Star Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"...“The Whale” is in many ways a good play, but Rummenie’s production illustrates the hate and anger so well that we never feel invested. The loathing experienced by these characters collapses in on itself rather than reaching out and making us care."
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Twin Cities Pioneer Press - Somewhat Recommended

"...There's a lot of conflict here and plenty of potential antagonists. Hunter's script is rangey, but doesn't always dot all the thematic i's nor cross all the t's of character or plot development. What it does do, for the most part, is to present a handful of easy-to-dislike characters and offer enough context and shading for the audience to develop an understanding and a kind-of affection for them."
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How Was The Show - Recommended

"...The Whale, by Samuel D. Hunter (Walking Shadow Theatre Co., performing at Mixed Blood Theatre, through Dec 20), is a grim little play. In it, we watch Charlie, the eponymous whale, committing suicide by gluttony. In the years since his boyfriend's death (pneumonia complicated by anorexia), Charlie's weight has ballooned. "It's been a long time since I've been able to weigh myself. 500? 600?""
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Aisle Say Twin Cities - Recommended

"...While the production value of this play (produced by Walking Shadow Theatre Company in association with Mixed Blood Theatre) was solid, it’s not the directing, acting, or stagecraft of this play that will cause you to ponder The Whale long after you have seen it. Perhaps that was one of the best pieces of this production; it kept the focus on the play itself and the actors were strong enough to present the material but not overpower it. You won’t go see this play because of an amazing performance or the spectacle. You will see this play because of what it’s about."
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