"That’s what we do here. Bury it deep inside and have another drink." I've read a few of Philip Middleton Williams' plays at this point and I would dare to say COOLER NEAR THE LAKE is Philip Middleton Williams at the height of his power as a storyteller. COOLER NEAR THE LAKE serves up a snapshot into the complex relationships of both a close-knit lake community in the American Midwest and the strange relational dynamics of living and navigating life, love, and family as a gay man. CNTL is both a personal and theatrical triumph in every dimension!

Philip Middleton Williams writes a sweet, charming, and funny romantic comedy with COOLER NEAR THE LAKE. I particularly enjoyed the use of time within the play and how that affected these characters and the culmination of their past. There are some truly heartwarming moments that hold so much emotional weight with them that make for some wonderful moments as these family and friends deal with loss, love, and friendship. This would make a tremendous night of heart and laughter at the theater.

Phillip Middleton Williams tells stories that are personal and poignant and honest. In Cooler Near the Lake, he’s chosen the perfect setting and context, a lakeside summer home in Michigan and a memorial service, as the vehicle to allow the compelling cast of characters to disrobe and bare their secrets, expose their pain, and face the truth. The mastery of his craft is fully on display in this excellent piece. Bravo.