D.O.A. at Strawdog Theatre

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...With irony Cardinal Pictures impresario Leo C. Popkin couldn't have envisioned, the plot of D.O.A. revolves around a bungled piece of paperwork filed in Bigelow's office; Cardinal Pictures later fell victim to a snafu of its own when it misfiled the copyright forms for D.O.A., allowing the film to go directly into the public domain. And that, friends, is how low-budget theater is born. This is the final show at this location for Strawdog, which is moving after 25-plus years."

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...Elizabeth Lovelady’s fine theatrical adaptation of this film noir classic has been faithfully and artistically brought to life by Strawdog Theatre. The entire production takes the audience through the smoking mirrors and onto the silver screen with these characters. The play is melodramatic, poetic and full of tongue-in-cheek nods to the genre. All that’s missing from this cinematic experience is a box of Milk Duds, a tall Coke and a big tub of popcorn."

The Fourth Walsh - Highly Recommended

"...The talented ensemble morph into various characters from a boozy hotel party to a formal corporate setting. The dialogue clips with film noir abruptness adding to the drama and comedy. The scene transitions are seamless as the ensemble, always present onstage or looming in the shadows, glide furniture on and off. Lovelady paces it edgy, smart and tight. Special nod out to Costume Designer Raquel Adorno for dressing it up in 50s finery."

Chicago Theater Beat - Recommended

"...The world premiere’s supporting cast also does a fine job of taking on the many divergent roles required to keep the action and dialogue crisp.The music is on target, the mellow saxophone and tinkling piano so reminiscent of those days when tough guys ruled and dames provided the scenery. But the high moment occurs almost at the end as our hero, Bigelow, lays dying, bodies strewn about, and his betrothed Paula (aptly played by Megan Skord) – still wanting to talk about possible nuptials – asks, “Is this a bad time?” No Paula, perfect timing."

NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Smart, slick, swift and sexy, “D.O.A.” captures what Strawdog does so well in Hugen Hall. As a space for highly creative small works that might have otherwise languished in the purgatory of endless workshops and rewrites, Hugen Hall provides an outlet that is necessary to keeping the medium fresh. Doubtless this will continue to be a priority as Strawdog moves into its next phase as a company."