John Patrick Shanley’s new play is a frank look at playing the cards you’re dealt in life, with or without allies that come along the way.
A cozy, rain-drenched spring evening is a perfect place for reflection: to think about where you are in life, how you got there, where you’re going, and how you’ll make the most of the days when the sun shines and the city springs to life. Thankfully for New York, the Manhattan Theatre Club’s newest production of “Brooklyn Laundry” is a great opportunity to jog those feelings, akin to the emotional spring cleaning needed every once in a while.
When we open on a run-down cleaners, the sound of whistling and samba music in the air, it sets the stage for a story that lives in the quirky realities of life: the weird dry cleaner owner that won’t shut up every time you walk in the door, the shrooms you took on that first date one time, and the green jacket you return to your sister six years after you borrowed it.
The show hinges on the acting chops of its four-person cast. Cecily Strong, known for her comedic brilliance on “Saturday Night Live,” shines in a different light as Fran, a woman navigating through the intricacies of life and love. Strong’s performance is both moving and humorous, showcasing her ability to bring depth to her character’s journey. David Zayas, as Owen, the laundry owner, brings a certain charm and gruff adorability to the role, making him an endearing counterpart to Strong’s Fran.
The play, written and directed by John Patrick Shanley (“Doubt”), explores the theme of life’s uncertainties and the choices we make. Fran and Owen’s interactions, filled with witty banter and philosophical musings, reveal their vulnerabilities and desires for connection. The dinner date scene is particularly charming and funny, highlighting a chemistry between the two actors before the tone of the show sobers up.
However, “Brooklyn Laundry” is not without its flaws. The dialogue, while humorous at times, lacks depth in certain areas, and the plot seems to meander without a clear direction. The sudden shift to heavier themes, such as terminal illness and family dynamics, feels jarring and underdeveloped. The characters of Fran’s sisters, Trish and Susie, although pivotal to the storyline, seem underutilized and their potential for emotional impact is not fully realized in the short time they have on stage.
In conclusion, “Brooklyn Laundry” is a play that offers a mix of laughter and introspection. Cecily Strong and David Zayas deliver commendable performances, bringing life to their characters’ quirks and quandaries. While the play may not reach the heights of Shanley’s previous works, it provides an enjoyable evening of theater that touches on the bittersweet aspects of life.
