Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...All in all, there are a few too many styles in play for one to get one's head on the right track, and although the Leading Player, the show's narrator, is in the capable hands of Joey Stone, that crucial character does not do anything one has not seen before. And with an ambitious new company full of highly skilled artists, it does not have to be thus."
Chicago Reader - Recommended
"...The book is flat and dated, the Brechtian byplay feels hokey, and the plot (about Charlemagne's son's quest for personal fulfillment) is inane. But a more-than-capable cast compensates in this Music Theatre Company production."
Centerstage - Recommended
"...Founding Music Theatre Company Artistic Director/Choreographer Jessica Redish has crafted a uniquely thrilling, Fosse-esque production featuring some of Chicago’s brightest talent. Andrew Keltz, Young Buddy in CST’s “Follies,” creates an earnest, appealingly likable young Pippin. Keltz, who sings most of the score, is a gifted actor/singer/dancer who’s convincing as a confused college graduate trying to find himself. Lithe, seductive Joey Stone is often humorously menacing as the Leading Player. He oils his way across the stage, sometimes solo, often accompanied by the talented ensemble, introducing and participating in Pippin’s journey. Stone’s devilish good looks, flexiblity and vocal agility are perfect for this role."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...We witness war, combat and revolution being satirized through song and dance in a most entertaining musical. While the material isn’t earth-shattering, director/choreographer Jessica Redish has cast from the “A” list of young Chicago talents including nine Equity players. The result is a slickly polished production of Pippin. Redish’s production is the finest I’ve seen yet of Schwartz’s 70′s musical. How they afford such a fine cast is a miracle. Get to Highland Park to rediscover Pippin."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Highly Recommended
"...I could gripe that the un-miked voices and backstage musical instruments were a bit on the soft side, but after the sonic assault experienced at many Broadway in Chicago performances these days that could be counted as a virtue in a show with so many others. For a magical evening of music and merriment up close and personal, I highly recommend The Music Theatre Company's current attraction."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...n a show like this, a story telling, farcical jab at the “Musical Comedy” itself, it is the cast of players that make the show work. They are near to the audience, so near that you can feel their breath and see their eyes. This cast is energetic, spirited and talented and as an audience member, what else could you want. The ensemble appears to be loving every minute of the 2 hours of fantasy they present and each deserves mention:Brian M. Duncan,Sasha Kostyrko,Kristin O’Connell, Tommy River-Vega,Emily Rogers,Jeremy Sonkin and Lucy Zukaitis, small in numbers, large in talent."
