Amy Ryan (Sister Aloysius), Zoe Kazan (Sister James), Liev Schreiber (Father Flynn) - Photo by: Joan Marcus 2024

Daring Accusations and Adamant Denials, A Summary Doubt: A Parable on Broadway

By Lindsey Root

“Doubt: A Parable” is a riveting tale of questioning faith, power, and perceptions. It unfolds in a Catholic school in the 1960s Bronx where Sister Aloysius (Amy Ryan), the strict principal, becomes suspicious of Father Flynn (Liev Schreiber), thinking he may have done something wrong with a student.

The set design seamlessly transitions between different locations within the school, from the austere principal's office to the serene garden, enhancing the narrative flow and keeping the audience fully engaged. It serves as the perfect canvas for the powerful and thought-provoking themes explored throughout the production.

I’ll be honest, the production's impact may not be as profound as I’d hoped for, leaving some longing to feel more conflicted between the two stories. Nonetheless, even with this desire for more, "Doubt: A Parable" still manages to provoke thought and spark discussion, making it a worthwhile theatrical experience. Though I was looking for a bit more of a compelling feeling leaving the theatre, I was still impressed by each of the four actors’ performances. The cast was small but mighty as they carried the story along.

In a world where people often think they're right, this production reminds us to be humble and kind when we're not sure. With its gripping story and strong acting, this revival is a must-see for anyone who loves a good, thought-provoking play. At its heart, it makes us think about perceptions and how certain we can be about things. As the characters struggle with their beliefs, we're left wondering what's really true.