John and Jen at Apple Tree Theatre

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"...The main reason to head to Apple Tree Theatre to see this show is to enjoy the early music of composer Andrew Lippa, a prodigious talent who embraces a formalist, non-traditional style, but also writes theater music with traditional beauties and compelling emotional resonances. Lippa shot to fame with “The Wild Party’ (written after “John & Jen”) and is at work on the score for the musical “The Addams Family,” which will debut in Chicago next fall. Original and independent in form, Lippa’s score to “John & Jen” is well worth hearing and is quite beautifully sung here by McKinley Carter and Jon Cunningham under the musical direction of Valerie Maze."

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...A story this warmed-over requires some fresh element, but neither Lippa's nondescript score nor Greenwald's prosaic lyrics can provide it. With its Astroturf set and capable but bland performances, Rachel Rockwell's production doesn't enliven the material either."

Edge - Somewhat Recommended

"...So was this show satisfying? Good question. I wish I could say I loved it. I didn’t. But that said, I do come back, with admiration, for the performances by Carter and Cunningham. They manage to bring dimension and feeling to a pair of difficult roles. Watching them make the magic is the show."

Time Out Chicago - Somewhat Recommended

"...Apple Tree gamely stages this unpromising material with gusto. As Jen, Carter in particular brings a soulfulness that Lippa and Greenwald’s book sorely lacks; tacking lithely from a sweet melancholy to belting power, she succeeds in making us care about this caricature. Cunningham has to spend a lot of the show playing a child and does so with an eager energy, even if his voice occasionally strains. They deserve better."

ChicagoCritic - Recommended

"...This show contains a huge emotional journey filled with heart, humor and pathos. The fine Lippa score features excellent cello work from Michael Duggan. John & Jen tells a worthy story through intelligent lyrics on fresh and unobtrusive music. John & Jen is fine entertainment and a showcase for Carter and Cunningham."