Almost Heaven - John Denver's America at Theatre At The Center

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...In reality this is almost a concert with his bio being presented along with his music. The concept by Harold Thau is not that unique, but the presentation directed by Linda Fortunato is easy to follow as we learn a great deal about the man and his music . There are five performers with Steven Romero Schaeffer ( who some might remember from TATC’s “Big River”) taking on the “identity” of Denver. He has the look and feel but never tried to imitate Denver. The other cast members are Sara Geist, a new comer to the Munster stage, Tommy Malouf ( recently he was here for “Million Dollar Quartet”, Andrew Mueller ( making his TATC debut) and Shannon McEldowney ( previously in “The Pajama Game”)."

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...While this charming musical is short on story it’s long on song and filled with gifted, charismatic talent. Featuring a program of fan favorites, culled from John Denver’s twelve gold and four platinum albums, audiences will delight listening to hits like “All of My Memories,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Calypso,” “Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” “Grandma’s Feather Bed,” “Annie’s Song,” “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” “Sunshine on My Shoulders” and “Poems, Prayers and Promises.” Grateful audiences will leave this production, wrapped in warm, fond memories of when they first heard these John Denver hits and became fans during the 1960s and 70s. It’s assured that every theatergoer will fly back home on a "Rocky Mountain High.""

Chicagoland Musical Theatre - Somewhat Recommended

"...Perhaps that’s what TATC’s Almost Heaven: John Denver’s America does best—memorializes the delicious canon of music with ties that bind relationships. It’s why the concept (by Harold Thau) of five singers working their way through a good piece of Denver’s songbook allows for a nice evening’s entertainment. And with the soft touches of Linda Fortunato‘s direction along with the silhouette birch trees in Ann Davis‘ tranquil set design and G. “Max” Maxin IV‘s soft lighting, the TATC stage is the perfect place to showcase talents of some terrific musicians and cast."

Chicago Theater and Arts - Recommended

"...Some of the best moments here are the ensemble numbers. These work because it takes several people to match the energy of one John Denver. Also, the harmonies and vocal arrangements of Jeff Waxman are spot-on, aided by the musical direction of William Underwood with musicians Malcolm Ruhl and Alison Tatum."