“The Spitfire Grill is a complete work of theatrical resourcefulness. A compelling story that flows with grace and carries the rush of anticipation. The warm, indigenous American folk sound of Mr. Valcq’s score is, harmonically and melodically, as theatrical as it is grass roots. Mr. Alley’s lyrics accomplish the considerable feat of poetically offering inspiration while holding the syrup. The musical is freeing. It is penetrated by honesty and it glows.”

— The New York Times

“The best musical of 2001. The amiable country-flavored tunes and lyrics are transcendent. It is not often that material moves me to tears, but this was one of those occasions. The Spitfire Grill has the heart and soul that your Producers and Full Montys cannot begin to approach. What even in normal times would be a joy is, in these troubled ones, sheer nourishment.”

- New York Magazine

“Some of the most engaging and instantly infectious melodies I’ve heard in a musical in some time. Valcq’s resonant, folk-based orchestrations make the fetching tunes even more accessible and poignant. Open your heart and visit The Spitfire Grill.”

- USA Today

“A chamber musical that mines surprising depths in its portrait of the healing qualities of small-town community life. Set to a haunting score, the production is full of feeling and staged with a simple charm on an entirely bare stage on to which only the arrival of a table constitutes a set. The cast of seven give it a gritty heart, aching with longing and regret but also hope.”

            - The Stage (London)

“Quintessentially American, but The Spitfire Grill crosses all borders and touches our emotions.”

- NewsStage (South Korea)

“A hymn to human kindness and rebirth. It is a musical that speaks to us as we live today. The delicate and powerful theme of healing deep wounds and the beautiful folk melodies touch the audience. A wonderful work that cleanses the heart.”

 - CoRich Performing Arts (Japan)

“An absorbing social/spiritual musical drama that’s terrific entertainment! Spitfire covers big themes as vast as salvation, forgiveness, and redemption in a spirited and engrossing evening of theatre."

- The Hollywood Reporter

"Though the menu at the Grill may be humble, it’s four-star theatre. Spitfire has enormous psychological scope for a deceptively small musical. Deeply intimate, with an impressive, complex, and tuneful array of musical inspirations."

- The Boston Globe

 “Poignant and spine-chilling. A show with universal appeal. The score is exciting, infectious, and lively!”

- Variety