Pontypool at Strawdog Theatre

Chicago Stage Review - Recommended

"... Pontypool proves that in horror, less is often more and what is suggested can be just as dark as what is shown. It plays like the twisted terror found in the pulp classic EC comics, with a slight hint of WKRP and a gnarly squib. It’s fast. It’s fun and it’s a frightening treat for both horror and theater fans alike. Pontypool is closing November 5th so time is running out, both on stage and off. It is well worth interrupting your regularly scheduled programming for this delightful cataclysm!"

Stage and Cinema - Recommended

"... The script rolls along smoothly (as long as you buy into the idea that everyone in this town seems to listen to this radio station) and the acting is consistently reliable, even as the madness surrounding the characters escalates. The authentic presentation helps to draw out the underlying satire that picks apart the 24-hour news cycle, the spreading of nonsensical concepts, and the use of language for communication. Director Anderson Lawfer has kept the thrills in place, but he never allows this show to take itself too seriously."

Let's Play at ChicagoNow - Highly Recommended

"...Lawfer stages it with edgy tension masterfully using the sound booth to show problems on-air and in the booth. In the lead, Jamie Vann (Grant) is perfect for this job. Playing the arrogant has-been, Vann is hysterical. His overlapping conversations with Elizabeth Dowling (Sydney) are Frasier and Roz excellent. Their working relationship is genuine and dysfunctional. Heard but not seen, Michael Dailey (Ken) skillfully conveys a homespun reporter (think Les Nessman) battling terror. The entire ensemble is horrifyingly great!"