Five Flights Reviews

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...When the husband himself dies, his heirs have very—very—different ideas of what should become of the rookery. The tale feels a little like a Lilli Carré drawing come to life, and Immediate Theatre's Peter Cieply gives it an optimal staging, with strong performances and a marvelous flow of projections by Michael Fernandez. But for all that, Bock's endless writerly filigrees made me want to jump out of my skin"

Time Out Chicago - Recommended

"... This first production by Immediate Theatre, named for the 1980s Chicago troupe of which director Peter Cieply was a member, doesn’t always soar. Cieply and Gann overplay the gag of Olivia’s fluttery physicality, and Langford takes too long to find second and third notes in Jane. But lovely projection design by Michael Fernandez and a warm, truthful performance by Freed help illuminate Bock’s ruminations on faith, grief and the need for human connection. This cosmic, comic tale’s no featherweight."

ChicagoCritic - Recommended

"... Watching the ballet scene that has 5 actors moving in rhythm ofa Russian ballet was hilarious. Five Flights, of course, has 5 scenes as it violates many of the rules of theatre and storytelling but it also strangely fully engages us as we wonder what will happen next. We care aboutthe charactersand gladly go with them on their journey as they struggle with their issues. We have fun along the way. Five Flights is a screwball show thatis more that“forthebirds.” (Sorry.)"

Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended

"... Under the direction of Peter Cieply, the ensemble is a tight flock. Freed anchors the show in resigned sensibility. His practicality is a little saddening and a lot authentically real. Mildred Marie Langford (Jane) and Emily Gain (Olivia) are squabbling hysterical chicks. They bluster through their crazy rantings with zest and conviction. Chris Carr (Tom) delights in both his love hesitation and pursuit. John Victor Allen (Andre) is hockey-player-goes-to-the-ballet hilarious. Allen plays a sidekick with perfect comedic timing. Melonie Collman (Adele) plays a sidelined character until she makes her big move. Collman ends the show with ‘a little dance‘ that is playful and hopeful."