Something Rotten! Doesn't Stink

Steppenwolf is premiering a Taylor Mac show called Hir this month. As the set rolls forward in the beginning I was set for a rollercoaster of a ride that definitely delivered with ups and downs.

Francis Guinan as Arnold immediately caught my attention wearing a wig, clown makeup and a nightie. At first I thought it was for humor then realized to my horror what the story was about. Amy Morton as Paige his wife has decided to rule over the house after Arnold has had a stroke. Their son Isaac returns home from the marines to discover the new family dynamic and his sister is now Max after transitioning.

The show is not going to be for everyone and can be brutal to watch. If you are looking for a light air conditoned escape from the heat this is not the place to be. It will most likely make audience members think of their own families and realize how lucky we all are to come home to a safe space.

Hir runs through Aug. 20 at Steppenwolf's Downstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St. Tickets are available at 312-335-1650 or steppenwolf.org.

After seeing Hir I needed some fresh air so I headed to Something Rotten! at the Oriental Theatre. This fun production tells the story of the battle of the bards with Shakespeare in one corner and two Bottoms in the other! Nick and Nigel Bottom are determined to write a hit show and use a soothsayer to predict what will be good in the future. Tons of musicals are lampooned in the process. There are so many funny jokes that I need a repeat viewing to try to catch them all. Adam Pascal as Shakespeare was a bit hard to follow at times with the dialogue, but made up for it with showmanship.

The gay humor was not a bit offensive, there's plenty of dancing eye candy, and Blake Hammond who plays on our team stole the show as Nostradamus.

Run to Something Rotten! before it leaves town to entertain more fo the country. It is strongly recommended for Spamalot and musical fans everywhere. "Get thee to a nunnery" and to the Oriental!

Try www.BroadwayInChicago.com or 800-775-2000 to score a ticket today!