A surprising, uber-theatrical treat. The breakneck speed of the sharp dialogue, the use of movement and super compelling and original stage images, and exploration of coming of age, identity, and competition all made for an engaging read. Drake combined biting satire with shades of body horror in a seamless way. I loved the juxtaposition of the negative impacts of this training on the athletes' mental, physical, and emotional well-being with tender moments of true and touching connection. I'd love to see this realized onstage!

The community of national & local readers for the Bay Area Playwrights Festival in 2021 enthusiastically recommends COURTSHIP as a Semi-Finalist at Playwrights Foundation out of 755 plays. We appreciated this play's questions about winning and losing, what does success mean at the Academy, and does it all really matter? We were compelled by this play's promise with unique and individual characters that we care about, and the journey that happens when athletes are pushed to their limits. We hope this play is widely read, finds dedicated collaborations, and moves swiftly towards production. #BAPF2021

This play starts off going in one direction and goes where you don't expect it to go. It suprises you and leaves you asking questions and wanting more. The intersection of sports and art is always joyful and allows for movement artists to shine. It is a strong ensemble show that has room for exploration and play. I enjoyed my time with Courtship and am excited to read more of Mr. Drake's work.