Written by Emma Rubenstein
The Marriott Theatre is no stranger to delivering impressive productions of beloved musicals; they have produced high-quality, theater-in-the-round versions of audience favorites for years. Rarely, though, do they have the chance to debut something completely new.
This summer, the suburban theater is home to the world premiere of the brand-new musical, Always Something There, written by Chicago-raised playwright Sandy Rustin (The Cottage, Clue, Mystic Pizza). The delightfully campy, packed-with-heart 1980s jukebox show is an absolute treat, offering something special for audiences of all ages.
The story opens on the eve of the exhausted and unhappy Samantha Craig’s 45th birthday. When she makes a wish to go back in time for a “do-over,” she wakes up in her childhood bedroom as a high schooler once more, with a chance to relive her senior year and change the very course of her life. Eighteen-year-old Samantha is guided by her older self as she reconnects with old friends, makes bold choices, and learns to listen to a voice inside herself that was once lost.
Directed by James Vásquez and arranged and orchestrated by Geoffrey Ko, the show is fabulous in both story and spectacle. Its buzzy and innovative set and expert choreography make it as much a treat to look at as it is to listen to. The production is two hours of pure joy—it is visually entertaining, chock-full of lovable characters, and driven by a narrative that is as meaningful as it is fun.
At the helm of the cast are adult Samantha Craig (Heidi Kettenring) and teen Samantha Craig (Christina Priestner), who both lead the ensemble with soaring vocals and an emotional richness that grounds the playful show. Kettenring is a veteran of the Chicago stages and a Marriott favorite. She has starred in numerous Marriott productions, as well as in Wicked (Broadway in Chicago), and in shows at the Goodman, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and more. Her experience grounds the young but exceptionally talented cast. On the other hand, while Priestner is among the greenest of the cast (this is her professional theater debut), she is the standout here. Her earnest and vibrant take on the protagonist propels the show and is a joy to witness.
While “the Samanthas” drive the show, the rest of the cast is a true delight. Among the standouts are Matthew Hommel, who plays the lovable 80s-nerd trope Winston Lee, and Genevieve Corkey, who plays the stoic but hilariously insightful Debbie Waller. There are no small characters here – the cast is exceptionally talented and cohesive.
While the ballads of the 80s do not always lend themselves perfectly to the musical format, the cast and creatives here do an exceptional job of blending the hit tunes into the fun narrative that Sandy Rustin has created, resulting in a show that is meaningful to older and younger generations alike.
The Marriott Theatre not only boasts great shows but is also extremely convenient in its location and amenities, making this a theater experience that is ideal for out-of-town guests, corporate groups, social outings, and more. Nestled in the heart of the 64,000-acre Marriott Lincolnshire Resort, the theater has plentiful parking, is ADA accessible, and offers spacious, comfortable seats in an easy-to-navigate space. The adjoining resort also offers dining, spa services, a pool, golfing, varied and plentiful meeting spaces, and on-site lodging for those visiting for a longer stay.
For those looking for a more immersive theater outing to transport audiences to the 80s before the show, the Marriott Lincolnshire is currently offering a pop-up dining experience, Back to the Grill: A Totally Tubular 80s Dining Experience, at their on-site bistro, Three Embers Restaurant. Here, they have transformed the eatery into a neon, John-Hughes-movie-postered diner, featuring a delicious and versatile prix fixe, three-course menu of some classic dishes with a fresh twist.
This summer, Always Something There provides a versatile theater outing for groups interested in a convenient trip to a fabulous production or for those looking to book a longer stay and experience.
An ASL-interpreted performance will be available on Thursday, August 7, and Marriott Theatre provides a Hearing Loop for patrons with hearing loss as well.
For information on group tickets and special lunch packages, contact the Group Sales team at 847.634.0200 or via the contact form.
Always Something There will run from June 18 to August 10. The show is approximately two hours, including one 15-minute intermission.
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