“It is an impressive, multi-layered piece of writing and an absolute must-see.”
PLAYOFF-BROADWAYNOW PLAYING
Degenerates
Playwrights Horizons/Peter Jay Sharp Theater · 2h
Opened Sep 29, 2026 · Closes Nov 1, 2026
3 Rave
8 Positive
3 Mixed
1 Negative
Critics' Take
Went's intense deep-dive into incel culture earns praise for its daring subject matter and blistering performances, though critics split on whether its nearly three-hour runtime and overwhelming density illuminate or exhaust.
Critic Scorecard
15 reviews3 Rave
8 Positive
3 Mixed
1 Negative
Sort:
“This is engrossing, essential theater that should not be missed.”
“Degenerates is an early contender for this season’s best.”
“Daring to go deep into psychosexual discomfort, the Wents' play illuminates the annihilative consequences of loneliness and self-loathing in a corrosive subculture.”
“Else Went has a sure touch for dialogue and event, particularly across extremely long scenes; she has a precise ear for the sadness under the bluster.”
Audience Scorecard
105 audience reviews
A-
Liking It
Frequently Asked Questions
What do critics say about Degenerates?
Went's intense deep-dive into incel culture earns praise for its daring subject matter and blistering performances, though critics split on whether its nearly three-hour runtime and overwhelming density illuminate or exhaust. (CriticScore 75/100 from 15 reviews.)
Is Degenerates worth seeing?
Yes. Degenerates earns strong reviews from critics (75/100 from 15 reviews). Most theatergoers will have a great time.
What is the CriticScore for Degenerates?
Degenerates has a CriticScore of 75/100 based on 15 professional reviews. This is a "Recommended" show.
Is Degenerates still running Off-Broadway?
Yes, Degenerates is currently playing at Playwrights Horizons/Peter Jay Sharp Theater Off-Broadway. It is scheduled to close on November 1, 2026.
Where is Degenerates playing Off-Broadway?
Degenerates is playing at Playwrights Horizons/Peter Jay Sharp Theater.
How long is Degenerates?
Degenerates has a runtime of 2 hours with no intermission.
Is Degenerates appropriate for children?
Degenerates is recommended for Ages 12+.
Current Cast
- Juan ArturoSerge/Chad
- Olivia Rose BarresiStacy
- Zachary W. DesmondMiller
- Tyler Nowell FelixKemp
- Christopher Dylan WhiteTarget
Original Cast
- Juan ArturoSerge/Chad
- Olivia Rose BarresiStacy
- Zachary W. DesmondMiller
- Tyler Nowell FelixKemp
- Christopher Dylan WhiteTarget
Quick Facts
- CriticScore
- 75/100 (15 reviews)
- Status
- Now Playing
- Opened
- Sep 29, 2026
- Closes
- Nov 1, 2026
- Running
- Just opened
- Runtime
- 2h
- Age
- Ages 12+
- Theater
- Playwrights Horizons/Peter Jay Sharp Theater
- Synopsis
- A darkly funny drama exploring loneliness, masculinity, and the search for connection. Degenerates is a darkly comic drama that examines loneliness, identity, and the online spaces where frustration and isolation can take root. Set within a small, insular internet community, the play follows a group of young men who reinforce one another's belief that they are destined to be rejected and disconnected from the world around them. As their shared outlook deepens, an unexpected relationship begins to challenge their assumptions, revealing the emotional cost of hopelessness and self-defeating beliefs. Blending sharp humor with emotional honesty, Degenerates offers a compelling exploration of masculinity, belonging, and the human need for connection. Through its intimate and thought-provoking...
- Data Last Updated
- October 5, 2026
