THE STORY: Anne Kelly needs help. She’s pushing forty and still lives with her mother. Her deadbeat brother won’t return her calls, and the ancient family home seems to be falling down around her. When a younger man with a troubled past comes into her life, Anne begins to see the upside of not always being the grown-up. ASSISTED LIVING is a funny and surprising look at the struggle to discover where our families end, and we begin.
“A closely observed, character-driven, fully realized and profoundly moving little drama…It’s a kind, affectionate and wholly believable drama about everyday struggles, but also a remarkable proficient mystery that, despite its simple setting and quiet tone, never lets you guess where it’s going or what secrets or past sins its characters may soon reveal.” —Chicago Tribune.
“With ASSISTED LIVING, this New York–based writer only confirms her unique gift for capturing the quirks of human behavior and the stresses of contemporary life: the abiding sense of loneliness and quiet desperation, the little lies that become necessities, the disappointing responses of family and friends, the elusiveness of romance, the character flaws that can’t quite be erased. Keenly observant, yet empathetic, O’Connor has a most winning way of combining truth, humor and heart.” —Chicago Sun Times.
“The vagaries of family are sharply delineated in Deirdre O’Connor’s affecting new play.” —Time Out Chicago.
“A stunning look at how our lives can be affected by those we live with and rely on.” —Around the Town Chicago.
“The dilemma of responsibility for an aging family versus personal needs is vividly dramatized in this suspenseful play. It sure is worthy seeing.” —Chicago Critic.
