Exploring Family Dynamics in WE HAD A WORLD: A Review Roundup

Reviews Capture the Essence of WE HAD A WORLD

The world premiere of We Had a World, a compelling new play written by Tony Award nominee Joshua Harmon, is making waves in the theater community. Directed by Tony Award nominee Trip Cullman, the production features a stellar cast, including Joanna Gleason and Andrew Barth Feldman. Set to run at NY City Center Stage (ii) until April 27, 2025, this play not only marks MTC’s return to the stage post-pandemic but also delivers a profound narrative rich with family complexities.

The Intriguing Premise: A Play Within a Play

The story unfolds as a dying woman, portrayed by Gleason, asks her grandson Feldman to write a play about their family. Her poignant request, “But I want you to promise me something, make it as bitter and vitriolic as possible,” sets the tone for a deep dive into familial relationships laced with humor and heartache. This meta-theatrical approach invites the audience into an intimate exploration of love, resentment, and the intricate dynamics that often characterize family ties.

Critics Weigh In: Diverse Voices on Harmon’s Craft

Critics have varied responses to Harmon’s script. Maya Phillips from The New York Times appreciates the balance Harmon strikes, avoiding the pitfalls of didacticism often present in memory plays. She lauds the emotional transparency that permeates the narrative, capturing the authentic whirlwind of family emotions. However, others like Frank Scheck from New York Stage Review feel the play’s episodic structure occasionally obscures its dramatic coherence, leading to moments that—as he describes—risk feeling like filler rather than pivotal scenes.

Performance Highlights: A Powerful Ensemble Cast

The production's success is bolstered by its cast, particularly Gleason and Feldman, whose performances have garnered significant praise. Critics note that the direction by Cullman plays a vital role in maintaining the flow of the performance. For instance, Steven Suskin notes the seamless time shifts and character interactions that contribute to a coherent narrative experience, despite the overall episodic nature of the script. The cast's ability to navigate the complexities of their roles undoubtedly enriches the storytelling.

User Experience: A Mixed Bag for Theatergoers

Audience reactions echo the mixed critical reception, capturing the nuances of the play. While many viewers resonate with the emotional journey depicted, others, echoing Jonathan Mandell from New York Theater, felt some anecdotes seemed overly tangential. The balance between humor and pathos offers both entertainment and insight, which one critic described as “refreshingly relatable,” even amid the tension.

Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for Broadway?

As We Had a World evolves during its extended run, the conversations it sparks about family dynamics, storytelling, and memory are bound to resonate with a wide audience. Its exploration of personal history in a theatrical format could inspire future playwrights to delve into their own family legacies, paving the way for more intimate and compelling stories on stage.

The mixed reviews highlight the complexity of theatrical storytelling, paving the way for intriguing discussions among theatergoers and critics alike. This play's journey is just beginning, leaving audiences anticipating whether future performances will refine its narrative and touch more lives。