Moby Dick! The Musical presented by The Cuckoo’s Theater Project at Heartland Studio Theatre

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...The performers in this production, directed by Donald Kolakowski, have a charming energy, and some in the cast, notably Tina-Kim Nguyen, perfectly hit the balance of seriousness and silliness needed to make this self-consciously campy comedy work. But much of the humor in the show is crushed by actors who telegraph punch lines, singers who can't do justice to Longden and Kaye's sometimes inspired score, and the inevitable messiness of cramming a nine-member ensemble into the Heartland Studio's tiny storefront space."

Chicagoland Musical Theatre - Highly Recommended

"...A far cry from “thar, she blows,” Moby Dick the Musical is a fun little romp in the hands of the Cuckoos Theater Project. For anyone craving content off the beaten path, now’s the time to check it out at the Heartland Studio. For with the Heartland Café building next door being recently listed for sale on Craigslist, the future of the Rogers Park gem remains up in the air. The magic whimsy of Glenwood Avenue, secreted away into its colorful, narrow block beside a rail line, is a place meant for unique experiences. In the words of Melville himself: “It is not down on any map: true places never are.”"

Picture This Post - Recommended

"...Together, the cast makes a 600 page dramatic novel snappy and punchy. MOBY DICK THE MUSICAL, in this reviewer’s view, is an especially good pick for anyone who likes comedic musicals that call for over the top and high energy performances. It might not be the best fit for those looking for a larger scale production or a more serious show."

NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Peter Ruger gives a blowzy performance as the headmistress who casts herself as Ahab. His fine voice will ring to full advantage after the upper-respiratory funk passes, which he sang through on the night I saw the show. As Ishmael, Allison Ristaino conjures up a young Gilda Radner. As Ahab’s wife, Alexandra Cross gives the finest comic performance in the show. Cross knows that pacing lies in the silences as well as in the lines. As the cabin boy Pip, Hannah Mary Simpson sports a warm singing voice that needs to be heard in Chicago’s bigger theaters."