The Fantasticks Reviews
Around The Town Chicago- Recommended
"...There is some magic in the air up in Lake Forest as Citadel Theatre brings "The Fantasticks" to the North Shore. For those unfamiliar with this little musical, it is the longest running musical to run continuously. At least back in the day, that is what was said. I guess Google can check this out, but for me this play brings back many memories. The book and lyrics are by Tom Jones ( not the singer) and the music by Harvey Schmidt. This was their first musical, back in their college days. Based on the work of Edmond Rostand ( the writer who gave us Cyrano DeBergerac) called "Les Romanesques" this is a simple love story about a boy and a girl."
Chicago Theatre Review- Highly Recommended
"...Pat Murphy’s production of this American musical classic is dazzling and dreamy. Based upon the original production by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt, with its intimate, less-is-more style of presentation, is as perfect as can be. This production features the same beauty and intimacy of the original 1960 version. Conductor/pianist Talar Khosdeghian’s onstage instrumental quartet sounds lush and full, particularly Michael Maganuco on harp. And with so much talent giving their all on the Citadel Theatre stage, this loving production is simply and truly “Much More.”"
Chicagoland Musical Theatre- Recommended
"...At its core, Citadel's charming and cutting production of The Fantasticks cherishes this simplicity. Sure, nothing gold can stay - but that doesn't mean it can't come back around more valuable. For deep in December, our hearts will remember...and follow."
Chicago Theater and Arts- Recommended
"...under the direction of Pat Murphy (“A Christmas Carol,” Deathtrap”) Citadel’s show charmingly mixes old-timey, unsophisticated character portrayals with humorous, burlesque-style staging, set design and movement."
Chicago On Stage- Recommended
"...This production does teach us a valuable lesson about theatre: you do not need the biggest stage to make an impact. This performance becomes larger than life despite its cramped staging in the old high school building. This lesson is something tough for new theatergoers to understand. You can still find theatrical magic in the most unlikely of places. And there is sure to be some magic found in this production of The Fantasticks. If you’re a city-dweller, it may not be worth the trip to Lake Forest for a night of theatre. However, if you’re a local, be sure to drop in on this solid if not spectacular rendition of The Fantasticks."