The Cracker Jack

A beautiful story of admiration and inspiration, told through the eyes of a child. The boy's fascination with his uncle is something a lot of us have felt for our relatives and role models, but perhaps haven't put into words- something this show has done so well! It was a treat to go back in time with the show's multi-media visuals and music. A one man show, Mike Rad's performance was truthful and moving. Not to mention the many hats Rad also wore as writer and producer! I highly recommend you see this delightful piece of art. ... full review

Mike Rad nails this heart felt performance. You can actually feel his emotions with every story he tells. A must see if you haven't already.... full review

A very intimate play about the close relationship between a man and his uncle. It was great the learn a little bit about shipping but mainly to hear about the bond between two family members. Mike Rad is an excellent storyteller.... full review

The Cracker Jack, a must see! Mike tells the inspiring story of his uncle Jimmy, a formidable yet loving, boat captain, who immigrated to the US seeking success and worked hard all his life to achieve it. A Fringe hit for sure.... full review

Mike Rad clearly loves the people in his family. If you want to see someone talk with love about the people who are important to them, check him out!... full review

Crackerjack is awesome! Told with such genuine presence and poignant vulnerability. A great view of a unique time through a personal lenses that leaves you wanting to know more about all the well drawn characters. ... full review

Mike Rad's "The Cracker Jack" is an engaging remembrance of not only his "Uncle Jimmy", but a time and vocation not many are familiar with. Mike's love for his Uncle and family radiate thru every anecdote that make up this life's story. There's more to be discovered here and I hope Mr. Rad will be given the opportunity to tell us the complete story in the future... ... full review

Mike Rad has put together a very candid, warm, and revealing portrait of a family member all of us would have benefited to know or have in our own lives. His casual storytelling style is at once commanding and inviting, calmly and engagingly guiding us back in time to the docks of the Hudson, and introducing us to the myriad colorful characters that populated it. The subtle production, paired with David Robinson's gently supportive direction, enhance the feel of the show with just the right amount of sight and sound going on behind Mike's relating of the tales. More than once, I felt transported to a place I've never been, but now feel I know. ... full review

Such an entertaining and intimate look at one man's life. Mike Rad is very funny and so earnest that you can't help but share in his appreciation and nostalgia for his favorite uncle. Highly recommend! ... full review

This is a worthy watch and worthy subject...a one man show of colorful stories about a larger than life Uncle. It's not every day that you hear these kinds of stories (unless it's a family get together), nor are they always told in a heartfelt and compelling way. The Crackerjack is part history lesson of a working man's era now forever changed, part "American tune", and part swan song farewell to a favorite and influential relative. Mike Rad delivers, and you'll find yourself thinking about his family long after you've left the theatre, must see!... full review