Hold That Thought While I Scream

Emotional introspection. Explosive performances. Mature and juvenile simultaneously. Exceptional. ... full review

With a meticulous blend of thought provoking dialog, superb performances from both Benjamin J Young and Nicole Ohara, and great lighting sequences, Hold That Thought While I Scream is truly a breakout show for everyone involved in this epic piece of theatre. ... full review

I had the absolute pleasure of being an audience member for closing night of “Hold That Thought While I scream.” My only regret is that seeing the closing night performance means I can’t tell everyone I know and love that they must immediately RUN to see it! This show was truly unique and compelling, from the intriguing and layered story to the exceptional acting by both of the leads. I was quite literally on the edge of my seat the entire time just waiting for the story to unfold, and it surprised and delighted me at every turn. I loved the unpredictability of it. I was drawn in by how the expressive outbursts were often over smaller grievances or more surface level irritations, and yet the vulnerable and intimate revelations about the i... full review

This is what you call a PLAY! It's timeless and unmasks those parts of humanity that are generally buried within. I thoroughly enjoyed the crisp writing delivered by two actors who fully understood the assignment. Barrett DeYoung reminds me of a young Edward Albee. Throughout the twists and turns, I wasn't quite sure what would happen next, but the end results were deeply satisfying. It was funny and dark; I was on the edge of my seat. I could see theaters across the nation programming this show. It's also an actor's DREAM. Kudos!!!... full review

"Hold That Thought While I Scream" stands apart as one of the finest well-written and well-constructed plays in this year's Fringe. "Scream" takes a simple therapy session and turns it on its stylized head in this mighty two-hander featuring two of the best performances of the Fringe. Brilliantly directed by Barrett Deyoung. File "Scream" under one of those plays where you can never imagine seeing it with anyone else but Nicole Ohara and Benjamin J. Young, two incredible actors, who are about to take the world by storm. Go!... full review

8.7 out of 10 – Great Show! LA Theatre Bites Recommended! Hollywood Fringe Pick Recommended! Click the link below to learn more: https://latheatrebites.com/hff26-hold-that-thought-while-i-scream-the-hobgoblin-playhouse-review/... full review

A tense, introspective, and gripping two-hander with the power of a five-hander!... full review

One of the best two handers I've seen at any Fringe! The writing is so good! Great direction and great performances. You won't regret seeing this show :)... full review

What a fantastic show! Barrett DeYoung showcases his immense talents as both writer and director as he blends worlds and genres seamlessly. His writing explores the anxiety and emotional burden of being a therapist struggling with her own problems, creating a story that was both deeply human and consistently engaging. He writes with nuance and authenticity, giving his characters complexity, vulnerability, and wit. The actors both gave compelling, layered and strong performances.... full review

"Hold That Thought While I Scream" will make me reevaluate all my therapy sessions moving forward. Barrett DeYoung brings us a unique two-person play with complex characters and a thought provoking narrative on psychological boundaries. The show creatively utilizes the stage and technical elements to put Lady's (an overworked therapist) inner and outer world on display for the audience. I found myself reflecting on the question: how do you take care of others when you can't take care of yourself? How can you provide counseling when you don't even take your own advice? As the lead, Lady, spirals into herself, her facade starts to crumble and her patients start to see it too. All of these elements are well portrayed by the technical choices an... full review