Described as 'America's greatest living playwright' (Wall Street Journal), Kenneth Lonergan is internationally acclaimed for his trademark humour and his genius for capturing the real heart and soul of human interactions. This volume gathers together three of his landmark plays; This is our Youth, The Waverly Gallery and Lobby Hero.
The Waverly Gallery delves into the poignant struggle of a spirited grandmother, Gladys, as she battles Alzheimer's disease while striving to maintain her independence. A former art gallery owner and social activist, her decline profoundly impacts her family, particularly her grandson. Kenneth Lonergan masterfully blends humor and heartfelt emotion, showcasing the resilience and dynamics of familial relationships in times of crisis. This play stands out as both a touching memory piece and a testament to the strength of human connections.
Jeff is a luckless young security guard trying to get his life together after being thrown out of the navy. But the lobby proves to be no sanctuary from the world, as Jeff is drawn into a local murder investigation involving his supervisor, an over-zealous rookie policewoman and her hero-cop partner
The book features an introduction by renowned playwright Tony Kushner, offering insights that enhance the reader's understanding of the text. It delves into profound themes, exploring complex characters and their relationships within a rich narrative context. The introduction sets the stage for a deeper engagement with the book's content, inviting readers to reflect on the underlying messages and artistic expressions presented throughout.
The screenplay presents a poignant and visually stunning narrative that has garnered both BAFTA and Academy Award recognition. It delves into deep emotional themes and character complexities, offering a rich exploration of human experiences. Celebrated for its artistic merit, the work captivates audiences with its compelling storytelling and profound beauty, making it a standout piece in contemporary cinema.
Mark Williams is tired of his marriage and tired of his job teaching astronomy at the Hayden Planetarium in New York City. Angela Vasquez is a young single mother training to be a nurse. Norman Ketterly is fighting for his life in a cancer ward. Their intertwining stories unspool under a canopy of stars too vast to imagine and too beautiful to comprehend, especially when the travails of life on Earth threaten to blot it out. Kenneth Lonergan's play The Starry Messenger is a bittersweet exploration of love, hope and the mysteries of the cosmos. It premiered in New York in 2009, and received its UK premiere at Wyndham's Theatre, London, in May 2019, featuring Matthew Broderick and Elizabeth McGovern.