Reaching for Connection

Each of the three plotlines that weaves its way through the play is defined by experiences of characters reaching for connection. Sometimes the reaching succeeds, and sometimes it fails. Sometimes that reaching is grounded in a need to comfort, and sometimes it is grounded in a need to be comforted. Sometimes the reaching is rejected, sometimes it is ignored, and sometimes it is misinterpreted. In all cases, the characters involved are making attempts to move out of isolation or loneliness, and towards a fuller expression of themselves and of relationship with others.

The first of the three plotlines involves Tom and his family. There are two threads to this plotline, one involving the relationship between Tom and his parents and the other involving the relationship between Tom and Meg. In both threads, Tom is engaged in attempts at connection, as his parents reach for...