←Recommendations of Buried Treasures

John Mabey’s “Buried Treasures” brings us two characters searching for the past, for something they are missing, something that was taken from them. The language is particular, familiar but surprising, and the setting, beside a river that rises and falls, reflects the play’s undercurrent of emotion. While realistic in its portrayal of sibling love and rivalry, “Buried Treasures” moves the audience with its lyricism and the power in what is left unsaid. The play is ideal for children’s theater and would be a welcome addition to any evening of short plays about family.

There are some hidden depths to this play by John Mabey that are worth digging up. I know that sounds like I'm making a joke here considering the plot line, but honestly, Mabey doesn't write "obvious" plays. There is subtlety, nuance and considered meanings that go beyond the surface. Sometimes people keep their feelings and motivations buried (again, not making a joke, it really is the best term to use) and only through reaching out and trying to connect, can these woman learn what truly connects them. What they find may have nothing to do with what's in the ground.

Congratulations are in order to Mr. Mabey for writing this prize-winning play. The dialogue is rich, emphasizing the relationship of the sisters, though perhaps not currently as close, as well as their somewhat fractured family history. Mabey creates a mysterious setting which adds to the richness of his writing.

There's real texture and a true sense of shared history in the relationship between these two sisters. Life has been hard for them, making their struggle to connect all the more heart-rending. I hope the connection they eventually forge is enduring and sustaining, they deserve it.

Oh, I hope the girls find something. This short play is about reconciliation and sisterly love. When you don't have much, sometimes you have to dig for it. The characters are written so clearly, I could hear and see them in my head.