THE ONE GOOD THING,
or “Are Ya Patrick Swayze?”
Jamie and Tommy share a secluded cottage on the rugged coast of the Irish Sea. One morning, Jamie makes an astonishing declaration that turns their lives upside down. With pathos and humor, the brothers confront grief and guilt—and discover the healing power of memory, forgiveness, love, and second chances.
The Press…
"There's something decidedly Conor McPherson about this gentle yet emotional tale...The ambiguity, tension and compassion ensure that the audience stay in rapt attention… Very little of our drama focuses on kindness as a central theme; yet Bravaco's play does and is all the more commendable for it."— British Theatre Guide
"A remarkably sensitive story of brotherly love... a poignant illustration of how the bonds of kin reverberate throughout time."— Washington City Paper
"A charming script... whimsy and heart, while never dipping into sentimentality."— DC Theatre Arts
"A play of tenderness, compassion and love... Moving in its exploration of grief, the afterlife and memory."— Connecticut Critics Circle
"Darkly funny and surprisingly emotional."— In the Wings 2.0
Testimonials…
“A Williamston Theatre show is something that will 'Make ‘em laugh, make 'em cry, and make ‘em call the people they love' and this piece ticks all those boxes." — Tony Caselli, Artistic Director, Williamston Theatre
"Beautifully crafted, full of Irish wit, emotional depth, and the kind of quiet revelations that stay with you long after the curtain falls... ultimately, touches the heart." — Mark Shanahan, Artistic Director, Westport Country Playhouse
"It’s a beautiful play that really moved me." — Roy Steinberg, Artistic Director, Cape May Stage
"What an amazing play!" — Kirsten Quinn, Board President, Irish Heritage Theatre
Production History
World Premiere — East Riding Theatre, Beverley, UK (2025)
American Premiere — Washington Stage Guild, Washington, DC (2025)
Stables Theatre — Hastings, UK (2025)
Seven Angels Theatre — Waterbury, CT (2026)
Williamston Theatre — Williamston, MI (2026)
Awards
Winner — New Works Festival, East Riding Theatre (UK), 2024
Winner — New Writing Competition, Stables Theatre (UK), 2024
Winner — Long Beach Playhouse New Plays Festival, 2025
2nd Place — Carlow Little Theatre International Playwriting Competition (Ireland), 2024
Running Time: Approximately 95 minutes
Cast: 2 men
Setting: A cottage overlooking the Irish Sea.
Production Photographs