Point of View

Unlike many novels, this story does not incorporate a narrator as a guide through the experience. Rather, the majority of information stems from the characters' dialogue. A vital difference between experiencing this play as a reader (rather than an audience member) is the amount of non-verbal information that goes into play production. David Lindsay-Abaire includes concise, yet specific stage directions that act as aids while reading the story. However, much of the theatrical point of view is attributed to production elements such as costume, set, and lighting design. This makes watching the play a completely different experience from reading the script, even though it is the same story.

This play is a true ensemble piece, with Becca as the central character. She opens and closes the play, and is the person that ties the family together. However, the drama’s trajectory is greater than Becca...