A raw, emotional and powerful piece of theatre. Based on a true case, Punch looks at redemption, forgiveness, and life in so many unexplored angles, it's quite breathtaking. This is not one of those feel good,, movie of the week, type stories; it's difficult, it's uncomfortable and it will haunt you.
I was a kid when this case occurred and I vaguely remember it, because it made national news. For a couple of Brist to write such an insightful and startlingly real play about it is quite amazing, the fact that it's performed by one man is astonishing! I so want to see a production of this!
This one is not for the faint of heart or the squeamish. This is a psychological tale of paranoia and conspiracy. It's twisted and yet is ultimately about loneliness, love and found family. And yes, the creep-crawlies play a significant role in this play.
Every Brilliant Thing is an innovative theatrical piece that is, theoretically, a one person show. However the structure of this piece make it an audience participation, full length play. It's a simple play about a young boy who starts a list of 1000 brilliant things. There is a reason he starts this list, there is a reason the list expands. I encourage everyone to read this, or see a production of it. I was blessed to have done.
I started out laughing while reading this. The absurdity of small town politics is on full display. I finished with my mouth agape in horror. Letts is a master at turning a story on it's ear and plummeting the reader, and thusly the audience, into a completely different show. Although a few years old, this piece is a horrifyingly accurate portrayal of what our present day political landscape feels like.
A delicious, refined (up to a point) comedy of errors, with Coward's signature wit. Three acts of quick and biting dialogue and British stiff upper lipness. How can one not enjoy it?!
Ooo-child! These people are a train wreck! I didn't like any of these characters, and yet I couldn't look away! There was something mesmerizing about these very damaged people navigation (if you can call it that) there lives. The snark is deliciously written, but my God, these people are so damaged that even when they are trying to be nice it comes off as selfish, manipulative and childish. And yet I couldn't not continue to read. What does that say about me?!
I'm glad I saw a production of this play before I read it. For me, it doesn't read well. The humor doesn't come through, it doesn't conjure any solid visuals, nor do the characters seem all that likable. However, having seen it previously, I know where the humor is and had a visual in my mind of the show as a point of reference.
