Chicago Tribune - Recommended
"..."A Taste of Soul" is part of Black Ensemble Theater's "2023 Season of Excellence," which is subtitled, "Rejuvenation." According to founder and CEO Jackie Taylor, the theme of rejuvenation ties together productions that aim to "reignite the passion, excitement and energy of returning to the vibrancy and vitality" of live theater. Considering the diverse group of people who were clearly having a blast at the opening performance, I'd say this show fits the bill."
Windy City Times - Highly Recommended
"...We all know the sluggish quagmire of weekday work mornings. Often the only thing that gets us moving and able to face the day is our favorite songs. While all of the Black Ensemble Theater productions highlight this profound necessity for music in our daily lives, A Taste of Soul, their current joyous offering, really brings that fact into clear focus."
Let's Play Theatrical Reviews - Highly Recommended
"...The Taste of Soul is an exuberant celebration you don't want to miss. It is an enjoyable musical experience."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"..."A Taste of Soul", beautifully written and directed by Daryl D. Brooks, is a delightful mixture of soul music and soul food recipes, plus lots of seasoning! Brimming with delectable morsels, this tribute show contains all of the nostalgia that you would have ever wished for. Featuring a sampling of musical hits from well-known performing artists from the latter half of the twentieth century, the production brings back lots of special memories about food, music, and family ties."
WTTW - Highly Recommended
"...Attention all big-time Broadway producers: If you are in search of a sure-fire mega-hit musical, you are advised to hop on a plane to Chicago ASAP and head straight to the Black Ensemble Theater. That is where you will discover "A Taste of Soul." The world premiere production is a knockout on every level and is sure to attract a vast New York audience hooked on the irresistible music whose "golden age" was in the 1950s, '60s and '70s - yet remains every bit as golden all these decades later."
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...This spectacular, smooth and sweet-sounding satire of every TV cooking show simply sizzles. It continues Black Ensemble Theater’s Season of Excellent: Rejuvenation. Divinely danceable, this is a superlative singalong for theatergoers, with toe-tapping and hand-clapping strongly encouraged. All in all, the show is a recipe for success and quite “Simply the Best.”"
Buzznews.net - Highly Recommended
"..."Taste of Soul," skillfully crafted and directed by the talented Daryl D. Brooks, transcended its modest title. It proved to be an extraordinary event that exceeded all my expectations.Brooks has ingeniously crafted an engaging live cooking show, featuring the dynamic duo of Thee Ricky Harris and the equally remarkable Qiana McNary as the lead chefs. In addition to sharing brief biographies of soul artists, the hosts impart valuable lessons on preparing soul food to the audience. Their camaraderie and delighf ul banter contribute to the overall enjoyable experience."
Splash Magazine - Highly Recommended
"...Soul Music is a distinct, wildly popular style or musical genre that originated in the Black
community through the late 1950's and early 1960's. With its roots in gospel and rhythm and
blues, astride the burgeoning rock and roll era, it is the perfect music for listening, romancing
and dancing. Never abrasive, tangentially political, it was- and is- fast-moving and fun.
Nonetheless, U.S. labels such as Motown and Atlantic were influential during the Civil Rights
Movement in the U.S., especially in the 1960's and early 1970"s. Soul proliferated around the
world and has had a resurgence with neo-soul. It is instantly recognizable with it's dreamy, sexy vibe."
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