This month is your chance to experience both parts of one of modern theatre’s landmark works. Now 24 years old, Angels in America has garnered Tony, Pulitzer and many more awards, and continues to shine the stage lights on the fallout from one of our country’s most egregious epidemics.
Through the intersecting stories of characters both fictional and historical, along with the metaphysical element of ghosts and angels, the play unfolds its subtitle: A Gay Fantasia on National Themes. “It’s about the gay experience,” Civic’s Artistic Director Bill Sanders says. “It’s about McCarthyism, the Jewish experience, the Mormon experience. It explores a whole world of politics, emotions and viewpoints. And of course the AIDS experience, which was like a biblical plague.”
The ‘80s were a frightening decade for a gay community still pressured into the closet, and
it exposed how prejudice can exacerbate a health crisis. “The rich were getting richer. People needing assistance were being demonized,” Sanders says. “Now, I think we’re seeing a similar lack of compassion.” Having produced Angels 20 years ago with overwhelming support, Civic is reinforcing the play’s message. “I think this play is a cry for help, a cry for understanding, a cry for unity and a cry for peace.”
One of the most incredible qualities of Angels in America is its potential to be staged as a marathon theatre experience. Both parts back to back are over seven hours long. The first time Civic produced Angels, they were one of the first theatres to show both parts together, and they’re at it again. Come see eight actors in multiple roles tell the heart-wrenching and hilarious story of Angels in America.
May 5-20 | $23–$28 | 2 & 7:30 p.m. | Civic Theatre | 527 N. 19th St., Allentown | 610.432.8943 | civictheatre.com
