Shine Darkly, Illyria Reviews
Broadway World- Recommended
"...Adding to the circus atmosphere is Feste (Jeff Marras, who channels the much-loved Frankfurter from Rocky Horror at times), the cross-dressing party host who talks to the Moon over a tin can on rope phone. His exuberance in the role if a joy to behold. In fact, all the actors in the entire ensemble work at a fever pitch, flitting around the stage and creating he most amazing dances, especially when they mimic the building eaves striking Illyria. The wonders never seem to end, especially when work together to construct their getaway vehicle. You will be swept away in the fantasy and never want it to end."
LA Splash- Somewhat Recommended
"...Happily, playwright Megan Brown, director Amanda McRaven, and the clever cast have managed to untangle the mess and present a pleasant little tale tying up loose ends. Allison Dillard's costumes are especially pretty, reminiscent of Midsummer's Night's Dream fairy togs. The multi-level set by Jeanine Ringer suits the production, filled with delicate and energetic dances choreographed by Jessica DeBattista. The production crew holds everything together as the rain pours down amidst twisting umbrellas. All in all, a sweet and gentle production - but Shakespeare need not worry. This show will not overtake "Twelfth Night" - or any of his other plays, for that matter. SHINE DARKLY, ILLYRIA is pleasant and diverting - but will probably not hold an audience's interest for a few hundred years."
Examiner- Recommended
"...Written by Meghan Brown and Directed by Amanda McRaven, "Shine Darkly, Illyria" is a play showing at the McCadden Theater in Hollywood that imagines what might have happened to the characters of "Twelfth Night" post the nuptial bliss, however thanks to the ingenuity of creators, anyone can see this play without miss-comprehension. "Illyria" as presented by the Fugitive Kind Theater company is a play that does more than tell a fantasy story, but weaves in economic, social, and environmental themes reflected in the original work that play true for today"
Cultural Weekly- Somewhat Recommended
"...Brown has bitten off more than she can chew, combining far-fetched fantasy with an attempt to deal allegorically with current issues. The result is largely a muddle. But the actors are dedicated and make much of it interesting."
Stage Raw- Somewhat Recommended
"...Brown has bitten off more than she can chew, combining far-fetched fantasy with an attempt to deal allegorically with current issues. The result is largely a muddle. But the actors are dedicated and make much of it interesting."
Accessibly Live Off-Line- Recommended
"...Directed by Amanda McRaven, SHINE DARKLY, ILLYRIA is a theatre journey for the sight, sound, and mind. The moon does shine as the title suggests. With its free spirit, there is the "unless" that its speaks for that can be sited if one only allows."
Haines His Way- Somewhat Recommended
"...There are some good ideas in this new plot but the playwright and company constantly indulge in amateurish and juvenile scatological language and shenanigans. However the company's physical prowess is deftly showcased. If only their words had the buoyancy of their actions. Karyn Lawrence's lighting, Allison Dillard's costume and Ray Salas's sound designs were all well done."