A powerful new play is coming to New York this weekend, uniting a high-profile cast to spark conversations around mental health. This is Crazy!, written and directed by Tony Award-winning playwright V (formerly known as Eve Ensler), will debut October 6 at the Jay Sharp Theatre at Symphony Space as a one-night-only benefit production for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
The production serves as a tribute to beloved Hollywood talent manager Chris Huvane, who tragically died by suicide in 2022 at the age of 47. Known for guiding the careers of the late Chadwick Boseman, Margot Robbie, Julianne Moore, Zach Braff, Zoey Deutch, Henry Winkler, and more, Huvane’s passing left a deep impact on the industry.
The Cast
The 90-minute production will feature Sanaa Lathan, Rachel Hilson, Clarence Maclin, Jane Fonda, Marisa Tomei, Mark Ruffalo, Rosanna Arquette, Lois Smith, Olivia Oguma, Colette McDermott, Derrick Delgado, Luke Ferrari, Doireann Mac Mahon, and Mohammad Saleem.
Each actor will perform a monologue sharing raw, personal perspectives on mental illness—an intimate look at the social and emotional realities surrounding it.
A Tribute and a Movement
The project was developed by the CAA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Creative Artists Agency, where Huvane’s brother Kevin Huvane has long been based. Ruth-Ann Huvane, a dedicated mental health advocate and member of NAMI’s national board, is producing the play.
Following its New York premiere, organizers are eyeing a Los Angeles performance in 2026, with all proceeds benefiting NAMI.
Why It Matters
Much like V’s groundbreaking The Vagina Monologues, This is Crazy! builds a space for community and dialogue through storytelling. The play also launches National Mental Health Awareness Week, underscoring the urgency of addressing a crisis that impacts one in five adults and one in six kids in the U.S. each year.
Tickets for the New York performance are now available at SymphonySpace.org.