Chicago Tribune - Recommended
"...One wishes that we could peek behind the recording-studio door to see some details of how that partnership with Bacharach played out. (William Dale Rowland gets a brief scene as Bacharach, as well as playing Barry Manilow, who produced Warwick's comeback hit, "I'll Never Love This Way Again.") We do get a sense that Warwick has always been savvy about both the music and the business (Rogers delivers a funny and defiant defense of the Psychic Friends Network that Warwick promoted as a good financial opportunity.)"
Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended
"...These songs sound as fresh today as ever, with their shrewd blend of pop accessibility and jazz complexity. The second act highlights Warwick's collaborations with the likes of Barry Manilow ("All the Time"), Isaac Hayes ("Deja Vu"), and Andre and Dory Previn ("Theme From Valley of the Dolls"), climaxing with a rousing rendition of "That's What Friends Are For," the AIDS benefit single she recorded with Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder, and Elton John. Scripted by Jackie Taylor and staged by Rueben D. Echoles, the show features a talented cast, including three young women who embody different aspects of Warwick's artistry. Unfortunately, Echoles relies too heavily on formulaic girl-group choreography-a gimmick Warwick, with her emotional intensity, natural elegance, and impeccable articulation, had no need for."
Stage and Cinema - Highly Recommended
"...The singers and musicians hardly needed inspiration to work their wonders. But it didn’t hurt that on opening afternoon, soul ambassador Dionne Warwick herself, looking winsome as ever in a vibrant ski sweater, was in the house. At curtain call the six-time Grammy winner (with only Aretha Franklin garnering more Top-10 hits) movingly thanked Echoles, Taylor, and the ensemble for taking her down the same melody/memory lane as enthralled the enthusiastic audience."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...Again, though, this is a tribute to a beloved pop diva, and therefore much, I’m sure, will be overlooked by those who wish to attend to hear their idol’s songs sung live. Those with just a passing interest in her music, however, might find as much enjoyment (at a more reasonable price) by just listening to one of her albums. Because, though we learn a lot about Warwick’s life—information and anecdotes that can just as easily be found online—this production never truly gives us an impression of Warwick the person, which, to my mind, would have been a more enduring tribute."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...Those of you familiar with Black Ensemble Theater and the work of Jackie Taylor know that some of the “books” that make up their musical bios is not in itself “Award Winning”! On the other hand the talent that this marvelous woman finds in Chicago is extraordinary. Their current production, “Don’t Make Me Over” (In Tribute to Dionne Warwick) is one that they did years ago and at that time was wonderful. This new version, in their new venue is even more entrancing."
Chicago Theatre Review - Recommended
"...The production is directed and choreographed with class and style by BET’s multitalented Renaissance man, Reuben Echoles. He brings passion and poetry-in-motion to this show, infusing the musical numbers with synchronized movement and dance steps that add so much. Mr. Echoles is also responsible for the beautiful wig and costume design, which are elegant, upscale and breathtaking. Every outfit is perfectly tailored to each actor and provides that extra special sparkle that’s become the signature look of the Black Ensemble Theater. Robert Reddrick once again artfully directs this cast musically, while also playing and conducting his topnotch, seven-member instrumental combo perched high above the performers."
NewCity Chicago - Somewhat Recommended
"...What happened is that the production didn’t follow the advice of its title, “Don’t Make Me Over,” which was also the name of Warwick’s first single. The tribute rethinks and remakes Dionne Warwick and we’re not exactly sure why. Could a headstrong memory have run away with this show?"
