Imaginary Friends (play)

Imaginary Friends is a play with music, written by Nora Ephron, with music by Marvin Hamlisch and lyrics by Craig Carnelia. It premiered on Broadway at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on December 12, 2002, and closed on March 30, 2003, after 109 performances and 24 previews.

The play is a biographical comedy-drama focusing on the complex and often contentious relationship between writers Mary McCarthy and Lillian Hellman. It explores their literary rivalry, their divergent political views, and their personal animosity, using flashbacks and direct address to the audience to present their perspectives. The musical elements serve to underscore the emotions and heighten the dramatic tension within scenes.

The narrative structure features both McCarthy and Hellman interacting with characters from their lives and books, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. The play delves into themes of truth, memory, ambition, and the role of women in mid-20th century American society and intellectual life.