Chicago Tribune - Recommended
"...But what sustains "American Wee-Pie" as more than a disposable confection is its underlying respect for the value of small acts of kindness and nourishment. Kupferer also plays Malcolm, the postman who discovered Zed and Pam's mom after her death, and there is an absolute gem of a scene where he and Zed discuss Scrabble strategy. Instead of holding out for the triple-word-score payoffs, Malcolm tells Zed to start using up his letters sooner and get some points on the board. It's a lovely summation of the carpe-diem impulses in Dillman's story that leave a bittersweet mark on the palate."
Chicago Sun Times - Highly Recommended
"...Lisa Dillman’s marvelous new play, “American Wee-Pie,” now receiving an altogether delicious world premiere by Rivendell Theatre, might very well turn out to be among the smartest and most original works to emerge from this country’s long and frustrating recession."
Time Out Chicago - Recommended
"...American Wee-Pie may get swept away by the same romanticism it seeks to rationalize, but it’s an earnest, bittersweet trip with an ensemble—especially the superb and always authentic Keith Kupferer—whose sensible performances acknowledge that being true to oneself comes with risk. You don’t have to be simple to do what you love, just adventurous enough to stomach the turnout."
ChicagoCritic - Highly Recommended
"...As a world premiere, American Wee-Pie only needs a little tightening as it is basically a polished new work that has much to say about the life traps that many middle aged folks find themselves stuck in. We see how the need to be creative and the courage to change can become a self-reinvention that fuels contentment. Hope is the main ingredient in both the cupcakes and those little wee-pies. Entertainment for us this the result. You'll enjoy Lisa Dillman's comedy. Taste her treats."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Highly Recommended
"...Lisa Dillman's new comedy American Wee-Pie is a perfectly pitched treat for our times. This whimsical look at being laid off, losing loving ones, and starting over again is receiving a lovely production at Rivendell with a top-notch group of actors. It has big laughs and some profound insights, and is definitely a dessert treat that will stay with you long after your viewing ends."
Let's Play at ChicagoNow - Highly Recommended
"...In this drab, dark Chicago winter, we are all looking for light and un-guilty pleasures. This show is it. It has all the sweetness of a delectable dessert without the calories. AMERICAN WEE-PIE taste like a winner!"
Around The Town Chicago - Recommended
"... Directed by Megan Carney on a set by Regina Garcia, this is a smooth running story. The set is all locales with only a door swinging around to let us know where we are.Ms Garcia has used this small stage to full advantage and Joanna Iwanicka has assembled some wonderful props to fill the kitchen, the house and the stage."
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...A new script would not be completely successful without a talented cast, and Rivendell provides just that. Brocker's sad droopy face will instantly make you feel for his lost, uninspired character, and you will live his gained energy and passion with him as the play develops. Jennifer Pompa plays a bubbly and boisterous cupcake shop owner, adding small town flavor. And definitely worth mentioning is the quick changing Keith Kupferer, playing a mailman, burial plot salesman, and Zed's deceased coworker who is able to dash between very distinct personalities."
Huffington Post - Recommended
"...Dillman's play, deftly directed by Megan Carney, gives hope for those who aim for a second act in their lives, even if the leap they take doesn't land exactly as planned. Life is too short for selling out, and sometimes the safe, socially acceptable path isn't the right one. Sometimes we need sprinkles and surprise."
