Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...The best moments of this show are two honest monologues. One is when Simpkins gets to be alone on the stage, and you see her diving into the depths of her character and directly communicating, as did Woolley, which is when Simpkins is at her formidable best. The other is when you see Emjoy Gavino’s Marks teaching her unseen students — a core revolutionary act, here beautifully expressed. It really is all about trusting these great historic characters and, as far as possible, letting them speak and act for themselves."
Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended
"...It's a moving commentary on the cyclical nature of human connections and the emotional toll of living with a secret, and Adachi-Winter plays Pearl's first-broken-heart, nervous-breakdown-style monologue with relatable rage and crumpled charisma. Given the show's rapid pace and decades-long time line, make sure to explore additional information on the women posted around the theater for added context."
Time Out Chicago - Recommended
"...Despite some flaws, Bull in a China Shop is a helluva good hang. A murderers' row of a cast, led by the fantastic pair of Simpkins and Gavino, certainly helps."
Theatre By Numbers - Recommended
"...This production is the sort of theatrical medicine needed to combat Chicago's continued love affair with straight white male playwrights and directors, and will have you longing for an autumn campus library, even in the midst of a sunny Pride month. Consider it required viewing if theater by women of color is important to you."
Stage and Cinema - Recommended
"...Perfectly pictured in William Boles’ pastoral-perfect setting, Bull in a China Shop is a wonderful recovery, recounting a vital slice of progress. Revolutions always start small, so there’s much to be gained by being present at their creation."
Chicago Theatre Review - Recommended
"...Staged upon William Boles’ beautiful unit scenic design that easily provides multiple locales, and lit in romantic shades of color and shadow by Claire Chrzan, this production is lush and brimming with the perfect atmosphere. Completing the sensory effect is Eric Backus’ sound design and original music, all of which adds so much to Keira Fromm’s production. Not only a perfect kickoff to Gay Pride Month, this is an entertaining, educational and motivational play that brings humanity and realism to two of the real-life pioneers who helped bring about change and equal rights for women."
Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended
"...Full of excellent acting and very funny moments alongside some highly poignant ones as well, this play delivers. After a two-hour slog into the city, it was precisely the ticket I needed: a night of priceless mirth and powerful messages. It’s easily in my top ten for the first half of 2018."
Picture This Post - Recommended
"...BULL IN A CHINA SHOP is a funny, dramatic, political love story. It's a wonderful start to pride month as it captures the dynamic relationship of Mary and Jeanette as well as their uphill battle against society. BULL is an especially good pick for anyone who enjoys the story of powerful women in love."
