‘Hold on to Me Darling’ Off Broadway Review: Adam Driver Grabs the Best Role of His Career

The actor’s fake tears deliver real laughs in Kenneth Lonergan’s great comedy

Hold on to Me Darling Off Broadway Adam Driver
"Hold on to Me Darling" (Credit: Julieta Cervantes)

“Hold on to Me Darling” was the best new play of 2016 when it opened at the Atlantic Theater. Eight years later, Kenneth Lonergan’s comedy about a country singer is the best contemporary play now on the boards in New York City. A most entertaining revival opened Wednesday at the Lucille Lortel Theatre.

Adam Driver takes over for Timothy Olyphant, who originated the role of Strings McCrane, a major star who wants to give it all up to return to his country roots. Olyphant brought a leisurely charm to his Strings; Driver delivers a real feral power, and considering the nearly three-hour runtime on “Hold on to Me,” the show’s narrative drive runs even faster and sharper.

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