East Texas Hot Links is “One of the Finest Presentations of True Ensemble Acting We Will Ever See”
East Texas Hot Links is a creative touchstone for Resident Artist and Director Ron OJ Parson. He has returned to this play, again and again, because of its continued relevance and his firm belief that it still has something to say – and critics would agree.
Read their reviews and get your tickets to this simmering tale of secrets and survival before it closes on Sunday, September 29. Tickets are available online or by calling the Box Office at (773) 753-4472.
“Even though I knew everything that was about to unfold, I became excited as soon as I saw the cast list…Here you have a group of performers of a maturity unlike any other current show in Chicago, a director who knows every beat of the play and a compelling piece of dramatic writing.”
— Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 3.5 out of 4 stars
“Spicy and explosive, the must-see East Texas Hot Links lives up to its name. The latest offering from director Ron OJ Parson at the Court Theatre is a savory treat for even the most discerning theatrical palate…There isn’t a weak link in this hot cast.”
— Chicago Reader, Reader Recommended
“I rarely start a review with such a bold statement, but Court Theatre’s East Texas Hot Links, written by Eugene Lee and directed by Ron OJ Parson, is truly a standout production…Through his insightful direction, Parson brings out the inner depths of each character, creating performances that leave a lasting impact on audiences. Eugene Lee’s play East Texas Hot Links is a gripping masterpiece that keeps you captivated for 90 minutes, leaving you eagerly anticipating what could unfold if the play had 91 minutes….Court Theatre’s production promises to enthrall you with a captivating theatrical experience. It’s phenomenal!“
— Let’s Play Theatrical Reviews, 4 out of 4 stars
“After the performance, fellow theatergoers shared this was the finest version of the play they had seen. I would have to agree. This production had me tingling from start to finish…Court Theatre’s East Texas Hot Links is a searing and unforgettable production that captures the complex dynamics of community, race, and survival. The combination of outstanding performances, atmospheric design, and Parsons’ expert direction makes this a must-see theatrical experience. Regardless of how many times you’ve seen it before…see this now!“
— Buzz Center Stage, Highly Recommended
“There is so much I want to say, but I don’t want to give away too much of the story line. I will say that you will experience a roller coaster of emotions, from laughter, to anger, and then tears. East Texas Hot Links is my favorite production so far this year. I highly recommend it. Everything about this production, from the direction to the acting, was executed with excellence.“
“This production offers one of the finest presentations of true ensemble acting we will ever see. The intimate banter, the intuitive approaches in character, the story’s roadmap that is laid out for the cast, enhancing each actor’s planting of their artistic feet by literally grabbing and shaking us…Parson deftly handles the intensity with [the] skill of a surgeon. This kind of storytelling is indeed his specialty and it’s marvelous to watch.“
“The direction by Ron OJ Parson is great…The scenic design is extremely well done; the set is gorgeous…Lighting, the province of Jason Lynch, is superior in this production. It starts out with red and orange lights that light up the trees behind the diner, in combination with the flat lighting of the interior. The exterior lights shift depending on time of day—and also as the story progresses; this is so cleverly and beautifully done! Special effects consultant and firearms coordinator Jim Guy has done a brilliant job bringing realism to the show, and the violence design is superb due to fight director Joe Foust’s impressive efforts!“