Michael R. Jackson’s musical “A Strange Loop” has an impressive history. It premiered off-Broadway in 2019, won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2020, opened on Broadway in 2022, and subsequently won the Tony Awards for best book of a musical and best musical in the same year. Typically, a show with such accolades would quickly embark on a national tour, inspire regional productions, and see leading theaters like those in Chicago vying for its rights.
So, why is Chicago only now seeing the premiere of this unique musical at the off-Loop Raven Theatre in a relatively low-budget yet high-quality production? This version is directed by Mikael Burke and features Eddie Weaver in the role of Usher, a Black, gay musical-theater aspirant working as an usher at “The Lion King.” According to many, this production surpasses its Broadway counterpart, largely thanks to Weaver’s performance.
Some may wonder why such a delay in staging this musical in Chicago. “A Strange Loop” presents raw and honest content. It delves deeply into the personal and sexual fantasies of Usher, which are atypically bold for a Broadway musical. Michael R. Jackson explores complex themes like the intersection of sex and power, as well as whether these desires stem from systemic racism affecting the protagonist’s psyche. While these topics were widely discussed around 2020, identity politics dominated the American theater.
The show’s enchanting quality lies in its clever metatextual structure. It’s a musical about a Black, gay man writing a musical about a Black, gay man writing a musical. It engages deeply with Usher’s quest for acceptance from his parents, both as a gay man and as an artist. The show tackles racism, cultural conservatism, and frequent homophobia in the Black community.
In recounting related conversations with Jackson during a workshop of the show, the issue of critics not fully engaging with Black work emerged. Yet, this production at Raven Theatre sidesteps the Broadway spectacle, offering a more intimate experience.
The set design by Sydney Lynne reflects the intangible dreams at the heart of the show. Burke’s direction keeps attention on Usher, helped by Weaver’s empathetic portrayal, making his character more relatable than in the Broadway version. The supporting cast also excels, adding depth to Usher’s imagined universe.
This production by Raven Theatre, in partnership with About Face Theatre, is likely headed for a sold-out run. It confirms Burke’s growing expertise as a director. The sound design by Hannah Kwa, musical direction from Kyu Park, and the exceptional talent of the supporting cast all contribute to a top-notch theatrical experience.
For those intrigued by “A Strange Loop” and able to handle its candid exploration of identity, this Raven Theatre production offers a rare and complete experience. The show stands out not only for its intersectional narrative but also for its daring critique of progressive attitudes, while highlighting the challenges creative youth face due to racism and homophobia.
Chris Jones is a Tribune critic. Contact: [email protected]
Review: “A Strange Loop” (4 stars)
When: Through Nov. 8
Where: Raven Theatre, 6157 N. Clark St.
Running time: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Tickets: $30-$45 at 773-338-2177 and raventheatre.com