BLUE MAN GROUP REMAINS INVENTIVE AND RELEVANT

Reviewed by: Stacey Crawley

Highly Recommended

Blue Man Group is a visual ride of neon colors with dynamic music that fills the theatre in a unique combination of communication and comedic physicality, sans dialogue. The performance art satisfies on several levels – it’s funny, interactive, musical, and appeals to a wide audience. It’s safe to say that no matter who you are, you’ll enjoy the trip that the blue men take you on. There’s an energy in the room unlike that of a traditional theatre – one of joy and wonderment from a sea of smiling faces, much like those in old movie clips when the circus came to town.

From giant smart phones, to the hilarity in their well-organized confusion, the show is non-stop fun. The set includes a live band draped in fluorescent lights, outlined in ghoulish costumes, who create a beat and rhythm that has 1920’s big band music infused with inventive instruments such as the “Snorkelbone,” giving it a completely unique sound altogether. The blue men interact with the audience to great effect throughout the performance, with some patrons eagerly raising their hands to volunteer as the blue men peruse the aisle for a participant. Don’t worry, these guys are professionals and can tell if you’re not exactly the performing kind. They choose their co-parts wisely, and the payoff is comedy gold. Or in this case, blue.

Created and directed by Matt Goldman, Chris Wink and Phil Stanton back in the late 90’s, some might have concern with the show’s longevity or relevance, but I assure you that the show is as crisp and fresh as ever. Incorporating technology on a whole other level, Blue Man Group is a solid 90 minutes of extraordinary fulfillment. I highly recommend this visual stunner, playing now at the Briar Street Theatre.

Blue Man Group Chicago now playing at Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted, Chicago IL. Call the Box Office for tickets at (773) 348-4000 or visit their website for more information and to order tickets https://www.blueman.com/chicago/briar-st-theatre