In "The Comeuppance," playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins invites audiences to eavesdrop on a 20-year high school reunion that is anything but ordinary.
Through dark humor, razor-sharp dialogue, and vulnerable introspection, the story captures five friends confronting the ghosts of who they were, and who they've become. Playing now at the Adrienne Arsht Center through Zoetic Stage, the production resonates across generations, especially with millennials who came of age in the shadow of national tragedy and digital transformation.
We spoke with cast members Rayner Gabriel, Joline Mujica, and director Stuart Meltzer about what makes "The Comeuppance" a powerful, timely theatrical experience. In this candid Q&A, they reflect on identity, the impact of revisiting the past, and the emotional terrain of portraying characters so intimately familiar, and painfully real.
Rayner Gabriel (Paco)
What drew you to "The Comeuppance," and how does its exploration of millennial identity and reunion resonate with today's audiences?
As a millennial, I personally identify with the experience of reconnecting with old friends and accepting our present selves. This play offers insight into the challenges our generation faces, while giving younger audiences characters who reflect their struggles. It truly felt like a mirror of my own life.
The play intertwines humor with profound themes like mortality and self-reflection. How does this balance enhance the storytelling?
Humor is how the characters cope — it opens a space for honest conversations about mortality without the weight of despair. It’s cathartic and healing.
With the narrative centered around a 20-year high school reunion, how does the play delve into the complexities of revisiting one's past?
The reunion forces each character to confront their memory of the past versus the truth. It’s about reconciling who we think we were with who we were, based on others’ perspectives.
Portraying characters confronting their past and present selves can be intense. How has this role challenged or enlightened you personally?
Paco’s journey has made me reflect on my own mistakes and healing process. It’s been a powerful, personal experience — like standing in front of a mirror at my own reunion.
What message do you hope audiences take away from your performance?
That our choices shape us — but we're not alone. A simple message or memory can bring someone back to themselves when they need it most.
Joline Mujica (Ursula)
What drew you to "The Comeuppance," and how does its exploration of millennial identity and reunion resonate with today's audiences?
This play is a Valentine to Millennials. We grew up through Columbine and 9/11 — massive, formative tragedies. Branden’s writing explores this reality with honesty and depth. Regardless of age, everyone can relate to these characters’ struggles.
The play intertwines humor with profound themes like mortality and self-reflection. How does this balance enhance the storytelling?
There’s a beautiful moment where Emilio says, “I feel like before Facebook, reunions were a real encounter with the brutal beatdown of time.” It’s raw and funny, and that’s what this play does best — it makes you laugh at the darkness.
With the narrative centered around a 20-year high school reunion, how does the play delve into the complexities of revisiting one's past?
It’s a milestone that makes everyone reflect. The characters examine what they wanted versus who they’ve become — and that disconnect is heartbreakingly human.
Portraying characters confronting their past and present selves can be intense. How has this role challenged or enlightened you personally?
Ursula is a force. Despite personal tragedy and going partially blind, she never gives in to self-pity. Her humor and spirit are thrilling to play as an actor.
What message do you hope audiences take away from your performance?
That life is messy, beautiful, and brief. I hope people feel a little nostalgia, a little heartbreak, and a lot of appreciation for the ride.
Stuart Meltzer (Director)
What drew you to "The Comeuppance," and how does its exploration of millennial identity and reunion resonate with today's audiences?
Chris Demos-Brown brought the play to me, knowing I loved Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ writing. While centered on millennials, its themes — friendship, reflection, and emotional reckoning — are timeless. These characters feel like family.
The play intertwines humor with profound themes like mortality and self-reflection. How does this balance enhance the storytelling?
It’s a dark comedy with moments of magical realism. Jacobs-Jenkins masterfully uses humor to elevate the drama. It’s very real — just like life, where laughter and tragedy go hand-in-hand.
With the narrative centered around a 20-year high school reunion, how does the play delve into the complexities of revisiting one's past?
These relationships pick up where they left off — with new growth, pain, and perspective. We’ve all had to confront our past through the lens of time. That’s what makes it so resonant.
Don’t miss your chance to join this raw, honest, and unexpectedly funny reunion. The Comeuppance runs at the Arsht Center as part of Zoetic Stage’s 2024–2025 season.
Adrienne Arsht Center 1300 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL. For more information, call the Box Office at (305) 949-6722 or e-mail
