Were Critics Thrilled by Sean Hayes in The Unknown Off-Broadway?

Reviews are in for the new David Cale solo play directed by Leigh Silverman.

February 13, 2026 By Meg Masseron

Sean Hayes in *The Unknown* (Emilio Madrid)

Tony winner Sean Hayes (Will & Grace) opened in the solo show The Unknown February 12 at Off-Broadway's Studio Seaview. And, the reviews are in.

Leigh Silverman is at the helm of the new play written by David Cale, which continues through April 12.

The play follows Elliott, a writer desperate to cure his writer's block. When he retreats to a remote cabin to write his thriller, he begins to question whether or not he is living in one, as he discovers he may not be alone.

Read the reviews below.

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Playbill will continue to update this list as reviews come in.

The production features scenic design by Studio Bent, costume design by Sarah Laux, lighting design by Cha See, sound design by Caroline Eng, and music by Isobel Waller-Bridge. Jason Hindelang serves as production stage manager, with production management by Hudson Theatrical Associates. Envoy Theatricals' Sam Dallas is the general manager.

READ: Sean Hayes Did Not Want to Do a Solo Show; Then Leigh Silverman Sent Him The Unknown

Sean Hayes most recently appeared on the New York theatre scene in Good Night, Oscar on Broadway in 2023, winning a Tony Award for his performance. He recently repeated his role as Oscar Levant for audiences in London's West End.

Visit TheUnknownPlay.com.