Veteran actresses Patti LuPone and Mia Farrow star in the new Broadway play “The Roommate,” which opened today at the Booth Theatre in New York City.
Jack O’Brien directed from a screenplay by Jen Silverman.
The synopsis is: Sharon (Mia Farrow) has never had a roommate before, but after her divorce, she needs a housemate to pay the bills. That’s when Robyn (Patti LuPone) arrives.
The show deals with a surprising and life-changing friendship that is raw, honest, witty, and clever, all thanks to the script by Jen Silverman, which is rich in character development (and it is a true work of art to see that characterization unfold right in front of the audience’s eyes).
“The Roommate” showcases two very different middle-aged women navigate the complexities of identity, morality, and the need to reinvent themselves.
Mia Farrow is sublime as Sharon while Patti LuPone is a revelation as Robyn, who proves that there is more to her character than what meets the eye.
For Farrow, this is a role unlike anything she has previously done before. Farrow layers her emotions well, and she is both hilarious and poignant at the same time in a controlled fashion. LuPone is sassy, bold, and spitfire as Robyn.
They both deliver Tony-worthy acting performances, which are gloriously empowering. Their affecting rapport allows for more resonance. Both LuPone and Farrow are still at the top of their game, and that they get better with age and experience.
Jack O’Brien deserves to be commended for his vision and direction.
Without giving too much away, this is a play that needs to be experienced by all. One thing is for certain, Patti LuPone and Mia Farrow make bad look so good. Prepare to be blown away by these two acting doyennes. “The Roommate” garners an A rating.
