The Assumption of Love by Debbie Lamedman

In a hotel room in 1931, a young woman tries on her new swimsuit and giddily waits for her lover to come and sweep her off her feet. When there is a knock at the door, she is all prepared for a romantic tryst. What she isn’t prepared for, is the person who has knocked on the door.
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The Assumption of Love

Recommended by

  • Rachel Feeny-Williams:
    28 Oct. 2022
    “ For me this play was a piece that expertly unfolded at the right pace. As an audience member you were asking questions as the action proceeded and Debbie rewards you with the answers explained by a woman waiting for her love and the unexpected person who delivers her some news. She also intertwines the familiar tale of broken promises, the complexity of romance and for me an ending I really didn't see coming. All perfectly balanced in amongst the two characters who the audience witness as part of this unexpected meeting. ”
  • John Mabey:
    20 Oct. 2022
    “ Inspiration for plays comes in many forms, and in THE ASSUMPTION OF LOVE, Debbie Lamedman has found hers in a painting by Edward Hopper. With poignant dialogue and unexpected characters, the play reveals itself in emotional layers that feel so authentic to the era. The tone of the play is both delicate and bold, packed with subtext and an ending that draws you back into the painting itself. A beautiful interpretation of the painting that creates an even greater art. ”
  • Aly Kantor:
    29 Dec. 2021
    “ This is a lovely, historical play that gives life and meaning to an emotionally-charged piece of artwork. I appreciated the tenderness in the face of vulnerability - there is something so kind and gentle about this fleeting moment between two strangers. The characters' voices felt like they were straight out of the period, adding a sense of authenticity to this already atmospherically-rich play. It left me with chills and a sense of melancholy peace. ”
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Character Information

  • Helen
    Early to mid-20s,
    White
    ,
    Female
    Early to mid-20s. Female. A Caucasian woman resembling the woman in Edward Hopper’s painting “Hotel Room.” She is giddy and in love; excited to meet her lover on this secret rendezvous. She has high expectations for this overnight getaway to a hotel in the city.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      20s
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      White
    • Gender: 
      Female
  • John
    Early to mid-20s,
    Any
    ,
    Male
    Early to mid-20s. Male. Any race, any ethnicity. JOHN is a hardworking young man who has come to the city to work his way up in the hotel industry by starting off as a bellhop. He is loyal, trustworthy, eager to please, and not afraid of hard work. Though his moral values are in direct opposition with HELEN’s situation, he truly wants to help her and ease her pain.

    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      20s
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Any race/ethnicity
    • Gender: 
      Male