'Benched' Gives Honest Glimpse into the Lives of Georgetown Parents

Longtime D.C. resident, actor and playwright, Allyson Currin, has written a new play for every urban mom, urban dad, or anyone who has relied on friends to get through a rough period. Benched opened this Thursday Feb. 17 and runs through Sunday Feb. 20 at Georgetown's  

Currin explains that the premise of the play comes from her own experience as a new mother of twins sitting with a friend at nearby Guy Mason Recreation Center playground in Glover Park. Her daughters are now teens, but she has brought her story back to the Georgetown neighborhood she once explored as a young mom.

The play's main characters, professional actresses Dionne Audain, Leigh Jameson and Liz Mamana, forge an intimate friendship while minding their unseen children at an urban playground. As new parents, they share a time period that is uniquely stressful and rely on each other and their friendships to survive. 

Currin explains that the play is about any relationship that occurs and thrives in times of stress. It is the urban parent version of being "war-buddies." Although the inspiration for the play is D.C., the theme of intimacy that is non-romantic is universal. Currin hopes that everyone attending the play will recognize themselves.

The play is both poignant and funny.  Admission is free but donations are encouraged. Please email benchedtheplay@gmail.com for reservations. Running time is about one hour.

Currin is in talks to have the play showcased in New York following its run here. Georgetown residents are encouraged to attend this weekend and to be part of the early life of this play, Benched.