***** Let me begin with some theater history. Most of you are quite familiar with the name Drury Lane, but usually with Oakbrook to follow.  Back in my youth, the “greater Chicago” area had a Drury Lane in Evergreen Park ( 95th and Western) just on the fringe of Chicago. This theater was a dinner theater with relatively well known stars doing plays ( not musicals). Later, the same organization opened a theater in Lincolnshire ( now known as Marriott Lincolnshire Theatre) and repeated what they did, but in-the-round. That became musical theater when Marriott took over. I am telling you this to lay the groundwork for the fact, that Drury Lane Oakbrook does one non-musical each season. I truly believe that it is in honor of their founder Tony Desantis.

This season’s non-musical is “The Da Vinci Code” based on the novel by Dan Brown adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel. The novel was written in2003 and is a mystery thriller that was turned into a film that starred Tom Hanks. The story is a thriller with many angles and surprises and while it might be hard to believe that a live version of what was on film can work, I must say that this production sharply directed by Elizabeth Margolius, truly  did the job. Her direction, in many cases almost seemed choreographed, and with the aid of the turntable stage and a strong ensemble this two and a half hours of action, suspense, mystery and  effects hold an audience in awe. I know that we were spellbound as were all of the people sitting around us.

We are plunged into a world of dangers with our hero Dr. Robert Langdon ( well played by Jeff Parker) and Sophie Neveu ( a powerful interpretation by Vaneh Assadourian) a cryptologist as they take clues left behind by her grandfather to lead them to  secrets of the past, religious truths and the Holy Grail. there are secrets everywhere and as it turns out, every move they make towards finding answers is thwarted by others who are also seeking the hidden answers/treasure.

I want to be very careful in telling you about the other characters in the scenario, as there are surprises that are best left as they are created. I can tell you that you will see some very old “truths” overturned, and you will learn about some age-old conspiracies that emerge from places you would least expect. If you are one for understanding religious beliefs, you may hear things that go against your grain, but if you think about some of these stories, you might find that the clues indicate they could in reality be factual.

What makes this production truly shine is the ensemble of players. In addition to the powerful Parker and Assadourian, you will see the amazing Bradley Armacost as Sir Leigh Teabing. This actor can do any type of role created and is always at the top of his game. I will tell you that when he is on stage, you will be watching one of Chicago’s finest do his thing with the perfect touch, Also in this solid cast is Ray Frewen, returning to the stage after sort of retiring. For many years he graced every stage in our area- great to see him back!

The rest of the ensemble is composed of Leslie Ann Sheppard, Janice O’Neill, Shane Kenyon ( one of the bad guys), Anthony Irons ( a good guy), John Drea ( a few key characters) and Jennifer Cudahy. All did their jobs solidly making this production smooth as silk ( which is why it worked to perfection). The play has some great tech to assist with the overall feeling. Scott Penner’s set is simple allowing us to go from scene to scene with no wasted time. The projections (Anthony Churchill and Mike Tutaj) is amazing, the original music ( Joshua Schmidt) and the lighting ( Lee Fiskness) perfect. Nicole Boylan’s costumes and Cassy Schillo’s props worked just right and the violence choreography by Rick Sordelet appeared real. I know that I was glued to every move by every player from start to finish and the surprises all caught me off guard.

If you have seen the film version or read the book, you will know what to expect, but will enjoy the way Margolius and company bring it to life. If you have not read or seen “The Da Vanic Code”, don’t worry. You will be able to understand every aspect of this glorious production.

“The Da Vinci Code” will continue Thru – Jun 1st with performances as follows: