Chicago Tribune
- Somewhat Recommended
"..."Violet" came back to Chicago on Tuesday night, in a non-Equity production from Bailiwick Chicago at the Mercury Theater (this was my first visit to that Southport Avenue venue since it re-opened, and I was reminded of the importance of this elegant venue to the Off-Loop). The good news here — and it should be enough to tempt lovers of small, serious, folk-influenced musicals to buy a ticket and hear this score — is twofold: Tesori's score is exceptionally well sung by the likes of Harmony France (in the title role), Evan Tyrone Martin (as one of the young soldiers she meets on her journey) and the delightful Glynis Gilio (as Young Violet), all under the musical direction of Andra Velis Simon."
Chicago Sun Times
- Somewhat Recommended
"...The principal problem with the production lies in Elizabeth Margolius’ direction, which turns the show into more of a static oratorio than a literal and metaphoric journey. Too often, it feels as if Violet’s bus got stuck at a rest stop, with John Zuiker’s initially eye-catching collage-and-window set becoming more backdrop than enhancement. In addition, Margolius needs to find some way to suggest, right from the start, exactly what occurred in the accident that left Violet so scarred."
Chicago Reader
- Somewhat Recommended
"...As adapted by Brian Crawley, both the plot and characters feel a little thin. But Jeanine Tesori's score--a complex blend of bluegrass, jazz, blues, and gospel--is lovely. Its intricate harmonies are a pleasure to hear in Bailiwick Chicago's beautifully sung production."
Centerstage
- Somewhat Recommended
"...Along the journey Violet encounters Nancy Kolton’s priceless, opinionated Old Lady and Gospel Singer Elizabeth Gray, both demonstrating dynamic vocal chops. Courtney Crouse and Evan Tyrone Martin, competing for Violet’s attention as Monty and Flick, emerge as exciting young talents to be watched. John Zuiker’s barn wood set offers flexibility, but problems with sound and lighting often became a distraction. And special credit goes to Eric Martin’s Greyhound Bus Tour Guide program that’s both authentic, creative and fun and in harmony with the entire production."
Time Out Chicago
- Recommended
"... Despite the weak book, France nails the title character’s vulnerability and shame, without a visible scar on her face, and Martin’s strong vocals lend themselves to Flick’s charming character. When he sings with France, the love between them becomes palpable."
Chicago Theatre Addict
- Highly Recommended
"...From acting and music direction to lighting, set and costume design, this is a production very much worth seeing. Whether by Greyhound, taxi or train, get your tail down to the Mercury Theatre for this lovely, hopeful and touching musical about redemption and new beginnings."
ChicagoCritic
- Somewhat Recommended
"...As presented, Bailiwick Chicago’s Violet, while containing some fine moments, doesn’t hold together as a complete work. The score is serviceable yet forgettable. Harmony France’s performance may be the only reason to see this show."
Chicago Stage and Screen
- Not Recommended
"...The most interesting thing about “Violet” was John Zuiker’s impressive scenic design. His intriguing combination of destinations on the Greyhound made a very clever backdrop for the ensemble to play around in front of. I guess I shouldn’t say every aspect of this show was disappointing. Some of the numbers, including “Luck of the Draw”, “That’s What I Can Do”, and “Look at Me,” were entertaining enough to keep heads up. And the young lady playing the younger version of Violet shined greatly with her smaller role, but that’s all the nice things I can think to say about “Violet”. Watch out Chicago, I recommend passing on this one."
Let's Play at ChicagoNow
- Recommended
"...The music is gorgeous! The story is ugly… really just plain. Based on “The Ugliest Pilgrim” by Doris Betts, Jeanine Tesori and Brian Crawley put her story to music in VIOLET. But somewhere the story isn’t really of significance. France is pretty, undeniably. Without any even pretend physical deformities, it’s hard to get onboard about the case of the uglies! So, a busload of people telling her differently seems odd. It’s a bit of a disconnect for me. And her sole ambition is to be pretty? Violet, Violet, Violet, what would pa say? Her beauty quest doesn’t really match her spunky personality. The best part of her crazy trip is she does meet Jim DeSelm (preacher). DeSelm is hilarious as the celebrity preacher! And Zuiker has whittled TV monitors into the wooden backdrop for a more sensational scene. Holy crap!"
Chicago Theater Beat
- Recommended
"... s its holes but seldom have songs served a story so strongly. Suiting the style to the singer, Tesori’s score offers a rich and unforced mix of blues, soul, country and gospel. With dignity and despair, Evan Tyrone Martin ignites Flick’s consolatory “Let It Sing,” while Courtney Crouse’s tricky Monty spills all the ambiguity in his love ballad “You’re Different.” Belted out by the disbelieving preacher (a soul-shrunken, broadly smiling, and ultimately enlightening Jim DeSelm) and his heaven-shaking choir, “Raise Me Up” does so indeed. The leather-lunged ensemble (Ryan Gaffney, Nancy Kolton, Danni Smith, Kevin M. Grubb and Elizabeth Gray) treat every part—indeed every note—as an answered prayer. Elizabeth Margolius has the Midas touch times ten!"
