Broadway's 'The Roommate' Stars Mia Farrow and Patti LuPone in a Spirited Comedy of Unexpected Friendship

September 13, 2024
Broadway's 'The Roommate' Stars Mia Farrow and Patti LuPone in a Spirited Comedy of Unexpected Friendship
  • The Roommate, a new comedy written by Jen Silverman, centers on Sharon, played by Mia Farrow, who seeks a roommate after her divorce, leading to an unexpected friendship with Robyn, portrayed by Patti LuPone.

  • Set in the present day, the play explores themes of identity, morality, and personal reinvention, as both characters undergo significant development and reveal deeper layers of their personalities.

  • Directed by Jack O'Brien, the production began previews on August 29 and officially opened on September 12, with performances scheduled to run until December 15, 2024, at the Booth Theatre.

  • The opening night featured both Farrow and LuPone, who took their bows together, showcasing their dynamic interplay that enhances the play's themes of friendship and identity.

  • The narrative touches on various issues, including divorce, identity theft, estranged families, and drug use, and has received an audience approval rating of 82% on Show-Score.

  • The play runs for approximately 100 minutes without an intermission and includes a brief sequence of flashing lights and staged smoking.

  • While the humor in the play is initially hit-or-miss, it gains momentum as Sharon engages in small scams, illustrating her transformation and the evolving relationship with Robyn.

  • Critics have noted that the play subverts audience expectations regarding the relationship between the two women, although some have remarked that the characters lack depth.

  • Despite the characters' shortcomings, the performances by Farrow and LuPone keep the audience engaged, thanks to their extensive acting experience.

  • Overall, The Roommate is recognized as a spirited Broadway entry that showcases the talents of its lead actresses, even if it doesn't fully realize its potential.

  • The play was inspired by stories from Silverman's partner's mother about having a roommate later in life, which adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative.

  • Featuring a simple structure with just two actors and minimal production elements, the play has been described as a 'sophisticated sitcom' appealing to fans of the lead actresses and the playwright.

Summary based on 18 sources


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