christine Ebersole are four women that have earned their places in history. Go, learn about them, while seeing the two Tony Award winners personify these legends of cosmetics. This is a show not to be missed.

Most of the time the duo are evenly matched and the storyline is planned that way. Patti plays Helena very stoicly with a strong accent so has some difficulty making her sympethic until times get hard for the character.

Christine as Elizabeth has the perfect speedy delivery for the time period and seems like she could play this character with one arm tied behind her back.

Douglas Sills plays Harry Fleming the gay wingman to both ladies without being a stereotype. The time period was a difficult one for women and gay people. Thankfully times have changed a bit.

The secondary characters and small parts are all strong even though at times they don't have a lot to do. It is not the size of the role and they much like the audience are most likely honored to be in the same room and watch these two legendary performers work.

There are two sides to every story and War Paint keeps things evenly matched. In this War everyone wins!

War Paints battles it out at the Albert Theatre, 170 N Dearborn now until August 21. Ticket information can be found at www.goodmantheatre.org.