Chicago Tribune - Recommended
"..."Always...Patsy Cline" isn't a complex show and this production made the choice to remove the musicians a bit from the performers (it's a tricky, elongated space), but the work is sincere, rich, heartfelt and, well, an ideal gift for anybody who loves these numbers and the women who made them linger."
Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended
"...France's singing doesn't mimic Cline's warm style so much as make it her own in hits such as "Walkin' After Midnight" and "Faded Love." The arrangements felt a little slower, but no less stirring, from what I've heard on jukeboxes for decades, and Brigitte Ditmars's staging also gives us welcome breathing space to enjoy these two women finding solace in each other's company."
Theatre By Numbers - Recommended
"...Kudos especially to musical director Andra Velis Simon, for assembling her backing quartet with mostly female musicians and musicians of color. It's a nice touch, given that the script expects an all-male band and has gone to the trouble of giving them all red-neck nicknames. So, if you need holiday fare, but you're done with Dickens, and your nuts have been cracked, there's always Patsy Cline."
Around The Town Chicago - Recommended
"...“Always…Patsy Cline” is a loving testament not only to the everlasting bonds of friendship but also a moving tribute to one of the most iconic voices of the 20th century. It’s amazing how much Patsy Cline accomplished in her very brief career. All of these songs act as a reminder of her greatness but it’s nearly impossible not to think about all that lay ahead for her and all of the music that would not be recorded by her — music that was silenced when she was tragically taken from all of her numerous fans when she was only 30."
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...But in the end, what makes this show work is Brigitte Ditmar’s direction and her trust in these two accomplished musical actresses to bring Patsy and Louise to life. Audiences will love the two hours they spend with this talented duo and might even plan a return visit, in order to experience the two actresses trading roles. “How Great Thou Art,” indeed! Especially during the holiday season, this is a warm, wonderful show to share with friends. For that is, after all, what this show is really all about: friendship."
Rescripted - Highly Recommended
"...Under those bright country lights is the bandstand. Lead by music director Andra Velis Simon, the four-piece band plays along with more than just the songs. The band members sing back up and talk back when Louise tries to take things over. Sound designer and engineer Giselle Castro creates that tiny amplification that those older mics produced but allows room for Patsy Cline’s voice to fill the space uninhibited. There’s a lightness throughout the performance crafted by director Brigitte Ditmars. Ditmars strips away the internalized theatre etiquette that encourages audiences to sit down and shut up. Everything about this production wants you to get up, hoedown, and have a good time. It’s cold out there, warm up with Firebrand."
Storefront Rebellion - Recommended
"...Always... may not go too deep on either of its subjects, but if you consider it as a hybrid form-call it an enhanced revue-it's a toe-tappin' good trip down one lane of country music history."
Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended
"...The feminist musical theatre company Firebrand (for which France is Artistic Director) has, in its first two seasons, already become a glorious fixture in the Chicago theatre scene. With Always… Patsy Cline, it begins its third season on a high note with this lovely, sweet and personal show that tells of both a remarkable talent and a true female friendship. It may not be a holiday show, but it will absolutely make you feel good. And you’ll probably leave singing Patsy Cline songs, which isn’t a bad thing either."
PicksInSix - Recommended
"...It all feels like a step back in time with Cline's classic ensembles-the fine work of costume designer Steph Taylor and wig designer Keith Ryan-which allow France and Hall to seamlessly weave the era and the heartfelt story of the brief, yet life-changing, meeting that frames a night of superb music from one of country music's greatest stars."
Picture This Post - Recommended
"...Standout musical numbers and strong performances make Always… Patsy Cline a musical to see. Whether or not you are a country music fan, there is a little something in this show for everyone."
NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...This a jukebox musical that doesn't feel tired. It's not Chicago's millionth production of "Million Dollar Quartet" or "Mama Mia." But it's also more than that. This is a story based on letters, real letters, and a story we know much more about. These women are real. They give us a true-to-life map of how quickly people can become like family and how much that changes who we are. No matter which side of the stage you're on."
