"The play is haunted by the lack of any meaningful dramatic action, as well as a tendency toward sentimentality...Galinsky has a fairly solid technique, but at times he has trouble giving the characters distinct identities...An admirable project, but as it is, it is in need of a more astringent point of view and a stronger dramatic spine. We need a more urgent reason to spend time with these characters; otherwise, just as in real life, it will be too easy to turn away when they approach."
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“Though Galinsky meticulously captures the soul of each persona...there is a lack of propulsion and energy to the plot; in this instance there is not enough of to the plot to keep the audience interested...There is tension but no real conflict...Without a doubt, this is an accurate display of life for many homeless people, but onstage the absence of heightened drama feels dull."
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“Galinsky's vital solo piece, based on real people, is the most important kind of urban voyeurism...If you enjoy the work of Anna Deavere Smith, or are an active reader of those ‘Humans of New York’ posts, you're in for a treat...The respect and compassion that Galinsky has for his subjects are readily apparent...The chameleonic Galinsky transforms between various distinct personas with perfect control and ease...Each one of them has a story that needs to be heard.”
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"Based on true stories, 'The Bench' successfully tugs at the heartstrings of its audience. Weaving in loss, love, and heartbreak through an emotional performance. This skillfully written play creates an eye-opening experience...Galinsky gives a brilliant performance filled with both high energy and emotion, endearing all five characters to the audience within an hour. A fascinating tale that brings drama, a little tragedy, and just a taste of comedy."
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“’The Bench' is well-deserving of a legendary stage setting to let this diamond of a show shine...Not only a tour de force of Galinsky's stage writing and acting, but it truly moved me, and quite frankly left me with both awe and hope...Galinsky throws down the gauntlet as a social challenge to all of us--to be better people, see fellow humans with more empathy and to ultimately to understand that what is on the surface is not always what is underneath.”
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