Katha and her husband Ryu have become allergic to their 21st-century lives. After they meet a charismatic man from a community of 1950s reenactors, they forsake cell phones and sushi for cigarettes and Tupperware parties. In this compulsively authentic Eisenhower America, Katha and Ryu are surprised by what their new neighbors—and they themselves—are willing to sacrifice for happiness.
“Mark Ramont’s perceptive staging reflects the text’s dry, understated tone, lightly satirical humor and the claustrophobia of coerced conformity, a quality induced by Harrison’s script.” — OC Register
“Always enthralling to watch… features some of the strongest female characters in recent stage memory” — Broadway Stars
Loved the staging and the premise. Very cleverly written and superbly enacted by a well rounded cast.
— Anonymous
The play was novel, creative, and thought-provoking. How many “boomers” long for the perceived “good old days,” of 1955? The period when roles were clearly defined, the father ruled the household and whites were without any question at the top of the power structure, with Blacks and minorities segregated and discrimination running rampant in employment. But not only was this a bad time for minorities, women were restricted in education, employment, and sexual harassment was to be expected. Not surprisingly the audience was white, older baby-boomers. I would have loved to have heard their comments after the play. These were more simple and good times, but good for whom we must ask. But even in 1955, one could not be what one was not. That is “straight.” I felt a weakness in the storyline was the Asian doctor willing to go along with his wife to a life of prejudice, discrimination, and packing boxes. A professional M.D. to packing boxes, and experiencing racial discrimination? Doubtful! And, would this couple from the 21st century be so willing to limit their daughter’s potential to gender stereotyping role/occupation. Clearly, the mother considered this, but at the end of the day, it seems she opted to stay in 1955.
The acting was superb.
— Sam T
Everything I look for when I go to the theatre–interesting, challenging script, lovely cast, excellent director, clever designs, intimate theatre experience, strong and warm leadership running the theatre. Congratulations to the Cast and Company of MAPLE AND VINE!
— Jim V
I enjoyed every aspect of the play except one. I liked the storyline, the set, and the incredibly acting. I just really did not think it was necessary to over sexualize a few of the scenes.
— Tracey C
It was like reliving my early marriage. I was married in 1954 and alot of what I remembered was in the play. I am glad we don’t live by 1955 standards.
— Meryl B
LOVED the production! The script is really thought-provoking, and as usual, the Chance performers brought it to life in ways that kept me totally engrossed. The after-performance Q&A with the cast was particularly fruitful for me on this production, because it let me process some of my reflections more deeply (and to appreciate the acting challenges of such a fast-moving script). Another winner from a great season at the Chance Theater!
— Nora J
Although I had the idealized version of the 50’s in mind, I changed my mind after watching the show. It was an era of discrimination and strict gender roles, and many adults had a public face which didn’t match their true feelings. Good play! Lots of things to think about.
— Marsha L
First the theater….I had no idea where it was -never heard of it. What a wonderful surprise. Not a bad seat in the house – very cozy and intimate. After the play you can stay and speak with the actors.
The play was fabulous – the actors were amazing. They made it seem so real. It was a very interesting concept with many twists.
Completely enjoyed it
— Rona
So what are YOU willing to give up to be happy? A funny and thought-provoking script is given the Buick Regal treatment by a first-rate cast. As always, the Chance takes a theatrical property which was already believed to be unique and manages to make it their own. The reveal of the 1950s living-room set near the end of the first act is practically worth the price of admission. (But really, what’s wrong with pigs in a blanket?)
— Richard C.
Really loved this play at the Chance. The staging, acting was excellent. Jennifer Ruckman is a stand out. Second time I’ve seen her at the Chance in a leading role & have been impressed both times.
— Laura M.
Thought provoking and entertaining. I was not even a teenager in the ’50s but it brought back interesting memories such as the dial phone on the wall and lots and lots of crinolines. But I was the most startled by the “mixed race couple” issue. I do not think I ever thought about that in the 50’s or the 60’s. Very thought provoking. This is an awesome, talented cast and a wonderful play.
Loved the staging and the premise. Very cleverly written and superbly enacted by a well rounded cast.
The play was novel, creative, and thought-provoking. How many “boomers” long for the perceived “good old days,” of 1955? The period when roles were clearly defined, the father ruled the household and whites were without any question at the top of the power structure, with Blacks and minorities segregated and discrimination running rampant in employment. But not only was this a bad time for minorities, women were restricted in education, employment, and sexual harassment was to be expected. Not surprisingly the audience was white, older baby-boomers. I would have loved to have heard their comments after the play. These were more simple and good times, but good for whom we must ask. But even in 1955, one could not be what one was not. That is “straight.” I felt a weakness in the storyline was the Asian doctor willing to go along with his wife to a life of prejudice, discrimination, and packing boxes. A professional M.D. to packing boxes, and experiencing racial discrimination? Doubtful! And, would this couple from the 21st century be so willing to limit their daughter’s potential to gender stereotyping role/occupation. Clearly, the mother considered this, but at the end of the day, it seems she opted to stay in 1955.
The acting was superb.
Everything I look for when I go to the theatre–interesting, challenging script, lovely cast, excellent director, clever designs, intimate theatre experience, strong and warm leadership running the theatre. Congratulations to the Cast and Company of MAPLE AND VINE!
I enjoyed every aspect of the play except one. I liked the storyline, the set, and the incredibly acting. I just really did not think it was necessary to over sexualize a few of the scenes.
It was like reliving my early marriage. I was married in 1954 and alot of what I remembered was in the play. I am glad we don’t live by 1955 standards.
LOVED the production! The script is really thought-provoking, and as usual, the Chance performers brought it to life in ways that kept me totally engrossed. The after-performance Q&A with the cast was particularly fruitful for me on this production, because it let me process some of my reflections more deeply (and to appreciate the acting challenges of such a fast-moving script). Another winner from a great season at the Chance Theater!
Although I had the idealized version of the 50’s in mind, I changed my mind after watching the show. It was an era of discrimination and strict gender roles, and many adults had a public face which didn’t match their true feelings. Good play! Lots of things to think about.
First the theater….I had no idea where it was -never heard of it. What a wonderful surprise. Not a bad seat in the house – very cozy and intimate. After the play you can stay and speak with the actors.
The play was fabulous – the actors were amazing. They made it seem so real. It was a very interesting concept with many twists.
Completely enjoyed it
So what are YOU willing to give up to be happy? A funny and thought-provoking script is given the Buick Regal treatment by a first-rate cast. As always, the Chance takes a theatrical property which was already believed to be unique and manages to make it their own. The reveal of the 1950s living-room set near the end of the first act is practically worth the price of admission. (But really, what’s wrong with pigs in a blanket?)
Really loved this play at the Chance. The staging, acting was excellent. Jennifer Ruckman is a stand out. Second time I’ve seen her at the Chance in a leading role & have been impressed both times.
Thought provoking and entertaining. I was not even a teenager in the ’50s but it brought back interesting memories such as the dial phone on the wall and lots and lots of crinolines. But I was the most startled by the “mixed race couple” issue. I do not think I ever thought about that in the 50’s or the 60’s. Very thought provoking. This is an awesome, talented cast and a wonderful play.