Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...At Theo Ubique, it's rare for concept and material not to feel like they were made for each other. Anzevino obviously wants to push a steamier Maltby and Shire (one flashy number is like a mini Ziegfeld folly). Fair enough. But while characters rolling around in a bed may be having a good time, they just don't take as easily to singing about crossword puzzles, or the first day of the rest of their lives."
Chicago Sun Times - Recommended
"...Stephanie Herman, Hillary Patingre and Teddy Boone are the three formidable performers in the intimate but high-powered and vocally impressive revival of this show at Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre, where director Fred Anzevino and choreographer Maggie Portman work their magic. Each actor gets a chance to explore the quest for connection and happiness in different ways, with a 1970s aura in the air thanks to lava lamps, a wink at smoking joints, a still new sense of sexual freedom and the even newer phenomenon of “personal ads” all part of the mix."
Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended
"...Actor-singers Teddy Boone, Stephanie Herman, and Hillary Patingre handle the slick, jazz-inflected score with finesse under Eugene Dizon's musical direction, and director Fred Anzevino enhances the material with a dramatic through line charting the characters' shifting relationships. Adam Veness's set design evokes the 1970s Me Decade (love the mirror ball and lava lamp), and lighting designer Michael Nardulli works wonders within the confines of the tiny cafe venue."
Centerstage - Recommended
"... But it’s Anzevino’s two exciting actresses who really carry this production. Hillary Patingre, sometimes saucy, often adorably childlike, sings with a voice like polished crystal; Stephanie Herman, with her lovely, expressive face, possesses an exquisitely controlled range, from belt to soprano. However, while handsome, charismatic Teddy Boone impresses vocally and stands out with songs like “I Don’t Remember Christmas,” he needs to amp up his energy, Starting Here, Starting Now."
Time Out Chicago - Highly Recommended
"... Maltby and Shire’s easy-listening music is a product of its time, and director Fred Anzevino wisely avoids modernizing the setting. Set designer Adam Veness creates a tacky bachelor pad with animal prints, strings of beads and a single lava lamp, and the graphic patterns and flared pants of Raquel Adorno’s costumes capture ’70s fashion. Maggie Portman’s choreography makes great use of the intimate space, just flashy enough to be visually captivating without detracting from the music."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...The moods, desires and angst of revolving relationships are nicely presented by the three cast members. Their energy, singing skills ans their ability to “sell” their songs in character give this revue a tone of sensuality and realism. Eugen Dizon musical direction helps create a worthy accompaniment. Catch Starting Here, Starting Now to discover new show and movie songs and to have fun meeting Boone, Herman and Patingre. They’ll entertain you."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended
"...It’s hard to follow the huge path of spectacle Theo Ubique left behind during their last season in which “Cats” and “Some Enchanted Evening” redefined the meaning of perfection, but directing their focus to today is met with success in my opinion. “Starting Here, Starting Now” introduces music I like to refer to as under the radar, meaning many people are unfamiliar with their work. Theo Ubique makes it shine however, and I would recommend everyone experience their latest reivue. Hopefully as they continue their run, the cast will begin to smooth out their very minor complications."
Around The Town Chicago - Recommended
"...While these are unknown songs with the exception of the title song “Starting Here,Starting Now” and yet under Anzevino’s careful direction along with musical direction of Jeff Award winner, Eugene Dizon and the clever choreography of Maggie Portman, this is a delightful evening of entertainment. For those of you unfamiliar with this “little theatre that could” located at The No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood , the space is very small with a tiny stage , but designer Adam Veness has found a way to use the space that all of the 60 audience members get a clear view of the action and the three performers, Teddy Boone, Stephanie Herman and Hilary Patingre are delightful to watch. Boone might take a closer look at some of his mannerisms as he needs to be a little more macho to pull off the lover boy image that has the two women wanting him and willing to give up whatever for him. Herman is sexy, glamorous and has a dynamite vocal range and adorable Patingre is as cute as a button. Her voice would be perfect for doing Disney stuff and I would love to see her play Little Red Riding Hood in “Into The Woods”. I imagine she would be perfect."
Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended
"...A supple showcase for the troupe’s talents, Fred Anzevino’s staging for Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre (here divided into two acts with three performers) finds virtue in the simplicity of an intimate storefront stage and a refreshing lack of miking for this very capable trio."
