Movie Music Mayhem

Musicals based on movies are invading Chicago these days. There were four that came to town in a week.

While the concept brings in a built in audience from a popular movie, many may prefer an original musical. There were some mixed results with the recent productions.

It began with a scaled down version by Pride Films and Plays' Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Honey West and the cast did a great job bringing the musical to life in a small space. It looked expensive with a limite budget and besides some minor set and costume glitches, this was a show that still has an impact. The music worked carrying the plot forward with retro songs.

Priscilla is extended to March 12 by popular demand.

Next came Saturday Night Fever out at Drury Lane. Alex Newell from Glee was added at the last minute with some jaw dropping results. Newell brings vocals and a feminine look that is mesmerizing.

The musical tries to cram too much material in the show though. Original songs are not really needed when most of us just want the mood inducing soundtrack. The best moments are when people are having fun. There was a lot of tragedy in the movie that is awkward when portrated onstage.

This one disco dances from now until March 19.

High Fidelity: The Musical spins into a pop up record shop on Ashland called Refuge Records. The music is a lot of fun and works well with the storyline. The store reminded me of working at 2nd Hand Tunes many years ago. There are some very nice in your face performances.

The space is small and the door to enter is awkward. Seated audience members are very close to the front door. This also causes the ushers to lock the door so no late seating. The bar stools are not comfortable to sit in and the band is super talented but blast out the intimate space. Normally the cast would not use microphones being so up close and personal but are forced to with the backing band.

High Fidelity puts the needle on the record until March 5

The Bodyguard sings Whitney Houston songs for a short run until Feb. 12 at the Oriental Theatre. Deborah Cox was made for the role and her sister in the play Jasmin Richardson almost steals the show.

Audiences and critics have given some mixed reviews but if you are yearning to revisit some of Houston's hits then this is the show for you.

This trend will keep continuing just beware of misfires like Ghost or the First Wives Club. Remember Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark? Luckily there are no plans for Avengers the Musical yet!