Hymn, a Moving Duet at Chicago Shakes

Lolita Chakrabati’s thoughtful and tragic Chicago reimagining of Hymn now on (short) view at Chicago Shakespeare is a moving two-hander that frames friendship and family with mortality. It is a not to be missed show.  I am fascinated that a Brit can allude to so much Chicago and make the show feel so inherently local!

Set on the South Side and rife with retro musical nostalgia which is funny and charming, two half brothers discover their bond after their shared father– a complex man with a surprising legacy– has passed. Rarely will you get such a vulnerable and deep look at male relationships. Benny ( the wide ranging Chiké Johnson) only gets to know who his father was too late to meet him.  He must settle for getting to know his half siblings who, after a DNA test, embrace him.  He becomes close to Gil (played still water running deep by CST regular James Vincent Meredith).  We get to know the lives and loves and passions of both men before losing one to suicide and it is utterly wrenching. There is more than a passing nod to alcoholism, infidelity and sobriety. 

Director Ron OJ Parson is a master of bringing out essential humanity while telling a story and here he is in his element. Special shout out to costume designer Yvonne Miranda and wherever she found the vintage outfits that absolutely summarize a musical genre and era. 

For those of us no longer young, this show is a meditation on lives lived and loves lost and the complex tapestry of family and inheritance.  It is a 100 minute journey into how we get to know one another and show up in each other’s lives. It is a play that will stick with you.

Get tickets soon: Hymn is playing Tuesdays through Sundays until May 24th at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre on Navy Pier. For tickets and information go to https://www.chicagoshakes.com/productions/2425-hymn/

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