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Family-friendly but less-than-thrilling musical theater history.

Monday Jun 25, 2007.     By Colin Douglas

Theater Feed

Despite a valiant attempt to lure kids to the theater, Drury Lane Oakbrook's family-friendly "Superman" probably won't be the show everyone will talk about for weeks to come. Other than the obligatory flying gimmick and rare attempt at spectacle, director William Osetek's production hardly evokes the kind of gasping excitement you'd expect from a superhero musical.

Square-jawed James Rank as Superman proves himself as a capable singer, and local favorite Bernie Yvon has a field day as comedic villain Max Menken, Kent's jealous coworker at the Daily Planet. Yvon virtually owns the stage as a Nathan Lane look-alike trying to publicly expose Superman's real identity, particularly in his energetic number "So Long, Big Guy." Together with veteran character actor David Perkovich, the two villains team up in the second act, attempting to cause the super hero's downfall. Talented actress McKinley Carter creates a perfect Lois Lane, full of independent spunk yet with a hidden vulnerable charm.

The actors' knack for singing, dancing, tumbling and flying leaves the most memorable impression—the finale "Pow! Bam! Zonk!" showcases the entire company in a comic acrobatic aerial challenge to Superman. Tammy Mader deserves an applause for her '60s-style choreography as well as both Robert Kovach and Jesse Klug for their versatile comic strip set and primary-color lighting.

While not a musical masterpiece, this show at least offers enthusiasts an opportunity to see a piece of musical theater history.

"It's a Bird...It's a Plane...It's Superman" runs through July 29 at Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace. 1:30 p.m. Wednesday; 1:30 & 8 p.m. Thursday; 8:30 p.m. Friday; 5 & 8:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 & 6 p.m. Sunday. Tickets cost $20-$50.