“Interior Design,” the latest play at Toronto’s Tarragon Theatre, offers a sharp, funny, and poignantly realistic take on adult friendships and the emotional renovations they often require. Created by celebrated playwright Rosa Laborde and directed by Kat Sandler, this world premiere delves into the lives of four friends gathering to stage an intervention—an effort that hilariously, and at times painfully, backfires. The characters, first-generation daughters of immigrants navigating their thirties and forties, confront shifting friendships and midlife pressures, all within the walls of an empty Toronto condo.
The strength of this production lies in its ensemble cast, whose chemistry on stage is electric. Sara Farb, Rong Fu, Anita Majumdar, and Meghan Swaby bring out the underlying tenderness and frustration inherent in long-term friendships, delivering performances that feel lived-in and refreshingly genuine. Their interactions and banter capture the authenticity of old friends facing the truth about each other and themselves, making the condo setting feel almost like a fifth character in the play—a stark, reflective backdrop to their personal revelations.
Sandler’s direction shines, blending fast-paced humor with moments of vulnerability that make “Interior Design” both relatable and raw. Set and costume designer Shannon Lea Doyle’s minimalist condo design underscores the isolation each character feels, while Imogen Wilson’s lighting and Maddie Bautista’s sound design add depth to the unfolding drama.
“Interior Design” is more than a comedy; it’s a look into the complexities of maintaining intimacy and authenticity as adult friendships evolve, set against the all-too-familiar backdrop of Toronto’s high-stakes real estate scene. Tickets range from approximately $25 to $55, with multiple showtimes through the week, making it accessible for anyone looking to enjoy an evening of compelling theatre. To book tickets, visit Tarragon Theatre’s website.
In short, “Interior Design” provides a cathartic and engaging experience for audiences, particularly Gen Xers and older millennials, who might recognize a bit of themselves on stage.
Cover photo by Jae Yang
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