“HIGHLY RECOMMENDED”

“Look closely at this typically detailed and dignified revival from Michael Weber, and it feels as if you can see all that coming…Weber's earnest and irony-free revival is exceedingly faithful to its talky, one-scene source…But the play hasn't lost all of its bite, by any means.”

Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune

 “Theatre at the Center is reviving "The Petrified Forest" in the hope that the play has something to offer beyond its Bogart nostalgia. The play, under Michael Weber's sharp directing, turns out to be well worth a revival.” ***1/2

Dan Zeff  - Copley News Service

“Under artistic director Michael Weber's guidance, the production of Robert E. Sherwood's powerful 1935 drama The Petrified Forest captured the entire flavor of a Depression-era Humphrey Bogart thriller, Maltese Falcon and Key Largo style… this superb production has less to do with plot than Weber's phenomenal directing and an excellent cast. Unfortunately for Theater at the Center, Weber will be leaving after the next production. Somehow, the entire drama returns to the days of yesteryear. Every bit of acting matches the mid-Depression-era dialogue. Though dated, and in some places hokey, the combination of superb performances and classic script work… This is a must ride back in time.”

Myra Eder – The Star Newspapers

“Theatre at the Center comes up with a winner with the intensely realistic revival of Robert Sherwood’s psychologically complicated suspense drama…a fascinating, rewarding production.”

Kathleen Tobin – The Beverly Review

“Michael Weber selected a seldom produced drama that presents well on stage… Classics need to be produced for each generation and this production is terrific… Full of light moments, intellectual expressions and melodramatic action, The Petrified Forest is an engaging show that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout… The Petrified Forest is engaging theatre. Recommended”

Tom Williams – Chicagocritic.com