This audition video for Goodman Theatre’s Crowns is quite charming. These two young actresses look like they’re completely gobsmacked to be working on this show, and their energy is infectious. Now I’m even more excited to see this Goodman revival.

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Maybe old news to some, but Writers’ Theatre’s A Little Night Music has scored an excellent cast. Most notably, we have Deanna Dunagan, who won a Tony for her portrayal of the caustic matriarch Violet Weston in August: Osage County, as the eccentric Madame Armfeldt. As her daughter Desiree, we get Shannon Cochran, who played Violet’s daughter Barbara in the national tour of Osage County (and she was fierce in the role). So, I’m delighted that they’re teaming up together for this highly anticipated production. Maybe Sondheim can write a new song for them in the act two dinner scene called “Eat the Fish, Bitch!” Or not. Performances begin May 1.

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Faustus, The Musical, written by Michael Mott and Justin Silvestri, will make its Chicago debut, in concert, on Monday, April 16 at Davenport’s Piano Bar. Described as “an entanglement of various musical styles,” this musical explores the great duality of human motivation; self-love and self-sacrifice. Check out the musical’s site for audio clips — it sounds pretty promising.

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Theo Ubique‘s The Light in the Piazza has extended again. This time through June 23. I adored this production, and urge you to check it out. Preview video below: