Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended
"...the production overall is kind of rinky-dink. James Ogden's set is too elaborate on the one hand (a gratuitous revolving platform) and too slipshod on the other (a flimsy, freestanding frame that serves as a window, a door, and a gate--all poorly). Certain scenes are played out in semi-darkness, apparently to mitigate the effect of cheesy costumes. And adaptor/director Terry McCabe seems to run out of theatrical ideas toward the end: The final revelations are given in a long monologue lacking much visual interest."
Windy City Times - Recommended
"...This device will prove unnecessary for whodunit fans, Victorian Lit aficionados and Sherlock Holmes groupies (an audience base numbering in the millions). Let's not forget, either, the drawing power of Don Bender, repeating for the third time his portrayal of the supersleuth, ably flanked by Jerry Bloom as the phlegmatic Dr. Watson (stepping into the role vacated by the late Will Schutz), who together evade cliché to infuse their familiar personae with fresh nuance. A sturdy supporting company and clever low-budget technical effects—notably James Ogden's astonishingly versatile turntable—also guarantee an entertaining evening for City Lit first-timers."
Time Out Chicago - Somewhat Recommended
"...In adapting literary work for performance, it’s tempting to keep as much original text as possible. Unfortunately, despite the satisfaction provided by a well-delivered, sly turn of phrase or two, McCabe’s script is heavily weighted with the burden of Doyle’s words. There’s potential in the opening sequence: Dr. Watson (Bloom) looks on with a peculiar brand of disinterested concern while Sherlock Holmes (Bender) staves off boredom by injecting himself with cocaine."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...In exquisite detail, The Sign of the Four’s production values that include a condensed set (by James Ogden) that includes several levels and a spinning round platform adds drama to the suspense. Terrific performances yield much including Greg Kolack’s rich Irish brogue as he unravels the mystery in a fine show ending monologue rich in detail. Ed Rutherford’s Jones was effective as was Jerry Bloom’s Watson. But Don Binder’s totally engaging and larger-than-life portrayal of Sherlock Holmes dominates. The Sign of the Four is a tad complex and the ending necessitates your complete attention but once you sharpen your listening skills, the mystery grabs you and hold on until the end. Holmes lovers and suspense theatre patrons will enjoy this well acted and handsome production. Terry McCabe sure has a handle on Doyle’s eccentric character."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended
"...No question, the 12-member cast are competent, convincing and very well chosen. It’s always a pleasure to watch two pros like Don Bender’s Sherlock Holmes, far from smooth as he practically overdoses on the thrills of his skills, and unctuously deferential Jerry Bloom as Watson, the perfect Boswell to Holmes’ Samuel Johnson. Shawna Tucker sweetens the bachelor realm with her domesticating Mary Morstan, while Greg Kolack’s Jonathan Small handles a ton of last-minute exposition with excellent efficiency. Ed Rutherford brings comic relief as the often clueless inspector Jones."
Let's Play at ChicagoNow - Not Recommended
"...An ambitious McCabe goes for epic! He works diligently to preserve the integrity of all Sir Doyle's nuances. It doesn't work. The storytelling is convoluted and dull. The audience wants to go along on a Sherlock and Watson adventure. But instead they are stuck listening to it. It's not a mystery. THE SIGN OF THE FOUR is a tragedy."
Around The Town Chicago - Somewhat Recommended
"...My hat is off to this valiant cast: Linsy Falls,David Fink, Nick Goodman,Greg Kolack, Drew Longo ( who does a great Mordecai Smith, but they could have trimmed the beard just a bit),Brian Pastor, Ed Rutherford,Andrew Shapiro, Judy Les Steele and the lovely Shawna Tucker as Mary Morstanwho comes to Holmes at the start and ends up withWatson in the end.They all did well with their accents, characters and stage presence- the only ingredient lacking the power to keep an audience on their toes was the script."
