Light Opera Works

This review is strictly regarding the home of Light Opera Works in Wilmette, which is also their rehearsal space available for rent.
Until recently I had no idea this company had their home base in Wilmette. They don’t perform at this location, and it was recently brought to my attention that they have an amazing space where special events have been held and Zumba classes take place on the weekends. In the process of planning an event for December, I had the pleasure of stopping by their facility (also a former Duxler Auto garage). Wide open space approx 36′ x 48′, it’s a giant open warehouse with cool rafters and high ceilings. The garage doors still exist and still open – perfect for a summers eve party!
If you are looking for a unique space to rent, they have parking out front in a private lot, the space is one block from the train, and they have a kitchenette and plenty of bathrooms. Kyle is your guy to talk with for all your needs.
Oh, and if you’re curious about what the space looks like, you might just get invited to my event in December where you can come see for yourself!

For the past 8 years we have been attending performances by Light Opera Works, at Kahn Auditorium in Evanston, IL. The quality of the productions remains quite good. In fact, they are among the best local productions of Broadway musicals you can find. They always have a full orchestra (Broadway rarely boasts a 23 piece orchestra these days) and the cast is always many and talented. This year on New Year’s Eve we saw Hello Dolly and it did not disappoint. Don’t go expecting the movie version of these productions or even the lavish Broadway sets. This is a local production and with only a few performances of each show, you cannot expect to see a multi-​million dollar set. With that said, we continue to return for the excellent local talent and the thrill that a live production provides. They do many light opera and Broadway classics. Check out their website and take in a production the next time you are looking for a fun evening of musical theater.

I have to say I’m a fan of the musical, especially when there are clever funny bits. From My Fair Lady to Mary Poppins to Wicked, I just adore a good laugh and a sing-​a-​long. The Pirates of Penzance is no exception.
Several years ago, my friend Tara introduced me to the movie version starring Kevin Kline (whom I adore) and we giggled thru most of it. So, when I found out about it being staged locally, I immediately knew what I was getting her for Christmas; tickets to the show.
Having been to several large musical productions over the years, I wasn’t sure how impressive of a show a smaller theater could produce. I admit here, I’m an idiot. It was AMAZING. Literally, jaw-​dropping amazing. As in, I was a mouth-​breather for the first several minutes. I’m not saying it was attractive to witness, but then, everyone should have been paying attention to the stage and not to me anyway.
The caliber of the performers was impressive. Alright, some of the group-​singing with the females was a little shrill, but then, there was a dozen of them and the notes were on the high side. The men were undeniably wonderful as was the female lead. The pirates managed just the right amount of goofy to make it magical. There was an orchestra as well, which one would fear would overwhelm the actors, but they did a great job of keeping just the right level to compliment instead of kill.
I’m stopping at four stars as I’ve only been privy to one production, and that a proper review does not make. They seem to have several more interesting shows coming up. I may just have get all dolled up and see another production.

Every year, Light Opera Works puts on 4 musicals. Last year, I attended my first performance, which was The Music Man. This afternoon, I saw My Fair Lady. Most of their productions are held at the Cahn Auditorium at 600 Sheridan Rd. in Evanston, but occasionally they use a second stage location.
Both musicals I have seen have been done with such professionalism and creativity that I can’t imagine any venue in downtown Chicago doing a better job. It is so much fun to see these classics done with a full live orchestra. The vocalists have been top notch, the staging and lighting made the over all experience so enjoyable and memorable.
The Cahn Auditorium is a nice old venue. The seats are roomy and cushioned. So nice for us people of substance to not have to eat our knees to see some good theater. Five stars for the big bottom chairs!!!
One hint… if you have to use the restrooms during intermission, make a Usain Bolt-​like dash to the basement. If you go to a matinée you will be joined by hundreds and hundreds of seniors with full bladders and lots of determination. After my experience last year, I nearly pole-​vaulted over the seats to get out fast and I still ended up in line!!! But somehow it all seems to work out.
I took my mom as part of her 80^th birthday gift and I can tell you, we will both be humming those beautiful songs for weeks to come. Today was the last performance of My Fair Lady, but in December they will have a weeks run of The Pirates of Penzance. Check it out!!!