Buyer and Cellar at Pride Arts Center

Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended

"...It is a tribute to Tolins's quick, witty words and, especially, to Gryder's complete command of the stage that a play about an imaginary mall in Barbra Streisand's basement turns out to be so compelling. I don't have a clue what appeal Streisand could hold for anyone, but More's absolute devotion to her and the spotless glamorous lifestyle she represents is thoroughly believable (if kind of sad). People like Streisand who live in a megalomaniacal bubble can't allow meaningful relationships with others or they risk puncturing the perfection they've worked so hard to fashion. The only people sadder than those inside the bubble are the ones on the outside eager to get in. More is lucky to have been banished and we're happy for him to live his own life rather than prop up someone else's delusions. "

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Oh, those memories, how they light the corners of our minds. But, as our narrator in “Buyer & Cellar” quickly points out, the human brain is round, so how could it have any corners, unless it is warped? Well, enough about trying to parse the lyrics written by Alan and Marilyn Bergman to the theme from “The Way We Were.” Instead, let’s focus on the product of the slightly warped and wickedly creative mind of playwright Jonathan Tolins, whose 2013 off-Broadway hit “Buyer & Cellar” is getting a rousing production at Pride Films and Plays that is as thoroughly hilarious as it is genuinely heartfelt."

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...This Chicago production, written by Jonathan Tolins ("Twilight of the Golds") and skillfully directed by Donterrio Johnson, is beautifully and artistically supported by Evan Frank's lovely, detailed scenic design, Mike McShane's sound and light compositions and a comfortably realistic wardrobe (notice Gryder's Mickey Mouse socks) by Jos N. Banks. The highest praise I can give this rollicking, sometimes poignant one-man play is that Scott Gryder is not only stellar in this role, and delightfully insightful within the show, but he seems like a great guy. He'd be someone theatergoers would enjoy hanging out with over a drink. For a cheerfully captivating evening of entertainment and enlightenment, do not miss this especially wonderful production that's as gay and lighthearted as Springtime."

Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended

"...Buyer and Cellar is a treat, both as a window into a very strange world and a comic tour de force for Gryder, whose skills and joy of performance are perfect for Tollins' journey. Get out to see it; you won't be disappointed."

PicksInSix - Highly Recommended

"...At the same time, Johnson has skillfully hewn the most dramatic and moving aspects of Alex’s collapsing relationship with Brad and taps Gryder’s broad range in ways to make you laugh and cry. We are left, as Alex is, to consider whether it is important to strive for comfort and security at all costs, or to trust our instincts, appreciate what we have within our reach and accept the people we love for who they are."