Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...“Gobsmacked!” becomes a good bit stronger in Act 2 (not that we need an intermission), and there is a fine percussive solo turn therein from Ball-Zee. But this show really needs to examine its reason for being, beyond turning a buck. Until everyone involves knows what and why they are communicating, they won’t be gobsmacking anybody for the long haul."
Stage and Cinema - Recommended
"...Maybe a little of this acquired taste goes a long way over two acts, however amazing the sound effects and the creative camouflage produced by these supple and often awesome impersonators. Personable to a fault, these devotees to the joy of unreal and very accurate noise and radical rhythms have taken their art as far as anyone could want them to go."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...“Gobsmacked!” absolutely blew me away! The show is a fast-moving musical revue, featuring high-energy a cappella harmonics with beatbox support by international star, Ball-Zee (aka Patrick Hirst). While every member of the cast is a strong individual singer, it is when they blend their voices that they really shine!"
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...The term “gobsmacked” is a British term, slang for being utterly astonished or astounded. That’s a perfect description of how audiences will react to this incredible show. It’s cheerful, clever, sometimes hilarious, often touching and always highly entertaining. Each musical number, staged with precise choreography to accompany the sound, becomes a story in itself. Characters are formed, relationships emerge and scenes eventually develop throughout the piece. Set against Philip Gladwell’s scenic design that’s a wall of woofers and tweeters, plus a couple of moving staircases, and brilliantly lit by Charlie Morgan-Jones, this two-act confection will amaze and delight audiences of all ages. Stopping by the Broadway Playhouse will offer the perfect evening oasis for tourists and a pick-me-up for holiday shoppers."
Chicagoland Musical Theatre - Recommended
"...The eclectic mix is all wrapped in a state of constant choreography and beat, led by internationally acclaimed Ball-Zee, the group’s phenomenal beat boxer whose act two solo received the loudest ovation on opening night. That takes nothing away from the talents of Marcus Collins, Joanne Evans, Ed Scott, Nicholas Hayes, Emilie Louise Israel or Monica Sik Holm. Each of these singers is a star in his or her own right; but stars shine brightest in their constellations, and Gobsmacked’s are no different."
Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended
"...This is a rollicking, fun show that makes for a great night out. Personally, I could have done without the intermission; it dragged the evening on a bit too long and, unless beatboxing is a voice-killer (which for all I know it might be), shouldn’t really be necessary. But that is a small matter, and I won’t begrudge the group their rest. They provided one heck of a show for everyone from a devotee of a capella to the complete neophyte. Their energy is boundless and their joy in performance is clear and obvious. Go get gobsmacked. They’re only here for five nights, so don’t wait."
Picture This Post - Highly Recommended
"...The group has a well-balanced mix of contemporary pop with the likes of Lady Gaga and Ed Sheeran mixed with classics like Queen and David Bowie. If you're a fan of a capella music this group is not to be missed."
