←Recommendations of The Ergonomic Perfection of the Rotary Phone

Through raw and authentic dialogue, Brian James Polak explores the complexities of dealing with mental illness and the strain it can place on family dynamics. Cary and Bree engage with each other in such a tender but also painful way - reflecting their individual fears and desires about the situation.

What a heartbreaking glimpse into a gorgeously specific moment that is, nevertheless, hauntingly familiar to so many. A single prop does so much narrative work, but what stood out to me was the natural dialogue, with all its camouflaged pain and thoughtful imperfections. It's so clear that these two characters live in distinct realities that overlap just enough to make the wounds they inflict on one another sting. I commend Polak for writing Cary with so much intelligence and dignity! Gorgeous.

A heart-wrenching glimpse into mental illness and the toll it can take on those affected, whether you've the illness or no, whether you're family or no. The phone pulls double duty as a memory of an earlier, less afflicted time, and damning evidence that Cary is still not well. The imagery and reveals are pitch-perfect, and this is a powerhouse scene for two actors. Most certainly a piece to remember for any short festival programming it.

A heartbreaking, intriguing look at a sibling bond affected by mental illness. Published in THE BEST TEN-MINUTE PLAYS 2023!