Actually (Oberon Modern Plays)

Anna Ziegler

In Actually, Anna Ziegler dives deep into the intricate layers of intimacy and the complexities of relationships in the modern age. This one-act play, compact yet bursting with emotional gravity, takes us on a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the delicate web of human connection. With dialogues that crackle with both tension and tenderness, Ziegler's work invites you into the inner lives of her characters, making you feel as if you're not merely watching a performance, but living alongside them in their heartaches, joys, and dilemmas.

At its core, Actually unpacks the aftermath of a night that spirals out of control, revealing the intricate dance of trust and vulnerability. The characters, Tom and Amber, find themselves locked in a compelling dialogue, a verbal sparring match that oscillates between warmth and hostility, revealing the messy truths of their shared history. As we witness their confrontation, we are reminded of the fine line between love and power, attraction and repulsion. This is not just a story about a moment; it's a mirror reflecting the unseen tensions that exist beneath the surface of every relationship.

Ziegler, who's garnered acclaim for her ability to probe the depths of human emotion, draws upon her personal and societal observations to craft a narrative that feels both intimate and universal. As her characters navigate the aftermath of their encounters, we, the audience, are compelled to confront our own perceptions of right and wrong in relationships. The lines blur, and suddenly, you find yourself questioning: who holds the power? Who is the victim and who is the perpetrator?

Audiences and critics alike have praised Actually for its raw and unfiltered portrayal of the messiness of modern love. Some viewers have found themselves reflecting on their own experiences, connecting deeply with Amber's struggle for autonomy and Tom's battle with vulnerability. Yet, there are dissenting opinions as well-some argue that the play leans too heavily on its confrontational dialogue, bordering on exhausting when the characters' angst reaches a fever pitch. Such critiques are necessary as they highlight the play's ambition to challenge our perspectives on consent and accountability.

As you delve deeper into Actually, it becomes apparent that Ziegler isn't merely presenting a narrative; she's inviting a dialogue about societal norms and personal responsibility in our interactions. The backdrop of a university setting further enhances this conversation. In the age of social media and heightened awareness around issues of consent, the characters in this play are not just fictional; they represent the contemporary struggles of our generation.

In a time when conversations around consent, identity, and accountability are more crucial than ever, Actually holds a mirror to society. It forces you to confront harsh truths that may be uncomfortable but necessary. The intensity of the dialogue makes you feel every nuance, revealing not just the vulnerabilities of the characters, but also exposing the raw, unfiltered emotions we all possess. It reminds you that behind every disagreement lies a story, and every story has the potential to transform our understanding of one another.

Moreover, Ziegler's work taps into the cultural zeitgeist; her characters pulse with the nerves of a society in flux, grappling with definitions of personal freedom and emotional ties. Their story isn't isolated within the confines of the stage. Instead, it resonates throughout society, igniting conversations that linger long after the curtain falls.

In the echelons of modern theater, Actually stands out not merely as a play, but as a profound commentary on human connection and the choices we make. It's a call to engage emotionally, to interrogate our own actions, and to empathize with others, even as the lines of connection blur.

This is your invitation to experience Actually-to not just witness the performance, but to let it unravel your own beliefs about love, consent, and the complexities that define our existence. You won't just be an audience member; you'll be part of a broader dialogue, grappling with the same truths that torment Tom and Amber. In a world where we often shield ourselves from uncomfortable realities, Ziegler's poignant narrative urges you to embrace the discomfort, to lean in, and to question what you think you know.

So, as the final lines echo through the space, ask yourself: what have you discovered about your own understanding of relationships? What truths are you now forced to reckon with? You might find that, like the characters in Actually, your journey is just beginning. 🌌

📖 Actually (Oberon Modern Plays)

✍ by Anna Ziegler

🧾 70 pages

2017

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