Jeff Recommended

CRITIC'S CHOICE "Pitch-perfect performances of Vincent L. Lonergan and Shawn Pfautsch" —Justin Hayford, Chicago Reader

CRITIC'S PICK "A play about classical pianists finding fellowship through art benefits greatly if the actors do their own musical stuntwork. In this smart production by a small treasure of a troupe, they do." —Barnidge, Windy City Times

"Superior to its big-star, big-budget predecessors … Vincent L. Lonergan and Shawn Pfautsch are not only accomplished actors, but more than that, they are also musicians—and, as such, capable of vocal and instrumental melodic improvisations [in] this small brilliant gem" —Barnidge, Windy City Times full review

Must See! —Centerstage Chicago

"Lonergan's endearing, nicely balanced performance" —Barbara Vitello, Daily Herald full review

CRITIC'S PICK "Jon Marans raises the bar for the “hands” in his two-hander, in which a middle-aged, Austrian music professor and an arrogant young American pianist must be able to play classical piano. And sing. In German. And do these things not just credibly, but expressively. Songs could be excruciating, but the play, which feels a tad overworked in the metaphor department as well as overlong but it never feels like an also-ran in the hands of actors Vincent L. Lonergan and Shawn Pfautsch, whether they are playing the piano or playing off each other" —Megan Powell, Time Out Chicago full review

"Mr. Marans' play … is lighted with warmth and humor, and his two protagonists are splendid companions for the evening's journey into the soul." —The New York Times

"…one of the best plays of the year, a fascinating exploration of art, guilt, compassion and identity" —The New York Post

"A vivid, beautiful play!" —The New York Daily News