Gobstopper
- Matthew D. Foster
- Feb 19
- 2 min read
“Gobstopper” is a stone cold and often brutal coming of age journey, written and performed by Leyla Aycan. At its heart is an imperfect but deeply realistic character fighting for redemption. The piece moves through emotional wreckage and defeat, yet somehow frames it all with a search for inner joy. For anyone drawn to stories about teenagers stepping uneasily into adulthood, or about light pushing through the darkest clouds, this will feel familiar.
Every word feels intentional. The language is carefully crafted, fluid, and resonant, powered by an emotional performance that rarely falters. There is no sugarcoating. The flaws are spoken plainly, almost with radical candor. That honesty becomes Aycan’s special magic. She leans into the messiness of growth and invites the audience to do the same.
“Gobstopper” keeps you on edge because it refuses to hide behind sentimentality. It explores the idea that what is seen is not always what is spoken, and that storytelling can reveal what everyday conversation avoids. Aycan commands the space with confidence, especially in the final stretch, where she delivers a tour de force that justifies the emotional investment.
There are elements that do not land as strongly. The sound design, while placed with intention, occasionally distracts from key moments. Instead of enhancing the story, it sometimes feels forced and stylistically out of sync with the intimacy of the performance. The narrative arc can also feel predictable. Certain plot turns arrive exactly as expected, without the kind of twist or complexity that might deepen the impact.
Even with its familiar beats, “Gobstopper” remains compelling because of Aycan’s presence. The ending is dramatic and emotionally charged, leaving the audience with a lasting impression. It may not reinvent the form, but it stands as a bold monodrama anchored by a fearless and committed performance.
Gobstopper
Starring Leyla Aycan
Matthew is an award-winning playwright and actor! While he loves being on the stage and writing theatrical-thought-provoking-innovational plays, his passions follow him backstage as well! As a student studying business and consulting for entertainment at the School of Professional Studies, CUNY, BBA. Matthew is honored to work on this special showcase full of talent and hardworking individuals. He's selected previous theatrical experience includes Those Who Remained at La Mama E.T.C. (Producer, Props), BMCC CUNY (stage management and performance degree), The Lake (Playwright), and Earth (playwright). He is extremely grateful for the mentors and individuals, and organizations that have given him his resources and support to keep theatre alive. @matthew.d.foster
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