In the Event of My Death NYC Reviews and Tickets

"Joy does of sterling job of establishing the cat's cradle of rivalries, frustrated longings, and simmering resentments…Thanks to Lillis' meticulously detailed direction and a fine ensemble, it's easy to believe that these characters share a long and highly fraught past…There are aspects of the script that might benefit from further polishing…But 'In the Event of My Death' is a taut, funny, and often surprisingly moving account of a funeral that becomes an autopsy for past relationships."
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"An accomplished production…As the play develops, and especially as the characters come to life in the hands of the strong ensemble of actors, clichés start to melt away…There is also a great sense that we are witnessing real people, some of whom we would like to spend more time with...Decidedly, though, it is the collaborative efforts of the playwright, the director, the production staff, and the entire cast that lift 'In the Event of My Death' considerably beyond its predictable roots."
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"Grown-up high school friends and acquaintances are assembling for an informal mourning of their friend Freddy, who committed suicide...Unfortunately none of the former schoolmates, written by Lindsay Joy, are particularly interesting...With flat jokes, clichéd sentiments and endless gossip about two-dimensional people who you don’t care about, I barely made it through the first act...Act two...finally the show got some fresh air...Complicated family dynamics makes the show more interesting."
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"The actors, and Lillis' direction, convincingly, and often movingly, establish the chemistry, rhythm, and dynamics of a group of (mostly) friends with an extensive shared past…'In the Event of My Death' keeps the touch light and deft, consistently making the audience laugh out loud without losing its emotional heft. The production weaves the different embodiments of its themes together in an entertaining, satisfying theatrical experience...To this gathering, RSVP yes."
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"With so many familiar types arguing that they're misunderstood the show sometimes feels like a reunion of 'The Breakfast Club.' The results are rarely whiny and often moving, however, thanks to the emotional sincerity of the performances in Padraic Lillis's sensitive production. Joy likewise undercuts the self-pity with flashes of jagged wit and a sobering sense that at some fundamental level we remain unknowable to those we love, and even to ourselves."
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"Joy maintains a welcome emotional balance, writing scenes such that the somber moments in the play are often punctuated with lighthearted anecdotes, which give the narrative a meaningful authenticity. The pacing feels a bit slow at times due to repetitive content, but these lulls are a relatively minor problem in an otherwise well-crafted play...The technical artists are joined by a strong ensemble of actors who capture the depth of emotion of their respective artistic wards."
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