Summary
A memory play centering on a playwright named Joshua, who is asked by his dying grandmother to write a “bitter and vitriolic” play about their family. Spanning thirty years, the story explores the complex triangular relationship between Joshua, his difficult mother Ellen, and his charismatic but alcoholic grandmother Renee, who nurtured his love for the arts while battling her own demons.
Friday, April 11, 2025 at 7:30 PM Apr 11, 2025, 7:30 PM
Still loved it. Really recommend catching this if you can. ☺️
This captures (so realistically and relatably) the natural push and pull of sympathy in a drawn-out family conflict and its complex interplay with our individual relationships on either side. Being in the middle is hard; maintaining neutrality and enforcing your boundaries can be rewarding but still feel like betrayal. Family can be cruel and still be warm and special and a positive influence. People are complicated and subject to interpretation.
All three actors are great, but I think Jeanine Serralles impresses me the most because she has the hardest job being at the center of the conflict.
I never felt bored on rewatch which is uncommon for me. I do notice it’s been punched up a bit since previews. The pacing felt slightly brisker and a couple moments have been gently reworked to emphasize the humor a little more strongly. I don’t know that it needed the tweaks but I don’t think they’re unwelcome.