The Radio City Christmas Spectacular”

[rating=4]For many years, Chicago audiences have thrilled to the annual Radio City Christmas Spectacular, a fun filled entertainment review with holiday music and merriment and a bit of religion in the telling of “The Nativity”- live, and of most importance , the famed Rockettes, the most delightful precision dance troupe ever! For years, it was only New York audiences that were treated to this spectacular experience during this festive season, and then it came to Chicago ( and other road stops as well). The show was pretty hokey, but delighted audiences who adored the spirit of the show and of course watching these talented ladies do their thing. During the early years, they had a wonderful ice skating scene and the major music of the holidays;”Twelve Days Of Christmas”, the incredible “Nutcracker” that wonderful story of childhood dreams as it comes alive, and of course, the famous “Parade of The Wooden Soldiers” ( a scene that is amazing from top to bottom and truly expresses the magic of the season. During this time period, the second act was a change from the fun and festivities of the holiday, as it featured the “live Nativity”, which had all the history of the bible story including live animals gathered at the scene.

The show took off  several years ( last here in 2008) and now is back at the newly named Akoo Theatre at Rosemont ( formerly known as The Rosemont Theatre) with a new show. And I truly mean NEW!. While we still have Santa and the soldiers and of course the toys that make up the “Nutcracker”, we have a great deal of new and bright material including a Santa flying his magic with two young boy, one a believer, the other not and their visit to the North Pole changes the older brother  a sit might some cranky audience members. In fact, I don’t care what is going on in your life, the spirit and the energy of this all new production will bring a smile to your face and a special warmth to your heart. The hokiness has been lessened greatly and the “Live” Nativity, with out animals  has been cut down to one beautiful scene that brings the glorious costumes and glitz to the story and yet does so in a short enough time to not offend anyone who wants the festivity without the preaching and religion. They have redesigned this show to make it inviting and joyful for all, not matter your ethnicity.      

They have altered the New York at Christmas scene from the ice skating/gift buying to a double decker tour bus touring Times Square. This is done with some amazing technical work- a bus that moves around the stage with powerful videos projected on a screen behind them. WOW! Another portion of the show that will amaze and delight you. While many theater-goers complain about the high tech that has invaded live theater over the years, this is one scene that allows us to see the power and the magic of today’s technology. A joy to watch and a memory for your family that will last for at least a few years, when you will want to revisit this amazing entertainment experience.

Chicago audiences need to thank MSG Entertainment and local sponsor Chase Bank for bringing this show back to our area. The show is two hours of fun and frolic with a solid group of performers. Brent Bateman is delightful Santa Claus and of course The Rockettes are wonderful to watch, as always. The set is glitzy, the costumes absolutely amazing and stunning. The new technology  is also amazing and the music ( which I believe is done by computer) is right on target with encores and more encores. So much so, that you might think there is an orchestra in the pit , but I do not think that was the case. The Rockettes first performed their Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall in 1932 ( let’s see, that is 80 years ago) thrilling their audience. Here we are in 2012 an dthey are still bringing smiles to your face and a warm feeling in your heart.

The production will continue at The Akoo Theatre through  December 30th. For actual performance times and dates, visit  www.akootheatre.com  or www.ticketmaster.com

Tickets range from $30-$75.50 with some “premium seats” at $79-$89                                                                                   

You can place your order by calling 800-745-3000 , at the box office or at www.ticketmaster.com

The Akoo Theatre is located  Rosemont at 5400 N. River Road. There is plenty of parking ( both valet and other) and if you are interested lots of dining spots for all pocketbooks.

This is not just a show, it is an experience that will make you feel “warm and fuzzy” through the rest of the year. ENJOY! this opportunity!

To see what others feel, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to review round-up and click at Radio City