The Match Game

(Full length. Two Acts.) Steph has cancer, but that's the least of her worries. She has to contend with a dad who may be faking his dementia, a truth-telling mom who hates her dad, a missing husband, and brother and his too-young boyfriend, all at a birthday party at her home. Will Steph be able to get what she needs from her estranged dad, and keep her life together at the same time?

(Full length. Two Acts.) Steph has cancer, but that's the least of her worries. She has to contend with a dad who may be faking his dementia, a truth-telling mom who hates her dad, a missing husband, and brother and his too-young boyfriend, all at a birthday party at her home. Will Steph be able to get what she needs from her estranged dad, and keep her life together at the same time?

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The Match Game

Recommended by

  • Donald E. Baker: The Match Game

    Yes, Steph needs a bone marrow match, but deception is the name of the game here. It seems everyone in this family is deceiving someone or is thought to be. It's either a drama full of unexpected farce or a farce tinged with serious themes. Either way it's simply an excellent play. Fortunate Cincinnati theatergoers should be lining up to see this one at Ensemble Theatre in 2024.

    Yes, Steph needs a bone marrow match, but deception is the name of the game here. It seems everyone in this family is deceiving someone or is thought to be. It's either a drama full of unexpected farce or a farce tinged with serious themes. Either way it's simply an excellent play. Fortunate Cincinnati theatergoers should be lining up to see this one at Ensemble Theatre in 2024.

  • William Missouri Downs: The Match Game

    A great play! The family dynamic is powerful and wonderful. Read this play! Produce this play!

    A great play! The family dynamic is powerful and wonderful. Read this play! Produce this play!

  • Eryn Elyse McVay: The Match Game

    A stunning blend of laugh out loud comedy and gut wrenching family drama, not to mention each character would be an absolute treat for any actor to take on. A specific and unique story about family that will stick with you long after curtain.

    A stunning blend of laugh out loud comedy and gut wrenching family drama, not to mention each character would be an absolute treat for any actor to take on. A specific and unique story about family that will stick with you long after curtain.

View all 4 recommendations
Steph, 40s
Alan, 40s
Nora, 16
Brian, 40s, a little older than Steph
Sean, 24
Deb, 60s
Johnny, 60s

Development History

  • Type Workshop, Organization Ohio University, Year 2021

Production History

  • Type Professional, Organization Metropolis Arts Centre, Year 2027
  • Type Professional, Organization Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati, Year 2024

Awards

  • Jackie Demaline Award
    Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati
    Winner
    2023