THE LINCOLN DEBATE

A well-rehearsed cast packed with talent play off each other brilliantly. Script is thought-provoking with razor-sharp wit. It presents a clear point of view, yet respects the audience's ability to draw its own conclusions. Direction is excellent with impeccable pacing and energy throughout. Creative use of limited Fringe Fest set pieces, lighting and image projection is well done. This show is the pinnacle of what a Fringe show can be: strikingly original, remarkably provocative and wonderfully entertaining. ... full review

I loved the performances and thought the writing was excellent. I also loved learning about this aspect of Abraham Lincoln's life that I was not familiar with. It made me look up a few things after the show. Had a great time! ... full review

A fun exploration of the questions surrounding Lincoln’s sexuality, lead by a hilarious ensemble. ... full review

The Lincoln Debate was beyond excellent!7 I loved it! Terry Ray is a marvel when it comes to writing. ... full review

Thought provoking, well acted and cleverly presented. Previously thought the Idea of Lincoln being gay or bisexual as ridiculous. Now I am curious to investigate historical sources. Mary Lincoln is presented as a very worldly and willing to accommodate Lincoln's emotional needs. I admire her sophistication. Lincoln was lucky to have her as a life-mate. ... full review

I loved this show. Sharply constructed and winningly performed by a brilliant ensemble. It is a delight, and you get some history to boot. Very cleverly staged and written.... full review

Cleverly written and expertly performed, The Lincoln Debate is the best type of history play. Facts are presented, emotions are displayed, but all the conclusions are clearly in the audience's mind. While there were elements of campy fun, there was no real effort to make it a campy show. What surprised me was how much love there was between the characters. This is easily the strongest ensemble piece I've seen at Fringe in a long time. All the performances were top tier. My favorite performances came from Angela Landis, as the long-suffering, but eager to love Mary Todd Lincoln, and Kimleigh Smith as Fanny and pretty much everyone else. Her energy, sass and playfulness brought joy to every character she presented. While The Lincoln Debate doe... full review

A funny, breezy dissection of Abraham Lincoln's alleged queerness adds up to a unpretentious evening of theater. The cast is utterly charming, energetic and game to break the 4th wall and then return to their characters on a dime. There have been other writings and production on the topic such as the documentary, LOVER OF MEN, and the feature film and play, LAVENDER MEN...and all have their merits. THE LINCOLN DEBATE knows this has the potential to be pretty dry stuff, so it makes sure it goes down easy with its quick pace and easy humor. ... full review

So good. I wanted more. Funny. Witty. Historic. Thirsty. Charming. ... full review

In today's hectic (& History-averse) marketplace, what topic can you tap to ignite boxoffice interest in a US President 2 centuries ago? A GAY connection? O-K.!! Lots of research went into this exploration of Lincoln, ALL of it = regurgitated, every unimportant date & every forgettable name. The "Gay Subtext" is only a "B" story, though, so the script has been bulked-up with already familiar Lincoln lore, making wife/widow Mary Todd another aggressive central character, before his Presidency (getting Honest Abe to the altar...) and after (her vilification by that day's biased and bigoted media). It's more than you think you're buying---and less. at the same time.... full review