Nina Simone: The High Priestess Speaks at Black Ensemble Theater

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"...U'Deen is a strong enough actor to send her character on a palpable emotional journey. And since it is a voyage filled so lushly with songs so majestically sung, one is inclined to forgive the show's fudging over the more colorful aspects of the Simone biography, including her disavowal of her native land, her arrest for tax evasion (a Vietnam protest) and the numerous -- and glorious -- eccentricities that made her a diva of worldwide fame and notable longevity."

Chicago Sun Times - Highly Recommended

"...Singing 18 of Simone's songs and moving through Simone's life from girlhood through the early 1970s only, U'Deen captures the singer's disappointments and successes, her political awakening and her decidedly diva attitudes with a combination of utter naturalness and palpable heat."

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...As Simone, Yahdina U'Deen reveals a strong voice but delivers her earnest lines too earnestly--though to be fair, there's little humor or fun in the script. It also has so many loose ends that the two-hour tapestry of Simone's story seems more threadbare than rich. Some of the singer's high-strung, prickly nature comes through, but conflicts surface only to disapper; the real point is glorifying Simone's accomplishments."

Windy City Times - Recommended

"...What was originally announced as Black Ensemble Theater’s “Season of Women” is now in its SECOND season because, as artistic director Jackie Taylor marveled, “you all won’t let us close these shows!”. If the opening-night response to its latest biodrama is any indication, another one can unpack its bags and settle in for a long stay."

Time Out Chicago - Recommended

"...the pleasure of such revues doesn't come from dramatic nuance. It's all about the music. And when it's a tribute to Simone, it's all about the women playing her....U'Deen's deep and resonant voice comes close enough."

ChicagoCritic - Recommended

"...Jackie Taylor and Ebony Joy give us a glimpse into the magnificent aura Nina Simone possessed that put a spell on audiences. Nina Simone: The High Priestess Speaks is an immensely entertaining show filled with vintage Simone songs."