project

The Liftist

Dramatic Theatre · M&M Arts and Productions INC. · Ages 16+ · 75 mins · United States of America

Family Friendly World Premiere
Add Your Review
the liftist

Review by JINYUE HU

June 26, 2026
IMPORTANT NOTE: We cannot certify this reviewer attended a performances of this show because no ticket was purchased through this website or the producer has not verified they attended.

What I liked

What impressed me most was the way the play transformed an ordinary household issue into a larger conversation about labor, dignity, and social expectations. The writing successfully balances comedy with emotional truth, allowing audiences to laugh while also recognizing themselves in the situations presented on stage.

I especially appreciated how the relationships evolved across different stages of life. The interactions between family members, partners, and caregivers felt authentic and nuanced rather than one-dimensional. The characters were flawed, recognizable, and deeply human, which made their conflicts feel meaningful rather than purely symbolic.

The production also handled shifts in tone remarkably well. Moments of absurd humor never undermined the emotional stakes, and serious conversations were often relieved by genuine laughter. The ensemble demonstrated strong chemistry throughout, creating a world that felt cohesive and lived-in.

The design elements also supported the storytelling effectively. The transitions between different periods and realities helped maintain momentum while reinforcing the larger themes of the play.

What I didn't like

Because the play engages with several ambitious themes simultaneously, some ideas could benefit from additional development or reflection before moving on to the next section. There were moments when I wanted to spend a little more time with certain emotional discoveries before the story continued forward. However, the overall pacing remained engaging, and the narrative stayed accessible throughout.

My overall impression

A surprisingly layered and intelligent piece that uses humor, absurdity, and everyday situations to explore much larger questions about gender roles, care work, responsibility, and human relationships. What initially appears to be a simple conflict gradually develops into something much deeper and more universal. The production is both entertaining and thought-provoking, leaving the audience with plenty to reflect on long after the performance ends.

Was this review helpful? yes · no
the liftist