The Ship And The Sea presented by Curious Theatre Branch at Facility Theatre

Chicago Reader - Recommended

"...Bower's writing is sinewy and smart-occasionally coming within hailing distance of self-conscious whimsy, but then moving us into new and surprising narrative waters. Walden anchors (no pun intended) the show as the wisest figure onstage, but also the one most confused as to why anyone would seek answers in her depths, even though she's "made out of almost everything in the world." Lockhart's stoic fatalism adds a touch of melancholy, while Schoen and Zimmerman embody younger entities who are slowly understanding how random and cruel life can be."

Around The Town Chicago - Recommended

"...Curious Theatre Branch is presenting "The Ship and the Sea," a musical written and directed by Chris Bower. The play is inspired by the sinking of the royal warship Vasa, which was the most powerful and beautiful warship of its time. The Vasa sank on its maiden voyage on August 10th, 1628, just 1300 feet out of the docks after it had been under construction for 2 years. "The Ship and the Sea" is an imaginative and whimsical take on the historical event, offering a blend of theatrical creativity and dark humor rather than a factual retelling. It's important to note that the play leans heavily on fictional elements, with only a few historical details rooted in truth, such as the ship's name and the circumstances of its sinking."