A new play by Steven Levenson

A searingly funny, yet poignant new work by playwright Steven Levenson (Dear Evan Hansen), If I Forget explores an uncomfortable subject for many Jewish American families, both within in the context of the Israel-Palenstine conflict and inside a family gathering. Unspoken truths become familial resentments, and family history becomes heavily revised by each member. Set in the immediate months preceeding 9/11, Levenson challenges us to remember a time before the daily threat of terrorism, and to examine a culture deeply at odds with itself over its history.

What is it about?

This biting four-hander takes place in suburban D.C, immediately following the failed Camp David summit in 2000 to tackle the Israeli-Palestine intefada. Three siblings convene on the house of their ailing father Lou, to celebrate his 75th birthday. Michael, a Jewish studies professor is hoping to gain tenure following the publication of his incendiary work about the Holocaust, American Jews and Israel; which he has in fact dedicated to his father. His two sisters are less than enamored with his liberal views, and the gathering quickly descends into squabbling; first about their family history, but then widening to include their resentment about caring for their elderly father. It also becomes apparent that Lou has some dark views on the book and his family himself, leading to an explosive confrontation for all involved.

If I Forget will be helmed by Daniel Sullivan for the acclaimed Roundabout Theatre Company, he has previously directed works including Sylvia, The Country House, and The Snow Geese. Levenson's previous work for the Company includes the 2013 play, The Unavoidable Disappearance of Tom Durnin.