Recommended by Brian Vinero

An intelligent, heartfelt folk musical with immediacy and intimacy of character but grand scope in the storytelling.

This writer has a clear sense of stagecraft and a rock-solid grasp of dramatic writing. The rhythm and cadence of the dialogue is beautiful and poetic, without becoming overly stylized...as is her ear for the nuances of the African-American Southern dialect and culture which is pitch-perfect, and adds authenticity to the storytelling. There is a palpable sense that the writer needs to tell this particular tale and a keen sense of urgency. This is clearly a writer worth investing in, and a perusal of "Battle Cry" is well worth your time.

A joyful evening of entertainment, with a borscht aroma and schmaltz flavor and multiple opportunities for performers to shine.

This play has a tricky rhythm all of its own and has style in abundance. We are not accustomed to seeing women thrust into these kinds of roles and situations in the typical drama, and it is refreshing. Some of her dialogue is so blazing and brilliant it is as if it were neon spray-paint on a white wall. The writer demonstrates an affinity for the harsh, cold sense of humor that this particular culture is known for and has a grasp on the cultural and political situation of the particular time and place of the play. Highly recommended.

This Kleban Award-winning musical is an excellent choice for a theatre looking for a piece rooted in the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein tradition, but with a decidedly post-Sondheim edge. The score is pure American Gothic, with many opportunities to show off singers in both solos and brilliantly arranged ensemble numbers. The story, which has triumphed as a novel and film finds new immediacy as a theatrical work where a live audience can feel a shared sense of fear and suspense as this musical thriller unfolds.

Stephen Cole and Matthew Ward's chamber musical is perfect for a theatre seeking a small, sophisticated show.