Review Roundup: The "must-see" TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
Tuesday | Feb. 14, 2017
It's a daunting task to adapt one of American literature's most beloved stories. But with its innovative direction, stellar performances and effective use of music, The Rep's production of To Kill a Mockingbird is living up to the incredible legacy of Harper Lee's novel.
We're compiling all of the local critical reactions in this space, so be sure to keep checking back as the reviews continue to roll in! The show continues through March 5.
Lynn Venhaus, Belleville News-Democrat:
"The Repertory Theatre’s stunning must-see adaptation of 'To Kill a Mockingbird' emphasizes the power of Harper Lee’s perceptive and timeless prose."
"The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis have outdone themselves with a superb production of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. I strongly urge you to see this, and take along your kids so they can experience it as well."
"Packed with an eloquent but forceful message on equality, dignity, and respect, the show is a memory play that feels at home in contemporary America. Harper Lee's seminal story on race and justice, adapted for the stage by Christopher Sergel, has not lost any relevance or impact since its original publication."
Judith Newmark, St. Louis Post-Dispatch:
"Kaylee Ryan, her twin brother, Ronan Ryan, and Charlie Mathis give full-out, convincing performances as brother-and-sister Scout and Jem Finch and as their neighbor Dill."
Steve Allen, Stage Door St. Louis:
"'To Kill A Mockingbird' is still a moving piece that is a constant reminder of how important it is to not lose ground that has been so preciously won over the years."
"The Rep’s well-wrought presentation of the tale's theatrical adaptation is a fitting addition to the story’s lasting legacy."
"The Rep’s production of To Kill A Mockingbird is remarkable in how it handles each of these tangled issues with love, respect, and courage, leaving no emotional stone unturned—no matter how painful."
Richard Green, Talkin' Broadway:
"Kaylee Ryan is matter-of-fact excellent as Scout, and her twin brother Ronan Ryan even more so as her complex, older brother Jem."
Ann Pollack, St. Louis Eats and Drinks:
"It’s moving, extremely well executed, and a perfect fit for almost any audience."
Michelle Kenyon, Snoop's Theatre Thoughts:
"This adaptation is a strong, emotionally charged theatrical work, with some particularly strong performances to help carry its weight, and an especially strong and memorable musical underscoring."
Joshua Devitt, Saint Louis University News:
"The play calls the adult audience to determine what, exactly, we want to impart on our children. Do we want to perpetuate a society built on degrading and violent 'isms' and 'phobias'? Or do we want to build and cultivate our children to live with love, honor and morality?"