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Trapped in a Bathroom: Inside the Horrific Drama of We Need to Do Something

Update Stuck in a Bathroom: A Family's Nightmare Unfolds A new horror drama titled We Need to Do Something, which premiered at Crashbox this past weekend, takes the audience on a chilling ride within the confines of a small, trapped space. When a tornado-related accident sends a Texan family into their bathroom seeking safety, they quickly realize that hell isn't just a natural disaster, but also the dynamics of their own family. The story revolves around a mother, Diane (played by Emily Green), who is desperately trying to keep her family occupied while her son, Bobby (Andrew Solis), rambles on about tornadoes, and her daughter, Melissa (Kaylynn Yarelle), frets over missing her girlfriend. Meanwhile, embittered father Robert (John Gholson) grapples with the reality of their dire circumstances, burdened by the emotional poison that they’ve brought with them into their makeshift prison. A Unique Perspective on Horror in Theatre Adapted from Max Booth III's novella by the same name, We Need to Do Something stands out in its dedication to presenting pure horror on stage. Unlike most horror narratives that have previously dominated cinema, such as Booth's novella's film adaptation in 2021, this play draws the audience into the intensely claustrophobic and psychologically taxing environment of a bathroom, amplifying the actors' performances in a uniquely intimate format. Director Sarah Hogestyn’s vision sharpens the focus on the interpersonal horrors within the family. This thematic choice highlights the familial decay rather than simple outside threats, inviting the audience to engage intimately with the characters' emotional turmoil—a striking contrast to typical horror spectacles. The Power of Confined Spaces The minimalist setting, designed by Cody Arn, uses the cramped space to its advantage, making movements feel cramped and tension palpable. It effectively captures the feeling of isolation and helplessness, resembling a scenario where every secret and hidden resentment is laid bare. Imagine being trapped much like a family from Chekhov’s work, forced to confront issues that they would rather sweep under the rug—only with the added pressure of impending doom. This dynamic fosters an atmosphere ripe for emotional conflict, leaving the audience both unsettled and contemplative. Understanding the Emotional Underpinning While the resolution of the play may not provide the traditional sense of closure, it serves as a keen observation of guilt, responsibility, and the vulnerability of family ties during crises. As the characters face the consequences of their actions, viewers may leave with lingering thoughts on their own relationship dynamics—perfectly encapsulating the human experience. A Call to Action for Local Theatre Fans If you’re a resident in Austin looking to dive deeper into the local arts scene, We Need to Do Something provides an enthralling experience that combines elements of horror with the raw, emotional depth of family drama. Attend the performance at Crashbox and witness how local talent transforms a claustrophobic space into a stage for meaningful storytelling. For more community updates, events, and engaging local stories, stay tuned to Austin Community News. Your nearby neighborhood is alive with culture and excitement, and being in-the-know fosters connections within this vibrant city.