Why did any of us really make the choices we made as high schoolers? The answers were probably simple, but the reasons those particular answers were the answers couldn't be more complex and layered. Malakhow's beautiful portrait of four youths colliding over the course of several days in Northern New Jersey is stellar in every way. Most exciting, however, is the ensemble of characters Malakhow provides for young actors to dive into, giving them a chance to tackle truly grounded, feeling people their own age. Highly recommend, especially if you're new to his work. It's a fantastic place to start.

I was lucky enough to work as a Dramaturg on the 2020 Ithaca College production of OFF THE PALISADES PARKWAY and fell in love with the play. It gives a peek into the lives of often ignored adolescents trying to survive high school. Malakhow's writing really shines in moments of sincerity between characters. I also really admired how the teenagers are treated with respect, and their moments of vulnerability were never the butt of the joke. Would love to see this on the stage!

Can't wait to see this play produced. An exquisite fly on the wall look into what it's like being young and trying to fit in.