REVIEWS FOR LOVE, LIZ
“Love, Liz is an amazing combination of historical accuracy and witty anachronism to offer an entertaining insight into one of history’s greatest feminists. The simultaneous depiction of Elizabethan Court, and contemporary 'girl talk' is not only amusing, but it is provocative in the portrayal of a woman’s determination to be independent and powerful in a 'man’s world.' This makes the historical scenario both accessible and relevant. The play is no less entertaining than Something Rotten, but contains much more historical accuracy and social significance. Elizabeth I was/is a model for women to emulate and men to respect. The dramaturgy supporting the text is impressive. A planned study guide will make the play an asset to several different curricular plans; studies of history, Elizabethan era, feminism, Shakespeare, etc. And I would reiterate that it is an entertaining way to present the story and its significance.” - Victor Capecce, Millersville University Theatre Professor Emeritus, Lancaster, PA.
“At the heart of Lauren Grove’s very funny and provocative play is a question uppermost in the minds of all utopians: 'Is the perfect society a male or female-centric world view?' From this central question, all the apprehensions, anxieties and conflicts of Elizabethan morality flow, bringing about the anticipated aspirations and expected angst. Against its Tudor backdrop, the play traffics playfully in all our modern preoccupations: who we choose to love; who we choose to follow; should sacrifice to country be above personal sacrifice? With so many questions orbiting Grove’s central character, it would be too easy for the playwright to put a finger on the tiller and force-feed us the answers. But the play’s strength lies in the dramatist’s restraint, allowing us to form our own opinions. The overall result leaves us fabulously buzzing with paradox and contradiction, the way all good theatre should!” - Robert Caisley, University of Idaho Chair of Theatre Arts, Professor of Theatre, and Head of Dramatic Writing, Moscow, ID.
“Love, Liz is brilliant. It combines historical figures with modern references that had me laughing until my sides hurt. Queen Elizabeth and her friends – the ladies of the privy chamber - are the center of the play, as they work to decide who she might marry. However, the scenes where Elizabeth’s suitors try to convince her that they are her perfect match really steal the show. After all, why wouldn’t Queen Elizabeth want to marry the King of Sweden – a land with glorious riches and easy to assemble furniture? While there are many funny scenes there are also touching, heartfelt moments as the new queen comes to realize who she is and what matters most in her life. I can’t recommend Love, Liz enough!” – Rebecca E. Voler, high school teacher, Hummelstown, PA.