Two for the Seesaw (play)

Two for the Seesaw is a two-character play written by William Gibson. It premiered in 1958 and tells the story of Jerry Ryan, a lawyer from Nebraska going through a divorce, and Gittel Mosca, a free-spirited dancer living in Greenwich Village, New York City.

The play explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the challenges of forming meaningful relationships. Jerry is portrayed as reserved and emotionally damaged by his recent separation, while Gittel is presented as independent but vulnerable and battling her own set of personal difficulties, including chronic health problems.

The narrative follows their unlikely romance, showcasing their initial attraction, their attempts to understand each other despite their contrasting backgrounds, and ultimately, the reasons why their relationship cannot endure. The play focuses intensely on their dialogue and the complexities of their interaction, revealing their inner struggles and vulnerabilities through intimate conversations and emotionally charged exchanges.

Two for the Seesaw was initially a Broadway success, starring Henry Fonda and Anne Bancroft. It has since been revived numerous times and adapted into a film in 1962, starring Robert Mitchum and Shirley MacLaine. The play remains a popular choice for small theatre productions due to its compelling character dynamics and insightful exploration of human connection.