Job

 Job
The Hayes Theater
September 18, 2024 

Photo courtesy of Job

Job is a riveting and mind blowing experience.  Playwright Max Wolf Friedlich continually turns the tables on his two characters.  They shift power from moment to moment.  The use of Chekhov’s gun and the ticking clock keep the audience on the edge of their seats for the full eighty minutes.  Director Michael Herwitz builds the action by focusing on the specific needs of the characters, while allowing the bigger story to organically unfold.

Jane (played by Sydney Lemmon) has her first session with Loyd (played by Peter Friedman).  She had an emotional breakdown while on the job, and is required to see a therapist if she wants to return to work.  When Jane pulls a gun on Loyd, her mental condition becomes questionable.  As rattled as this makes Loyd, he takes control of the situation.  Jane willingly opens up, knowing Loyd has the power to grant her what she wants.  As the session progresses, Loyd unravels Jane’s traumas and fears.  Jane purposely does a bit of probing of her own, causing Loyd to reveal a few details about himself that spark her paranoia.  Or is it his dark truth? 

Peter Friedman & Sydney Lemmon
Photo courtesy of Job

Peter Friedman and Sydney Lemmon are perfectly matched in these roles.  They are both strong, fully present, identifiable, and empathetic.  It is important that the audience become invested in both of these characters, or the impact of their revelations will have no meaning.  These two actors deliver genuine performances.  They skillfully build their relationship based on the urgent need embedded in the writing.  Mr. Friedlich crafted touching and realistic backstories for both characters.  He saves these details for the moment where they have heightened impact, then uses it to recharge the action.  Everything connects and surges forward with powerful intensity.

Job is playing at The Helen Hayes Theater through October 27.  Get a ticket! 

Domenick Danza