“Till, by far the best of four shows I saw at this year’s festival, may unsettle your very soul.”
“It blows the dust of history off a tragedy and brings a martyr to exuberant, mischievous, complicated life.”
“Till, the story of posthumous Civil Rights icon Emmett Till is perhaps the most powerful offering in the lineup of outstanding musicals this year.”
“The music and lyrics by Leo Schwartz beautifully reflect the culture and ethos of the time, relying on gospel music, ballads and blues, especially in the beginning with When He Comes Back, Bless This House, The Lord is My Shepherd; and at the conclusion, the effectual and mind-blowing Follow Me. Locating all of the emotional highpoints in what the book writers convey, Schwartz relays Emmett Till’s enthusiasm to visit his family and go away on a wonderful vacation in the vibrant and high spirited Money, Mississippi. The irony that this is where Till dies is hair-raising.”
“The songs and book in Till are monumental as they should be.”
“It is a national treasure.”
“Composer Leo Schwartz, who wrote the book with DC Cathro, has created a beautiful tribute to Emmett
and his mother, Mamie Till.”
“Till soars with hope as it challenges us to stop the killing of innocent black men.”