Long Lost

Long Lost

Manhattan Theatre Club

New York City Center Stage I

May 25, 2019

Photo courtesy of Manhattan Theatre Club

Long Lost, Donald Margulies’ new play at Manhattan Theatre Club, tells a compelling story of the complex relationship between two brothers.  Director Daniel Sullivan finds the rhythm that connects the characters, allowing the deep-rooted conflicts and dark secrets that both unite and divide them to be revealed.  All the characters face their innermost fears, no matter how hard they work to side-step them.

Lee Tergesen & Kelly Aucoin
Photo courtesy of Manhattan Theatre Club

David (played by Kelly Aucoin) is not at all happy when his brother, Billy (played by Lee Tergesen), drops in for a surprise holiday visit.  In an effort to keep him from staying with his family, David tells Billy his marriage is “going through a rough patch.”  To manipulate his brother, which is Billy’s greatest talent, he tells David he is dying of cancer.  David’s wife Molly (played by Annie Parisse) is uncomfortable with Billy staying with them, so places a limit on the length of his stay.  Their son Jeremy (played by Alex Wolff), who is home from school for Christmas break, does not know what to make of his “black sheep uncle.”  When Billy stirs up old, unresolved feelings and reveals a few skeletons hidden deep within the family closet, they are all forced to face truths they can no longer avoid.

Lee Tergesen & Alex Wolff
Photo courtesy of Manhattan Theatre Club

Kelly Aucoin and Lee Tergesen have a great chemistry and create a truthful brother relationship.  Their family history is evident in the subtext that drives their interactions.  The tension created between Annie Parisse and Lee Tergesen is palpable.  They skillfully sustain it, control it, and build it until the point of no return.  Alex Wolff portrays Jeremy’s growth from secluded innocence to having to face harsh realities.  His transformation is realistic and gradual.

Playwright Donald Margulies does not hold back in showing the hard-edged realities of the effects of manipulation and lies in the family dynamic.  Long Lost is playing at the New York City Center Stage I through June 30.

Domenick Danza