THE STORY: As described by in the New York Journal-American: “Frankly borrowing elements of the Hamlet theme, the author has spun a thoughtful and constantly-mounting story of suspense and volcanic emotions, brilliantly sustained through the play’s two acts…Mr. Rice’s people emerge in full dimension, bright and enlightened even in violence…The Hamlet legend has here been transposed to present-day California and the home of a wealthy widow, recently remarried. Before her husband’s death her son, a college senior suddenly had left home for no apparent reason and spent the time wandering in the Far East. Just as abruptly he returns. News of his father’s death in an accident had just reached him, and he is determined to probe the incidents surrounding the death and his mother’s subsequent marriage to the only witness to the fatal 'accident.' The boy’s wild and irrational behavior upsets his mother’s household, brings despair to his former sweetheart and his best friend. Piecemeal his convictions are transmitted to the people nearest him, but it is not until the end of the evening that its full import strikes home, leaving in its wake desolation."
“An absorbing psychological drama…a winner.” —New York Journal-American.
“A taut and compelling modern drama…a striking play.” —New York Post.
