←Recommendations of When They Came

An incredible sci-fi that explores human capabilities when fear drives cruelty and darkness. Well done.

"We find ourselves wondering, [...] If they weren't here, would we be better people?" ---- A chilling, haunting close look at what humans are capable of doing to Others, from exoticizing them to "reprogramming" them to, ultimately, destroying them. This is the power of science fiction: it casts light on the darkest corners of our human nature. Cozzola's adaptation of Urbanski's short story is breathtaking -- grand theatricality that would work as well in a no-set black box production or with elaborate sets and costuming. WHEN THEY CAME is a truly special work of theatre that will stick with you.

This is such a great play and fantastic adaptation of a short story. The play is deep, funny, wonderfully theatrical, and so relevant. It is science fiction, but don't let the arrival of space aliens fool you. This play is as much about our time and place as anything you'll see.

Just saw a workshop of this play at The Piven last night, an elegant example of story theater. Cozzola's adaptation of this haunting short story reminds us of the roots of bigotry and tribalism. At a time when the world is turning its back on refugees of all backgrounds, including children, when we deport people we've previously invited and detain asylum seekers as if they were criminals, this play is less of an allegory and more of a snapshot reminding us of our bottomless ability to rationalize cruelty.