←Recommendations of Present Tense

As Mike, Nicole, and David drive to Mom’s wedding, the memory of their late father was bound to slip into the conversation at some point. Inevitably in these situations, children’s opinions will vary on when, or if, the nuptials should happen, but Hageman adds touches of humor, sibling rivalries, and family memories to lighten the mood in the car. We are left feeling uplifted about how to carry on after losing a loved one by speaking of them in PRESENT TENSE.

I adore the specifics of the petty arguments these siblings have! And as they poke at each other, the truth of their emotional journey that led them to this car ride is revealed. Absolutely real, and though tragic it also points toward hope. Present tense is a wise tense to live in.

"Present Tense" beautifully captures sibling relationships. Emily Hageman is on point with the dialogue and tone: Mike, Nicole, and David tease each other, torture each other, commiserate with each other so well because they know what the others are going through and the shared history is strong.

The playful rivalry between the elders and the younger is wonderfully authentic. Beyond being relatable, we see an example of this unique space afforded to siblings in which grief can be examined freely and constructively. We understand that the grieving process is neither linear nor uniform.
Time anxiety that stems from the threat of change, be it distant or imminent, is challenged without any blind bets on an uncertain future. Instead, shared healing becomes an opportunity for the present.

A fun and relatable look at siblings that gives you the full picture of their history and what they are grappling with as they try to be in the present. Well done.

This is a sweet, natural story about siblings dealing with things in their own ways. It has Hageman's signature voice -- always refreshingly natural and effortlessly funny, with a good dose of heart as well.

The father in this wonderfully funny and poignant play about three grown siblings in a car looms large, and that is how he wanted it. Excuse me, wants it. His message to his kids is profound and shows us how parents can help their children even through the grieving process. The dialogue is first rate. The final moment hit me with the feels, and in the best possible way. Truly enjoyable!

I first saw this at SUNY Brockport's Festival of Ten. I knew immediately that I would want my high school students to perform this show. The relationship between the siblings is realistic and relatable, not to mention funny and heartfelt. We performed it for SUNY Oswego's Drama Festival and won "Outstanding Scene." This is a great play for any age group. It is laugh out loud funny and has an ending that is poignant and surprisingly emotional.

I was able to see a production at the College at Brockport. Very sweet and funny story about three siblings on a car trip to their mother's wedding. Super relatable. PRESENT TENSE was a big hit with the audience and would be a great addition to any 10 minute play lineup.

I was lucky enough to see a production of this play this weekend and absolutely loved the script! Hilarious and relatable, with a deceptively poignant core, PRESENT TENSE would make a great addition to any 10-minute play festival.