4908 Awakenings
A new play by Marianne Ryan
4908 Awakenings is a new dramatic play inspired by true events, developed from Marianne Ryan's original solo performance into a 5–6 character ensemble work.
At its heart, the play explores what happens to a family when severe mental illness enters their lives—not only for the person living with the illness, but for the siblings, parents, and loved ones who often become lifelong caregivers.
Through moments of heartbreak, humor, resilience, and unexpected grace, 4908 Awakenings asks what it means to love someone you cannot save, and how grief can become a pathway back to hope.
While deeply personal, the story reflects the experiences of countless families navigating schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses in a mental healthcare system that too often leaves them without meaningful support. The play seeks to foster empathy, reduce stigma, and encourage conversations about how we care for individuals living with severe mental illness—and the families who care for them.
Development
4908 Awakenings began as a solo show written and performed by Marianne Ryan and directed by Janine Squillari. Through multiple developmental readings and audience discussions, the piece has continued to evolve into a fully realized ensemble play.
Development includes:
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Developmental reading — New York City (June 2023)
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Developmental reading — Los Angeles (April 2024)
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Invited presentation — Spark Theatre Festival, New York City (March 2025)
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Invited presentation — Actors Theatre Workshop Spring Play Reading & Discussion Series (June 2025)
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Private staged reading of the re-imagined ensemble version — New York City (March 2026)
Each reading has included conversations with audiences, caregivers, and mental health advocates, helping shape the play while creating space for honest dialogue about severe mental illness and its impact on families.
Why This Story Matters
Families caring for loved ones with severe mental illness often experience profound emotional, financial, and physical strain while navigating systems that can make treatment difficult to access. Their stories are rarely seen on stage.
4908 Awakenings shines a light on these often-unheard experiences—not simply to tell one family's story, but to help others feel less alone and to encourage conversations that can lead to greater understanding, compassion, and change.
The hope is simple: when grief is witnessed, healing becomes possible.