Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended
"...Tracy Lett's 2008 comedy has been produced at Steppenwolf Theatre and on Broadway—but after seeing this fantastic production in Mary-Arrchie's shoebox space, it's hard to imagine as a big-stage show. Richard Cotovsky is excellent as Arthur Przybyszewski, a lonely, aging radical who runs the shabby doughnut shop he inherited from his immigrant parents."
Chicago Stage Review - Highly Recommended
"...Mary-Arrchie’s Superior Donuts is a total crowd pleaser, hitting every mark with the script’s witty dialogue and emotional revelations. It is at times a bit bumpy and slightly sporadic, but that’s the city. Even with its potholes, we happily travel down these streets that we know and love. Mary-Arrchie creates a hysterical and heartwarming theatrical triumph with this outstanding production. Do not miss your chance to see their picture perfect postcard of Chicago."
Time Out Chicago - Recommended
"... With smart plotting, Letts deftly turns what may look like stale character types into fresh baked goods. Shuffling and disheveled, Cotovsky’s well suited to the good-hearted guy who’s given up on possibility. Tate, despite his tendency to swallow his words, brings a natural spark and wit to Franco. As two of the shop’s few patrons, Millie Hurley and Susan Monts-Bologna offer standout support."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"... Superior Donuts is a production thatplaysthe heartstrings with a light touch and a lot of laughs without getting overly sappy. Arthur’stouching soliloquies about his past and his regrets give his wizened hippie character more than one dimension. Franco’s secret (andthepeople it brings with it) feels a little out of place in light of the levity. It’s the most contrived part of the tale—seemingly shoehornedin toensure that Arthur has a chance for a larger redemption than mightbe allowed in the real world. Still, it’s smarter than any average feel-good-movie-of-the-week even with similar tropes at its core. Like a Dunkin Donut versus a Superior’s, you can feel good about consuming it knowing it’s been crafted with care."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Highly Recommended
"... Tracy Letts does an exceptional job developing the relationship between Arthur and Franco in the short time the play offers. The overall layout of the plot strikingly resembles that of a 1980’s sitcom, back when sitcoms had heart in their characters. I wouldn’t go as for to call it a dark comedy, and never that ugly word dramedy, it’s more like a detailed story from your incredibly interesting grandfather. You know, the guy who can tell any story and greatly evoke the humor. Letts significantly reminds us that there is emotion in the little guy who performs the same routine from nine to nine every day."
Let's Play at ChicagoNow - Recommended
"...Under the direction of Matt Miller, the talented ensemble transport us easily to the Uptown neighborhood. Scenic Designer Jenniffer Thusing recreates a dingy joint under the Red Line. It has all the vintage ambiance that ensures regulars frequent it and new people scurry past. Richard Cotovsky (Arthur) is the fixture behind the counter. Cotovsky is an overage stoner. He transforms from curmudgeon to friend with an awkward but endearing awakening. The budding relationship between him and Preston Tate, Jr. (Franco) charms like the old guy and kid in the movie UP. Tate is a wonderfully energetic chatterbox. His earnest enthusiasm is adorable. The surprising bromance is subtle and satisfying. Two other standouts in the solid cast are the two ladies looking all too authentic in their roles. I’d swear I’ve gotten a ticket from Millie Hurley (cop) and given money to Susan Monts-Bologna (homeless woman)."
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"... Every so often you encounter the perfect pairing of actor and role. Mary-Arrchie founding member and Artistic Director Richard Cotovsky has found one of those roles. From his shoulder-slumped shuffle to his cautious and weary gaze, Cotovsky fully embodies Arthur, an inert Uptown donut shop owner who’s the center of Tracy Lett’s 2008 play, Superior Donuts."
Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended
"...One of the best things about reviewing theatre is finding the hidden gems: hole-in-the-wall storefronts or dusty park district venues that burst with well-kept secrets. In the case of Mary-Arrchie Theatre’s Superior Donuts, the secret’s out: the show is sold out through this weekend. The intimate space guarantees a glorious intense experience, but it doesn’t hold many, so get your tickets now. A slice of Chicago – in all its gritty, imperfect glory – awaits."
