Chicago Reader
- Recommended
"...Ann Boyd's extroverted staging is humorous--except when the mercurial Mr. Hatch retreats to his emotional hidey-hole--and George Howe's musically sophisticated songs get their points across, though sometimes those points get beaten to death. For grown-ups this is a cheerful rather than witty experience, a la Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood; children older than eight might find it a bit dull. But if you're somewhere between three and seven, this is a pleasant hour's entertainment."
Chicago Stage Review
- Highly Recommended
"...Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch is another excellent example of why Lifeline Theatre is a Chicago treasure for both youngsters and adults. Treat your kids, and yourself, to this heartwarmingly perfect Valentine or anytime production."
Chicago Stage and Screen
- Highly Recommended
"...I defy any Scrooge out there not to totally adore Micah J.L. Kronlokken, Sara Sevigny (and puppet dog Roof) and Tuckie White, who handily transform themselves into an entire town in true Lifeline versatility style. And don't worry too much about Mr. Hatch. After all, the title assures us he is truly someone to be loved. What better feeling on a chilly Saturday or Sunday morning than a message of love and acceptance, and one that doesn't even need Dickens and the ghosts to get it across. If you have a heart, you too are sure to love Lifeline's "Mr. Hatch"."
Around The Town Chicago
- Highly Recommended
"...When we meet him, he is Mr routine. Every day he does things exactly as he did before, alone. He rises in the morning, sweeps his steps, goes to work ( bringing the same lunch everyday), does his job, leaves for home stopping to pick up his newspaper and his dinner and then home alone to read his paper and then go to bed so he can do the same thing tomorrow. Eceyone else in town tries to talk with him, but he is a true hermit. Then, on Valentine’s Day, he receives a special package which changes his life. He now smiles and is friendly to everyone, helping them, becoming a friend. This is a fun show directed by Ann Boyd on a very clever set designed by Chelsea Warren ( who also does a bang up job with the props as well). Some of the seating area is used to be Mr. Hatch’s home and another section his place of employment. To make up for these lost seats, there are seats on the stage made into part of the play as Ms Boyd has designed this production to really get the kids in the audience involved in the telling of this heartwarming story that teaches them about acceptance, companionship and friendship."
Chicago Theater Beat
- Highly Recommended
"...Based on the literary work of Eileen Spinelli, Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch has been adapted for the Lifeline stage by Frances Limoncelli. Accompanied with songs composed by George Howe, the story teaches life lessons on kindness and isolation. Along with the familiar treat-people-like-you-want-to-be-treated message, Lifeline goes the extra block to say an individual is responsible for his own happiness. At one point, Mr. Hatch profoundly declares, “I’ve wasted too much time being lonely.” Ultimately, Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch illustrates the importance of being loved and loving others. It’s a show for all ages. The kids will giggle. The adults may tear up. And everybody will want to live the greeting, “Hello, good neighbor!”"
