A Nervous Smile

A Nervous Smile

A Nervous Smile is a play written by John Belluso, an American playwright known for his works that explore the lives of people with disabilities. The play premiered in 2005 and has been noted for its intense exploration of moral dilemmas faced by its characters.

Plot Summary

The play is set in New York City and revolves around three main characters: Brian, Eileen, and Nic. Brian and Eileen are a married couple struggling with the demands of caring for their severely disabled daughter, Emily. Nic is Brian's mistress, who becomes entangled in their lives as they grapple with their situation.

The central conflict arises when Brian and Eileen, overwhelmed by the challenges of their daughter's care, contemplate a drastic decision to abandon her. The play delves into themes of guilt, responsibility, and the limits of parental love.

Characters

• Brian - A successful lawyer who is struggling with the emotional and financial burden of caring for his disabled daughter.
• Eileen - Brian's wife, who is emotionally exhausted and conflicted about her role as a mother.
• Nic - Brian's mistress, who provides a contrasting perspective on the situation and becomes a catalyst for change.
• Emily - The unseen daughter whose presence and needs drive the narrative.

Themes

A Nervous Smile explores several key themes:

• Disability and Caregiving - The play examines the challenges faced by caregivers of individuals with severe disabilities, highlighting the emotional and physical toll it takes.
• Moral Dilemmas - The characters face difficult ethical decisions, questioning the boundaries of love and duty.
• Infidelity and Relationships - The affair between Brian and Nic adds complexity to the narrative, exploring themes of betrayal and loyalty.

Production History

The play premiered at the Humana Festival of New American Plays in 2005. It has since been produced by various theater companies, often praised for its raw and honest portrayal of difficult subject matter.

Critical Reception

A Nervous Smile received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its bold exploration of taboo topics, while others found its portrayal of disability and caregiving controversial. The play is often discussed in the context of disability studies and theater for its unique perspective.

Related Pages

• John Belluso
• Disability in the arts
• Humana Festival of New American Plays