Fictional talent contests set scene in two current shows

Opening Statement

By Julian J. Frazin

Julian J. Frazin, a retired Cook County circuit judge, has written several musical theater works, two illustrated children’s books and music lyrics.

Posted May 31, 2019 10:30 AM

Updated June 3, 2019 4:38 PM

Major Bowes’ and Ted Mack’s “Original Amateur Hour” (for those of us old enough to remember) was the start of the popular talent-show concept on radio and TV.From those humble beginnings you now have such multimillion-dollar programs as “American Idol,” “America’s Got Talent,” “The Voice” and “Dancing With the Stars.”It should come then as no surprise that this format has been incorporated into two shows currently in Chicago.‘SIX&rsquo …

To Read the Full Story

Your source for legal news and information

Print & Digital Access

Stay in the know all year long with these benefits:

Delivery to your office in downtown Chicago or mailed outside our hand-delivery zone.
Unlimited access to chicagolawbulletin.com.
Access to our e-edition and mobile site.
Breaking news alerts, Morning Lineup and Afternoon Headlines.
Exclusive access to events, discounts and more.

Order now, or call 312-644-2394 or email Subscription@LawBulletinMedia.com for details.

Be in the know. These must-read insider briefings will keep you

informed of the latest legal developments in Chicago. Sign up today!

‘Purpose’ brings family drama, politics to light

In the playbill for the Steppenwolf Theatre production of Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ world premiere of “Purpose,” artistic directors Audrey Francis and Glenn Davis announce that “since the beginning, family drama has been this company’s signature.”
By Julian J. Frazin
Goodman’s ‘Penelopiad’ makes myth beautifully contemporary

In 2005, celebrated author Margaret Atwood (“The Handmaid’s Tale”) responded to Canadian publisher Jamie Byng’s commission to solicit contemporary authors to rewrite ancient myths with “The Penelopiad.” The novella set forth her current interpretation of Homer’s classic “The Odyssey,” the tale in which Odysseus leaves his bride, Penelope, for 10 years to fight in the Trojan War.
By Julian J. Frazin
‘Mrs. Doubtfire,’ ‘Flyover Chicago’ offer entertainment for entire family

The late Robin Williams has always been one of my favorite actors and comedians. His brilliant career included many celebrated performances such as those in “Good Morning Vietnam” and “Dead Poets Society,” as well as Academy Award-winning in “Good Will Hunting.” Unfortunately, his career tragically came to an end when he committed suicide at 63.
By Julian J. Frazin
‘Just for Us’ brings back golden age of standup comedy

Back in the day, standup comedians used to be a dominant force in Chicago. There was Shelley Berman, Mort Sahl, Lenny Bruce and Woody Allen. By coincidence, they were all Jewish, as were many of their female counterparts such as Joan Rivers, Elaine May and Totie Fields.
By Julian J. Frazin
From ‘Richard III’ to ‘Champion,’ Chicago has something for everyone

I had the pleasure of seeing three excellent, but different, examples of performing arts over the past week.
By Julian J. Frazin