The Darker Side of Paradise

by Franco D'Alessandro

Patrick Grace is a gay high school teacher who has a special (father-son) bond with a straight, emotionally troubled student, Danny. When the school's homophobic headmaster warns Mr. Grace to "not touch" any male students, he is confronted with a dilemma as a desperate Danny comes to him on the brink of taking his own life. The play looks at the subtleties and subtext of homophobia in an uber-litigious society...

Patrick Grace is a gay high school teacher who has a special (father-son) bond with a straight, emotionally troubled student, Danny. When the school's homophobic headmaster warns Mr. Grace to "not touch" any male students, he is confronted with a dilemma as a desperate Danny comes to him on the brink of taking his own life. The play looks at the subtleties and subtext of homophobia in an uber-litigious society where the worst is always suspected and human compassion is often the first casualty. The title takes its inspiration from F. Scott Fitzgerald's seminal book This Side of Paradise and the loving, platonic relationship between the protagonist, young Amory Blaine and his older mentor Monsignor Darcy.

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The Darker Side of Paradise

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  • Tom Erb: The Darker Side of Paradise by Franco D'Alessandro
    “

    In "The Darker Side of Paradise," Franco D'Alessandro masterfully explores the complex relationship between a compassionate teacher and a troubled student. Through powerful dialogue and vivid characterization, D'Alessandro explores the depths of the human psyche, shedding light on the struggles of those grappling with depression and suicidal thoughts. This play serves as a testament to the transformative power of empathy and the importance of human connection in times of crisis. D'Alessandro's writing is raw, honest, and deeply moving, making "The Darker Side of Paradise" a must-read for...

    In "The Darker Side of Paradise," Franco D'Alessandro masterfully explores the complex relationship between a compassionate teacher and a troubled student. Through powerful dialogue and vivid characterization, D'Alessandro explores the depths of the human psyche, shedding light on the struggles of those grappling with depression and suicidal thoughts. This play serves as a testament to the transformative power of empathy and the importance of human connection in times of crisis. D'Alessandro's writing is raw, honest, and deeply moving, making "The Darker Side of Paradise" a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the human experience.

    read more
    ”