I looked forward to seeing The Book of Merman since Madkap Productions announced its five-show schedule for 2022–23. The musical comedy’s premise had me immediately hooked

The majority of the play takes place in the home of Ethel Merman after the legendary songstress mistakes two young men at her door for salesmen. What follows is a humorous, song-filled journey about self-acceptance.

The production features three performers: Julie Peterson (Ethel), Danny Ferenczi (Elder Schumway) and Alex Iacobucci (Elder Braithewaite). Those three belt out excellent vocals while being equally adept at injecting clever humor into the songs and dialogue.

Photo by Barry Norton.

One of the early highlights was Ferenczi unexpectedly taking over and finishing “Better Than You” with gusto. Another favorite part was “Be a Merman,” a song at the heart of the play and a phrase I am sure to use in my everyday life. The Merman rap was another bit that had us roaring with laughter.

Photo by Barry Norton.

Borrowing one of the show’s tunes, I have to say “You’re the Best” to producer Wendy Kaplan, associate producer Wayne Kaplan, director/choreographer Ty Perry and the rest of the cast and crew. The Book of Merman delivered a night of rich entertainment, far exceeding even my lofty expectations. The Book of Merman runs through Feb. 26 at the Skokie Theatre.

Photo by Barry Norton.

Next up is the last in the MadKap play series is Neil Simon’s Rumors, March 31–April 23. In addition to the MadKap play series, Skokie Theatre offers entertainment all year including concerts, plays and other productions. Future productions include Skokie Idol Semi-finals on Feb. 25 and Roxy Bellows Live! on March 24.

— John Wroblewski, online writer