A New Play by Marc Wisdom
Gentle Shadows
Gentle Shadows by Marc Wisdom is a powerful and evocative exploration of trauma, resilience, and the journey toward self-acceptance. Michael Hayes, a renowned architect, designs spaces of light and visibility while grappling with the shadows of his own past. Guided by a compassionate therapist, a survivors’ group, and the quiet strength of a lighting designer named Emma, Michael confronts the shame that haunts him and begins to transform his inner architecture.
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Through an intricate interplay of light and shadow, the play weaves themes of healing and hope, as Michael learns to embrace both the darkness and light within himself. Gentle Shadows is a moving testament to the human spirit’s capacity for growth and connection, set against the backdrop of a world where even the most fractured spaces can be rebuilt.
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Read Gentle Shadows here.
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Running Time: Approximately 75–85 minutes, with one intermission.
Themes
Gentle Shadows is a powerful exploration of trauma, healing, and the architecture of safety - both physical and emotional. Through the lens of an architect's professional and personal journey, the play examines how we construct protection around ourselves and others, and what true safety really means. The sophisticated use of lighting and shadow as both metaphor and physical presence challenges our assumptions about visibility and vulnerability.
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The play delves into institutional power structures and the courage required to break cycles of harm, while also examining how personal healing can catalyze broader social change. Through its masterful integration of past and present, the work suggests that recovery isn't about leaving the past behind, but about learning to hold both light and shadow with newfound strength and understanding.
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At its heart, Gentle Shadows is about the complex architecture of healing - how we build spaces, relationships, and selves that can hold both our wounds and our hopes. It explores the delicate balance between protection and connection, suggesting that true safety comes not from perfect visibility, but from learning to trust the gentle interplay of light and shadow in our lives.
Critical Praise
This story is truly remarkable! The writing is exceptional, and each character is uniquely developed, contributing to a rich narrative. I particularly appreciate how you've skillfully intertwined Michael's mental state with his reality, creating a powerful dynamic that resonates deeply. The symbolism with the young version of Michael is a brilliant touch, adding layers of complexity and color to his character's evolution. Overall, this play is absolutely phenomenal, and it's evident that a great deal of effort has gone into its creation. I would love to see it brought to life on stage!
~ReadMyPlay.com Reviewer
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This is an outstanding play with a compelling story, masterfully navigating the shifts between the present and the past. The use of the Voice of Shame is particularly powerful, effectively illustrating Michael’s vulnerability and his gradual empowerment as the voice diminishes. This is a very impactful choice.
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The portrayal of Young Michael is also notable; he is deeply influenced by the events of the play, and his transformation is evident as the narrative unfolds.
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The introduction of Emma adds an interesting dynamic, though a bit more clarity on her role at the beginning would enhance her character’s purpose. That said, her subtle development throughout the story is insightful, and it's rewarding to see her grow as a positive influence on Michael.
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​I would love to see this play staged as it is very powerful.
~ReadMyPlay.com Reviewer
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Contact
For inquiries regarding production rights and licensing for Gentle Shadows, please contact:
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Marc Wisdom
Email: mwisdom562@gmail.com
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All rights reserved. Gentle Shadows is protected by copyright. No part of this play may be performed, reproduced, or adapted without written permission from the author or their authorized representative. Professional and amateur production rights available.
