Reviews: Kokandy's 'Sweeney Todd' / MPAACT's 'Red Summer' — Chi-MT.com | Chicagoland Musical Theatre
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Kevin Webb and Caitlin Jackson’s respective turns are as thrilling as 'Sweeney Todd' can get and then some. Also, 'Red Summer' is more than a little pale.
Kokandy Productions chose Kevin Webb and Caitlin Jackson as leads in the Halloween-themed Sweeney Todd. The duo delivers thrilling performances in Derek Van Barham's dark twist on the classic musical. The show features a zombified chorus and a creepy set design by G. “Max” Maxin IV. Jackson's Mrs. Lovett is wickedly seductive, while Webb's Sweeney is intense and terrifying. The production, accompanied by Nick Sula’s music direction, successfully blends humor and horror. In contrast, Ma’at Production Association's Red Summer deals with the Chicago race riots of 1919 but falls short in execution. The musical play struggles with pacing, music quality, and sound mixing issues. Despite noble intentions, the show feels incomplete and needs work. Red Summer runs until September 25th at the Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University, offering a workshop-like experience for attendees.