In The Loop Magazine Review: Alice Cooper Delivers Another Theatrical Masterpiece With His Traveling 'Attic' That Visited The Genesee Theatre

Review: Alice Cooper Delivers Another Theatrical Masterpiece With His Traveling ‘Attic’ That Visited The Genesee Theatre

Nov 10, 2026 admin_bitlc Features, Music News, Reviews 0

By Fred Peth

Alice Cooper brought his perfectly choreographed, theatrical production to a packed Genesee Theatre in Waukegan, Illinois, on Sunday night. From the moment the scrim dropped to the stage floor revealing the band, Alice made his way to the front of the stage to open the night with “Hello, Hooray,” the audience knew they were in for a great performance.

The band immediately took command of the stage and the crowd responded by rising to its feet, filling the theatre with cheers and applause. The opening number was followed by “Who Do You Think We Are” and “Spark In The Dark,” setting the tone for an evening of non-stop entertainment.

The production featured an impressive collection of elaborate stage designs and props. One of the first major attractions was the twelve-foot-tall Frankenstein, which Alice summoned during “Feed My Frankenstein.” The towering creature moved from side to side across the stage, seemingly searching for victims, while band members dodged to avoid its path.

Guitarist Tommy Henriksen donning the guitar that Steve Via made famous in the original recording back in 1991 with his B.C. Rich Mockingbird.

There was never a dull moment throughout the evening as the band moved seamlessly from one song to the next without unnecessary downtime. During “Hey Stoopid,” an unwelcome photographer ran onto the stage, only to meet his demise when Alice drove a microphone stand through his chest. “Poison” provided another opportunity for Alice to interact with the audience, keeping the energy high and the crowd fully engaged.

Anna Cara, self-taught guitar sensation and temporary replacement for Nita Strauss, proved she was more than capable of filling the position. During her exceptional guitar solo, she showcased her own distinctive shredding style and impressive technical ability. Watching her precise hand movements and commanding stage presence, it was easy to understand why she was handpicked for this tour. At just 23 years old, Cara has clearly put in the work and possesses a genuine passion for performing.

Another surprise for several stops on the tour including this performance, was Chris Wyse – on loan from the Hollywood Vampires, temporarily stepping in on bass duties for Mr. Beasto Blanco himself Chuck Garric.

Wyse and drummer Glen Sobel formed an exceptionally tight rhythm section, complementing each other throughout the night.

The evening’s darker theatrical elements continued with the appearance of the deadly and devious Sheryl Cooper during “Only Women Bleed.” Showcasing her ballet background, Sheryl gracefully danced across the stage before Alice once again demonstrated his unwillingness to share the spotlight. Pulling a dagger from his boot, he stabbed Sheryl and in turn brought another theatrical twist to the performance.

Justice, however, was soon served as the production’s ultimate prop rolled onto the stage: a nearly nine-foot-tall guillotine. In one dramatic motion, it claimed Alice’s head, delivering one of the night’s most memorable visual moments.

The surprises weren’t over just yet. Following an extended closing rendition of “School’s Out,” which seamlessly transitioned into “Another Brick in the Wall, Pt. 2,” Alice announced, “This one’s for Kurt!” before launching into the band’s rendition of “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” This marked the first time the band had performed the song in Illinois. The rare addition brought an entirely new level of excitement to the theatre, with the audience becoming even more animated as they recognized the familiar lyrics and joined in on the moment.

The band wrapped up the evening with “Under My Wheels,” another classic from ‘The Killer‘ album, bringing an energetic close to an outstanding performance.

At 78 years old, Alice Cooper showed absolutely no signs of slowing down. His commanding stage presence, unmistakable showmanship and ability to deliver a perfectly executed theatrical production are a testament to why he has remained one of rock’s most enduring entertainers for more than 61 years. From the music and musicianship to the elaborate props and unexpected surprises, this was everything that people expect from an Alice Cooper concert.

When Alice Cooper is coming to your town get a ticket. He remains a must-see performer, and this production is proof that the master of theatrical shock rock still knows exactly how to put on a show.

For more on Alice Cooper, click here

For photos from the show, click here