Les Liaisons Dangereuses at Redtwist Theatre

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"... Michael Colucci's staging for Actors Workshop Theatre has many delightful moments, but the overall arc of the piece doesn't build to the emotional climax demanded -- neither Jacqueline Grandt's reptilian Merteuil nor C. Sean Piereman's puckish Valmont feel fully invested in their love-hate rivalry with one another."

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...As directed by Michael Colucci, this production constitutes a kind of masterpiece of almost goodness. A chef d'oeuvre of near misses. There are loads of smart choices taken one step too far, rafts of potentially delicious moments marred by clumsy or amateurish execution."

Gay Chicago Magazine - Not Recommended

"...Actors Workshop Theatre presents a Spartan production, opting for a minimalist set and contemporary costumes rather than staging the opulent period piece that the script is known for. This promises to be an exciting departure, focusing on the deliciously deviate dialogue. The stylized conceptualization works well enough with smoothly choreographed scene changes set to well-chosen and evocative classical music. The elements are all there for exciting, highbrow, trashy badness. All, that is, except for chemistry."

Time Out Chicago - Somewhat Recommended

"...Colucci’s production strips away the usual rococo ruffles, going “period-neutral” with a blank gray set and the cast in black and white cocktail attire. This shouldn’t be a problem in theory, but we sense that Hampton’s heightened dialogue really calls for period opulence. The modern dress and drab environment seem to make Hampton’s language, and the cast’s declamatory delivery of it, fall flat."

ChicagoCritic - Recommended

"...Les Liaisons Dangereuses is an enchanting adventure of deceit where lust and revenge dominate. The show is filled with witty language and clever twists. Kudos to Actors Workshop Theatre for delivering a worthy production of an ambitious and difficult show. This non-Equity troupe once again delivers fine entertainment."