See it if You want to see a new , original American drama about dealing with a challenging life situation. A superb ensemble cast led by Carrie Coon.
Don't see it if you don’t like dramas dealing with depressing themes or don’t like theatre that makes you think and feel emotions.
See it if You want a realistic view of one woman's struggle with a sick child. A "moment in time" show. Strong performances all around.
Don't see it if You want some plot development. There isn't any. Set was great.
See it if Amy Herzog's beautiful writing is of interest; excellent actors in multiple roles appeals; life and death subject matter isn't scary for you
Don't see it if a troubled and deeply challenging mother/child relationship or the subject of disability is too close to home. Read more
See it if You are a fan of the playwright and/or the talented cast members.The plot revolves around a mothers' coping with her young son's illness.
Don't see it if Plays involving the illness of a child and the effects on the mother don't appeal to you. The play discusses religion,social issues,health.
See it if You appreciate strong, varied ensemble work. You enjoy stories about simple people grappling with life.
Don't see it if You struggle to watch stories of care-giving, especially when geared towards children with disabilities. Read more
See it if You want very serious depressing drama.
Don't see it if You want an entertainment that's light.
See it if You aren't put off by a poignant, heartbreaking depiction of a young mother living with a severely disabled child. Beautiful writing, acting
Don't see it if You want to see upbeat entertainment in the theater. It will be too close to home. You expect closure and answers to the questions raised.
See it if Enjoy naturalistic plays and appreciate less-told stories. Moms dealing with ill kids are usually "weepy" or "heroic." This is more subtle.
Don't see it if You prefer a clear dramatic arc with a discernible resolution. This has no conflict, character development or real plot.
"Features a strong cast, realistic dialogue, sharp insights and a few surprises...The action is slow and steady, especially in the first half...The play becomes somewhat tedious, although the pace picks up significantly in the second half...Outside of the performances, the strength of 'Mary Jane' is Herzog’s dialogue...You do not need to have a child to appreciate this production and what it is trying to say about life, death, health care — and just taking it one day at a time."
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"The excruciating suffering of a sick child can be alleviated by community, 'Mary Jane' seems to say, but there is no escaping it. It is this push-pull between the momentary reprieve that (female) support offers, and the persistent undertow of despair that provides the fascinating momentum of 'Mary Jane'...It’s a play with unexpected grace and optimism, and one that offers faith in the power of communion."
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