Sanders Family Christmas at Provision Theater Company

Chicago Reader - Recommended

"... Tim Gregory's eight-person cast--featuring the always irresistible Susan Moniz--never condescend. The charm is never forced and the nostalgia never cloys. Above all, the show's vision of simple folks stepping up to fight Hitler and cherish Christmas suggests the promise of decency, not just a fond remembrance."

ChicagoCritic - Not Recommended

"...I though Kevin O’Brien played the Reverend Mervin Oglethrope as a manic, obnoxious jerk who tried to upstage everyone to the point of being an irritant. With the sound problems and the bland bluegrass tunes (where was a banjo?), Sander’s Family Christmas is a too long and too religious a show that is more of a church service than a play or music concert. This sequel is a carbon copy of the original sans the fine musicianship.  This formula bombs as a Christmas show.  I wonder who the audience is for this turkey? It plays like a hillbilly church service that is not exactly fare for  sophisticated Chicago audiences.  A strange choice for a Provision Theatre Company that usually mounts outstanding shows."

Around The Town Chicago - Somewhat Recommended

"...There are  13 songs, mostly Carols, in this two hour show, and for the most part, they are not ones that are familiar to most of those in attendance ( at least not at the opening night performance). While there are some well known and talented performers in this cast, this is not a show that will be enjoyed by most theater-goers. It is a blue grass show and if you are into Gospel music and down home humor, you will feel at home, but if you are not one who enjoys religious shows and unfamiliar “church-type” music, this one will probably allow you to take a little nap."

Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended

"...Playing their own instruments and singing without any amplification, the cast is exceptionally talented. Whether they’re wrapping older sister June (Amber Burgess) in Christmas lights, delivering a youth sermon to the children of the church, or singing “Joy To The World” with the audience, they manage to engage on a deeply personal level. With Sanders Family Christmas, Provision has produced an inspiring musical that is as smart as it is heartwarming."