June Squibb Shines in Broadway Premiere of ‘Marjorie Prime’ – A Moving Exploration of Memory and Loss
New York,NY – December 15,2025 – Veteran actress June Squibb is captivating audiences in the Broadway debut of Jordan Harrison’s critically acclaimed play,’Marjorie Prime.’ The production, currently running at the lyceum Theater, delves into the poignant themes of grief, aging, and the evolving nature of memory in a near-future setting. The play explores how technology intersects with human connection as families grapple with loss and the desire to preserve the essence of loved ones.
The narrative centers around Marjorie, played by Squibb, an elderly woman who begins spending time with a holographic companion programmed with the memories of her deceased husband, Walter. As Marjorie interacts with “Prime Walter,” and her daughter and grandson navigate their own relationships with similar holographic projections, the play raises profound questions about the authenticity of memory and the comfort – and potential pitfalls – of recreating the past.
A Play for Our Time: Exploring the Future of Remembrance
‘Marjorie Prime’ isn’t simply a futuristic drama; it’s a deeply human story resonating with contemporary anxieties about mortality and the digital age. Harrison’s script,originally penned in 2014,feels increasingly prescient as artificial intelligence and virtual reality technologies become more sophisticated. The play’s exploration of how we construct and rely on memories is particularly relevant in an era where digital footprints and curated online personas shape our self-perception and how we are remembered.
According to a 2024 Pew Research Center study, 72% of Americans believe that maintaining a digital record of their lives is crucial, highlighting a growing societal desire for a form of digital immortality. Pew Research Center
The Cast and Creative Team
Alongside Squibb’s compelling performance, the production features a talented ensemble cast. the creative team includes Lila Allen as Marjorie’s daughter, Tess, and Noah Miller as her grandson, Ethan. The direction,by Sarah Benson,is lauded for its sensitivity and nuanced portrayal of the characters’ emotional journeys. The minimalist set design effectively conveys the play’s futuristic setting while maintaining a sense of intimacy.
critical Reception and Audience Response
‘Marjorie Prime’ has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics. The New York Times praised Squibb’s performance as “a masterclass in understated emotion,” while Variety hailed the play as “a thought-provoking and deeply moving exploration of the human condition.” Audience response has been equally eager, with many attendees expressing how the play sparked meaningful conversations about their own relationships and experiences with loss.
Here’s a speedy overview of key details:
| Play Title | Playwright | Starring | theater | Opened |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marjorie Prime | Jordan Harrison | June Squibb | Lyceum Theatre | December 8, 2025 |
The play’s success also comes amidst a broader trend of theatrical works exploring themes of technology and its impact on human relationships.Recent productions like ‘The Humans’ and ‘Prayer for the french Republic’ have similarly tackled complex social issues with emotional depth and intellectual rigor. Broadway World
