Jess has just returned from the Afghanistan war after suffering severe burns from an IED explosion. Her sister throws her a welcome home party. Soon afterwards, she goes to see her ex-boyfriend, who works at a local gas station. He doesn’t recognize her at first, because of her burns. 

Lindsey Ferrentino has written a great play that has a good balance of comedy and drama, light-heartedness and heaviness. 

At 90 minutes, it would be nice to have an intermission to digest this complex play. There are plenty of scene changes where it could be easily added.  Join the Pro-Intermission movement here. 

Christina Gorman (London Road, The Moors) puts on a great performance in the difficult role of Jess. Christopher Acevedo (Plano) is excellent as her ex, who often doesn’t know what to say. Cyd Blakewell (Obliteration, The Locusts)  is splendid as her very caring sister. Eddie Martinez (Rightlynd, Fade) is so friendly as the sister’s boyfriend, despite the opposition he faces from Jess. Lastly, Barbara Figgins is solid as the voice at Jess’s therapy sessions. 

Cost of a ticket: $40

PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Good Value

Rating Scale: Exceptional > Good Value > Discounted > Go for Free > Don’t Bother

Get tickets now for Ugly Lies the Bone through November 15th! 

Quinn Delaney