Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...Miranda's music and lyrics are infused with that sensibility. But the rest has to come from the physicality and visual storytelling of the piece and, of course, from the affirmative vibe of the actors. With this particular project, you had some good people doing their considerable best with a great score, and yet a very tough assignment."
Chicago Sun Times - Highly Recommended
"...Porchlight Music Theatre’s production of “In the Heights” is such an overwhelming experience on every level — in the brilliance and endearing warmth of its cast, the passion behind its storytelling, the piercing truth and mastery of its direction, the thrill of its explosive dancing, the magic of its mix of voices, the detail of its design and the instant connection it forges with its audience — that it is difficult to know where to begin when heaping praise on it all."
Windy City Times - Highly Recommended
"...The entire company, with choreography by Brenda Didier and Chris Carter, keeps the show moving and hopping. Lucia Godinez-as Nina the girl, with the expectations of an entire neighborhood on her shoulders-is excellent with a great belting voice. She's matched by the pipes and smooth performance of Stephen Allen as Benny, the ambitious African-American cab/limo driver who works for her dad. Controversial casting aside, Jack DeSare's Usnavi is so charming and self-depreciating, you wish the loud music would get out of his way sometimes. Frankie Leo Bennett, as his cousin, is very funny and a crowd pleaser. Michelle Lauto-as Venessa, the girl who wants to escape the neighborhood-has a nice voice and you like her so much you wish she had more to play in the script."
Time Out Chicago - Recommended
"...Missy Aguilar, whose resume is a few lines longer than Godinez and Lauto's, appears to have found her ideal role in smart-mouthed salon proprietor Daniela; among the young men, Stephen Allen as Benny and Frankie Leo Bennett as Sonny found slots on my "names to watch" list. All told, a tamer Usnavi might have given me fresh eyes to see the too-often-forgotten work of Miranda's collaborator here, Hudes. Heights, I'm reminded, is every bit as much a portrait of a community-as-family as Hudes's Elliot Trilogy. And Porchlight's intimate production, featuring killer music direction by Diana Lawrence, gives every member of its community time to shine."
Stage and Cinema - Recommended
"...But the songs, beautifully shaped by music director Diana Lawrence, make the audience care and smile. Even better, they give a valedictory plot life and love. Credit that as much to the warm rapport established by a seasoned cast and inspired by director/co-choreographer Brenda Didier and Chris Carter. The breakout dances, like the title rouser, the riotous “Alabanza,” and the contagious “Club,” bring unforced energy to forced festivities."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...Before all the Hamilton hype. Lin-Manuel Miranda created a four Tony winner, including Best Musical with In The Heights. I have seen the show three times now and I enjoyed and appreciated this musical on its own terms. Filled with a manic pace, toe-tapping rhythms and richly powerful vocals, Directer Brenda Didier and co-choreography Christopher Carter created wonderful dances including salsa, hip-hop and natural Latino beats. The energy keeps us engaged throughout."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...While Chicago is anticipating the arrival of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Hamilton”, they might just want to consider viewing his earlier work, the wonderful “In The Heights” (which won Tony Awards for “Best Musical” and “Best Original Score”. Little Porchlight Music Theatre ( and I mean little as in intimate space) is whetting theater audiences appetites for the new show by bringing us the show that truly had an impact on Musical Theater!."
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...Ms. Didier’s ensemble cast is perfection. They’re all excellent, every single one. As Usnavi, handsome newcomer Jack DeCesare is a treasure. He skillfully leads the audience on a tour of his neighborhood, lovingly introducing each of his friends and neighbors, while providing their interesting backstories. DeCesare is an appealing young actor who should have a bright, long career in this business. He gently holds the audience in the palm of his hand enticing us to cheer wholeheartedly for his success, every step of the way."
The Fourth Walsh - Highly Recommended
"...This community is brimming with character, aspirations and the weight of reality. They are struggling with the economic crisis. Within that dark hardship, their lives intertwine in a deep, vibrant tapestry of loving acceptance. I thoroughly enjoyed IN THE HEIGHTS. I misted up three times visiting this community anchored in heart and humor. Whether you can get HAMILTON tickets or not, you should get tickets to this original, award-winning Lin-Manual Miranda’s musical. But better act quickly, performances keep selling out."
Picture This Post - Highly Recommended
"..."In the Heights" Director Brenda Didier has assembled a magnetic cast that fills the hall with superbly timed songs and dances delighting in wave after wave. In their moment, many of the performers seem to be the one carrying the day; the stronger performances drown out the lesser ones handily."
NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...Being in the audience for this show, you get the sense from the passion onstage to the sniffles and cheers in the audience that “In the Heights” is affecting in ways that differentiates it from other musicals."
