Black Pearl Sings at Northlight Theatre

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"... One suspects this play was selected as a vehicle for Butler — and given the rich detail and emotional honesty of her performance, especially when Pearl does indeed sing old, old songs from Africa days, it's not hard to see why. Butler is paired in Steve Scott's production with Susie McMonagle, another formidable performer with a deep core and big heart. You just wish both of these remarkable actresses were in a less clunky play and a more free-wheeling production."

Time Out Chicago - Recommended

"...Butler and McMonagle flawlessly perform the play’s songs, with Butler showing off her astounding vocal versatility while McMonagle reveals her proficiency with the dulcimer. Familiar folk songs and hymns are given new strength in Butler’s voice; her charisma becomes contagious in a second-act call-and-response sequence."

ChicagoCritic - Highly Recommended

"...I can’t remember when I’ve seen a finer two-handed that E. Faye Butler and Susie McMonagle performed and Steve Scott directed. The work is filled with heart, truth and emotional fuel nicely expressed with sharp dialogue and richly underscored by emotionally deep a cappella singing by McMonagle and Butler. This is a gem of a play that will renew your faith in humanity.

Chicago Stage and Screen - Highly Recommended

"... Tears—of joy, not sorrow—come with this territory. “Black Pearl Sings” is one of those rare gems where you can savor two very different souls who are good to—and for—each other. Theater affirms our humanity better than anything since birth. Scott hits gold, silver and platinum with this duo--a leather-lunged, larger (and louder) than life Butler and the sweetly insecure and unexpectedly maternal McMonagle. Their songs (which include a delightful sing-along with the audience) quickly become our own in Northlight’s joyous, generous work of life."

Let's Play at ChicagoNow - Highly Recommended

"...Director Steve Scott orchestrates real beauty from these agitated women. E. Faye Butler gives a phenomenal performance. She transforms from the bitter old ball and chain to desperate mother to animated songstress. Her singing range is equally impressive as she soulfully and acoustically belts out the compelling songs of her origins. As the buttoned-up, stuck-up, white woman, Susie McMonagle plays the do-gooder with an escalating sense of self awareness and humor. With a robust Butler commanding the stage, McMonagle plays it wonderfully understated. Her gestures of intimacy are small but poignant. When Butler and McMonagle hold hands, I get a little misty."

Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended

"... Butler and McMonagle are remarkable in their depictions of Pearl and Susannah, and the story holds up from beginning to end. Black Pearl Sings is historically important, and moving, in its depiction of two specific, individual women’s stories. This play will fill you with wonder."