Trainspotting Reviews
Backstage- Recommended
"..."Trainspotting" is definitely not for the squeamish or faint of heart. It is often as gag-inducing as it is thought-provoking, but with strong direction and performances the production finds the right balance between grim and funny."
Edge- Somewhat Recommended
"...This revival, while being very funny, lacks the affirmation of life for which the Los Angeles Times praised it ten years ago, and misses the joy of rediscovering the beauty of living that is the central theme of the original novel."
Stage and Cinema- Recommended
"...Trainspotting may not be everyone's cup of theatrical tea but if for nothing other than the captivating performance by Justin Zachary it's a trip worth taking."
EyeSpyLA- Recommended
"...Nobody in the audience will have a feeling of indifference, whether they love it for its pure intensity or hate it for its brutal portrayal, but if you don't know what you're in for you only got yourself to blame…I mean this is "Trainspotting" not Thomas the Train, you know, you fucking jerk offs."
CurtainUp- Recommended
"...The production triumphs over the same risks, taking care that we reach our destination shaken perhaps but bracingly entertained."
BlogCritics.org- Recommended
"...I'm frequently impressed with the resourcefulness of tiny Hollywood theaters, and this production is no exception. Jason Rupert's spare but utiitarian staging-all black with graffitied walls-is complemented by James Dethlefsen and Brian Palla's sound design, original music and well-chosen period songs."
Neon Tommy- Recommended
"...But in spite of all this, the actors' ability and willingness to go to such extremes for their art is incredible. This play leaves nothing to the imagination, allowing audiences to fully appreciate the baseness of addiction."
LifeInLA- Recommended
"...Roger Mathey does a masterful job of interpreting Harry Gibson's stage adaptation of Irvine Welsh's cult novel. Under the direction of Mathey, the play functions similarly to a beautiful yet dysfunctional orchestra. What seems to be a series of disoriented acts comes together in perfect harmony by play's end."
The Los Angeles Post- Recommended
"...This production is full of profanity and explicit graphic acts that are meant to offend, but it's purposeful as it draws the audience in, making you uncomfortable yet you're glued to your seat in awe as if you're hypnotized by the actions. It will stick to your soul and make you think as all good theater should."