Bernadette, The Musical Reviews

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"...You don’t see a show in Lakeview like “Bernadette, The Musical” every day. In fact, I’ve never seen a show quite like “Bernadette” in Lakeview, or most anywhere else on Chicago’s North Side. For one thing, most everyone involved not named Kelsey Grammer (who’s a producer) is French. For another, it’s a show that was first seen in Lourdes, the town in southwestern France known for pilgrimages, but not exactly the seat of your Broadway-style musicals."

Chicago Reader - Not Recommended

"...this production falls short on too many other markers of quality musical theater to win me over. The score (music by Grégoire; lyrics by Lionel Florence, Patrice Guirao, and Grégoire; English lyric adaptation by Barry Blue) heavily relies on repetitive, often saccharine melodies and lyrics. Plus, the pre-recorded orchestrations sound glaringly inferior to the live musicians who typically accompany Broadway tours."

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...I never read “The Song of Bernadette”, and I understand there was also a film version, but tonight, I was in attendance at the Athenaeum Center for Thought and Culture on Chicago’s North Side. Many of us remember this building for the smaller theaters that were used by local companies as they started out. The large, first floor theater is now called “the Historic Main Stage”, and I must tell you, the building has undergone some radical changes and is quite stunning."

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...While there are much more entertaining musicals, with better stories and tuneful scores, BERNADETTE, THE MUSICAL is a spiritual experience, regardless of one’s religious beliefs. Long after the theatergoer leaves this moving musical drama, the warm, radiant smile and commanding professional performance of lovely, petite Eyma will stay with them for a long time. And this is the pure power of the Lady of Lourdes."

Splash Magazine - Highly Recommended

"...This ordinary teen took on extreme hostility from those who did not believe her. The universal themes of struggle to be authentic and bear faithful witness despite immense challenges and obstacles make this musical timelessly relevant to all audiences. This simple, poor shepherdess changed the world."

NewCity Chicago - Recommended

"...Bernadette, played by French singer and actress Eyma, who originated the role, brought remarkable simplicity to her portrayal. It was an astonishing performance-you could really feel Bernadette's increasing frustration with a world around her, divided between wanting to persecute or revere her. She wanted neither."