"A mildly morbid but irrepressibly effervescent lark...The play evolves into an exuberant celebration of color and quirk…This production grew out of Ms. Maddow’s experiences as a volunteer in Brooklyn Civil Court. The influence is palpable...Ms. Maddow reminds us that for all the strains attendant upon urban living, every now and then novel and wonderful relationships emerge."
Read more

"'Burnished By Grief' works in part because nobody in the cast or creative team seems to take anything too seriously. The actors clearly take great joy in their performances, playing each moment, no matter how severe, with a wink to the audience in a way that is endearing rather than frustrating...While the heightened style might not be for everyone, the consistency throughout creates a complete picture."
Read more

"There are no stand-outs in the cast, only in the sense that every single actor imbues his and her character with that commedia zaniness that makes even their griefs transform into joie de vivre. Maddow’s witty, intelligent dialogue lifts us up. Her text and characters are exuberant, infecting the audience with joy."
Read more