ONE of America’s most acclaimed modern plays will take over the Her Majesty’s stage this weekend as the Sydney production company Critical Stages performs Amy Herzog’s 4000 Miles.
The play, which will be performed on Friday night, followed by a Saturday matinee and evening show, documents the relationship between 91-year-old New York resident Vera and her grandson, Leo, who shows up unannounced on her doorstep.
Actress Dianna Mclean, who plays Vera, said while the relationship between the two protagonists was a complex one, audience members of a similar age to the characters would draw many similarities with their own relationships. “It’s very poignant at times, and it’s hilariously funny.”
“It’s unique because you never see this relationship on stage, a grandmother and a grandson,” Stephen Multari, who plays Leo said. “And it’s a real relationship, not just an old little granny and a weird punk kid. They’re very fleshed out characters.”
The play was first performed in New York in 2011, where it received a number of accolades including the Obie Award for best new play.
Theatre manager Greame Russell said the play showcased the diversity of Her Majesty’s offerings.
“We like to be able to present plays that represent the current state of the performing arts, and plays like 4000 Miles that are new, groundbreaking and are extremely successful.”
