Expect ‘Cult of Love’ To Burnish Leslye Headland’s Already Impressive Reputation 

For all the crackling sardonicism in Headland’s writing, her compassion is equally compelling, if not more so. Under Trip Cullman’s typically astute direction, all the characters in ‘Cult’ are funny and touching, and none are villains.

Joan Marcus
Zachary Quinto and Shailene Woodley in 'Cult of Love.' Joan Marcus

At about this time last year, an Obie Award winner and two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist, Brendan Jacobs-Jenkins, made his Broadway debut as primary playwright with “Appropriate,” a blistering tragicomedy tracing the reunion of a glaringly dysfunctional family. Leslye Headland, who covers similar terrain in the new “Cult of Love,” is more widely known for her television and film work than her stage outings — though I suspect that’s about to change.

Have an account? Log In

To continue reading, please select:

Limited Access

Enter your email to read for FREE

Get 1 FREE article

Continue with
or
Unlimited Access

Join the Sun for a PENNY A DAY

$0.01/day for 60 days

Cancel anytime

100% ad free experience

Unlimited article and commenting access

Full annual dues ($120) billed after 60 days

By continuing you agree to our
Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Advertisement
The New York Sun

© 2025 The New York Sun Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The material on this site is protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used.

The New York Sun

Sign in or  Create a free account

or
By continuing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use