Chicago Sun Times
- Highly Recommended
"...That music hits immediately at BET, in an overture popping with Presley riffs. Music director Robert Reddrick keeps things moving throughout with a band (led by Oscar Brown Jr. on bass, Myron Cherry on drums, Adam Sherrod on keyboards and Charles ?Chip? DuBose on guitar) that delivers bangers, bops and ballads with power and dexterity."
Chicago Reader
- Highly Recommended
"...The similarities between Joe and Elvis are also present beyond growing up in tough economic circumstances: both served in the Army in Germany, and both ended up facing issues with substance abuse that cost them their lives. But it's the love that flows through Janet and Joe's family that stands out in the narrative, as they negotiate the changing world around them with steadfast belief in themselves and each other. In one humorous interlude, Janet's dad (Jaitee Thomas) urges her to use words and her brain to fight back against those that would denigrate her-while her mom (Melanie McCullough) reminds her that sometimes a well-timed punch to the chin can get a bully off your back. Thomas and McCullough bring delightful marital chemistry to their roles."
Talkin Broadway
- Recommended
"...The ensemble members, Direoce Junirs, Trequon Tate, Dwight Neal, and Destin Warner, are all excellent, demonstrating strong, versatile voices. The occasional stumbles with regard to lyrics or choreography, paired with their stage presence, contribute to the intimate, homegrown feeling of the show."
Let's Play Theatrical Reviews
- Highly Recommended
"...Elvis Presley Was A Black Man Named Joe isn't just about Elvis, Joe, or Taylor's family. It's more about Taylor's love and opening up to the world about the loss she experienced."
Around The Town Chicago
- Highly Recommended
"...How refreshing it is to watch something awesome! ?Elvis Presley Was a Black Man Named Joe? is an extraordinary production, certainly one of the best shows I?ve seen in a long time. Written and directed by Black Ensemble Theater?s Jackie Taylor, this is an autobiographical story about her affection for Elvis Presley and his music and for her younger brother Joe, only nine months her junior."
Chicago Theatre Review
- Recommended
"...Jackie Taylor?s autobiographical musical revue focuses on the relationship with her dearly departed younger brother, Joe. It also gives theatergoers a bit of insight into Ms. Taylor?s family life growing up in Cabrini Green. While admitting that Elvis Presley was a major part of their young lives, and both of them loved his music, Ms. Taylor also finds several comparisons between her sibling and the King of Rock ?n? Roll, showing how Joe and Elvis were the same, but different. The show, which is less than two hours long, features several moments that touch the heart. But, as always at BET, it?s the brilliantly delivered musical numbers, sung by a talented cast, backed by a gifted onstage band and enhanced by some animated and cheerful choreography, that truly elevates this show to a pleasure."
Splash Magazine
- Highly Recommended
"...Elvis Presley Was A Black Man Named Joe offers a truly unique perspective on coping with loss. The play narrates the story of a sister, Janet, who finds solace in shared memories after losing her brother, Joe. Jackie Taylor?s production skillfully weaves historical facts into the narrative, and the set/light design effectively evokes the period, creating a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience."
Allie and the After Party
- Recommended
"...Written by BET's own founder, Elvis Was A Black Man Named Joe takes us back in Jackie Taylor's memories to show how Elvis was a staple in her and her brother's life. The show weaves together her healing journey alongside Elvis' legacy rooted in African-American music and artists."
