The Boys Upstairs presented by Pride Films and Plays at Mary's Attic

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...David Zak's direction for Pride Films & Plays takes a goofy stab at urban romantic farce—no pun goes untouched, and all three abuse one-liners and look at adulthood through the lens of Logo TV. Some jokes are written with more self-awareness than others—no one onstage seems to notice how creepy a prolonged "grope the passed-out guy" gag is—but it's an excuse for Luke Meierdiercks to do quintuple duty and shine as a handful of different one-night stands."

Windy City Times - Somewhat Recommended

"...Luke Meierdiercks has the tough road of playing multiple smaller parts throughout the story. His leather-man depiction drops the ball, but then he redeems himself by stealing the show with Broadway lover Gabriel, also known as Gabie. The musical references keep coming until the audience can't help but laugh. "The twink of Glee" is worth the price of admission."

Stage and Cinema - Recommended

"...No question, The Boys Upstairs, appropriately performed in an “attic” venue, is as totally targeted as Josh’s doomed app. It’s often TMI as much as OMG and LOL. (Nothing is held back here, including the risk of shitting on sheets during anal sex.) Yes, it’s always arguable that a gay play doesn’t have to prove it by fixating on sex, booze and lifestyle humor. But it doesn’t hurt either. Anyway, pathos, tragedy, politics, philosophy, and aesthetics aside, this play is very gay. (It’s also all about homosexuals.)"

Chicago Theatre Review - Recommended

"...Jason Mitchell's play isn't groundbreaking but it's provocative and fun. Filled with sexy situations, adult language and humorous characters, the comedy provides a number of well-deserved laughs. The story, while rather traditional, is contagious and silly. It's a perfect as an entertainment for gay audiences. Mitchell's characters are all captivating, especially as directed by David Zak and performed by this talented, hardworking cast. Finally, the play's message is familiar, especially to those Friends of Dorothy: If you're searching for your heart's desire, look no further than your own backyard."

NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Director David Zak's cast is abs-tastic and riotously funny. Gary Henderson is perfect as the sweet, naïve, looking-for-a-relationship Charlotte-type of the group. Shaun Baer does a neat turn as the nearly-a-narcissist friend, drooling a "Georgia On My Mind" accent, Samantha-gone-Southern. At the center of the madness is the imperative Every-gay of the story. Nelson Rodriguez neatly sets the others up to crack their quips while providing the honest heart of this seemingly light story."