The Dreamer Examines His Pillow at Odyssey Theatre

A visiting production at the Odyssey Theatre. Written by John Patrick Shanley. Directed by Anne Kathryn Parma. Produced by PLP Productions. 

Tommy has isolated himself in a sparsely furnished, crummy apartment. There’s a reclining chair, a refrigerator stocked with beer, a surreal self-portrait nailed to the wall, and that’s it. He’s recently broken up with Donna, who’s come pounding on his door. Donna is erotically obsessed with Tommy and wants Tommy back, but she’s upset that he’s been seeing her 16-year-old kid sister. Tommy would sort of like to be back with Donna, but waffles on the subject.

Donna seeks advice from her widowed father, an artist who will never win a prize as dad of the year, nor husband of the year. Dad does have some surprises for her (e.g., he reveals to her what sex is for), and he has some ideas as to how Donna can resolve her situation with Tommy. You’ll have to see the play to see what happens next.

Authors

• John Patrick Shanley