Chicago Tribune
- Somewhat Recommended
"...White’s life forms the spine of writer and director Daryl Brooks’ “Reasons: A Tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire,” the new show at Black Ensemble Theater. White was born in Memphis but spent his formative teenage years in Chicago, studying at the Chicago Musical College (now part of Roosevelt University), becoming part of Chicago gospel and the city’s blues scene, and working with Ramsey Lewis and Chess Records."
Chicago Sun Times
- Recommended
"...Their newest show, "Reasons: A Tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire," written and directed by Daryl D. Brooks, follows a well-worn formula. It's a gently affectionate bio of the band's late founder and long-time leader Maurice White (Christian Denzel Bufford), told through in-character narration and scenes that blend the presentational quality of urban theater circuit performance, the stiltedness of documentary re-enactments, and the earnestness of church sermons."
Chicago Reader
- Recommended
"...Black Ensemble Theater has cornered the Chicago market on excellent musical tributes to prominent Black musicians, and their latest show Reasons: A Tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire (EWF) is no exception. The show is a high-octane extravaganza that opens with a set of glowing drumsticks, signaling that something special has arrived."
Let's Play Theatrical Reviews
- Highly Recommended
"...The cast also did an impressive job with the storyline, which was engaging and combined moments of delight, dilemma, and even a touching scene where White sees his mother in the hospital, which brought a few tears, and the singing was phenomenal."
Around The Town Chicago
- Highly Recommended
"...The majority of songs are snippets ( there are 26 songs), but the ones that they do are all well done. When you hear "Summertime" in the second act, you will know that you have heard a song that helps finish the saga of this genius and those that were part of his life. If you are a lover of the music created by Earth, Wind & Fire, you will be in heaven. If you are not, you will learn a great deal about a musical genius and those with whom he surrounded himself . All in all, a wonderful theatrical experience. No frills! Just great music brought to you by wonderful performers who truly love bringing the magic to you!"
Chicago Theatre Review
- Highly Recommended
"...In a welcome return, Jackie Taylor's Black Ensemble Theater is launching their new season with a musical revue that will lift audiences out of their seats and into the aisles. The story of Earth, Wind & Fire, the popular musical group founded by Maurice White, is detailed in this biographical musical revue. Because of its diverse musical styles, this group defies a specific label. And it's impressive that the band has so many accolades to their credit. They can boast six Grammy's (including a Lifetime Achievement Award), an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the NAACP Image Award, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a Kennedy Center Honor, among many others. And now, thanks to this jewel on North Clark Street, Chicago audiences can help "Fan the Fire" as they enjoy BET's latest must-see musical production."
