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‘Gruesome Playground Injuries’ Revival Earns Praise for Young and Design, Draws Structural Critiques

Reviews describe Neil Pepe’s Lortel staging as openly theatrical, with onstage transformations shaping the experience.

Overview

  • The Off-Broadway production opened Nov. 23 at the Lucille Lortel Theatre and runs through Dec. 28, 2025.
  • Nicholas Braun and two-time Tony winner Kara Young lead the two-hander as Doug and Kayleen under Pepe’s direction.
  • Critics commend Young’s performance and note Braun’s screen-to-stage turn, while questioning the play’s pacing and nonlinear flow.
  • The staging makes costume and injury makeup changes visible between scenes, alongside graphic prosthetic effects and simulated illness.
  • Designers Arnulfo Maldonado (set), Japhy Weideman (lighting), Sarah Laux (costumes), Brian Strumwasser (makeup) and David Van Tieghem (sound) draw specific praise, with opening night drawing notable industry guests.