Based on E.M. Forster’s 1910 classic, The Inheritance is an ambitious undertaking. Matthew Lopez’s grand vision of identifying homosexuality through art is successful and he ensures that the homage to Forster is explicit in the work. Lopez also focuses on America’s neglect of sufferers of HIV and AIDS during the 1980s and the 1990s. Part Two takes less inspiration from Forster's Howards End and delves deeper into the debate while exploring the social, economic and cultural forces that are in play.

The title of the play becomes clear in this second part, which refers to the heritage that is passed down from one generation of gay men to the next. It can also be perceived as the HIV that is handed down. Inheritance in its most obvious form can also be seen, with homes and apartments being passed down. Lopez attempts to build the new community with the backdrop of the persecution and death faced by the homosexual community still fresh on everyone’s mind.

Stephen Daldry, a 2-time Tony Award and 3-time Olivier Award winner takes charge of the direction. His crisp production features just 13 bare-footed characters and is mostly set in an apartment. The raised platform, although minimal, is perfect for the setting, and connects with the audience better. The Inheritance Part 2 is a satisfying conclusion to the journey of self-discovery of the lead characters, in addition to highlighting the plight of the homosexual community of the past and the present.

The Story

Two couples, Leo and Toby, and Eric and Henry, are in loving relationships. Soon, however, they begin to be weighed down by their previous lives. Eric, who was initially full of optimism and energy finds himself in growing despair with no purpose. He is abandoned by his friends, and his relationship with Henry becomes rocky. The connection that they share slowly disintegrates and the relationship begins to fall apart. Soon, the men must decide if they are willing to face an end or are ready to start anew.

Good For

Lovers of Social Dramas | Fans of Matthew Lopez