This play will speak to anyone who’s ever experienced mental illness, as well as to those who’ve tried to understand it. It shines a light on how we struggle to be seen as whole by the rest of the world, while we know there’s so much going on inside us that others don’t see. That’s how Violet and Harris spoke to me, anyway. Sam Heyman’s play will prompt you to see yourself in Harris and to wonder where your own Violet might hiding be these days.

This fascinating two-hander presents mental illness in a way I've never seen it presented before: as an embodied "roommate" in the protagonist's mind - a codependent friend they need space from in order to thrive. It's brutally honest, depicting the fear of departing from a familiar norm, even when you know it's ultimately for the best. There is plenty of room for thrilling yet simple theatrical magic in the staging and design choices. Ultimately, audiences will be engaged from the start as they piece together the circumstances. This is an empathic short with a lot of heart!

Heyman crafts such a beautiful story in VIOLET AND HARRIS. There is a strong sense of emotional connection between Violet and Harris and we as an audience can feel that connection and puts and imprints on us as they have with each other. There’s a sense of whimsy but there is also a lot of hurt and a strong sense of loss. The ending is a complete gut punch and will make you think of your own life and your own past and future. An incredibly moving piece of theatre!