RAVES AND EMBELLISHMENTS

“By far the outstanding performance was that of Joan Oviatt…an emotional as well as physical feat.” (Mission Call) – Lowell N. Steele, The Daily Universe, 11/5/75.

“Joan Oviatt as Widow Quin played…the part with insightful sensitivity.” (Playboy of the Western World) – Charlene Winters, The Daily Herald, 10/31/77.

“Admirable performances contributed by…Joan Oviatt…” (A Man For All Seasons) – Tom Smith, The Green Sheet, 3/27/80.

“The character of Mama Longstreet, played by Joan Oviatt, could not have been better. The big song hits come through with the verve and snap of the old Broadway presentation. Those are ‘Papa, Won’t You Dance With Me’ and ‘I Still Get Jealous.’” (High Button Shoes) – Howard Pearson, Deseret News, 7/12/82.

“Cy Gessel and Joan Oviatt were both absolutely captivating. Both gave the kind of total effort to their characters that draws attention to them…Miss Oviatt’s rich vocalizing on ‘Day By Day’ was a musical highlight of the show.” (Godspell) – Joseph Walker, Deseret News, 12/14/82.

“Calvin Archibald and Joan Oviatt nearly steal the show.” (Annie) – Bill Brough and Robin Chmelar, U of U Chronicle, 9/83.

“Joan Oviatt is sweet enough and light enough to be the fairy godmother and has a voice that is just right for the role.” (Cinderella) – Howard Pearson, Deseret News, 2/17/84.

“Joan Oviatt is fun to watch as his supportive, spirited wife. The scenes in the home of the optimistic and loving family highlight the show.” (A Christmas Carol) – Joseph Walker, Deseret News, 11/30/84.

“Joan Oviatt delivers an enjoyable portrayal of Sarah, the resident Swedish chef. Her wide eyes and broad accent give some great moments of fun.” (Man Who Came to Dinner) – Kent Anderson, The Daily Utah Chronicle, 12/4/86.

“Joan Oviatt brings vividly to life one of the forgotten women of American History…. Highly recommended.” (Sixth Wife) – David Barras, Festival Radio, 8/2000.

“Inspiring in its message that someone starting with so little can make such a difference.” (Sixth Wife) – Three Weeks, 8/2000.

“An interesting insight into a rarely represented culture.” (Sixth Wife) – Diane Dubois, The Scotsman, 8/2000.

“A tour de force. A great life wonderfully brought to the stage by an actress of passion and love for her subject.” (Sixth Wife) – Graeme Henderson, Tap/estry, 8/2000.

“It’s a play that attracts a mature audience perhaps familiar with Well’s journalistic contributions, or a younger crowd inspired by her ideals. Neither is disappointed as Joan Oviatt presents a steadily-paced, mastered monologue.” (Sixth Wife) – Marisa de Andrade, The Edinburgh Guide, 8/2004.

“She’s a wonderful character, faultlessly performed, and captures the wisdom of white hair whilst retaining the sparkle of a mischievous eye.” (Sixth Wife) – ERH, Three Weeks, 8/2004.

“This one woman show is relatively fascinating when hearing her own personal background and how she struggled to be an actress. However, the piece as a whole lacks continuity…. Joan Oviatt is intriguing and a talented actress. She appears to have lead an interesting life. Perhaps if this had been made into a play about her experience growing up in the Wild West it may have been more exciting…” (Cowboy Shakespeare) – Georgina Merry, The Edinburgh Guide, 8/2004.

“Oviatt ages wonderfully and gives a very moving, memorable performance…” (Sixth Wife) – Don Marshall, Deseret News, 9/12/2004.