Exploring

A Closer Look at the Script

Reading a play is always unique. Experiencing it on stage offers a different sensory engagement than reading it from a script. However, a strong piece reveals its potential even on the page. James A. Goins's Unexpected Family certainly offers much to ponder.

When approaching a new script, anticipation builds. We hope to find characters that breathe and a story that resonates. In Unexpected Family, we encounter a potent premise grounded in contemporary anxieties and timeless questions about kinship and identity.

The Central Characters

The play introduces us to Beatrice “GiGi Bea” Holloway, a Burbank-based former B-movie actress of a certain age. Her meticulously curated, though somewhat faded, world is disrupted by the arrival of her great-granddaughters, Eliana and Meekah. The catalyst for this upheaval is tragedy—the sudden death of their parents, Beatrice's estranged grandson, Michael, and his wife, Denise.

The central twist comes early on. Beatrice had no idea her great-granddaughters are Black, a fact that Michael had deliberately concealed. This revelation sets the stage for profound exploration of identity, prejudice, and family dynamics.

Navigating Grief and Discovery

From this compelling starting point, the play unfolds as a study in collision—generational, cultural, and emotional. The exploration of this unexpected, makeshift family navigating grief while uncovering secrets forms the core of the story. The dialogue, particularly between the three central women, crackles with authenticity.

Nineteen-year-old Eliana’s guarded practicality and sharp wit provide a compelling foil to fifteen-year-old Meekah’s artistic sensitivity and cautious hope. Meanwhile, Beatrice's journey from shock to awkward adjustments and, eventually, to genuine connection is the emotional heart of the narrative.

Supporting Characters and Their Impact

Goins effectively populates the world around them. Phillip, the neighborly friend, serves as a voice of reason. Meanwhile, rival actress Dorothy embodies the casual, ingrained prejudice that Beatrice must confront. This prejudice exists not only in society but within her as well.

The scenes in Beatrice’s acting workshop blend humor with thematic depth. They allow both Beatrice and the audience to process the unfolding drama through theatrical parallels, particularly seen in her work on A Raisin in the Sun. Moreover, integrating music—especially Meekah’s original song, "Skybound," which has roots in her father's creativity—provides a poignant and powerful through-line. This reveals legacy, grief, and healing.

Minor Weaknesses

If we identify minor weaknesses in the play as it appears on the page, they are perhaps structural rather than fundamental. Some secondary characters, especially within the acting group, feel less fully developed. While their roles reflect and challenge Beatrice, a fuller characterization would create a richer experience. Additionally, while Dorothy's arc towards acceptance is satisfying, its rapid progression may feel somewhat abrupt during a cold reading. A nuanced performance would bolster its impact.

These small points don't overshadow the work's overall engaging and emotionally resonant nature.

The Inspiration Behind the Play

James originally started writing this play in 2024 for actors at Theatre West in Los Angeles. It serves as a homage to many members with long and storied careers in theatre. Unfortunately, few roles are written for older actors, often sidelined due to ageism. James's work illustrates the invaluable contributions of seasoned performers.

I sincerely hope James continues to explore his craft in this direction. There is much gold to be mined from the stories and experiences of these talented individuals. These tales can enrich the lives of both young and old in the theatrical landscape, showcasing the significance of diverse narratives.

Audience Recommendations

Unexpected Family should resonate strongly with audiences. It tackles significant themes such as grief, identity, race, prejudice, and intergenerational connection with both humor and sensitivity. The play offers meaty roles and relatable conflicts that should appeal to a broad adult audience.

Venue and Production Considerations

The single-setting nature of the play (Beatrice’s Burbank home) makes it a practical choice for mid-scale venues or smaller houses with strong technical capabilities. It is an excellent ensemble piece offering complex roles for three women at different life stages—a late 70s white woman and two late teens/young adult Black women. A sensitive director and cast are vital to navigate the emotional and racial dynamics authentically. The role of music is integral, presenting creative opportunities for sound design and performance that can enhance the narrative experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, reading Unexpected Family reveals a play with considerable heart and thematic weight. It poses difficult questions about family, legacy, and the courage required to bridge divides—both internal and external. With sensitive handling and strong performances, the play promises a moving and thought-provoking experience in the theatre.

Rating: 9/10

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