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This intensely engaging new drama by Quiara Alegria Hudes is based on Hudes' own life, composed of a eclectic and unusual set of personal experiences and circumstances that really should not work as a unified play ¿ this thing bounces between the Puerto Rican community of North Philadelphia and the country of Jordan. But in fact it works darn well, precisely because it is such an unusual set of experiences. Life really can be better than fiction. And it's good for a liberal writer to have a military guy in the family.
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Through May 12 in the Goodman¿s Owen Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St.; $14-$45 at 312-443-3800 and goodmantheatre.org
</b><br><br><a href=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/theater/theaterloop/ct-ent-0423-happiest-song-review-20130422,0,3106029.column>Read the full "The Happiest Song Plays Last" theater review</a>

'The Happiest Song Plays Last'

( May 1, 2013 )

This intensely engaging new drama by Quiara Alegria Hudes is based on Hudes' own life, composed of a eclectic and unusual set of personal experiences and circumstances that really should not work as a unified play ¿ this thing bounces between the Puerto Rican community of North Philadelphia and the country of Jordan. But in fact it works darn well, precisely because it is such an unusual set of experiences. Life really can be better than fiction. And it's good for a liberal writer to have a military guy in the family.

Through May 12 in the Goodman¿s Owen Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St.; $14-$45 at 312-443-3800 and goodmantheatre.org

Read the full "The Happiest Song Plays Last" theater review

Theater: Tribune stage guide

'The Happiest Song Plays Last'