Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended
"...It's all told through a repetitive bluegrassish score and a radio-serial book that eschew nuance at most every turn, mistaking plot devices for characters, ultimately suggesting that grief and villainy are no match for optimism, dumb luck, and a banjo. It's mostly well sung, despite a rather muddy live band, although the incessantly circulating chorines make it seem like North Carolina is overrun with cheery zombies."
Windy City Times - Recommended
"...Bright Star is far from complex, but it proves that musicals don't need to be in order to succeed. Sweet and sincere, and possessed of very strong performances, it is a feel-good musical that winds its way into our hearts. Ultimately, its message is simple: no matter how difficult things can get, "the sun is gonna shine again.""
Stage and Cinema - Highly Recommended
"...You can savor heart and hope in every scene in Bright Star, BoHo Theatre's new triumph in their upstairs home at the Greenhouse Theater Center. Nostalgic without escapism and redemptive with utterly earned emotions, this 2014 bluegrass musical by phenoms Steve Martin and Edie Brickell spins an irresistible tale. It's full of unforced goodness and rewarded risk-taking, and steeped in Southern charm and down-home decency."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...Too me the surprise was the Bluegrass music of Steve Martin. The music was refreshing, and complemented the entire show, and under the direction of Julie Nichols, was the hit for the evening. I had to stay afterwards to congratulate her for an excellent job. This production marks the companies first as a resident company at Lincoln Park's Greenhouse Theatre Center, and the first under the leadership of the new artistic director Stephen Schellhardt."
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...The ensemble is equally magnificent, playing a variety of roles, and delivering every ounce of humor, drama and musical magic with earnest devotion. Ericka Mac, assisted by musical director Julie B. Nichols, have brought a tender, heartbreaking story to the stage in its Chicago debut. With a simple, rustic scenic design, by Lauren M. Nichols, and homespun, period costumes, designed by Robert S. Kuhn, this charming musical provides a sweet, warm, wonderful story to Chicago audiences to herald in the Spring. And, after all, what could be better?"
Buzznews.net - Highly Recommended
"...The show opened Saturday like a meteorite, sparks flying as the company marched on stage in powerful harmony for its opening, "If You Knew My Story." Then we hear those clarion chords as Missy Wise strides into view, and into our hearts - in a penetrating soprano sailing above the chorus, tuned to a rapid country vibrato that channels Reba McIntyre, Alison Krause and Tammy Wynette, only more dulcet and beautiful. It makes you cry it is so good. And they are only one minute into the number. Phew!"
Chicagoland Musical Theatre - Highly Recommended
"...So if you're willing to let your own guard down and let a little spring in at long last, the Greenhouse Theater Center is the place to be. Bright Star is set to shine on till May, but grab a seat while you can. This electric little musical is going to mean big things for BoHo."
Storefront Rebellion - Recommended
"...Three years almost to the day from its Broadway opening, Chicago gets its first look at Bright Star, the bluegrass-tinged, Southern-fried musical by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. The story is sweet but convoluted; the songs are packed with lovely melodies and frequently inane lyrics. But BoHo Theatre's production, under the direction of Ericka Mac, contains enough impressive performances and infectious heart to help you get past the hokier elements."
Picture This Post - Recommended
"...An emotional score with a dark yet hopeful twist of a story makes Bright Star an excellent choice to kick off BoHo Theatre Company's 15th Season. This writer is certainly curious to see what comes next."
BroadwayWorld - Highly Recommended
"...BRIGHT STAR has clearly found its guiding light with Wise as Alice, and the production on the whole is emotional and thoughtfully executed."
NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...Lauren M. Nichols' transformative set aligns with the show's rhythmic qualities. Between the sliding of walls and the chorus of the live band, scene changes feel natural. Moments that would pull the audience from the action are nowhere to be found. The interplay of Nichols' set, the band, G. Max Maxin IV's lighting and projections and Joseph Palermo's sound creates smooth movement from scene to scene. The opportunity to witness these intricate details on their own is enough to recommend "Bright Star.""
