I looked forward to seeing The Book of Merman since Madkap Productions announced its five-show schedule for 2022–23. The musical comedy’s premise had me immediately hooked
The majority of the play takes place in the home of Ethel Merman after the legendary songstress mistakes two young men at her door for salesmen. What follows is a humorous, song-filled journey about self-acceptance.
The production features three performers: Julie Peterson (Ethel), Danny Ferenczi (Elder Schumway) and Alex Iacobucci (Elder Braithewaite). Those three belt out excellent vocals while being equally adept at injecting clever humor into the songs and dialogue.
Photo by Barry Norton.
One of the early highlights was Ferenczi unexpectedly taking over and finishing “Better Than You” with gusto. Another favorite part was “Be a Merman,” a song at the heart of the play and a phrase I am sure to use in my everyday life. The Merman rap was another bit that had us roaring with laughter.
Photo by Barry Norton.
Borrowing one of the show’s tunes, I have to say “You’re the Best” to producer Wendy Kaplan, associate producer Wayne Kaplan, director/choreographer Ty Perry and the rest of the cast and crew. The Book of Merman delivered a night of rich entertainment, far exceeding even my lofty expectations. The Book of Merman runs through Feb. 26 at the Skokie Theatre.
Photo by Barry Norton.
Next up is the last in the MadKap play series is Neil Simon’s Rumors, March 31–April 23. In addition to the MadKap play series, Skokie Theatre offers entertainment all year including concerts, plays and other productions. Future productions include Skokie Idol Semi-finals on Feb. 25 and Roxy Bellows Live! on March 24.
— John Wroblewski, online writer
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Mar 31, 2025New App Captures Street Art Culture of Bremen, Germany
Bremen, Germany, is known as a city with lots of public street art, and the German city now celebrates a new way to show off its colorful outdoor artwork by becoming an official partner of the interactive Street Art Cities app. As of late 2024, art lovers and visitors to the city can discover Bremen’s eye-catching 250 works of art, both famous and lesser known, through digital means, thanks to the city’s official designation as a Street Art City.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Daily
Mar 31, 2025Highly Anticipated Private Club to Debut in Naples, Florida
Sterling’s Club, a private membership-based club, is slated to debut in Naples, Florida, in 2026. Housed on the sixth floor of all-suite hotel The Carnelian, the club ushers in a new luxury experience for the area.
Daily
Mar 31, 2025Robert De Niro’s Nobu Beach Inn to Open in Barbuda in 2026
Early next year, Nobu Beach Inn opens on Barbuda’s southwest coast. Conceived by Robert De Niro, Daniel Damoon and James Packer, this property will offer travelers utter seclusion and personalized service.
Sponsored Content
A Summer Sojourn Along Europe’s Rivers with AmaWaterways
This summer, elevate your vacation experience with award-winning AmaWaterways. Offering a seamless blend of unparalleled luxury, authentic cultural experiences and unrivaled service, AmaWaterways cruises are the perfect way to uncover the heart of Europe during the sunniest season with itineraries that glide along the continent’s most iconic rivers, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine and the Douro.
Slideshow
Mar 31, 20257 Reasons to Put Québec on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Québec with us.
7 Penthouse Suites with Unforgettable Views
Daily
Mar 28, 2025Daily
Mar 28, 20253 Idaho Hot Springs to Add to Your Travel List
Did you know Idaho is home to 130 natural hot springs? While far-away destinations like Hungary, Iceland and Japan consistently draw travelers to its hot springs, you’ll find just as restorative and relaxing hot springs in Idaho. And amongst the 130 hot springs in this state alone, narrow down your search to McCall, a town in western Idaho with an upscale resort and several promising hot springs.
Sponsored Content
Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive
Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.
Daily
Mar 27, 2025Tribe Hotel: Family-Owned, 5-Star Hotel in Nairobi Honors Traditions in Style
Tribe Hotel, a member of Design Hotels, is a family-owned and -operated 5-star property in Nairobi, offering travelers many reasons to visit Kenya’s dynamic capital city. Founded in 2008 by Shamim Ehsani and his elder brother Hooman Ehsani, this globally acclaimed hotel and spa represents the best of African hospitality.
ShareThis