Literary Play Review "SELF HELP Or Tower Of Psychobabble" By Clark Carlton

Review By: Codi      A bright comedy in two acts, "Self Help or The Tower Of Psychobabble" is brilliant in its treatment of common day experiences. In this case, the characters are gay. However, the general theme and topic are universal. Refreshing is another word which comes to mind. Author, Clark Carlton has succeeded in not only offering a light hearted take on relationships, he has also bridged gaps by showing that all couples have some universality. Quick paced, full of laughs, as well as some introspective jaunts, Carlton weaves a stellar storyline. Complete with witty  one-liners and a wonderful roast of the psychotherapy industry.

     Follow Tyler a 40 something, handsome, opinionated, screenwriter through his turmoil with separation, getting together, getting apart, and mostly getting on. On with his life that is. You see Tyler's lover of thirteen years has moved out, furniture and all. This has come as quite a surprise to the contented and confused Tyler. Kyle, the Ex claims that he didn't leave, he ran away.... And here starts the Tower and the laughs.

     Tyler's loyal friend, Andrew stirs a little interest between Peter, also recently separated and the loveable Tyler. The drama, opps, swells as both Tyler and Peter fall. In love that is, or at least in therapy. Tyler realizes the relationship with the hunky Peter is a lot of work. He chocks that up to his long absence from the dating scene. Soon he realizes with the help of Peter, there is more to the problem. it seems Peter suffers from fear of, well just about everything especially commitment and merging. Off to the therapists they go. Is seems the therapists are as screwed up as the ever frightened and controlling Peter.

    I don't want to give it all away. The psychobabble, and Carlton uses all or most of the catch phrases well, gets deep and extremely personal. But always with immense servings of laughs. Tyler finds his way through the maze of therapeutic books, sessions, and counselors. Only to find that the therapists are directing and he merely a player. The ending is fraught with appeal and a strong sense of personal growth. Clark Carlton is a very believable writer. You know these people, in fact you are these people. You go through this wild and zany ride with them, not just as spectators.  There are a few lessons to be learned here as well. Gently taught, and superbly delivered in Carlton's witty yet pertinent dialogue. Staged wonderfully so that your attention is on the action, the production of the play is very open to directorial opportunity. A definite must see if in your area, and well worth a trip!

     For more information on Clark Carlton, his writing, his music, and how to get your copies, visit his website!

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