Chicago Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier presents a vibrant portrayal of The Kinks in ‘Sunny Afternoon’

CHICAGO (WLS) — The Kinks were an electrifying group that exploded in the British music invasion of the sixties.

“Sunny Afternoon” is a dynamic show about the band now on-stage at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. It’s getting rave reviews.

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Actor Danny Horn talked about playing the legendary Ray Davies, the leader of the roaring pack.

Horn explained that The Kinks were known for their chaotic and rebellious nature, focusing on the iconic guitar sound in songs like “You Really Got Me” that marked the birth of heavy metal. The band members were not easily directed and often created their own unique sound by experimenting with their equipment for a distorted guitar effect.

Ray Davies guided the first production of “Sunny Afternoon” in London a decade ago.

This is the North American debut, and Horn returns in the starring role.

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Reflecting on his experience with band member Davies, Horn described being mentored by him and admiring his unconventional approach to stardom. Davies, unlike traditional rockstars, preferred solitude to focus on writing and creating music rather than indulging in the typical rockstar lifestyle of partying and seeking attention.

The actor has a band named after himself, but this role is a constant challenge.

Speaking about his role in portraying the lead vocal in 26 songs, Horn emphasized the immersive theatrical experience of the show. He expressed his enthusiasm for the meticulous attention to detail in recreating the authentic sound of The Kinks, ensuring that every instrument and equipment used on stage is historically accurate. The band’s music is characterized by its unique and rebellious spirit, embodying an early punk vibe by challenging authority and societal norms.

Horn said people who didn’t know The Kinks will come away as lifelong fans.

“And people who come as huge Kinks fans are going to have an incredibly nostalgic moment of time travel, where they feel young again,” Horn said. “This is the way of celebrating this great band, this great strange bunch of misfits who made incredible music and had a great story to go along with it.”

“Sunny Afternoon” is at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater through April 27.

The title comes from a Kinks hit about an Englishman who lost his fortune, but he’s still got his “ice cold beer in the summertime.”