2.5 out of 5 stars

In an era when plays seemingly get shorter and shorter, it’s heartening to see a two-acter like Omar Bakry’s “In the Shadow of Her Father,” which lets a solid story play out over an ample timeframe. The drama, set in the rural Midwest, involves an overprotective, alcoholic father and his adopted Lebanese daughter, who is torn between caring for her dad’s needs and recognizing her own need for independence, thanks to a new man in her life. It’s just too bad that the drama leans too much on melodrama. Plus, the cast, though well-intentioned, has a tendency to overact. — Charles Passy

At 59E59 Theaters, through Aug. 31, 2025; 59e59.org. (Review date: Aug. 18, 2025)