←Recommendations of [the inner universe]

This is a highly theatrical character study that somehow manages to depict a character's complex interiority on stage, giving shape and substance to mental illness and neurodivergence in a way that makes it visible, but never stigmatizes it. Designers will adore creating the simultaneously limitless and claustrophobic world of this play. I particularly love the relationship between father and son, who traverse light years to finally connect on a deeply human level. Moving work.

[10/17/24] Any kid who grew up in the gifted and talented program needs to read this play, then schedule an appointment with your therapist. Sam Heyman has written a trippy, beautiful, grounded human story exploring the complex mind of a former prodigy. The fraught relationships between reality and imagination, parent and child, past and present are explored in exquisite academic language and true-to-life stumblings of a college freshman. I can't wait to see a lighting designer tackle this one.

In his finest, most theatrical and resonant play to date, Heyman powerfully depicts a subjective neurodivergent perspective onstage. Something is up with Jackson but exactly where he is in the DSM remains a mystery until exactly when we need to know. Any son whose interest in their inner universe thwarted their dad's demands to engage with the outer world will relate. The characters and relationships, especially J's conflict with reality and desire, are profound and heartbreaking.
[9/26/2024]

Neurodiversity, grief, critical theory, mental illness, and queerness are only a few themes deftly explored in this economic yet expansive coming-of-age tale. Jackson’s quest to carve an identity for himself as he begins his freshman year of college brings him to the darkest moment of his past. How much of a toll this will take on him, and how it will impact his loved ones, is a question I couldn’t help but invest in. It felt like a metaphysical take on “Proof” in the best way. Lovely play!

Sam Heyman crafts a wildly creative and emotionally intelligent play. While this is a drama, Heyman creates a sense of childlike wonder and perspective that connects us to Jackson in a unique and highly imaginative way. The strongest element of this piece is how Heyman expertly and eloquently crafts this intricate nature that is woven with heart and humanity as we go on Jackson's journey. [the inner universe] is a beautifully rich tapestry of the human experience.

The characters in this play have so much power because their relationships aren't transactional in any way. However, Jackson's relationship with himself is transactional and that is why he has so much turmoil. Even with the stars and theories, everything about this is so human and real. A beautiful painting of a play. A designer's dream.

Sam Heyman takes us on a deeply moving, foreboding, and ultimately uplifting journey into Jackson’s introspective search for truth. Issues of family trauma and mental health unfold and drive the absorbing narrative. As caught up as I was reading this play, I can only imagine the impact of seeing Heyman’s vision fully realized on stage.

Sam Heyman has written a beautiful play that serves as the love child of plays like "Proof" and "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime." The imagery within the stage directions mixed with the complexities of these characters makes this play a very visceral and lively experience that an audience would be thrilled to see live!

Jackson's journey is deeply engrossing. The escalating tension as he explores his history, feels guilt and grief, and endures his mental health struggles held me in a tight grip for the full length of the play. Jackson is surrounded by other vividly drawn characters, each of whom cares for and about him, none of whom grasp his full struggle. The uplifting conclusion is heartening and feels deeply earned,

Jackson's brain is remarkable. It is also a jungle. No matter our flavor of brain or where we are on the spectrum, no matter how much time we might spend in our heads or within ourselves, Heyman’s protagonist is one we can all relate to. Amidst any battle with grief, any face-to-face with demons, one thing is constant, and that’s that while searching inward may one day bring clarity, it’s a lonely road. One we can’t invite others on. And that’s why love, family, and friendships mean everything. Beautiful.