The House of Blue Leaves

The House of Blue Leaves

by John Guare

I do allow the Tisch students to provide a “favorite play” but continue to encourage them to read more books.  Actors need to read them!  The House of Blue Leaves by John Guare is set in Queens, NY and takes place during the 1965 visit of the Pope to NYC.  The lead character, Artie, is a songwriter hopeful by night and a zookeeper by day. He is caught between his supportive girlfriend, Bunny, and his ‘crazy’ wife, Bananas, who is struggling with schizophrenia and needs to be institutionalized (though she keeps avoiding it).  As Artie focuses on getting to Hollywood, we are introduced to his successful friend, Billy, who handles Hollywood talent.  As Artie returns from attending the Pope’s visit, we learn that his son has gone AWOL from his service in Vietnam as he attempts to bomb the Pope.  The story captures much of the ‘lunacy’ (my words) centered on the war and what happens when the pressure of being asked to serve is matched with the family pressures of a mother challenged with mental illness.  Use of humor and family challenges make for a ‘can’t put down’ play. Love Anne Meara (comic actress from the 70s-90s) in the role of Bunny.