Heartland NJ Reviews and Tickets

“In a world where war is rampant and people take no prisoners, concepts like absolution and compassion seem far-fetched. But in 'Heartland', there are no grudges held or swords to bear or language barrier insurmountable. Only love. In Dean's endearing play 'Heartland', Kreith directs this heartfelt masterpiece rife with comedic brilliance and the triumph of the human spirit...The story is loosely based on true events."
Read more

"Under the direction of Ari Laura Kreith, the play features strong performances of considerable range...'Heartland' is a two-hour family drama that is also a two-hour political critique, and a two-hour lesson in religious awareness and diversity. That’s a lot. But the Luna team succeeds in guiding Dean’s ambition into a warm, provocative production."
Read more

"It’s a topical drama, but Dean refuses to simplify, creating a rich tale of three people caught up in political, social and religious forces beyond their control....That’s a lot of raw material to pack into a one-act play, but Dean, the actors and director Ari Laura Kreith make every word count. Even the humorous touches — and there are many of them — have a larger meaning, stemming, often, from cultural misunderstandings that are central to the characters’ relationships."
Read more

"Luna Stage’s artistic director Ari Laura Kreith helms her talented cast with skill, avoiding the temptation to go for the histrionic in favor of a more personal, and thus more affecting, depiction of the story...It is a privilege to watch fine actors at work in such a well written and well directed theatre piece. You owe it to yourselves to travel to the 'Heartland.'"
Read more

"The trio of actors Krieth has cast performs superbly as an ensemble, convincing the audience that they are the characters they portray, reciting dialogue naturally and making us really care about the characters, no matter how they behave toward each other. Too, the intimacy of the little black box theater enhances the experience...A sobering, playful, romantic examination of the human heart—one you will talk about for days afterward."
Read more

"All three actors give formidable performances, especially Kareem Badr, who provides a deep authenticity to his role as Nazrullah, an Afghani math teacher...With its heavy themes of love and war, guilt and propaganda, it’s a surprisingly moving and enjoyable play, ultimately about relationships — how they are made and how they can break. Highly recommended."
Read more

“Dean’s 'Heartland' critiques the cost of U.S. interventionism by distilling it down to its impact on three people...Along the way Dean weaves in lessons about compassion, great literature and Islam. All told with grace and humor. His well-crafted script is brought to life by Ari Laura Kreith’s masterful directing and compelling acting by a fabulous ensemble of three actors. I connected with each one...A powerful night of theater.”
Read more