Airness at Citadel Theatre Company

Chicago Reader - Recommended

"...Eric Luchen’s scenic design perfectly captures the grimy simplicity of a dive bar. Marcantel’s story is unique, heartwarming, and barely passes the Bechdel test. It deftly sidesteps infinitely more interesting storylines such as Nina’s problematic stalker behavior, and the positionality of Black participants in the predominantly white world of rock in favor of a fun and predictable story about friendship and achieving “Airness”—or losing yourself in the music for just a little bit. So, if you’re looking for a little escapism and just want to turn off your brain and rock out, this is the show for you."

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"..."Airness," Citadel Theatre's not-quite-a-musical explores the quirky world of air guitar competition. (Yes, air guitar competition is a real thing, and the International Finals will be held this summer in Finland.) This comedy, authored by Chelsea Marcantel, explains the artform while following five veteran competitors plus a newcomer as they try to qualify for the National Competition and achieve "Airness," that special quality of transcendence of imitation of playing and fancy moves to reaching your inner joy and turning iir guitar into a true art form."

Chicago Theatre Review - Recommended

"...Although the world of Air Guitar competition and loud rock music really isn’t my cup of tea, I fully understand the thrill of throwing myself into a completely new endeavor. Like Joe Lehman, I’ve had a long career as a professional actor/director, and the camaraderie that evolves with my fellow cast mates, the creation of a three-dimensional character and the sharing of his story with an audience. This is much like the world of “Airness,” and offers Citadel theatergoers a new experience they’ll long remember. So get ready to slay and just Rock on!"

Life and Times - Somewhat Recommended

"...There are two actors in particular who really transcend and give performances that are better than the material they have been given. Neil Stratman is completely endearing as a spiritually enlightened competitor named Facebender. The Facebender title is not indicative at all of the freely flowing love that he emotes at all times. It is a special performance. You just want to give him a hug. He would fit right in on an episode of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia."