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The Road Theory

Comedic Theatre · No Play like Home Productions · Ages 17+ · United States of America

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the road theory

Review by ASSAF MANOR

June 16, 2025 certified reviewer
tagged as: ROFL · lgbt · queer · gay · romance · soul-searching · college · human · profound · heartfelt · Hilarious

What I liked

Acting felt lived in, easy, natural, honest, and emotional. The four characters worked so well together, and they all had their moment to shine and to shine their light on others, which is a testament to the acting and writing both. On the directing, the show felt so smooth, no part felt superfluous, it was all very sleek which is impressive because it also never felt showy. The premise is so smart because it allows these profound emotional revelations to unfurl in a way that feels natural. You’re watching one evening in the lives of four characters, but it’s a night that changes them all in profound ways. It’s a promise that the production absolutely delivers on. Also I just have to mention that the way this show handled sexuality and identity, which isn’t even the main thing it’s doing, was absolutely incredible. I’m gay and felt so moved by the complexity, the nuance, the humanity of what was said.

What I didn't like

Look… I wouldn’t have changed a thing. There was one moment where it was apparent that a technical difficulty came up (a phone wouldn’t connect to the TV), but the actors handled it like pros and kept it moving. Honestly, I would keep it as it was the night I saw it! It felt more real that she’d show directly from her phone, but I also get the aspect of sharing with the audience, but also we all saw what she took a video of. It was the only part where I felt a little like “this is a show and we’re showing you something”. That said, it was so minor and didn’t at all detract for how much I enjoyed it.

My overall impression

This show blew me away. I had little expectations going in, knew nothing about the plot. All I had was a friend’s recommendation and a discount code! But this production gripped me from beginning to end. The acting, writing, set design, direction, all 10/10 for me. It’s clear writer/director Brianna Eljaua knows what she’s doing, has a firm grasp on character, storytelling, humanity. This show moves from some of my favorite recent comedy to deep, heartfelt, profound moments easily, something many people try and few are able to execute on this level. I was just so impressed with everything and recommend it to everyone.

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the road theory