Becky Shaw, Second Stage The Hayes Theater, New York City

Becky Shaw is a smart, funny, dark-comedy with some outstanding performances that is flying a little under the radar this season, two tony nominations not withstanding. I went in almost completely blind, only knowing that it has received positive reviews. I’m so glad, both that I saw it and that I saw it without knowing the plot.

Many plays, even comedies, grapple with questions about life, morality, ethics, relationships. The existential stuff. In Becky Shaw, you have some longtime friends/family navigating some life changes. Also, there is a blind date, that goes bad, with repercussions beyond the date participants, mostly because of how one of the participants acts out in the aftermath. (I’m really trying not to spoil the plot, so i’m being a little vague.)

The dialog of Becky Shaw is sharp and well written. The characters are complex and backed by strong performances. The show isn’t plot heavy, and the stakes aren’t particularly high (just life and love stuff, not world-ending stuff), but I was engaged throughout and wondering what would happen next.

The entire cast was excellent, and it was great to see such talent on a small stage. The small cast includes Patrick Ball, who also stars in The Pitt. I was pleased to see Lauren Patten, who I recognized from Jagged Little Pill, in a role completely different from Jo. Linda Emond has a smaller role, but she owned every scene she was in. Absolutely hilarious. But it is Alden Ehrenreich, who you might recognize from several films, including Han Solo from Solo: A Star Wars Story, in his broadway debut, who steals the show. His performance here earned him a nomination in the featured actor category. His performance as Max is so layered. He is by turn frustrating, hilarious, and, at times, heart breaking.

The ending of Becky Shaw is ambiguous, which is a little frustrating. I’ve spent many days since I saw it contemplating the ending, wondering about the motivations of Becky and especially what happens next.

Becky Shaw is a limited run. You can see it in New York through June 14.