In Irish slang, “craic” (pronounced “crack”) means enjoyment or a good time. That is exactly what the production of The Craic at Milwaukee Repertory Theater was.

Written by Mark Clements and Deanie Vallone and directed by Clements, The Craic tells the tale of four musicians preparing for a performance who are unexpectedly joined by former band member. What follows is a reunion filled with laughs, tears, anger, joy and great music.

The story is not the star, but it nicely sets up an array of wonderful Irish tunes. If you don’t know the words to “Whiskey in the Jar,” “Molly Malone,” “Tell Me Ma” or any of the others, you will still be drawn into the melodies. From the opening line of “Danny Boy,” goosebumps arise; eyes get misty; and if you don’t join in, you must question why you even went. The harmonies throughout the night are simply amazing.

Milwaukee Rep presents The Craic with Luke Darnell, Trevor Lindley Craft, Alexander Sovronsky, Megan Loomis and Claire-Frances Sullivan. Photo by Michael Brosilow.

Milwaukee Rep presents The Craic with Trevor Lindley Craft, Megan Loomis, Claire-Frances Sullivan, Alexander Sovronsky and Luke Darnell. Photo by Michael Brosilow.

Running two hours and twenty minutes with an intermission, The Craic seems half as long, especially if you know some of the tunes. A cold beverage in hand never seems more appropriate.

A slightly longer drive from my home than to downtown Chicago, The Rep provides an excellent alternative for a night of theater. Its productions are top-rated.

The Craic run ended in March, but there are three more productions before the 2024–25 season ends. I’m certain we will return for at least one of The Last Five Years, Espejos: Clean and Million Dollar Quartet. The 2025–26 season starts in October and will feature 12 productions.

— John Wroblewski, online writer