The play “Wet Brain” by John J. Caswell Jr. at the Playwrights Horizons is a darkly funny, horror-themed story about addiction and familial bonds. The plot revolves around three siblings – Ricky (Arturo Luís Soria), Angelina (Ceci Fernández), and Ron (Frankie J. Alvarez) – who were raised by their alcoholic father (Julio Monge) after their mother, Mona, passed away. Their mother’s loss continues to haunt them three decades later.
Director, Dustin Wills, presents an impressive production in collaboration with MCC Theater. The storyline features various compulsive behaviors that have been encoded in the siblings, leading them to cause devastation in each other’s lives. Additionally, there is the theme of space travel, with the suggestion that Joe might be communicating with aliens.
Like Caswell’s previous work “Man Cave”, “Wet Brain” is an example of how design can elevate a production. It provides a window into Joe’s hallucinations, and captures a surreal way for the family to collectively reminisce about their mother, Mona (Florencia Lozano). Set design by Kate Noll, lighting by Cha See, projections by Nicholas Hussong, sound by Tei Blow and John Gasper, and costumes by Haydee Zelideth Antuñano, together provide a stunning backdrop for the show.
The characters all depict patterns of poisonous and addictive behaviors, making for both an honest commentary on addiction and a captivating storyline. With its perfectly timed humor, an atmosphere of horror is created, leaving the audience in hysterics. Ultimately, the play’s main objective is to bring about, through dark humor, the urgent need for the siblings to overcome their addictions and reconcile.
“Wet Brain” is being shown at the Playwrights Horizons till June 25, and has a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes.
