Saturday, September 20, 2008

Amadeus (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre) – 9/20/08

Peter Shaffer's "Amadeus" reached a wide audience in its incarnation as an Oscar-winning film directed by Milos Forman. However, it had its origins as a play, which I prefer. "Amadeus" is essentially a memory play, and I think these types of confessionals work better on the stage, where there is an audience to confess to. Also, I think that the more abstract designs afforded by a stage production better service the structure as opposed to the literalism of film. Chicago Shakespeare's production, expertly directed by Gary Griffith, is pristine: it's impeccably acted and gorgeously designed (this is the best lighting I've seen at the theater). You should go see this one.

Rating: **** (out of *****)

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