A Nervous Smile

A Nervous Smile

A Nervous Smile is a play written by American playwright John Belluso. It explores themes of disability, societal expectations, and personal responsibility. The play is known for its intense emotional depth and its critical examination of how society views and treats individuals with disabilities.

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 a close friend of the couple who becomes entangled in their lives as they grapple with their situation.

As the play unfolds, Brian and Eileen are faced with a moral dilemma. They must decide whether to continue caring for Emily, whose needs are overwhelming, or to abandon her in pursuit of their own happiness. Nic, who has his own personal struggles, becomes a confidant and catalyst for the couple's decision-making process.

Themes

A Nervous Smile delves into several complex themes:

Disability and Society

The play challenges societal perceptions of disability, questioning the value placed on individuals based on their ability to contribute to society. It highlights the often invisible struggles faced by caregivers and the lack of support systems available to them.

Moral Dilemmas

At its core, the play is about the moral choices people make when faced with difficult circumstances. It examines the conflict between personal desires and ethical responsibilities, particularly in the context of family and caregiving.

Isolation and Connection

The characters in A Nervous Smile experience profound isolation due to their circumstances. The play explores how this isolation affects their relationships and their ability to connect with others, both emotionally and physically.

Characters

• Brian: A father struggling with the demands of caring for his disabled daughter. He is torn between his love for his family and his desire for personal freedom.

• Eileen: Brian's wife, who is equally burdened by the responsibilities of caregiving. She is pragmatic and often conflicted about the choices they must make.

• Nic: A friend of the couple who provides an outside perspective on their situation. He has his own personal issues that influence his interactions with Brian and Eileen.

Production History

A Nervous Smile premiered in 2005 at the Humana Festival of New American Plays in Louisville, Kentucky. It has since been produced by various theater companies across the United States, receiving critical acclaim for its poignant storytelling and thought-provoking themes.

Reception

The play has been praised for its unflinching portrayal of difficult subjects and its ability to provoke discussion about the ethics of caregiving and the societal treatment of individuals with disabilities. Critics have noted Belluso's skillful writing and the emotional impact of the play's narrative.