Playing God (play)
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Off-Broadway
| Playing God | |
|---|---|
 Playing on Air poster | |
| Written by | Alan Zweibel |
| Date premiered | July 21, 2017 |
| Place premiered | 59E59 Theaters, Off-Broadway |
| Subject | Medicine, God complex |
| Genre | Comedy |
Playing God is a one-act play by American comedian Alan Zweibel. The play premiered Off-Broadway at 59E59 Theaters as part of their annual Summer Shorts Series, running from July 21 through September 2, 2017. Directed by Maria Mileaf, the cast featured Bill Buell, Flora Diaz, Dana Watkins, and Welker White.[1] The production was named a "Critic's Pick" by The New York Times.[2]
In 2018, Playing God was adapted as a radio play for Playing on Air. Directed by Fred Berner, the cast featured Scott Adsit, Emily Bergl, Bill Buell, and Susie Essman.[3]
- Dr. Fisher
- God
- God's assistant
- Barbara Graber
Plot
Play God centers on Dr. Fisher, an OB-GYN who prioritizes his own convenience over his patient Barbara’s well-being by attempting to control the timing of her son’s birth. This cavalier misuse of medicine draws the attention of God, who, accompanied by his assistant, intervenes to confront the doctor’s “God complex.”
God challenges Fisher to a game of squash, using the encounter to expose the doctor’s arrogance and lack of ethical responsibility. As the interaction unfolds, Fisher's attitude is tested, and he is forced to face the consequences of his actions. The play concludes with a satirical examination of professional responsibility and the dangers of unchecked authority.[4]