Preview: “The Humans” at the Helen Hayes Theatre (Review Published on Friday March 25, 2016)

By Stephen Karam
Directed by Joe Mantello
Previewed by David Roberts
Theatre Reviews Limited

Scott Rudin and Barry Diller present the Roundabout Theatre Company (Todd Haimes Artistic Director) production of Stephen Karam’s much-raved-about new play, “The Humans,” on Broadway, following its smash-hit Off-Broadway engagement. Directed by Tony Award® winner Joe Mantello and featuring its entire acclaimed current Off-Broadway cast, “The Humans” began performances at Broadway’s Helen Hayes Theatre (240 West 44th Street) on Saturday, January 23, 2016, and opened officially on Thursday, February 18.

The ensemble cast, all of whom are featured in the current Off-Broadway production, includes Cassie Beck (Aimee), Reed Birney (Erik), Jayne Houdyshell (Deirdre) Lauren Klein (Fiona “Momo” Blake), Arian Moayed (Richard) and Sarah Steele (Brigid).

The angst, anguish and amity of the American middle class are first coaxed – then shoved – into the light in this uproarious, hopeful, and heart-breaking play that takes place over the course of a family dinner on Thanksgiving. Breaking with tradition, Erik Blake (Birney) has brought his Pennsylvania family to celebrate and give thanks at his daughter’s apartment in lower Manhattan. As darkness falls outside the ramshackle pre-war duplex, and eerie things start to go bump in the night, the Blake clan’s deepest fears and greatest follies are laid bare. Our modern age of anxiety is keenly observed, with humor and compassion, in this new American classic.

The creative team includes David Zinn (Sets), Sarah Laux (Costumes), Justin Townsend (Lighting) and Fitz Patton (Sound).

Tickets are available via Telecharge.com or by calling (212) 239-6200 / (800) 447-7400.

“The Humans” is Stephen Karam’s second play commissioned by Roundabout Theatre Company, following his Pulitzer Prize Finalist “Sons of the Prophet” (his first Roundabout commission; 2011) and the hugely acclaimed premiere of “Speech & Debate” (2007). Karam’s work at Roundabout is a part of their New Play Initiative; a collection of programs designed to foster and produce new work by emerging and established artists.