Last Call Reviews
Stage and Cinema- Recommended
"...There is a lot to admire in Ms. Kenney's writing, not the least of which that the story feels handled in a modern way. She also makes Jill a monster in her television job - brave considering that some will assume she is writing about herself, since her extensive television credits extend all the way back to L.A. Law. (In my experience, no true monster ever recognizes herself or himself as such, so my guess is that Kenney is not the basis for Jill on that score.)"
On Stage Los Angeles- Somewhat Recommended
"...Program notes inform us that Anne Kenney's writing credits are deeply involved in episodic television. Her 'semi-autobiographical' play has all the earmarks of that medium where it's easy to move from one time period or location to another in the blink of an eye. Easy on television. More difficult on the stage. Herein lies a problem. Short expository scenes and blackouts slow the pace: dramatically."
Will Call- Recommended
"...The playwright, with her first hand knowledge, smartly injects some quips and comical repartee to lighten the effect of something that may hit too close to home for some audience members and who might otherwise call the play "depressing". The solution to the dilemma may prove controversial but it's realistic. Long ago we have come to the conclusion that the world of medicine has succeeded in prolonging life but has failed to help maintain the quality of life. This is a reminder."
Stage Raw- Somewhat Recommended
"...Last Call is more unsettling than it is darkly funny. The intriguing part of the story is the relationship between the aging, ailing parents and the way the family copes with their imminent decline. But the story spends most of its time focusing on the quibbles of the petty, immature siblings. We never get to the heart, the pain or the humor of the story - the kids are too busy bickering."
Theatre Notes- Recommended
"...There is enough mordant humor in Last Call to label it a dramedy, but as the action swirls to a shocking climax, the show is difficult to watch, and is only saved by the strange, winsome relationship of Ricky, Jade, and, ultimately, Jill. An endearing slide show at the end is not enough of a denoument to ameliorate the unease of this audience member."