**** Recommended **** Much to my surprise, I really enjoyed Marriott’s stripped-down production of “Man of La Mancha”. In Director Nick Bowling’s dystopian vision, Marriott’s square stage has been transformed into a holding cell (dungeon) for the Inquisition, which translates to any oppressive regime in the here and now. The detainees (prisoners) know they’ll never be free again so they victimize newcomers – because they can. 16th century Spain appears only in the play within the play. Marriott’s extraordinary cast does full justice to Dale Wasserman’s book and Mitch Leigh’s awesome Spanish-flavored score. I give “Man of La Mancha” 4 Spotlights.
“Man of La Mancha” runs through August 14th at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Running time is 1 hour, 30 minutes, no intermission. Performances are Wednesdays at 1:00 and 8:00 pm; Thursdays and Fridays at 8:00 pm; Saturdays at 4:30 and 8:00 pm; and Sundays at 1:00 and 5:00 pm. Tickets range from $50-$55. Parking is free. FYI (847) 634-0100, www.marriotttheatre.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
Read the rest of my review at www.spotlightonlake.com.
