Editorial: Brian Dennehy's death reminds us of the power of theater - and how much we miss it
News of Brian Dennehy's death last week sent waves of sadness through the Chicago theater community. This acclaimed actor was known nationally for films as diverse as "Tommy Boy" and "Presumed Innocent." But among local theater fans, he was beloved as a towering presence on Chicago's Goodman Theatre stage.
Dennehy's connection to Goodman dates back more than three decades, and his memorable collaborations with artistic director Robert Falls include Eugene O'Neill's "The Iceman Cometh." In fact, Dennehy earned Tony Awards for two collaborations with Falls that originated at the Goodman: O'Neill's "Long Day's Journey into Night" and Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman."
Recalling these productions reminds us of the area's extraordinary theater offerings and how much we miss live entertainment as stages remain dark during the pandemic. At the same time, artists continue to do what they were born to do - entertain and uplift.
They do so now online, where lovers of music, theater and more can enjoy live productions via Zoom or stream past ones from all over the world. Saturday's star-studded "One World: Together At Home" was just one example.
Theater artist Cory Goodrich of Wheaton has done a number of clever YouTube video parodies, using well-known songs and tweaking them for the times.
Singer-songwriter Ralph Covert of Glen Ellyn streams two concerts a day via Facebook Live, including a morning show for kids.
Improv groups - including The Second City in Chicago and the Wheaton-based Westside Improv - are producing live shows online. Some theaters are streaming recorded productions for free or a small ticket fee.
With everything online, entertainment seekers are not tied to productions close to home. Broadway shows can be streamed at BroadwayHD.com, while opera fans can check out The Metropolitan Opera in New York's "Nightly Met Opera Streams" at metopera.org. And if you haven't caught Andrea Bocelli's Easter Day performance of "Amazing Grace" from outside Duomo di Milano on YouTube, stream it today. Just have tissues ready.
These and other performances come at a time when we need them most. Yes, we can stream endless hours of old TV shows or binge-watch new ones. But there's something special - and inspiring - about these of-the-moment performances.
While the more famous may not have to worry about paychecks during this dark time, others do - even as many perform for free. If you are enjoying their work, consider adding money to online tip jars or making a donation to theaters. Think of it as an investment in the future of the theater community Brian Dennehy loved.
Sadly, Dennehy won't grace the Goodman stage again. We thank him for sharing his intensity with local audiences and for reminding us what an incredible gift live theater is - and how eagerly we will applaud its return.