The air of menace builds and builds to an excruciating climax in this supremely gripping family horror story. The complex and layered family dynamics make the emerging horror all the more riveting. The smooth and subtle transitions between the dream and real worlds provides an unsettling undertow. This play held me in its thrall, heart in my throat, from start to finish.

I was satisfyingly surprised by so much of what happened in this. The atmosphere is thick and foreboding from the start, and a real three-dimensional sense of place is established well. I loved the toggling between dream world and reality, and the moments when the line between the two blurred. Kaylee is awesomely creepy and the exploration of family trauma and passing on dysfunction and addiction is echoed in many characters, images, and moments. Lots of potential for interesting lighting and sound design and movement direction.

THE CURSE OF DYSFUNCTION is a treat for fans of horror theatre. Behind the everpresent threat of violence is a story about secrecy, infidelity, and familial obligation. The show is a rollercoaster of the surreal and the macabre, all stabilized by the very real love the family has for each other. The SFX will be an incredibly fun element to work on and with for both designers and actors.