The Roommate (play)

The Roommate is a comedic play written by Jen Silverman, first produced in 2015. The play explores themes of identity, reinvention, and female friendship in an unexpected setting.

Synopsis:

The play centers around Sharon, a Midwestern, recently divorced woman in her fifties who decides to take in a roommate to fill the void in her life and reduce her expenses. She chooses Robyn, a lesbian vegan from the Bronx with a mysterious past, based solely on a vague rental listing. As Robyn's true identity and past life are slowly revealed, Sharon becomes increasingly fascinated and even attempts to emulate Robyn's perceived freedom and boldness. The play follows their evolving relationship as Sharon seeks to shed her conventional identity and embrace a new version of herself, often with humorous and sometimes disastrous consequences. Robyn, meanwhile, confronts her own past as she tries to establish a more stable and less chaotic present.

Characters:

• Sharon: A recently divorced, middle-aged woman from Iowa.
• Robyn: Sharon's roommate, a lesbian vegan from the Bronx with a hidden past.

Themes:

• Identity and Self-Discovery: The play examines the characters' journeys as they grapple with their identities and attempt to reinvent themselves.
• Female Friendship: The evolving dynamic between Sharon and Robyn, and the unexpected connection they forge, is a central theme.
• Second Chances: Both characters are seeking a fresh start and the opportunity to change their lives.
• Midlife Crisis: Sharon's desire for reinvention can be seen as a form of midlife exploration and questioning of life choices.
• Cultural Clash: The contrasting backgrounds and lifestyles of Sharon and Robyn create comedic tension and highlight their different perspectives.

Production History:

The Roommate premiered at the Actors Theatre of Louisville in 2015 as part of the Humana Festival of New American Plays. It has since been produced at regional theaters across the United States.

Reception:

The play has generally received positive reviews, praised for its humor, insightful exploration of female characters, and its relatable themes of identity and reinvention. Some critics have noted the play's uneven tone and moments of implausibility.