Happy at Redtwist Theatre

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"...Powell's sloe-eyed hostess is all about blunt talk and hard edges. She doesn't even wait for an answer when she asks, "More wine?" and then fills her guest's glass to the rim. No one, alas, is her match. And as a narrative setup, it leaves the others with little to do but stand around and gape until the gloves finally come off."

Chicago Reader - Recommended

"...Amanda Powell plays Eva as both a beguiling and shockingly callous enfant terrible; she's the perfect foil to Michael Sherwin's innocuous and upbeat Alfred. Michael Kingston adds some humor as a man who's lost control of his house. As Melinda, Melonie Collmann shows relatable vulnerability as she desperately closes and opens her eyes, searching for a silver lining."

Chicago On the Aisle - Recommended

"...Happiness. Is it an authentic state of contentment, fulfillment, grace - or merely delusion, self-deception and denial? Playwright Robert Caisely pummels the question in "Happy," an ironically titled session of group misery directed by Elly Green with stunning acerbity at Redtwist Theatre."

ChicagoCritic - Highly Recommended

"...The performances are as strong as the writing. This 80 minute piece will grab you from the start and it will keep you involved throughout with a few laughs thrown in. Don't miss this darkly funny play."

Chicago Theatre Review - Recommended

"...Yet, “Happy” does ultimately lose its way in its final segment, and due to a most saddening symptom of some playwriting – the grand, all-encompassing finale that ties up loose ends and proclaims the play’s message. It’s one thing for us to learn the truth behind Alfred’s intentions, but it’s an entirely different matter for that reveal to undercut much of what we’ve seen and observed, and with bludgeoning force, at that. Would we really believe, for instance, that Eva, who is so unlikable and awkward towards Alfred, would in a single night successfully reverse his impressions of Eduardo, a friend of 14 years? It’s too much, too soon for the sake of narrative conclusion, and again, up to that point, “Happy” is so careful and observant, which renders its spectacular conclusion all the most disappointing. The actors are not to blame – Sherwin truly gives his all; this is simply overreach by a playwright."