Queen Lives On: A Thrilling “One Night of Queen” at Genesee Theatre

August 9, 2025

From the moment the opening chords of “Tear It Up” ripped through the Genesee Theatre, it was clear this wasn’t going to be a polite, sit-and-listen kind of night. Gary Mullen, strutting onto the stage with the swagger and sparkle of Freddie Mercury himself, had the crowd in the palm of his hand within seconds. His voice—powerful, precise, and brimming with Mercury’s theatrical flair—was backed by the exceptional talent of The Works: Jon Halliwell driving the beat with dynamic drumming, Malcolm Gentles layering rich textures on keyboards, David Brockett delivering searing guitar solos, and Alan McGeoch anchoring it all with deep, grooving basslines.

The energy never wavered. “Somebody to Love” was a soaring, gospel-tinged moment that had the audience swaying in collective rhythm, while “Don’t Stop Me Now” erupted like a shot of pure adrenaline, prompting the kind of unrestrained dancing usually reserved for the back rows—except it was happening everywhere. When the playful wit of “Killer Queen” flowed seamlessly into an amazing guitar solo, you could feel the crowd’s delight in every note, every grin exchanged between the musicians, every campy pose Mullen struck.

By the time the bass line of “Bohemian Rhapsody” rolled out, the Genesee had transformed into a giant, unified chorus, clapping and stomping in sync. And when the night closed with a stunningly heartfelt “The Show Must Go On”, followed by the triumphant punch of "We Will Rock You" and “We Are the Champions”, the ovation was immediate and deafening—proof that Queen’s music still holds the power to move, unite, and electrify.

In the ornate glow of the Genesee Theatre, this wasn’t just a tribute—it was a resurrection. For one night in Waukegan, Queen was alive, loud, and absolutely glorious.

More photos at One Night of Queen

Photos by Margolin Photography