Northlight Theatre’s new venue in Evanston brings a cozy and intimate setting to its productions. The theater kicks off with the 1928 satire ‘The Front Page’ by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur, a play well-known for its portrayal of volatile Chicago journalists in an era dominated by newspapers. While the play was successful on Broadway in 2016, Northlight chose to adapt it—featuring a blend of talented Chicago actors—adding a celebration of the city’s rich, albeit corrupt, history and indomitable spirit.
The play unfolds in the press room of the old Criminal Courts Building, drawing characters inspired by real figures at the City News Bureau, a starting point for many notable journalists like Mike Royko and Kurt Vonnegut. Hecht and MacArthur themselves had stints in Chicago journalism, a city known for keeping reporters on their toes. The story, familiar to fans of the 1940 Howard Hawks film ‘His Girl Friday,’ shows a group of reporters in the press room as an execution unfolds. When the convict escapes, reporter Hildy Johnson and editor Walter Burns go to great lengths to maintain their scoop.
Personal stakes rise as Hildy plans to leave journalism for a new job and marriage, contrasting with Walter’s determination to keep his star reporter. In this adaptation, Hildy remains a woman, following the Hollywood choice seen in ‘His Girl Friday.’ This adds a romantic twist, with Walter as Hildy’s former lover, intensifying her departure from both her career and past relationship.
In this latest rendering by Jeffrey Hatcher, Hildy is given lines about women in the workplace, aiming for modern appeal. However, some contend that portraying her as a relentless professional who happens to be female might have presented a more nuanced, progressive message. The satire with farcical notes, the play’s original intention, seems slightly softened in this adaptation.
Nonetheless, Tim Kazurinsky shines in his humorous role as a bumbling delivery man from the governor’s office. Other performances stay true to type, with Joe Dempsey, Mark David Kaplan, Kelan M. Smith, and Guy Van Swearingen portraying skilled reporters, while William Dick and John Lister revel in their roles as self-serving Chicago politicians. The distinguished Peter Moore, Rae Gray, and Cindy Gold handle the civilian parts in the narrative adeptly.
The play makes good use of Jeff Kmiec’s lively set design, showcasing the theater’s potential while maintaining its cherished connection with the audience. Open for all, especially those in Evanston, this is an offering worth experiencing.
Review: ‘The Front Page’ (3 stars)
When: Through Oct. 25
Where: Northlight Theatre, 1012 Church St., Evanston
Running time: 2 hours
Tickets: $55-$103 at 847-563-8400 and northlight.org