People of Theatre

Watching "When It Happens to You" was an emotionally intense experience that left me reflecting deeply on family, trauma, and resilience. The play, written by Tawni O'Dell and directed by Jez Bond, is based on O'Dell's personal experience with her daughter’s sexual assault. It’s not an easy story to sit through, but it’s one that feels necessary.

Amanda Abbington’s performance as Tara, the mother at the center of the story, is nothing short of extraordinary. She carries the weight of the play with a blend of dark humor and raw vulnerability, making her character's journey both heartbreaking and relatable. Tara's struggle to hold her family together after receiving that dreaded 3 a.m. phone call is portrayed with great authenticity.

The play’s structure is not a straightforward narrative but more of an exploration of the aftermath of trauma. The story moves non-linearly, often jumping in time and space, which is part of what makes the play so impactful. If you’re familiar with my platform, you’ll know how much I enjoy non-linear storytelling. It’s not about making sense of events in a traditional way; instead, it’s about the emotional and psychological changes that happen within the characters—and by extension, within us as we watch.

As I watched the scenes between Tara and Esme unfold, I found myself thinking about the importance of intentional, open communication between parents and children. The play doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does suggest that a willingness to listen, to be present even when things are tough, can be the bedrock of a relationship that can withstand even the hardest challenges. It’s a powerful reminder that the bonds we build through honest, empathetic dialogue are what hold us together when everything else falls apart.

What struck me most was how the play doesn’t shy away from the hard truths of its subject matter. The word "rape" is used without hesitation, forcing us to confront the reality of what happened. But despite the dark themes, the play ends on a note of resilience and hope, suggesting that a way forward can be found.

Giuliano x