The Odd Couple at Raven Theatre

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...But even allowing for the benighted attitudes of the period, the play isn't all that funny. Masterful physical comedian Jon Steinhagen makes a schlumpy but convincing Felix, nailing the character's blind innocence. Wisecracking slob Oscar is harder to like; if he's not charming he's just a jerk, and charm eludes actor Eric Roach here. Michael Menendian's production is gorgeous and the supporting cast is fine, but Simon's play remains one helluva sow's ear."

Copley News Service - Recommended

"...        Newcomers to “The Odd Couple” may have a better time than veterans of the play. The lady sitting next to me on opening night was convulsed with laughter throughout the evening. This obviously was her first exposure to the play and she was having a ball. In any case, though I’ve seen funnier poker scenes, Steinhagen’s Felix Unger is worth the price of admission."

Time Out Chicago - Somewhat Recommended

"... The first act is tightly choreographed comedic ballet, well executed by Steinhagen, Roach and the cadre of comic actors portraying their poker buddies. By the middle of Act II, however, we need to identify with and care about Oscar and Felix’s foibles and neuroses. Instead, Menendian and cast skip along the surface of their misery, and by the third act we’re no longer invested. Understated Steinhagen comes closest to embracing that pathos, but Simon’s play works against him. It’s hard to find the heart of your character when you’re surrounded by caricatures."

ChicagoCritic - Recommended

"...The Odd Couple is one funny show that still can make audiences laugh. In the hands of a dedicated ensemble, director Menendian encourages physical movement to add depth and laughs to the rich comedy. We see all the players running around like wild men with hints of farce and burlesque."

Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended

"...It is always a delight to see a theater company do the right thing when it comes to doing a Simon play. His work is great comedy with a very human touch. The characters are very real, although a little exaggerated. But Simon never loses the honesty of the real emotions these men feel and the actors, in particular Steinhagen and Roach, really nail them. The sound by Katherine M. Chavez, Lighting by Amy Lee and costumes by JoAnn Montermurro are the icing on the cake, making this a production that will probably get some Jeff nominations."

Chicago Theater Beat - Somewhat Recommended

"...Still, there will always be an audience for schlock like this. Some people just don’t want to see something thought provoking or culturally relevant. Some people just want a show with uncomplicated laughs and a simple plot with characters as three-dimensional as a piece of construction paper. For those people, The Odd Couple will work just fine."