Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...As books go, Landau's is not the easiest to fuse together, but it's all there if you've got the right visual metaphors in place. I kept staring at Diane D. Fairchild's set, trying to figure out what intentions were in play. But it is hard to see the two worlds we need to see — one a subterranean crisis zone of the soul, one a surface circus — or sense how they connect. There's too much thick, cloying stuff on the stage for a simpler use-your-imagination conceit, which could have worked, but there's also no pathway through all that stuff, especially since, in crucial transitions, Sullivan hasn't figure out how to instill urgency and unity. You can't get the events of this day firmly arranged in your brain, and as result understanding what they mean can't happen either."
Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended
"...But thanks in large part to Jim DeSelm—charismatic even when motionless as Floyd—I found myself moved by the inner life of the man meeting his doom below as the crowds feed off his tragedy above. Greg Foster and Jon Harrison also make strong impressions—Foster as a cocky cub reporter who undergoes his own dark night of the soul and Harrison as Floyd's rebellious brother Homer. And Guettel's 1994 score remains a beaut."
Windy City Times - Recommended
"...A cast led by Jim DeSelm as the doomed Floyd (with impressive support from Greg Foster as a cub reporter whose slight physique leads him to become a participant in his own story) likewise draws us into their universe by emphasizing the play's emotional content, rather than striving for recital-grade pitch or harmony. Music may be the language of the heart, but what engages our empathy is the filial bond shared by the Collins siblings and the indissoluble faith it sustains even as hope of survival wanes. During the rare moments when Floyd breaks free of his untimely grave to join his brother in kinetic recollection or to reunite joyfully with his kinfolk, our exhilaration at his respite is as palpable as it it illusory."
Centerstage - Highly Recommended
"... Jim DeSelm creates the perfect Collins with his charm, good looks and vocal prowess. His ease with this difficult score is shown in, among others, “The Call,” in which DeSelm harmonizes with his own echo (backed by Christopher Kriz’s stunning sound design). The talented ensemble features shining newcomer Jon Harrison, as Homer, and Greg Foster as a heartbreaking Skeets Miller. This must-see production truly portrays “How Glory Goes.”"
Chicago Theatre Addict - Highly Recommended
"...There’s much to admire in this must-see production. Peter Marston Sullivan keeps the story focused on telling the story, avoiding any flashy directorial tricks. Most refreshingly, Alan Bukowiecki’s music direction does Guettel’s deceptively complex score proud, thanks to the five person band and a vocally astute cast. Of the many remarkable moments, Sarah Bockel (as Collins’ strong-willed sister) provides a plaintively gorgeous rendition of “Through the Mountain,” which she delivers as a hopeful lullaby to her brother below."
Stage and Cinema - Somewhat Recommended
"...While issues remain about the libretto and some of the direction, this production of Floyd is probably as good as any you’ll see – in part because it both sounds amazing and contains strong performances, but also because it probably won’t be done again for a very long time. Even with Guettel’s magnificent score, BoHo’s production serves as a reminder that there’s a reason why this show stays underground."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...Floyd Collins is a fine, entertaining folk operetta that handles tragedy of Floyd Collins with respect and emotional impact. BoHo Theatre’s ambitious intent evolves into a well done musical. This show is worthy of an audience."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended
"... No question, Guettel’s rich score enriches a rather passive show where reactions more than actions power the plot. His compositions are a potent blend of bluegrass Appalachian folk tunes, a complex echoing counterpoint and even boogie-woogie in a number that satirizes the predatory reporters. Shaped by music director Alan Bukowiecki, the talented cast give it all it’s worth."
Around The Town Chicago - Somewhat Recommended
"...I am convinced that BoHo Theatre:Bohemian Theatre Ensemble is one of our brighter troupes, one that takes on enormous challenges eash season, and while their current production, “Floyd Collins” is a bit too dark and far to long ( almost 2 1/2 hours), I admire them for taking on this big production on a very small budget. With a book by Tina Landau and Music and Lyrics by Adam Guettel, “Floyd Collins” is a folk operetta based on the true story that took place from January, 30th thru February 16th in 1925 in Kentucky. Floyd Collins ( deftly played by Jim DeSelm, who has a strong voice and great stage presence), a farmer sees an opportunity to market a cave on the property as a tourist attraction, but as he works into the depths of the land, gets trapped by a heavy boulder."
