“Support Group for Men” is a complex look into the frailties of men when they come together to be real with one another. This sentimental and witty play comes with plenty of laughs and deep meaning.

~Review and Photos by Dana Nöllsch~

The Story

Each week, a small group of men gather together in a small apartment that looks out onto an alleyway shared by a local bar. The men come together to discuss their lives, problems, and hopes for the future.

But this night will prove to be quite eventful and send these men down a rabbit hole they won’t soon forget.

Amid their weekly gathering, they hear a commotion in the alley below their window. Someone in the alleyway is receiving a beating from a few angry men. So, in this moment, the men’s group become heroes of sorts, doing their best to intervene.

The results of this encounter brings a new man into the group. One who definitely could use some support.

Then the police arrived. This chance encounter also leads to further developments for one of the group members.

Did I mention that there is a penis-shaped marijuana pipe that they partake of? When you go see Support Group for Men, you’ll find out just how this comes into play.

Each of the members of the group has their challenges. Kevin, the newest member of the group, is not satisfied with his sex life. Brian, who organizes the group, has a girlfriend who dominates his closet space. Roger, Brian’s softball buddy, seemingly finds this all ridiculous, but we find out that it is just his protective walls. Dell, Brian’s friend from high school, struggles to help his ill wife cope with life. Alejandro is the man who was assaulted in the alleyway and came into the group quite dramatically.

As happens in many other men’s groups, these men come together to help each other. Having taken part in a few men’s groups myself, I can attest that the stories ring true.

Support Group for Men examines unrealistic, masculine ideals, men’s perceived notions of failure or success, and how to transform into who we may be in the future.

Check out some photos from Support Group for Men

How about the Performances

The actors in Support Group for Men are outstanding. They share that feeling of vulnerability with the audience. Each of the cast is quite polished in their roles and very giving to each other in the performances.

The story has moments of deep meaning, made all the more dramatic by the quality of acting.

The Bottom Line

Support Group for Men is funny and profound, providing just enough laughs mixed with deep messages that are not too sanctimonious.