Really Really By Paul Downs Colaizzo

Really Really: A Deep Dive into Paul Downs Colaizzo's Masterpiece

Paul Downs Colaizzo's Really Really isn't just a play; it's a visceral exploration of privilege, entitlement, consent, and the devastating consequences of unchecked actions. This in-depth analysis will delve into the play's complex characters, thematic depth, and its lasting impact on discussions surrounding consent and social responsibility. We will explore the play's dramatic structure, its use of language, and its overall effectiveness in conveying its powerful message.

The Unraveling of Privilege: Character Analysis

Really Really doesn't offer simplistic characters; instead, it presents a nuanced cast, each grappling with their own complexities and vulnerabilities. The play's strength lies in its ability to make us uncomfortable, forcing us to confront the often-ugly realities of societal power dynamics and the devastating consequences of poor choices.

Leigh: The Architect of Her Own Downfall

Leigh, the central female character, is a complex figure. She's intelligent, ambitious, and undeniably beautiful. However, her privilege blinds her to the consequences of her actions. Her entitled nature fuels her recklessness, making her believe she's above the rules that govern others. Leigh's story is a cautionary tale: a portrayal of someone whose upbringing has shielded her from facing the true weight of her choices, until it's too late. Her journey throughout the play is a descent into self-realization, although the extent of her remorse remains ambiguous, leaving the audience to ponder her true understanding of the harm she caused.

Davis: The Enabler and the Victim

Davis, Leigh's boyfriend, is a character that elicits mixed reactions. He's portrayed as both a victim of Leigh's actions and an enabler of her behavior. He possesses a certain vulnerability that makes him susceptible to Leigh's manipulations, yet his inaction contributes significantly to the unfolding events. His actions, or rather inactions, highlight the complexities of bystander behavior and the subtle ways in which individuals can contribute to harmful situations without directly participating. Exploring Davis’s character encourages a discussion about the role of complicity and the responsibility individuals have to intervene in situations where consent is in question.

Cooper: The Victim and the Catalyst

Cooper, the victim of Leigh’s actions, is a pivotal character. His vulnerability and subsequent trauma serve as a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of sexual assault. While his narrative arc is comparatively shorter than Leigh’s or Davis’s, Cooper's presence is instrumental in triggering the play’s central conflict and revealing the profound impact of sexual violation. His quiet strength in the face of adversity and his gradual processing of what happened to him serve as a poignant counterpoint to the self-centered drama unfolding around him.

Haley: The Observer and the Confidante

Haley, Cooper's friend and observer, acts as a critical counterpoint to the central characters. She provides a crucial outside perspective, highlighting the problematic behaviors of Leigh and Davis. Her observations serve as a crucial reminder that consent is not passive; it is active and enthusiastic. Haley is the voice of reason, the friend who tries to intervene but is often powerless in the face of privilege and entitlement. Her role underscores the importance of active allyship and the challenges of intervening in situations where someone you care about is perpetuating harmful behavior.

The Supporting Cast: Amplifying the Themes

The play's supporting characters, while appearing in fewer scenes, play important roles in amplifying the central themes. Their interactions, observations, and even their silences contribute to the overall atmosphere of tension and uncertainty. They act as a chorus, reflecting the different perspectives on the unfolding events and highlighting the diverse reactions of those around the central conflict.

The Power of Language: Dialogue and Subtext

Colaizzo's skillful use of language is crucial to the play's success. The dialogue is naturalistic, mirroring the casual cruelty and conversational dynamics that often surround such situations. The subtext is equally important, revealing the unspoken tensions, unspoken anxieties, and the insidious ways in which privilege can manifest itself in seemingly harmless conversations. The casualness of some conversations highlights the way in which harmful behaviors can be normalized, masked by a veneer of normalcy.

The play utilizes silence effectively, too. The silences between characters are often more revealing than their words, conveying the unspoken anxieties, regrets, and the weight of unspoken accusations. The gaps in communication reflect the larger failures to communicate about consent, highlighting the misunderstandings and the assumptions that underpin many of the play’s damaging events.

Thematic Exploration: Consent, Privilege, and Responsibility

Really Really tackles several weighty themes, intricately weaving them together to create a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.

Consent as an Active Choice

The central theme is the importance of affirmative consent. The play doesn't shy away from portraying the complexities of consent, showing how easily it can be misinterpreted, dismissed, or outright ignored. It challenges the audience to question their understanding of consent and to actively consider the nuances involved in ensuring that all interactions are consensual. It moves beyond simple definitions and explores the societal factors that can influence and distort the perception of consent.

The Role of Privilege

The play effectively highlights the role of privilege in perpetuating harmful behaviors. Leigh's actions are not simply the result of individual recklessness but rather a consequence of her privileged background, which has shielded her from facing the consequences of her actions. The play challenges the audience to consider how privilege operates within social structures and how it can influence individual behavior. It encourages reflection on how systems of power influence individual actions and choices.

Accountability and Responsibility

Really Really doesn't offer easy answers; instead, it compels the audience to confront the difficult questions surrounding accountability and responsibility. Who is responsible for the events that unfold? Is it Leigh alone, or do other characters share in the blame? The ambiguity allows for multiple interpretations, forcing the audience to engage in critical thinking and self-reflection. The play’s lack of clear-cut answers encourages a deeper understanding of the complexities of assigning blame and responsibility in situations where harm has occurred.

Dramatic Structure and Impact

The play’s structure is carefully crafted to build tension and keep the audience engaged. The events unfold gradually, revealing more information as the play progresses. The non-linear structure, jumping back and forth in time, allows the audience to understand the characters’ motivations and the build-up to the central conflict. The use of flashbacks provides context to current events, offering insights into the character relationships and their history.

The ending of Really Really is not a tidy resolution. It leaves the audience with lingering questions, unanswered issues, and a sense of unease. This deliberate ambiguity is a powerful tool, forcing the audience to continue the conversation beyond the final curtain. The play’s refusal to provide easy answers underscores the complexities of the issues raised and compels the audience to grapple with the moral and ethical implications.

The Lasting Legacy: A Play for Our Time

Really Really is more than just a play; it's a cultural touchstone. It has sparked numerous conversations about consent, privilege, and responsibility, contributing significantly to discussions surrounding sexual assault and its broader societal implications. Its relevance continues to resonate in our ongoing efforts to understand and address these critical issues. Its exploration of consent continues to be relevant in a world grappling with the complexities of interpersonal relationships and the need for clear communication and accountability. The play's examination of the role of privilege remains particularly relevant as society continues to reckon with its inequities.

In conclusion, Really Really is a powerful and thought-provoking play that deserves to be studied and discussed. Its complex characters, skillful use of language, and exploration of crucial themes make it a significant contribution to contemporary theatre and a valuable tool for fostering crucial conversations about consent, privilege, and accountability. Its lasting legacy lies in its ability to challenge audiences, to make them uncomfortable, and to leave them contemplating the complexities of human interaction long after the final curtain.