Why? NYC Reviews and Tickets
Show-Score Member Reviews (23)
See it if u want 2 c the WHY of acting & life told by Peter Brook & Marie Helene Estienne & an extraordinary cast, touching, beautiful, life changing
Don't see it if u want 2 miss a once in a life time opportunity to experience the joy & sorrow of life interpreted by writing, directing & acting geniuses
See it if You ask existential and social questions about theater, perspective, control, truth
Don't see it if You prefer a linear plot--this is a kind of staged essay about theater; a lot of ideas in one piece seems confusing to you
See it if you're interested in what a genius writer/director is experimenting with at the moment. It's fascinating to see him at this time of life.
Don't see it if you like a linear, traditional piece of theatre. This is definitely not that.
See it if Mature work of a theater legend exploring the essence of the art form
Don't see it if “Bare boards” play of thoughts and not enough action
See it if you are interested in modernist theater, theater mechanics, the history of 20th century tyranny or demonstrations of great acting.
Don't see it if you are looking for a full play: This is an enacted lecture-demonstration. Read more
See it if you're a fan of Peter Brook's legendary work, a theater creator, or want a simple yet thought-provoking show.
Don't see it if you expect a linear story or normal play. It doesn't tell the tale of a few characters, it explores the motives and techniques of theater.
See it if you are excited to think and ponder as this presents ideas and has masterful actors. Simple. Quick.
Don't see it if you wants sets, costumes, story, etc. as this is focused on the words. It's philosophic, historical and relevant. Sometimes funny. Also sad.
See it if If the theater you want hold the mirror up to nature.Peter Brook one of the giants in theater and self reflecting
Don't see it if you mostly want to be entertained.
Critic Reviews (4)
"Peter Brook Asks the Ultimate Question in ‘Why?’: A new work from one of the indisputably great directors is partly a tribute to theater and partly a warning about theatricality."
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3/5 Stars "'That Big Question, On Stage and Off': Peter Brook and collaborator Marie-Hélène Estienne reflect on theater, generally and in another troubled time"
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"The performance takes place on a nearly empty stage and uses only three actors to tell its story. While the evening is mesmerizing, the play seems unfocused, beginning with the question why do we do theater and ending with the political dangers to theater artists who create experimental theater."
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"Those for whom theater is their religion are more likely to appreciate 'Why?'….less a play than a kind of elliptical lecture-demonstration of, and paean to, the beauty and danger of the theatrical arts….nuggets of theatrical wisdom you might hear in an acting class."
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