The Darkness After Dawn Reviews
Chicago Reader- Not Recommended
"...And for a story set in contemporary Chicago, it's a bummer that the production's baddies feel so generic. By the end, it's ersatz Panic Room without the panic room, and a supposed shock ending sticks its landing like a wet clump."
The Fourth Walsh- Somewhat Recommended
"...Director Mandy Walsh (no relation) is skillful in building tension and panic. Two scenes, in particular, left me disconcerted. Although her cast does a good job, their roles get bogged down in complicated storytelling. The emotional connection to the audience gets frayed. A couple times, Cain and Dalzin are simultaneously talking on phones to unseen individuals. Instead of heightening the intrigue, the technique feels contrived. The moment rings untrue."
NewCity Chicago- Recommended
"...The linchpins of this production are Blake Dalzin (as a corrupt cop feeding on his own desperation) and Allison Cain (the not-so-innocent babe-in-the-woods determined to fend him off). Perfectly cast, they slowly establish themselves as wary warriors who lie to themselves and others as a necessary act of survival. Convincing also are Samantha Newcomb (a sassy but innocent college student), Bradford Stevens (a detective right out of central casting) and Jose Cervantes (a sinister thug). Under director Mandy Walsh, the ensemble orbits one another in a building frenzy until finally climaxing in a brutal act of violence."