Matthew Lopez's The Inheritance is a sweeping, epic two-part play, inspired by E.M. Forster’s 1910 novel ‘Howards End’. Now playing at ACT Hub in Kingston, the production transports us to contemporary New York, where it follows a group of gay men navigating contemporary life a generation after the AIDS crisis.
Set in 2016-17, ‘The Inheritance’ reflects the progress of the LGBTQI+ community, with advances like antiretroviral medications and marriage equality. Yet, it also explores the challenges that remain. Like life itself, ‘The Inheritance’ is layered, complex, and often leaves questions unanswered whilst remaining completely riveting.
At the play’s core is Eric Glass, an idealistic middle-class New Yorker grappling with love, loss, and the queer legacy he’s part of. As Eric and his friends face their personal challenges, they must confront deeper questions about identity, queer solidarity, politics, and the debt owed to the generations before them. The “inheritance” referred to in the play is both literal and symbolic. Literally, it’s the country house that was once a sanctuary for young men affected by AIDS inherited by Eric. Symbolically, it’s the cultural legacy passed down through generations of gay men, highlighting the responsibilities each generation carries for the next.
Under Jarrad West’s strong direction, the cast expertly brings this multi-faceted narrative to life. James McMahon delivers a sensitive, engaging performance as Eric, while Joel Horwood is intense and compelling as Toby, Eric’s troubled, self-destructive partner. The supporting cast, most taking on multiple roles, surrounds the main characters like a Greek chorus, offering commentary as the story unfolds.
In an era of binge-worthy TV, ‘The Inheritance’ offers a theatrical experience that’s just as addictive—brimming with sex, art, ambition, and truth. The play’s first part left me wanting more, eager to revisit the lives of these characters and their stories.
Everyman Theatre’s production of ‘The Inheritance’ is a potent exploration of contemporary queer life. Lopez’s work stands alongside classics of gay theatre like ‘Angels in America,’ ‘Love! Valour! Compassion!’ and ‘The Boys in the Band.’ I believe it will be regarded as an essential work of queer literature for years to come. This must-see production is both sophisticated and deeply moving—sometimes challenging, but always satisfying.
**** and a half stars
When: 12 October – 2 November 2024
Where: ACT Hub at Causeway Hall
The Inheritance
By Matthew Lopez
Inspired by the novel ‘Howard’s End’ by E.M. Forster
Directed by Jarrad West
Assistant Direction by Lachlan Houen
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