Directed by Gregory Von Dare

I recently had a great time directing Chekhov’s rollicking comedy The Proposal for the Theatre of Western Springs (outside Chicago). Our fine cast included Janet Venzon, Jason Kilarski, and Rex Nyquist. I was assisted by the wonderful Margo Rife who pulled together costumes and props for the performances in Laidlaw Park, near the theatre. (Although these pictures were taken inside to escape the heat.) We were lucky because, after a week of withering high temperatures, our performance days were in the mid-70s with a gentle breeze. Audiences loved the escapades of the two lovers who just couldn’t stop arguing.

Things are heating up at the Theatre of Western Springs. This Thursday, we open the annual “Summer Shorts”. Six short plays vie to be the audience’s favorite. Check http://www.theatreofwesternsprings.com for further information and to get tickets for the 95th season.

When it’s winter in Chicago, we spend a lot of time wishing for summer. Then, when summer finally arrives with the suddenness of a slammed door in mid June, we realize what we have invoked: endless road construction that boggles traffic worse than any snowstorm, and three months of motorcycle accidents. Want a cool breeze? Live near the lake in a 4M condo. Or remember that cold beer makes a great shower as well as a refreshing drink. I’ll be stylin’ in Hawaiian shirts and light-weight Bermuda shorts. And my Cubano straw hat. Bring on the car shoiws and pet parades. I’m ready for ’em.