Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...Identity is mutable, to be sure, but it also has history. Losing one's parents and moving on without them disrupts identity in all kinds of ways, whether one is kin or not. That part of the family drama (or the family mythology, if you will) is lacking in Glick's mix of fable and kitchen-sink realism. If he decides to add that in, all the kin connections in Lucy's story - mythical and mundane alike - can take wing in this unusual but open-hearted show."
Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended
"...The way things stand, for instance, the only apparent reason for the sisters' shared dysphoria is that the concept demands it. But the potential is there-along with a certain charm, as when Annie Prichard's Lucy perches like a gargoyle and roars back at a question from a friend. One significant problem: director Evan Linder weakens this New Colony world premiere by parking it in John Wilson's vague and figurative set. The humor, magic, pain, and surprise of Kin Folk all require absolute realism to bring them into sharp relief."
Windy City Times - Recommended
"...Change is constant for everyone, but seldom will audiences find an entire family for whom transitioning has become almost a way of life. Changing one's residence, gender, religion, identity and even species all co-exist in this bizarre, 85-minute work. Especially for fans of fantasy fiction, Comic-Con and The Game of Thrones, here's a unique comedy that speaks volumes about the need and universality of kinship."
Time Out Chicago - Recommended
"...Much of that is due to the performers, all good to excellent, as well as the playwright. The script may be a bit of a mess, but Glick and the ensemble approach all the characters with equal parts compassion and scrutiny. As Lucy, Annie Prichard gets both the choicest moments and the most problematic, but her performance, unburdened by vanity or self-indulgence, never falters. She's ably assisted by the rest of the cast, in particular Steve Love (as her elfin guide to a new community) and Alexia Jasmene (as Lucy's transgender sister Eleanor), both of whom practically radiate warmth and vulnerability. Kin Folk's story is one worthy of their considerable talents, as well as those of projection designer Paul Deziel, but it's hard not to wish that Glick and director Evan Linder had given as much love to the world they're building as to the characters who inhabit that world."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...While I can sympathize with those who will be turned-off by its subject matter and its obvious appeal to “the younger generation,” Kin Folk does offer more than just what it advertises—in fact, its description is rather misleading, as I wouldn’t say Lucy learns how to “live a life driven by faith and love of the fantastic.” Rather, this is one New Colony collaborative effort that succeeds in showing some of the human grit and ambiguity of life. If you’re willing to get lost in a some very strange circumstances with some very strong performances, then you might find some kinship in Kin Folk."
Around The Town Chicago - Somewhat Recommended
"...I never thought I would say that I was "lost" in a production, but tonight, while watching "Kin Folk" at The Den Theatre's Upstairs Main Stage, it happened. This is a World Premier of a new work by William Glick that had very little story and substance for me. There was a great deal of laughter from the 20-somethings and of course the actor's friends and family, but, from my seat, one that is known for "big laughter", there was almost none. Let me try to explain what Glick has put on the stage with the direction of Evan Linder."
Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended
"...This play is innovative and well-handled by The New Colony. Be advised that although it has many elements of fantasy, it is not for kids. Well worth seeing."
NewCity Chicago - Recommended
"...There’s a very strange and reasonable thought running under the whole of “Kin Folk.” While identity politics in day-to-day life seem complicated and a minefield of new terminology distances the mainstream from those who don’t fit into the predetermined categories, “Kin Folk” knows that there’s one rule: be whoever you want but don’t be a dick. That’s not a simplification but a good starting place as we step further into self-expression and definition; the tendrils that branch out are dangerous and as we get closer to our true selves, the softer and more volatile we are."