Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...The good news about the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire is that Matt Raftery's production is exceptionally well sung (musical direction Ryan T. Nelson), and that may well be enough for die-hard fans of the score to make the trek. I did not regret mine for that reason."
Chicago Sun Times - Recommended
"...But each member of the tightly knit ensemble — who struggle with their consciences, desires and guilt — also grab your attention. Supported by Ryan T. Nelson’s music direction, and a band of five led by Patti Garwood, the actors (Lillie Cummings, Elizabeth Lanza, Nate Lewellyn, Christine Mild, Eliza Palasz, Samantha Pauley, Zachary Piser and Tom Vendafreddo) bring their clarion voices and fresh, zestful personalities to everything they do as they clamber over carpentry tables and morph from saints and sinners, to sheep and goats, seductresses and peasants."
Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended
"...he transformation couldn't be clearer in Matt Raftery's updated staging, which features chirpy, doe-eyed, clean-cut disciples and a short-haired, blond Jesus whose polo shirt makes him look like he just came off the back nine at the club. (Strangely, considering the show's love-thy-neighbor message, the cast evince a noticeably narrow diversity spectrum.) The ostentatious, Jesus-robot sweetness of it all is frustrating in that it overwhelms the production's virtues: occasionally interesting music, universally well-tempered singing voices, and in the second act, a nuanced, visually striking approach to Jesus's dark night of the soul."
ShowBizChicago - Highly Recommended
"...I knew walking in that the Marriott Theatre’s production of “Godspell” had some BIG shoes to fill. Prepubescent Justin Kimball (me) had played “Judas” in his 7th grade production of Godspell, which got an amazing review… from his grandmother. So this production had a lot to live up to, and it did not disappoint. Godspell is a musical by Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak that takes us through the Journey/Parables of Jesus Christ. It’s a beautiful show with romping dance numbers and beautiful PERFECT ballads. In other words, go see it wherever you can but definitely don’t miss Marriott Theater’s version of this classic musical."
ChicagoCritic - Somewhat Recommended
"...Lovers of Broadway pop will love this show ultra-religious Christians and non-Christians may be offended by the material. I simply found Christian parables trite and uninteresting. I must say that Matt Raftery and his cast of youthful players did their best to engage us. The vocals were the best moments here. Good production of curious material makes for mixed results."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Highly Recommended
"...We really enjoyed this show so much. I have not been to a performance in quite a while where the entire audience was standing, singing, dancing and cheering at the end of the show. That must say something! Shout out to Jesus and his Pharisees."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...Directed and Choreographed by Matt Raftery, who we have seen grow up on this stage ( as a dancer/ensemble member, then an actor , then a choreographer and now THE “man) this new interpretation of the classic musical with book by John -Michael Tebelak and music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, this is not the original “Godspell” which thrilled audiences for years, but rather a new, fresh look with some small changes in the lyrics and updated , current events sprinkled in the text to keep us on our toes."
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...Beginning as an educational exercise and going on to become one of the world’s best-loved musicals, Marriott’s takes this beautiful show and makes it sing. Ranking among some of its best recent productions, it’s the perfect way to spend a summer evening in the suburbs. Directed and choreographed by the multitalented, always impressive and continually growing Matt Raftery, this show overflows with strong voices, talented dancers, Patti Garwood’s terrific musical accompaniment and simply bursts with creativity and heart. Prepare Ye the way for a huge hit!"
Chicagoland Theater Reviews - Recommended
"...What finally sells “Godspell” is the verve, versatility, and dedication of the 10-member troupe. Raftery has guided his talented gang well, and if there are misfires in the modern humor interjections they are in the minority. The production turns from fun show to serious with sensitivity and poignancy. This isn’t a Sunday school lesson wrapped in a rock music cloak. It’s first rate theater presented by an energized and skilled, adding another directorial gold star on Matt Raftery’s record."