There's absolutely an audience for this. I think the extended preview period/the uneven shape it was in early hurt their word of mouth, but they made all the necessary changes and were in incredible shape by opening. I can only imagine what a few more workshops would do to help tighten this up a bit more. The biggest issue that remains in my eyes is Act 3, which probably needs a few cuts.
Maybe I'm naïve, maybe I really like this show, but I don't see this ending here. The Public has spent 10 years developing this. From what I've heard, this is a particular favorite of Eustis as well. Not a perfect comparison, but in a world where Operation Mincemeat has done well, I think this could too.
I think they just need to be smart about next steps. Trying to stunt cast the Shuler Hensley part (somebody please get in touch with Rainn Wilson!) or others would be ideal. The biggest factor will be getting a Broadway house on the medium to smaller end. The Golden, once Mincemeat closes, would be perfect for this.
Just my two cents. Happy to admit I'm very biased because I haven't been taken with a brand new show like this in a while.
Updated On: 12/8/25 at 12:07 PM