There were a lot of lessons that Act 1 displayed as well as an interesting family dynamic. This isn’t your typical family that you would see in TV shows or in real life, which made it unique. The son feels neglected by the dad, and the wife feels somewhat neglected by the husband. In that way, the son, Gabe, and father, Dan, have similar when dealing with feeling alone and a bit of neglect. I was a bit confused in the beginning because Diana seemed a bit off; until I played the music and it all made sense. While I was reading some of Diana’s lines, I can sense that she realizes what’s going on/aware but can’t do anything about it because of her mental illness. One of my relatives are bipolar, and sometimes they can go off on something irrelevant, but continue on normally in a conversation. I could relate a little bit to Natalie, who seems so much in tempo with her academic life. Having to study a lot everyday and prepare for the next thing that’s going to happen. I also related to her because of her interest in piano and playing the piano, which I also happen to do. The relationship with the music and the show pair well with their tone and the emotions displayed. By using Rock as the play's genre, it gives a different vibe, just how rock music is. There are lows and highs and parts where you have a solo. In these soloes, particularly, Diana’s, “I miss the mountains”, she realizes how far medication has come and wants to be free again. I would say that this is the volta/turning point in Act 1 because of herself wanting to let go. Evidently right after a happy songs plays about how “good” it’s gonna be. All up until the songs became slightly depressing and sad. Based on their decision of undergoing ECT, I expect the story to end by Diana forgetting the most important memories, but also making better new ones with her new life that Dr. Madden suggests based on other patients.
Word Count: 351
Word Count: 351