Goodman Theatre’s ‘Holiday’ Is Elegance With A Sharp-Witted Edge
Sophisticated and bitingly funny, Goodman Theatre’s new production of Holiday, about members of a dysfunctional rich family trying to survive each other, has spectacular sets and an excellent cast.
There is a rich history of media that centers around dominant fathers and their children. From The Godfather series to Succession, there is a balance between seeking love and acceptance and carrying out the expectations of “the family.” Not everyone handles it the same way, and that is the case here as well.
The Goodman Theatre production of Holiday is about the Seton family, a rich patriarchal dynasty of five generations. Julia Seton, a businesswoman and the favorite child of her father, Edward Seton, has just returned home from a retreat with a new boyfriend, Johnny Case. After introducing him to her sister, Linda, and brother, Ned, Julia hopes to get a blessing from their father for her new relationship. As the scenario unfolds, differences in personalities, relationships, and coping strategies become apparent in how each character survives the family dynamic.
This production is based on Philip Barry’s 1928 play of the same name that inspired the 1938 film starring Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant. And although these are nearly 100 years old, the script for this show, newly adapted by Tony Award winner Richard Greenberg, feels very modern and cosmopolitan. It is a story that stands the test of time.
Edward Seton is a domineering father and businessman whose wife died years ago, so the children no longer have a soft touch in their lives. Julia is driven in much the same way as her father, but Linda, who teaches children, lives separately, and Ned has found numbness in substance use. With the addition of Johnny, who has no family and is a self-made man, you begin to see the cracks in the marble of this group.
The cast blends beautifully, with the siblings projecting a familiarity and unspoken understanding about their father. And while the entire ensemble shines, Wesley Taylor’s Ned was a standout. Behind the sarcasm and the occasional scene-stealing moment lived a deep sadness and complex understanding of his existence. It really struck me.
The sets for the show are magnificent. The first and last scenes take place in the living room, a large white room with huge windows, light fixtures, seating, and a grand painting of the first Edward Seton. As the show begins, Linda enters the room and opens the curtains and windows, after which natural daylight appears to shine into the room. It’s a gorgeous effect.
The center section of the show takes place in what used to be the children’s playroom. It has extraordinarily high ceilings and is pitched, giving you the impression that it is the attic. It is decorated with painted stars stamped all over, and a wall completely dedicated to framed artwork. It is comfortable, but magical. The audience audibly gasped when it was unveiled, it was such a sight to behold. Truly extraordinary.
Holiday presents familiar family situations in a brand new way. It will have you relating to some characters and hoping for others, but you will quickly find yourself engaged with the story. And between the marvelous sets, attractive costumes, and witty script, you will find yourself thoroughly entertained.
Holiday runs for approximately 2 hours 15 minutes with one 15-minute intermission. It is recommended for ages 15 and up.
Goodman Theatre: Holiday Chicago Review – Holiday is playing at The Goodman Theatre through 3/1/26. Tickets can be purchased on the Goodman Theatre website or by calling (312) 443-3800. Goodman Theatre is located at 170 North Dearborn in Chicago.