Chicago Tribune
- Recommended
"...You wouldn't say the director, Fred Anzevino, provides a bevy of new insights into this piece — but then, really, how many new insights into "Pump Boys" does the world need? Anzevino is a master of creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in his cozy little theater, where he likes to cast newcomers to town, and so it goes here. It's no more, and certainly no less, than an exceedingly comfortable and familiar evening, the kind of mentally undemanding show you can enjoy with friends and a holiday drink, even as you peer through steamed-up windows at the colder, harsher world outside. "Pump Boys" is no longer on any theatrical cutting edge, but it's a proven confection and this particular, laid-back production somehow stimulates more senses more intensely than at any other "Pump Boys" I've seen, and I've seen this thing more times than I've had decent buiscuits."
Chicago Reader
- Not Recommended
"...neither the atmosphere nor the cast's raw, rockabilly energy redeem this evening of second-rate parodies and knock-off tunes designed for shallow audiences who can't stomach the real thing."
Windy City Times
- Highly Recommended
"...Available to us are the pleasures of celebrating with them in the No Exit Cabaret, its decor converted (with minimal alterations) to reflect 20th-century rural chic. Musical director Jim DeSelm coaxes Jerry Lee-style solo-turns from the keyboards; Alex Stage and Cory Siragusa waltz their mighty stringed instruments around the floor with nimble-fingered grace; Courtney Crouse keeps the patter coming; and Christina Smith and Danni Hall supply treble vocals and kitchen-utensil percussion."
Centerstage
- Recommended
"... In the 30 years since John Foley and his actor/musician friends created this mash-up of musical theatre and country pop rock music, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more sincere production set in a more perfect locale. The only thing missing from this replica of a small town gas station/diner is a gasoline pump outside of The No Exit Cafe. Inside, Adam Veness’ minutely detailed set features a cozy mechanics’ lounge and tiny kitchenette adorned with everything from pots and pans to a stuffed armadillo. And, of course, the Cafe’s tables and chairs fit in perfectly, enabling the audience to actually order from the diner’s menu and be served by the two waitresses."
Time Out Chicago
- Recommended
"...There’s little story here aside from various narrative lyrics (longing for a lost man in Prudie’s lovely “The Best Man,” a tested relationship in Rhetta’s spirited “Be Good or Be Gone”), and not every song succeeds; some feel a bit dated, veering toward bathos (“Sister”). The production works best in the playful, rousing mode (“Drinkin’ Shoes” is a highlight). Minor quibbles aside, Ubique gives the material such a vibrant and wholly entertaining turn, the evening’s a real gas."
ChicagoCritic
- Recommended
"...The flavor, attitudes and personae of small town, rural Southern America was aptly depicted in this cute show. From haunting ballads to odes to grandma to a rocking number “Tips” where the two waitresses converge on the audience to solicit tips, Pump Boys vividly depicts the angst of rural life. The marvelous song “Closing Time” is an ode to all honky-tonk joints everywhere. Jim DeSelm’s fine arrangements of the original songs written in the styles of 1950’s hits carried the show. For a nostalgic look back into an innocent time in America, Pump Boys and Dinettes delivers. We like the folks at the diner and we enjoy our pit stop. The pies is tasty and the coffee is hot. The six member cast works hard to please."
Around The Town Chicago
- Highly Recommended
"... How fitting that this production be in a dining spot, where the waitresses ARE the waitresses and these young actors rely on their “Tips” for their evening’s work. Trying to balance trays in this intimate spot before the show and during intermission and then handling out the checks during the “Closing Time” song shows just how talented these performers are as well as the dedication they have to putting on the best show possible under extraordinary cisrcumstances. Unlike most of the musical productions doen by this troupe, “Pump Boys” is not a dance show, but where they do have a few smaller dance numbers, the choreography by James Beaudry works."
Chicago Theater Beat
- Highly Recommended
"... Sassy and soulful, Pump Boys and Dinettes is a delightful throwback sure to leave you grinning and humming as you exit No Exit and enter a world more cynical and complicated than the characters need to know or we to endure."
