The Arsonists Reviews
DC Theater Arts- Recommended
"...Michael John Garces directs the madness, and he's squeezed every bit of irony out of the lime of this story: we don't want to enjoy this condemnation of our world, but the ovation we give at show's end is a necessary show of appreciation."
MetroWeekly- Recommended
"...Bringing such contemporary reference is no small feat and Garces also adeptly handles Frisch's strong penchant for abstraction. Keeping it fast-paced and by turns comical and foreboding, we may not have time to catch every nuance, but neither are we left dangling too long in the Theater of the Absurd."
Talkin Broadway- Recommended
"...Director Michael John Garces and the actors are not going for subtlety here; they want the audience to feel uncomfortable while laughing at other people's absurdities, but not by treating the characters as jokes. Audience members are invited to stay for post-show discussions after every performance."
MD Theatre Guide- Recommended
"...Woolly Mammoth understands that this show is one that is going to get people talking, it even provides talk backs after every performance. But for all of its provocation, "The Arsonists" doesn't tell you what you're supposed to believe. Betterman is not a perfect stand in for either wealthy conservatives or wealthy liberals, so there is room for interpretation. One thing is clear: if you want to feel cozy and safe, this isn't the play for you. But if you want to face the uncertainty of our times, this play is perfect."
BroadwayWorld- Highly Recommended
"...If you want to see actors at the top of their game, enhancing the performances of those around them with humor, resolve, and grit, then THE ARSONISTS can't be beat. Howard Shalwitz in his 38th Season as Artistic Director of Woolly Mammoth delivers a knock-out performance as George Betterman."