Chicago Tribune - Highly Recommended
"...Fred Anzevino, the founder of the Theo Ubique Theatre (now just Theo Theatre), has long been one of the best directors in town when it comes to identifying young talent and then setting them up to do their best. I've been watching him do precisely that for years, but his production of the so-called Sondheim Tribute Revue is really Anzevino at his best."
Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended
"...Under Fred Anzevino's direction and with superb musical direction from pianist Carolyn Brady, the five-person company stages the work throughout the space, in and among the tables as well as on a stage and runway lighted to look like the most old-fashioned of theaters-a lovely homage to Sondheim's Follies and at the same time a distinct contrast to the revolutionary nature of the composer-lyricist's work."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...The selection of songs and the five quality performers that tell Sondheim’s story, also let go and talk about their own lives and the way that Sondheim’s music has changed their lives. I understand that 100% ( or more). I love everything Sondheim and in fact several of his songs have great meaning for both my wife and myself. As you watch this production you can see his growth and some of the changes in his life and the effect it had on his music. Sondheim was the music master/wordsmith for over 50 years and I can tell you that his music will live on for generations to come."
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...This original new musical revue is as exquisite, entertaining and exciting an evening as anyone could ever desire. Incorporating 30 songs from the Stephen Sondheim songbook, masterful and clever Artistic Director Fred Anzevino has not only crafted a gorgeous tribute to the gifted American composer, but he's also fashioned it as a tribute to his talented cast. The company's obvious love of Sondheim's music and their confessions about how it molded or changed their lives is the strength of this show. This element makes every song feel personal. Don't miss the chance to glory in the greatness that is Stephen Sondheim, America's brilliant Broadway Baby."
Chicago On Stage - Recommended
"...By the time the show closes with “Our Time” from Merrily We Roll Along (another unfairly obscure song), this cast will have won over the most cynical of observers. And that’s befitting a show that’s very much is a labor of love. In fact, each of the performers delivers a monologue about what Sondheim and his work has meant to their lives as artists and as human beings. Those moments serve to further enrich this celebration of the American musical’s greatest practitioner. But ultimately, hearing these songs interpreted with such care and respect is enough."
Evanston Roundtable - Highly Recommended
"...All five performers - Elya Faye Bottiger, Maxwell DeTogne, Ismael Garcia, Joe Giovannetti and Maliha Sayed - are wonderful. Every voice is strong, energetic and emotional. Together, they make a powerful and moving ensemble."
Splash Magazine - Recommended
"...Sondheim Tribute Revue is a good, solid show–a Sondheim sampler if you will: more than 30 songs from 15 musicals performed by a talented and enthusiastic five-member ensemble. Their performances, along with slick choreography, costumes and lighting, create a magical cabaret, far removed from the tedium and stress of the outside world. "
BroadwayWorld - Highly Recommended
"...But there's no question that Anzevino, Brady, and their charismatic performers have crafted a passionate tribute to a man whose career could never be adequately represented over a mere two hours. Despite this impossible task, Theo proves once again that they can successfully harness great emotions in the most intimate of spaces, a talent they share with the late Stephen Sondheim."
