The Scotsman | Suzanne O’Brien
14 Aug 2025
Developed and performed by Los Angeles Theatre Initiative, Pictures of Willy is an ambitious stage play following artist Cal as he navigates life as a queer, single parent.
Not only is his ability to parent his teenage son (whom he adopted thirteen years ago) scrutinised by the other parents at school, but Cal also criticises his own parenting style, anxious that the ‘fun gay’ and ‘dad gay’ aspects of himself are mutually exclusive.
The script, which is more of a saga, impresses with its pithy one-liners and narrative complexity. Cal calls on his queer icons (including Joan Rivers and ABBA, who’s photos occupy a large part of the stage), and they represent his conscience by supporting him in navigating everyday decisions and challenges.
The introduction of these characters creates an entertaining dynamic, however these scenes can be on the idler side, slowing the play’s overall pace.
Cal is renowned for his homoerotic art (“You’re a horny man’s Van Gogh!” says one fan-cum-love interest), which underscores the title and preempts a glorious mix-up involving his artwork and his son’s school history project.
While the story takes on too much, ultimately the company can only be admired for their enthusiasm and inventiveness.
★★★