Shakespeare's R & J presented by Idle Muse Theatre Company at The Side Project

ChicagoCritic - Highly Recommended

"... Throughout the youths actingout R & J, they let loose a little then retreatintotheir suppressed persona. When portraying adults, they shout in unison their speeches. While these kids use R & J to release their emotions, the cast delivers a first-class Shakespearean play fueled with intensity, sensuality, and skill. With several “all-female” productions of The Bard’swork over the last few years, it is entirely fitting to see a well directed (by Tristan Brandon) “all male” cast render honest presentations. Who said young actors can’tperform Shakespeare?This foursome nailed the essence of the work with verbal and physical acumen. Get to see this exciting show, it’ll renew your spirit."

Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended

"... Working on the tiny Side Project stage, "Shakespeare's R and J" features a quartet of upcoming stars who are physically robust, vocally gifted, and emotionally honest. But of the four, Andrew Lund stands out as Juliet - giving a portrayal that is simple, elegant, heartfelt and heart-breaking."

Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended

"... Dyson fleshes out a complex version of this supporting staple. Dyson hilariously makes her catty and manipulative. When not performing in R&J, Dyson and Nathan Ducker brood on the sidelines watching the loving acted out. Curtis Jackson (Romeo) and Andrew Lund (Juliet) make beautiful tragic lovers. Their attraction to each other is hot and sweet. I’m rooting for this couple to make it! Their genuine chemistry elicits its own laboratory implosion. As Jackson and Lund pledge their love in the chapel, they are attacked by Dyson and Ducker in the classroom. The underlying homophobia startles one into really grasping the hatred Romeo and Juliet confronted. Poignant! For naughty students, this foursome is A+ material."