"Incisive direction of Tony Award winner Austin Pendleton...Authentic passages of dialogue in German, Slovenian, and Italian underscore the difficulty Allied soldiers had in communicating with the Europeans in their native tongues, contributing to their sense of displacement, alienation, and uncertainty. We feel it, along with the cruelty and fear, suspicion and camaraderie, dread and boredom, all embodied with credibility and depth by Byers and an excellent supporting cast."
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"Byers’ absorbing wartime drama...The story of Lou Fowler is vividly brought to life in 'Luft Gangster,' and directed with unflinching yet graceful flair by Pendleton...'Luft Gangster' becomes more riveting and engrossing as it progresses, slowly revealing its emotional center and taking great care in its character development...'Luft Gangster' is guaranteed to captivate the audience. The fact that it’s faithfully translated from a true story, however, really, shall we say, 'brings it home.'"
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“This is a riveting and intense drama that reveals the tedium of being a POW and the different psychological and emotional coping mechanisms each individual prisoner uses to get through. The play builds in intensity and keeps the audience engrossed in the story and the ultimate fate of Louis ‘Lou’ Fowler, a United States Army Air Corps waist gunner on a B-24 Liberator, who was shot down in March 1944 during a routine bombing mission and held prisoner in Stalag Luft VI. Highly recommended!”
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“Austin Pendleton’s even touch as a director provides the right restraint and prevents the play from falling into melodrama and stereotypes…The depiction of both American POWs and Nazis is well rounded, and undercuts some of the broader stereotypes. Instead, the play unearths the subtler terrors the POWs faced in internment, such as the language barrier…Byers also draws the German officers as real people.”
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"This story latches onto your attention early and doesn't let go. The gradual building of intensity and the smooth introduction of various characters, actors, and settings draw the viewer into the life of the lead character, Lou Fowler, a United States Army Air Corps waist gunner, who was shot down and held prisoner by the Germans at Stalag Luft VI. The play keeps things engaging on a personal and dramatic level. Solid acting helps to create a sense of purpose for each character."
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“The script is solidly written, emotional, with both beautiful speeches and sharp episodic scenes, and it comes to life effortlessly under Pendleton’s solid, decisive direction and thoughtful, committed concept. Nylon Fusion brings together a stunning ensemble of talented, tender actors…The show is thrilling, seamless, and real. Go to 'Luft Gangster' and you will laugh, cry, and be impressed by the immaculate product of talented artists coming together under a clear vision."
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“A powerful, moving, and even funny mediation on the horror of being a POW in WWII. The dialogue is natural and the scenes are thrilling, masterfully directed by Pendleton...The entire ensemble has standout moments, and every one of them brings a powerhouse performance…Yet for all of the good, there are a few bumps in the road...Even with a few abrupt moments in Act II (including an ending that is this close to working), it doesn't diminish the power of the play.”
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