Is time the greatest hoax of all? Can it teach us some valuable truths abut change and progress, and wisely guide our journey through life – or is it just a useful tool invented by humans to measure and organize events, and keep us too busy to question the concept itself? While we are conditioned to view time in a linear fashion – past to present to future – what happens when that (perhaps mostly mental) construct breaks down, and we are left with a new reality where moments happen simultaneously – and our past is as present as our future? Between Einstein’s assertion that time is relative to the observer’s point of reference, and various traditions’ interpretation of time as a cyclical concept, the very validity of the idea is challenged, blurring the lines of human understanding and existence. Age can do the same when cognitive abilities reshape how we perceive and recall memories, losing some of their vividness and recency, but, hopefully, imbuing them with a richness of experience, knowledge and wisdom instead.

“Just Another Day” offers a captivating exploration of time, love, creativity and friendship, seen through a prism of aging and enhanced by a thought-provoking narrative structure and formidable acting by Dan Lauria (who also wrote the play) and Patty McCormack. Set in a nondescript town, the play delves into the seemingly ordinary routines of two writers who keep returning to the same park bench, wondering whether they know each other – and, over the course of an hour and a half, uncovering deeper layers of human experience and emotion.

Lauria’s script masterfully weaves together a series of vignettes, each highlighting different facets of life, as seen through the lens of aging and fleeting memories — touching on relationships, loss, hope, and creativity. The characters, though seemingly disparate at first, gradually reveal their disconnectedness, underscoring the universality of human struggles and triumphs, as well as our collective understanding of the passage of time. Lauria’s ability to blend poignant moments with subtle humor creates a rich tapestry of emotions that resonate with the audience. The dialogue is authentic and engaging, capturing the nuances of the characters’ inner thoughts and struggle to remain aware of their past – and in control of their destiny. The minimally realistic stage design, lighting and wardrobe choices provide a perfect setting for a dynamic portrayal of the relationship, keeping the audience intrigued and reflective throughout.

“Just Another Day” is a captivating theatrical experience that celebrates the beauty and complexity of the latter part of life. It invites viewers to contemplate the significance of seemingly mundane moments in our lives, and the disconnectedness of humanity — a testament to Lauria’s skillful storytelling and masterful acting and direction.

The play is running in Theater 555 until the end of June – get your tickets here.