“Ernest Shackleton Loves Me” ( Milwaukee) Reviewed by Amy Menzel

Highly Recommended **** As an English teacher, I can’t help but wonder whether Ernest Shackleton Loves Me is the result of a creative writing prompt. Something like, “What if an early 1900’s explorer somehow connected with a modern-day single-mom through a dating app?” Of course, the prompt would have had to have been given to some of the most creative and fearless artists to result in this extraordinary multimedia production.

My thoughts throughout the show oscillated between wondering how the heck this all came to be and really appreciating that it did. Also appreciating that Skylight was able to bring two Juilliard School graduates to their stage whose talents, energy, and chemistry completely capture the audience. There was a lot of laughter in the house Friday night (my favorite kind, too – unabashed, hearty, and collective) and appropriate awe. One of the most telling moments of the night was when the audience waited a beat before applauding at the end of “Eye of the Storm,” as to not break the emotional spell.

Janice Martin dazzles as Kat, commanding the stage from the start, singing, playing – electric violin, among other instruments – and live looping (yes, like Ed Sheeran during the 2017 Grammy Awards). Kat’s interactions remain between her and the audience and with a couple off-stage characters via electronic means until Ernest Shackleton, played by the impressive Matt Daniels, takes the stage with one of the most…uh, interesting and hilarious entrances I’ve seen.

The couple captivates in their performance. Both characters are clever, witty, and have a keen sense of self-awareness. The production, itself, has this same sense of self-awareness, which is what I think allows the audience to embrace what is, truly, a weird show in the most wonderful ways.

Ernest Shackleton Loves Me is unlike any stage production I’ve ever seen, which is only one of the reasons I loved it and think you will too.

Plus, it’s the latest reason to visit one of my favorite theatres in Milwaukee. Everyone at Skylight, from the folks checking vaccination cards in single-digit temps on North Broadway to the ushers patiently guiding you to your seats, is incredibly friendly and seemingly genuinely glad you’re there. The theatre is welcoming, warm, and beautiful.

Ernest Shackleton Loves Me runs through Sunday, February 6. Tickets start at $28.50. More information can be found at www.skylightmusictheatre.org.

Theatre-goers should review the “Good to Know Before the Show” guide and the health and safety requirements aimed at ensuring the continuation of live performances.

The Skylight Music Theatre box office is located 158 N. Broadway and is open from noon until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Connect via phone at (414) 291-7800, email ​​tickets@skylightmusictheatre.org, or purchase tickets online by visiting www.skylightmusictheatre.org.