The Thing That Never Happened (FringeNYC)
About the show
Part of FringeNYC: Four girls sit in a writing center. They speak eloquently about both SoulCycle and second-wave feminism. The Thing That Never Happened is about the relationships we value, the friendships we don't always value, and waiting ninety minutes to text back.
... Read moreCategories: Comedy, FringeHIGH, National. Written by Justine Gelfman. Directed by Ellie Sachs.
"This new play perfectly captures the common struggles of a college-aged woman…The writing is witty and clever…If at times the main plot becomes a bit unclear, Gelfman's commentary regarding the absurdity of hook-up culture and many young people’s fear of love is smart and refreshing. All four female actresses bring stellar performances to the stage as they balance moments of serious focus with sidesplitting comedy...A hilarious look at the values of friendship." Full Review
"‘The Thing That Never Happened’ is a lamentation on hookup culture that means, but fails, also to be a story about putting female friends first. Ms. Gelfman is a recent college graduate, and this is a very young play." Full Review
See it if you want to see a strong opening monlogue. The play has a great start, then fades.
Don't see it if you want more action and variation in staging.
See it if you don't mind a promising but "underbaked" play. Prologue was best, clearest part. Playwright must clarify & foreshadow events & motives.
Don't see it if you're expecting a show about what a writing center actually DOES. BTW, the character "Gigi" may have unrealistic, unexpressed expectations.
See it if You are a college aged woman who wants your life to be reflected on the stage
Don't see it if You aren't ready to watch a show that is real and extremely relevant.
See it if You want great writing and acting on a contemporary issue of major importance
Don't see it if you don't want to be moved by a thought provoking play by an up and coming female playwright with a wonderful cast and awesome director
See it if If you're curious how millennials navigate dating in the era of text messaging and the prevalence of hookup culture. Hits upon friendships
Don't see it if You don't like cursing.
See it if You have ever fallen in love.
Don't see it if You struggle to relate to those college-aged
See it if you are interested in the psyches of thoughtful young college students
Don't see it if you aren't interested in millennials or learning about hook up culture