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"... an interesting piece of theatre, to say you enjoy it is difficult as it’s not one to enjoy, to revere and respect yes ... one that is difficult to watch, yet you can’t not. ... Canal, who also played the title role, did so with incredulous conviction ... Canal’s voice though was the real star, his husky, deep American tones were enough to hypnotise anyone and belong on the RSC stage. ... Overall, Cry, Blueberry is a strong and bold piece of theatre that tackles some interesting issues ... it has the making for a very strong play and a modern-day Scaramouche Jones."
The Open Door
"... Cry, Blueberry is very affecting. ... Canal’s impressive performance is full of grace and honesty; I found it impossible not to reflect on my own experiences, as the clown in front of me stripped off his makeup and poured his heart out to the audience. Ultimately, Cry, Blueberry is an engaging, open, and bleak play, which in its exploration of one character’s sadness invites its audience to reflect on their own. ... the tears of this clown are plain for us to see. Perhaps they make it easier to shed our own."
Everything Theatre
"... Canal's deep voice is beautiful as he relates his tale ... the writing is wonderfully vivid ... there’s enough theology here to make a sermon. ... Blueberry makes his audience gasp and laugh – and perhaps weep the tears of our souls too. ... on this showing [Canal's] will be a powerful presence as he works towards making a difference."
Jewish Renaissance
"... the predominantly steady rhythm of storytelling heightened the moments of anger and frustration, or joy, or just plain sadness, all the more. ... Canal has a deep, rich voice, which contributed to establishing and maintaining audience rapport, and he has the sort of baritone dulcet tones that wouldn’t be out of place in a Rodgers and Hammerstein musical. ... this is a brutally honest and sincere confession, and a profound and memorable performance."
London Theatre 1
"Solo performances are sometimes hard for me to watch. This piece actually works because it has a full theatrical experience rather than a self-absorbed monologue. He knows how to take care of his audience ... We participate, without feeling invaded. ... Richard Canal takes no prisoners in his performance, and I have to take off my hat for his bravery, boldness and generosity. There should be more artists like him."
The Play's the Thing UK
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