Photo by Jeff Lorch
Reviewed by Madison Mellon
Geffen Playhouse
Thru July 14
RECOMMENDED
Oftentimes, the more specific and idiosyncratic a story is, the more universal it becomes. That is certainly the case with Tiny Father, currently playing at the Geffen Playhouse. This unique, intimate play explores what it means to become a parent and also highlights the significance of human connection and empathy in general.
Tiny Father follows Daniel (Maurice Williams), who must navigate taking responsibility for his unplanned, premature baby. The story is set almost exclusively in the neonatal intensive care unit of a hospital. Over the course of several months, Daniel builds a rapport with one of the NICU nurses, Caroline (Tiffany Villarin). Daniel must learn to contend with the complexities of the American medical system, as well as the new responsibilities that come with fatherhood.
Playwright Mike Lew strikes a careful balance with Tiny Father. Partially based on his own experiences, the story is meticulously detailed. The procedures, jargon, and routines of the NICU are explored in great depth. And yet, the play manages to never get lost in these technicalities. Daniel’s arc, as well as the somewhat uneasy camaraderie he develops with Caroline, is believable and touching. All the details serve to emphasize the characters’ humanity, rather than distracting us from it.
There are certain aspects that feel less fully developed. For instance, the complicated issue of bias and racial discrimination within medicine is brought up several times, but it is introduced abruptly and feels slightly underexplored. Caroline’s relationship with her husband also feels somewhat thinly sketched. Despite these minor criticisms, Tiny Father is a deeply personal and moving piece of theatre.
The design is similarly specific and impactful. Scenic designer David Meyer has crafted a detailed and highly accurate medical setting, while also heightening the isolation of the environment through the use of towering hospital curtains. The lighting design (Pablo Santiago) is also highly effective in supporting this cold and sterile aesthetic.
Both performances are strong. Williams, who shoulders most of the show’s emotional heft, is engaging and sympathetic. Villarin too reveals layers of vulnerability and warmth underneath Caroline’s professional exterior. Their performances keep the show consistently compelling and ensure a beating heart underneath all the medical drama.
Under the expert direction of Moritz von Stuelpnagel, Tiny Father is tightly paced and engrossing. It tells a heartfelt story not only about fatherhood, but about how to grow from the challenges and surprises life throws at us all.
Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles. Tues.- Fri., 8 pm, Sat., 3 pm and 8 pm, Sun., 2 pm and 7 pm; thru July 14 www.geffenplayhouse.org, Running time 90 minutes with no intermission.
