If I Forget is a powerful and thought-provoking play that explores the complexities of family, identity, and the enduring impact of history. Written by Steven Levenson, the Tony-nominated playwright behind Dear Evan Hansen, If I Forget has been lauded for its incisive writing, nuanced characters, and timely themes.
The play centers around the Fischer family, a group of Jewish intellectuals who are grappling with their personal and collective histories. The patriarch of the family, Lou, is a cantankerous and outspoken professor who is struggling with memory loss. His children are also dealing with their own challenges - Michael, a liberal Jew, is trying to navigate his relationship with his conservative wife; Holly, a successful literary academic, is wrestling with unresolved family trauma; and Sharon, the eldest sibling, is facing financial hardship while caring for her ailing father.
As the family members come together to celebrate Lou's birthday, tensions rise and long-held secrets are revealed. Through their conversations and conflicts, the play touches on a wide range of issues, including Judaism, Zionism, interfaith relationships, and the intersection of personal and political identity.
One of the most striking aspects of If I Forget is its unflinching examination of Jewish cultural and political identity. The play raises difficult questions about the role of Israel in American Jewish identity, and whether supporting the state of Israel means necessarily supporting its policies. This theme has resonated deeply with audiences, particularly given the escalating tensions in the region over the past several years.
In addition to its thematic richness, If I Forget is also a masterclass in ensemble acting. The play features a small cast of just six actors, each of whom brings nuance, depth, and complexity to their roles. The chemistry between the performers is palpable, and their interactions feel raw and authentic.
At its core, If I Forget is a play about memory - both individual and collective. It asks us to consider how our personal histories shape who we are, and how they impact the relationships that we have with those around us. The play reminds us that the past is never truly gone, but rather lingers on in the present, shaping our perceptions and actions.
In many ways, If I Forget is a perfect example of what theater can do best - it challenges us, provokes us, and forces us to confront uncomfortable truths. It's a play that stays with you long after the curtain has closed, inviting you to continue the conversation and wrestle with its weighty themes. If you have the opportunity to see it, you won't be disappointed.