Human connections can be complex — even hilarious. That’s why quirky relationships make great fodder for both cinematic and theatrical works.
Nicole Holofcener’s new film You Hurt My Feelings centers around a novelist (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) who questions the veracity of her marriage after she overhears the views her husband (Tobias Menzies) really holds about her latest book. The R-rated comedy is currently playing at Chicago’s Music Box Theatre.
In No Hard Feelings, a young woman (Jennifer Lawrence) is paid to bring an introverted 19-year-old (Andrew Barth Feldman) out of his shell by dating him before he goes to college. The R-rated romp opens exclusively in movie theaters on June 23.
The challenges of falling in and out of love are examined in Kate Arrington’s romantic comedy Another Marriage (through July 30) at Steppenwolf’s new in-the-round Ensemble Theater in Honor of Helen Zell. The world premiere production features Judy Greer, Ian Barford, Caroline Neff, and Nicole Scimeca, among others.
A couple of first generation Asian-American renegades are in love (and on the run) in Lucy and Charlie’s Honeymoon at Lookingglass Theatre through July 16. Under the direction of Amanda Dehner, the new musical by Matthew C. Yee is a moving and amusing concert-like piece that takes Chicago audiences on a trip through the Midwest.
Rivendell Theatre Ensemble added performances to its sold-out world premiere of Motherhouse, which now can be seen through June 25. “The response to this production has been so supportive and enthusiastic,” says the company’s artistic director Tara Mallen.
Tuckie White’s dark comedy follows four aunts who help their niece create a great eulogy for her recently-deceased mother. “I believe humor is invaluable in the performance, writing, and expression of stories,” says playwright White. “It is the spoonful of sugar, the release of tension, the small yet profound mercy that allows us to absorb and process narratives that explore the painful, challenging, and messy aspects of humanity.”
“The production is steeped in the richness of collaborative history and as a result sings with the life it illuminates. It is the absolute embodiment of Rivendell’s nearly 30 years of excellence. It’s the kind of work Chicago expects from Rivendell, and we are delighted to share it all with you — both the bitter and the sweet,” Mallen concludes.