What is the price for living in the past? Home, I’m Darling explores the ideas of feminism and gender roles, taking us on a couple’s journey in present-day England as though they were living in the 1950s.
Judy and Johnny are a childless couple in their late thirties who love anything and everything fifties. We follow them as they navigate the social and financial challenges of fully dedicating their home structure to that of the bread-winning man and stay-at-home wife. The story unravels as they discover that not everything that emerged from this time period was necessarily good, but that the current-day lifestyle does not call to them either. Friends and family help (and sometimes hinder) them as they deal with various challenges thrown their way.
Fran played by Naomi James, Judy played by Katie Torresan, Marcus played by Paxton Rodriguez, and Johnny played by Phillip Merriman. Photo by Alex Henkelman.
This humorous play has been performed on various stages over the past couple of years. The storyline is mostly linear, and is divided into acts that are separated by vintage ads. It has one intermission at the halfway point, giving the audience the chance to stretch their legs.
It is a beautiful set, with much attention to detail and a very elaborate design. There is a second story above the stage, keeping the visual aspect of the play dynamic as we see the characters move in all directions on stage. Many props seem to be either vintage inspired or properly vintage and are spoken about throughout the show. This adds an almost educational layer to the performance, keeping the play interesting and dynamic during slower moments.
Judy played by Katie Torresan and Johnny played by Phillip Merriman. Photo by Alex Henkelman.
Thought provoking, this play gives its audiences time and space to explore important discussions that are prevalent today, using a modern-day context as a backdrop for 1950s values, and exploring the results of that combination. Due to the time gaps between the past the characters try to embody, and the present, this play is an excellent outing for the whole family, and could be a great bonding moment particularly between parent or grand-parent and child.
You can see Home I’m Darling March 26th-30th, and April 1st-5th at the Ron Maslin Playhouse. Tickets are 30$ each, and can be purchased online. For more information, check out their website.
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