What's Lost

Synopsis

A modern, minimal flat and its surrounding areas set the stage for a family’s struggle with grief and identity in the wake of tragedy.

Debra, a black woman in her late thirties, grapples with the aftermath of her teenage daughter Rudi’s death. As Debra plans a remembrance event, she navigates complex relationships with her estranged husband Lenny, her free-spirited sister Gina, and Alex, a young volunteer. Through a series of intense confrontations and tender moments, the characters wrestle with their pain, their pasts, and their hopes for the future. Stanic’s script deftly explores the themes of grief, family dynamics, and racial identity against the backdrop of urban violence and societal expectations.

The play delves into the ripple effects of tragedy, examining how loss can both fracture and forge bonds between people. As Debra struggles to find meaning in her daughter’s death, she confronts her own identity and the choices that have shaped her life. The tension between Debra’s structured world and Gina’s artistic, nomadic lifestyle highlights the different paths available to them as black women, and the sacrifices each has made. Through their interactions and flashbacks to Rudi’s conversations, the play poses challenging questions about personal responsibility, social justice, and the possibility of healing in the face of senseless violence. As the characters grapple with their grief and anger, the audience is left to ponder: In a world where tragedy can strike so randomly, how do we find the strength to rebuild and reconnect with those we love?