TRU presented by Gosz & Fotos at Stage 773

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"...It's unclear whether the panic and inadequacy that Isla feels because she's unable to find her artistic inspiration is supposed to be seen as a mental illness in this musical. The musical really doesn't ever address mental illness head-on (Tru, at one point, finally decides to "get help," but it's unclear what that entails or if it actually helps) and because Isla is given so much weight within the story, it seems like there's a parallel being drawn between her experience and Tru's."

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...And for a show that aims to destigmatize mental illness, there's very little frank discussion or even specifics regarding mental wellness (we never learn Truman's condition or see him seek treatment beyond falling in love), a decision that might keep the discussion universal and in the realm of metaphor but forgoes opportunities to really shed light on the subjects it seeks to illuminate. At two and a half hours plus, Tru has B, C, and D plots in need of plenty of trimming, but Marssie Mencotti shines as a florist who offers lilting musical support and encouragement throughout."

NewCity Chicago - Somewhat Recommended

"...What works at a disadvantage for this production is the theater itself. Gosz and Fotos’ music, with their brilliant band, drowns out the actors on a regular basis. The dramatic swells swallow entire song segments whole and the duo’s lyricism is lost to the rafters. It’s hard to tell at times if the lyrics are simply too tongue-tying to maneuver for some of the performers or if the music has overwhelmed them as well and they can’t hear themselves sing. Either way, it’s a shame to lose such wide swathes of the show."