Sylvia Sylvia Sylvia

The English major in me adored this play about the life and work of Sylvia Plath at the Geffen Playhouse, running through March 8. It functions as a ghost story of sorts, toggling between Sylvia’s life in the 1950s with her husband, fellow writer Ted Hughes, and the present-day couple—also writers—who are living in the same apartment. The play—a new work by rising playwright Beth Hyland—has interesting things to say about feminism, creativity, relationships, mental health and therapy speak, and it’s anchored by strong performances across the board from the four-person cast, particularly Marianna Gailus, who plays the titular character, and Midori Francis, who provides both pathos and humor.