‘Tell Me On A Sunday’: Pike’s performance at Theo a gift to ears, but musical feels a bit dated

Dani Pike is music to the ears in Theo’s production of “Tell Me On A Sunday.” Photo courtesy of Time Stops Photography

If talent were everything in a production, Tell Me On A Sunday at Theo would be a must-see performance. 

The one-woman show is a musical masterpiece for Dani Pike. Her voice is such a good match for the Andrew Lloyd Webber compositions. And her acting prowess, along with her 90 minutes of singing, keep our total attention and interest. The small live orchestra is in perfect timing with her performance.  Both she and the music are a gift to the ears. 

But Tell Me On A Sunday is not a concert. It is 26 songs with lyrics that tell a story and the story does not match Pike’s talents. The first performance in London was in 1980.  Although there have been some revival versions, the plot still seems a bit old- fashioned and more than a bit discouraging.

A young woman from London comes to the U.S. with optimism about her future, and about getting a green card, albeit always connected to being supported by a man. Most songs are about the optimism for the relationships and then the admissions of their failures: It’s Not the End of the World (if I Lose Him), It’s Not the End of the World (If He’s Younger) and It’s Not the End of the World (If He’s Married). 

Dani Pike is nothing short of entrancing in Theo’s “Tell Me On A Sunday,” but the storyline feels a little date. Photo courtesy of Time Stops Photography

Two last songs, The World Hasn’t Stopped and Dreams Never Run On Time suggest all the relationship trials have taught her who she is and have enabled her to find herself. That view would be a dream version of the messages in Tell Me On a Sunday.

One well-known and well-loved selection from this show is Unexpected Song. It is beautiful and Pike is entrancing in her delivery.

This performance is a showpiece for other Andrew Lloyd Webber’s songs as well: Take That Look Off Your Face, Tell Me On A Sunday and Nothing Like You’ve Ever Known.

Listening to Pike’s voice, in such a beautiful match to the music, and watching her emotional interpretations almost make the storyline incidental.

No question that she makes going to the performance at Theo a memorable and moving experience. 

 Tell Me On A Sunday continues through April 20, at Theo, 721 Howard St. For tickets and information, visit www.theo-u.com or call 773-939-4101.

Theo nominated for 22 Jeffs

Theo, the non-equity theater in Evanston, is doing the city proud. Each year, Jeff (Joseph Jefferson Awards) announces its nominations for theater excellence among non-equity theater in categories such as: production, ensemble, director, performer and artistic specialization. 

Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre led award nominations with 22 for various categories in three productions: The Secret Garden, A Little Night Music and Sondheim Tribute Revue. Winners will be announced during a Tuesday night ceremony at The Harris Theater in Chicago.

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