Justin Tanner’s “My Son the Playwright”: A Courageous Exploration of Family Trauma
Playwright Justin Tanner, known for his works such as “Pot Mom,” “Little Theatre,” and “Voice Lessons,” has made a name for himself in the Los Angeles intimate theater scene. His latest play, “My Son the Playwright,” is a deeply personal and autobiographical work that explores the complex and tumultuous relationship between a father and son. The play is currently receiving its world premiere at the Rogue Machine production at the Matrix Theatre’s Henry Murray Stage.
Tanner not only wrote the play but also performs it solo, taking on the roles of both the father, Douglas, and the son, James. The play is divided into two acts, with the first act presenting the father’s side of the story and the second act offering the son’s perspective. The intermission, which separates the two acts, allows for a set change, transforming the father’s apartment into the son’s.
In his play, Tanner dives into two autobiographical roles: Douglas, the out-of-touch father, and James, his out-of-control playwright son. The play explores themes of addiction, domestic abuse, and the complexities of family relationships. Tanner’s performance is a testament to his courage and vulnerability as an artist.
A Personal and Autobiographical Work
The play is remarkably fair to both characters, presenting their perspectives without mitigating their flaws. The French proverb “to understand all is to forgive all” may not be entirely applicable, but “My Son the Playwright” demonstrates the value of empathy and understanding in healing and redemption. The play shows that it’s not the sins of the father that are visited upon the son, but rather the unprocessed trauma that gets passed down through generations.
