Things to Ruin: The Songs of Joe Iconis presented by Refuge Theatre Project at Exit Chicago

Chicago Reader - Recommended

"...This show is essentially a concert of songs by Joe Iconis, its aim to emphasize that modern existence is unhappy and full of pain ("When I am bleeding," Kedgrick Pullums Jr. croons, "I'm alive"), but also that it helps if you can sing, dance, and drink whiskey with friends while trying to endure it. There's not much in the way of plot, but this ensemble of nighthawks grows on you in the end."

ChicagoCritic - Recommended

"...Refuge Theatre Project is ridiculously passionate about musical theatre-so passionate they've staged this current production in the loft of Exit Chicago, which professes itself as "Chicago's Original Punk Bar since 1981." The venue's ambience fits well with the feel of the production. If I were more of a fan of contemporary musical theatre, I think the show would have been a night to remember. Even still, Things to Ruin had enough melodic pull (if not lyrical substance) to keep me engaged and tapping my feet. If you're lukewarm on the concept, I'd recommend checking out some of Iconis' music online, and perhaps giving it a try: the price is right, and, worst case, you've got a catchy song stuck in your head until bedtime."

Chicagoland Musical Theatre - Highly Recommended

"...It's strangely endearing, really. For all Ruin's self-deprecation, the evening never quite veers head-on into irony or sarcasm, as much as Ruin's parade of characters try them on for size and desperately wish they'd fit. Sometimes, you just gotta feed that inner angsty and excessively earnest teenager."

The Hawk Chicago - Recommended

"...Overall, the production presented a pleasant mixture of hope and despair-both relevant in our current cultural moment-- performed by a top-notch Chicago cast."

Picture This Post - Highly Recommended

"...The cast consists of seven strong performers that never disappoint. Madison Kauffman has exceptional comedic timing and a voice that matches its heights. Deanalis Resto has a realness and range of talent that any actor would envy. Her funny and touching performance of "Asleep on My Arm" alone is worth becoming one of the few audience members this intimate space allows. Matt Dominguez, the director of this impressive group of performers, has successfully created the feeling of what we all hope a night out at a bar would be like if we had such talented and fun friends."