“Reasons: A Tribute To Earth,Wind & Fire”

Now that we are “almost” through the covid period and the theaters are starting to come back to life, it is with great pleasure to announce that they are rocking Clark Street like never before. Yes, this is a street where just  a mile south, there is a ball park and many nights where the street rocks. However, at Clark and Addison, there are many nights where the street is pretty quiet. At 4450 N. Clark Street, when there is a performance, Clark Street truly rocks!

The current show, written and directed by  Daryl D. Brooks, “Reasons: A Tribute to Earth , Wind & Fire” is the story behind Maurice White ( played by Christian Denzel Bufford as a mature man and by RJ Griffith in his youth) and how he got to be who he was. We see his start, his move to Chicago from the south, his rise to the top and his dealing with his illness. We also get to meet his baby brother  Verdine White ( Rashun Carter )and one of the highlights of this story,  Gregory Stewart ,Jr (getting standing ovations for his unbelievable vocal ability ) as Philip Bailey.

What is wonderful about Black Ensemble is the mix of old and new. Yes, they have a stable of actors who have been bringing these stories to life for decades, but they continue to find new blood and those they find are terrific. Rhonda Preston, Keya Trammell, Gregory Stewart Jr., Dwight Neal, Trequon Tate, Tommy Thurston, Miciah Lathan, Yajaira and even Robert Reddrick ( Musical director and drummer) plays a role. The orchestra , as always ,brings the classic music to us with just the right volume so that we never miss the words.

This is one of the longer stories, taking close to three hours including a 20 minute intermission. Tonight was the last night of previews so the start was a little off ( 14 minutes after 8 ) so perhaps the actual run time will be 2 hours and 30 minutes.

While I enjoyed the music, I felt that perhaps the story could have been less talk between musical numbers. Watching the audience, who loved the show and came to life every time they started to sing or dance, they seemed to want more hand-clapping music and a little less talk. I understand that the depth of the story is important for a tribute, but there are times one has to work the mix for the audience. I was happy to see that another theater’s choreographer worked with this show. Christopher Chase Carter, the Artistic Director at nearby Mercury Theater Chicago did a solid job here. It is wonderful to see our theater community work together. They are not competition, and should do this on a regular basis. Bravo to both companies!

The majority of songs are snippets ( there are 26 songs), but the ones that they do are all well done. When you hear “Summertime” in the second act, you will know that you have heard a song that helps finish the saga of this genius and those that were part of his life. If you are a lover of the music created by Earth, Wind & Fire, you will be in heaven. If you are not, you will learn a great deal about a musical genius and those with whom he surrounded himself . All in all, a wonderful theatrical experience. No frills! Just great music brought to you by wonderful performers who truly love bringing the magic to you!