Life Separates Us at Oracle Theatre

Chicago Reader - Not Recommended

"...Sean Farrell seems to think that setting his play soon after the September 11 attacks gives his characters' circular gripefest psychological resonance. But all it suggests to me is that unprecedented tragedy doesn't turn uninteresting people interesting. Director Bill Ryan has a strong cast but has them play almost everything at a single, unvarying emotional pitch."

Time Out Chicago - Recommended

"...Director Bill Ryan keeps the pace swift and dynamic, emphasizing the complicated way couples navigate the minefield of marriage. At times, you wonder why these people remain together—particularly Ali and David, whose disdain for each other seems deeply rooted. But then, we’ve all met couples like this, where marital battle has become sport. The banter lacks the artfulness of Albee, but Farrell’s rendering of therapy-culture edges pleasingly toward, if not quite so far as, the absurdity of Christopher Durang or Nicky Silver. The actors here are strongest when comedic; I wish the script gave them more to work with in this mode. Their individual talent and comfort as an ensemble is one of the production’s pleasures."

ChicagoCritic - Not Recommended

"...When a work is billed as a commemoration to such a defining moment, you’d thing that the play would be much more about September 11 than this loud-mouthed relationship drama? In this work, we quickly grow to dislike all six characters, especially the four married folks. Even with a free ticket, I’d not recommend this work. Your time would be better spent watching a Netflix documentary about the terrorist attacks."

Chicago Theater Beat - Recommended

"...Under the direction of Bill Ryan, angst runs high amongst this talented cast. Most notably, Daniel Gilbert (David) projects loud-mouthed intensity. Playing self-righteous with vibrant flare, Gilbert bullies his way through the sessions. Gilbert is a complete tool! As his wife, Kelsey Jorissen (Sarah) transforms from manipulator to victim to survivor with heart-tugging poignancy. The solid chemistry between Candice Johnson (Ali) and Matthew Chapman (Steve) amuses with hilarious compatibility. Johnson is high-strung, controlling. Chapman balances her with stoner-induced tolerance. In between throw-downs, they charm as a couple with inside jokes. Throughout the show, the odd-man-out is elusive. His storyline is not as understandable. Played with equal parts of reserve, confusion, and panic, William Goblirsh (Tom) draws the group together. Goblirsh’s vacant presence is haunting. Again, I’m prompted multiple times to cross the room to offer him comfort. I stay in my seat and therapy continues."