When the Guthrie programmed the 2012 Pulitzer Prize-winning play
Disgraced to run this summer, they couldn't have guessed just how relevant and timely it would be. Or may they could, because this is America, and things seem to be getting worse before they get better. The play deals with racism, prejudice, identity, and what it means to be an American, particularly for a Muslim man who seems to have accomplished the American dream. Until a series of events cause him to face his heritage and his history in a way he never wanted to, and reexamine who he is, who he thinks he is, and who he wants to be. With the anti-Muslim sentiment that's been increasing throughout this election, a play like this, that depicts Muslims as real, flawed, relatable people and begins a conversation about these issues, is so important. The Guthrie is hosting post-show discussions after every performance in an effort to keep the conversation going and deepen the experience of the play. A play that's as compelling, gorgeously designed, and entertaining as it is sobering, thought-provoking, and important.
