Freud's Last Session

I have seen Freud's Last Session several times since last fall, and I highly recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind thinking while being entertained. In the play, C.S. Lewis and Sigmund Freud engage in a battle of wits about love, war, sex, religion, and many other topics, but the main focus is on their differing views of faith and religion. The play, by Mark St. Germain, is based on Dr. Armand Nicholi's book The Question of G-d. It is unknown whether C.S. Lewis and Sigmund Freud actually met in real life, but it is possible that they did in London on the eve of World War II, which is when this play is set.  One of the running plots is Dr. Freud listening to the news on the radio, culminating in King George VI's speech to the nation preparing for World War II, the same speech which forms the climax of The King's Speech. This play has many traits of an Oscar-nominated film itself:

• Strong acting, 
• Based on historical events
• Dialogue which is both humorous and emotionally stirring
• Main character overcoming adversity
• British period piece 

Martin Rayner and Mark Dold have provided a wonderful master class in acting with their performances. They have wonderful chemistry with each other.  The play is very thought-provoking and makes you question your own views and beliefs. A very funny, well-written verbal sparring match and battle of the wits.  Martin Rayner gives an amazing performance as Sigmund Freud, at the end of his life and in pain from oral cancer, but still with his wits about him and able to hold his own in debate. Mark Dold as C.S. Lewis is his scene partner and foil, and is definitely up to the task. The chemistry between them is what elevates this show even further.  I enjoy plays and movies which have a historical basis, and I enjoy the historical detail of late 1930's Britain on display here. Additionally, the play recently won the Off-Broadway Alliance's 2011 Best Play of the Year. Freud's Last Session is currently enjoying an open-ended run at the Majorie Deane Little Theatre at the West Side Y, 10 West 64th St.  You can also visit www.freudslastsession.com for more information and to purchase tickets.