The Next Big Thing at Factory Theater

Chicago Tribune - Recommended

"...Sullivan's play, directed by Robyn Coffin, has its weak spots and predictable moments. But it's also leavened with what I've come to think of as a particular strength of Factory productions - the ability to evoke nostalgia while also critiquing our love of nostalgia. It's the prerogative of every generation to think that the music sounded better in their youth - but Sullivan's here to remind Gen X and the millennials that there was also a lot of junk in the 1990s."

Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended

"...The answers aren’t terribly surprising, and Sullivan’s loose structure makes everything feel less urgent than it might. But her story is engaging nonetheless, populated with engaging, iconic characters—the burned-out producer, the long-suffering technician, the glam-infatuated assistant—all brought convincingly to life in director Robyn Coffin’s sure-footed production."

The Fourth Walsh - Recommended

"...This show reminded of a John Hughes' movie. Everyone is rooting for the heroine, Grischow, to find success and love without comprising her identity. We also want Bolduc to win the bet and have her faith restored in the music industry. Meanwhile, we get to hang out with the put-upon earnest Raj Bond (Toby), the cooky confidant Blake Dalzin (Mike), and the steadfast resigned Nick Freed (Steve). And we get to do it on Scenic Designer Alan Donahue's multi-functional set that transforms from studio to bar to dorm room by pulling a knob."