Dangerous Beauty presented by American Music Theatre Project at Ethel M. Barber Theater - Northwestern

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"...the capable book-writer, Jeannine Dominy, will have to let go of the conventionally drawn romance undermining her show's feminist message, just as it did in the movie. Right now, we have to watch the jerk who first spurns Veronica redeem her in the last few minutes from the cartoonish bullies of the Inquisition. There is nothing progressive or satisfying in that climactic spectacle. I'd rather hear a whole lot more from the young wives who finally come to understand that fighting oppression requires disparate tools. It should mostly be about those woman-to-woman relationships, not weak-kneed dudes."

Chicago Sun Times - Highly Recommended

"...Director Sheryl Kaller's magisterial (and at moments quite sexually graphic) staging has great panache, with Robert La Fosse's subtle period dances adding spice, and Doug Peck's lustrous musical direction unbeatable (his six musicians sound like a full orchestra). Emma Rosenthal, Peter Kevoian and Peter Oyloe excel in major supporting roles."

Windy City Times - Somewhat Recommended

"...I think. First, not only is it filled with exposition about politics and society, but it also tells me—rather than shows me—what attitudes about love and passion should be. I'm not swept away. For example, Veronica and Marco already are in love at the start, so I don't see them fall in love. Then, I found the music pleasant and sometimes grand but always bland. Of 22 numbers, only five struck me as notable in some way."

Centerstage - Highly Recommended

"...This production is a veritable feast for the ears and eyes. Jeannine Dominy provided the musical's script (which features a book and verse adapted from her own screenplay), while Michele Brourman and Amanda McBroom collaborated on the music and lyrics for this stage version of Ms. Franco’s colorful life."

Time Out Chicago - Somewhat Recommended

"...Structurally, the creators have laid out this argument intelligently and with little judgment of their characters (which could be an easy trap). It’s just that of all the pleasant, listenable songs included here, it’s nearly impossible to recall a single one, save a mildly rock-tinged number called “Heaven and Hell.” And perhaps that’s the key. Any narrative this progressive needs a modern sound to match."

ChicagoCritic - Highly Recommended

"...I believe “Dangerous Beauty” is a sophisticated, well-staged romantic musical that only needs a few tweaks before it moves to Broadway. Jenny Powers has made Veronica her own with her sensual, yet charismatic performance. Jason Heymann, Hollis Resnik, Jeffrey Baumgartner, Peter Kevoian and Peter Oyloe were terrific. The singing was first rate."