The Importance of Being Earnest presented by Strawdog Theatre at Rivendell Theatre

Chicago Tribune - Recommended

"...The cast is still working out the comedic timing in certain moments, and there were a few stumbles over lines at the performance I saw, but this ensemble is already quite funny. Seijo and Muriel have great chemistry as roguish Algernon and flirtatious Cecily. Reyes shines as Bracknell, with an unbending haughty posture and a subtle twitch of the lips to signal disapproval. Crystal Claros and Matt Keeley add to the fun in the respective roles of Dr. Chasuble — Miss Prism’s love interest — and Merriman/Lane, the two butlers."

Around The Town Chicago - Recommended

"...Lighthearted and frivolous, “The Importance of Being Earnest” is a comedy of manners that has been thoroughly modernized and updated to embrace queer love. This reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s Victorian classic is gay in all the best senses of the word. It is not meant to be great art but, rather, lends itself to a fun evening of entertainment at a time when all sorts of romantic love can be possible."

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...This adaptation features Wilde’s satire, much of his extraordinary talent with words, but an update to 21st century Chicago. Elegantly and energetically presented by a talented ensemble, under the guidance of director Elizabeth Swanson, and supported by a gifted artistic team, this production is the latest from one of Chicago’s continually evolving theatre companies. A polished gem, this production shines brightly and radiates with style, especially just in time for Gay Pride Month. And as Oscar Wilde wrote, “In matters of grave importance, style, not sincerity, is the vital thing.”"

Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended

"...Wilde wrote this play to have mainstream appeal and, though this queer adaptation adds a layer of outrageousness, the sparkle of his wit shines through in almost every line. Swanson's crisp go-for-broke direction doesn't miss a trick, from chases around furniture to spit takes to whatever she can do to evoke queer double entendre, and it all works. There is even a rainbow flag outside Jack's country home (a beautifully drawn backdrop by scenic designer Manuel Ortiz), a visual reminder (as if we needed one) of the production's unadulterated and joyful gayness. I've seen a lot of Earnests, but this one will live in my memory for a long time. It is about as gay as it can be, and Oscar Wilde would definitely take pride in that."