About the Show

Inspired by more than 200 interviews with NYC homeless, the Platform Group's new play centers on Lightning Bolt, a rapper bound only by his wheelchair, on a not-so-typical day at the soup kitchen.

'Roughly Speaking' takes place during the course of one meal service, showing people stuck in a 'Waiting for Godot'-like existence. The play examines homelessness through the eyes of Lightning Bolt and a cast of diverse characters. For the regulars who wander in, this is just one more stop on their never-ending quest for food, shelter, and a bit of companionship. For the newcomers, it's a shattering reminder of how their lives have changed. 'Roughly Speaking' is a play about being trapped in a system which exists more to maintain the status quo rather than offer a way out.

Critic Reviews (5)

"Directed by Celine Rosenthal, this heartfelt new play is--for the most part--an empathetic window into the lives of a troubled few. Behind Zeiger’s tight script and a handful of admirable performances, 'Roughly Speaking' is an honest representation and dissection of the homeless culture in New York City."
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"Because of its documentary nature, 'Roughly Speaking' is like a collage of various portraits of people from the streets; it's like a staged version of the 'Humans of New York' project...Zeiger is able to capture with great clarity the characters’ unique ways of communication, and develops a wide range of heartfelt stories...'Roughly Speaking' is a theatrical event with a goal to create positive change in our society. It is truly the most important kind of theatre, and deserves much attention."
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"A moving passion project brought to life by a band of Broadway professionals. Based on the true stories culled from over 200 interviews with homeless NYC men and women, the actors do a tremendous job preserving the dignity of the characters’ story lines, which are intertwined with care and rooted in reality, not melodrama...A collection of small triumphs in a landscape of tragedy and strife, handled with honor by a gifted and dedicated cast."
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"Besides learning more about this underrepresented in literature and theater group of people, we also enjoy 'Roughly Speaking,' directed by Celine Rosenthal, for its artistic value and keen sense of humor that brightens up the grimness of the topic...'Roughly Speaking' teaches us to listen and pay attention to the homeless instead of feeling bad for them as we are walking by. It reminds us that each of these people has a unique story, which is worth hearing."
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"Without having to say so directly, the production makes the audience aware of the extent to which homelessness is a systemic rather than an individual problem...Don't get the idea that this is presented as some sort of didactic lesson: it all comes organically from rounded characters who have friendships, aspirations, and humor. The production keeps the audience invested in them throughout...'Roughly Speaking' gives voice to those who are not usually given a platform to speak."
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Trailer

Creative team

Christopher Michael McLamb

Richie/W