The Wash

Rating:
Summary: A Different Kind of Love Story
Review: Looking for a coming of age story about people over fifty? Then, by all means, do read "The Wash." Of all of Philip Gotanda's works, it is my personal favorite. This contemporary yet timeless story is about a woman of a "certain age" compelled to choose how she wants to live the rest of her life -- and with whom: her demanding husband of many years or a widower who shares her love of art. Considering cultural values emphasizing loyalty and sacrifice as well as the pressures from her own family, the heroine is remarkably able to resolve the dilemma between doing what has always been expected of her and with doing what is true for her. A theme Mr. Gotanda explores in a number of his works (see also "Yankee Dawg You Die").

I also highly recommend the film of the same name, "The Wash." You will be surprised by the outcome and moved by the extraordinary actors who poignantly realize the emotional depth of characters from everyday life.

Rating:
Summary: The Wash
Review: The Wash is one of my all-time favorite plays. It has a little bit of everything -- family saga, generational differences, cultural divide, comedy, drama and even some tragedy. With a whole lot of hope thrown in. Regardless of your ethnic background, this is one family story you can definitely relate to. It's a quick read, but it will stay with you a very long time.