Schizm

"Schizm" is a thoughtful, nuanced, and tender exploration of mental health challenges that really find themselves explored in such a robust and impactful way. Lisman gives these characters depth, humanity, and a lived-in sense of reality that makes this his best work to date. Watching a playwright find their voice is always exciting, and Lisman has clearly found his. ... full review

Schizm had some really strong performances from the lead actors, who brought a lot of heart and authenticity to the story. I also loved how the space was used—the staging helped pull the audience into Greg’s experience and made the storytelling very engaging. ... full review

Strong acting performances really boosted an at times confusing script. Lexie Hastings is a STAR!... full review

*Schizm* is a deeply moving piece of theater. As a fellow drama therapist, I was struck by the humanity and care Ryan Lisman brings to the experience of psychosis and schizophrenia. The use of the Greek chorus is especially powerful. It beautifully externalizes the protagonists' inner worlds and reminded me of both drama therapy and Internal Family Systems—the way different voices, parts, fears, and longings live within us and shape our experience. What struck me most is that the play speaks not only to people diagnosed with mental illness. It also feels incredibly relevant to the world we are living in right now and the rise of authoritarian and fascist tendencies. We are surrounded by social and political forces that encourage disconnec... full review

This was such a lovely, heart-warming, and humanizing play. The script was solid, the acting performances were lived in, and the directorial choices were laudable! A really beautiful story that presents a much-needed perspective about the disservice we do to folks by pathologizing mental health conditions. Go watch it and leave with a more tender heart!... full review

Really enjoyed the show. I had seen a scene from it in January during Catharsis Bites and loved seeing the entire play as a whole. The actors were all so engaging and entertaining. The audience was so attentive and you could tell everyone was having a great time watching Schizm.... full review

This was a very interesting piece! Really strong and committed performances. The Greek chorus was a bold choice and it helped with creating tension and some cool stage pictures. Great reminder to treat everyone with kindness because they may be going through way more than you could ever imagine!... full review

Many complex subjects are covered in this tale of love blossoming between a young man and a young woman who meet after being committed to the same psychiatric ward, from family dynamics and genetic predispositions, to the side effects of medications. Beneath all of it is a deep love and concern for each other, hopes for a future together, and a fear of what they know about their own and their families' pasts threatening to hurt that love.... full review

Funny, moving, and achingly romantic... full review

"Schizm", a much needed subject matter dealing with mental health.... full review