The landscape in American theater has changed with the times. New-age productions tend to take on a new approach to storytelling - with new spins, effects, lighting, and other aspects. However, if you want to get to the roots of all these developments, you need to go back in time. Immerse yourself in American classics that have paved the way for shows on the stage of today.
Take a Ride on "A Streetcar Named Desire"
Marlon Brando's iconic scream, "Stella!" resonates through the years as one of the most memorable moments in the film "A Streetcar Named Desire"(on HBO Max). However, you'll get more out of Tenessee William's masterpiece if you see it on the stage. In these fast-paced times, it will be easy for audience members to relate to a young woman from the South as she mentally unravels.
Grieve with Willy Lowman in "Death of a Salesman"
Arthur Miller's claim to fame was much more than his five-year marriage to Marilyn Monroe. He will always be remembered as one of America's greatest playwrights. "Death of a Salesman," written in 1949, is considered one of his best, portraying the heart-wrenching tale of an elderly salesman who feels like a failure in life. He never achieved any of his dreams and feels that the American dream he chased was a lie. For anyone who has struggled in life, this could be the play for you.
See the Struggle of Addiction in "A Long Day's Journey into Night"
When the name Eugene O'Neil comes up in the world of theater, his 1956 release, "A Long Day's Journey into Night" is the play that stands out most. It was published three years after his death, giving the audience a close look at one day in a family's life through the lens of their addictions. It remains relevant today at a time when addiction continues to be a battle for young and old.
Thornton Wilder penned "Our Town" in 1938, giving viewers a glimpse of real life in an average town. It's a place people of today may long to travel to as they go back to a simpler time. It also appeals to anyone who has nostalgia for home sweet home.
Enjoy the Unity of a Strong Family in "A Raisin in the Sun"
Lorraine Hansberry paints the picture of a disadvantaged family of color overcoming adversity in 1959's "A Raisin in the Sun." It's a play that offers hope to anyone who is striving for better in their lives as they try to make their dreams a reality. Life may not be easy for anyone. Coming together with a close-knit family can pave the way to success.
Discover Why "The Glass Menagerie" Made Williams Famous
Tennessee Williams drew from his own life experiences when he released "The Glass Menagerie" in 1944. At that moment, he became someone to be taken seriously on the American theater scene. The play depicts the sad story of a mother who has been abandoned by her husband and is trying to get by with two children. She wants to find a suitor for her disabled, shy daughter more than anything to secure her future. This is the play to see for any single parent who hopes for better for a child.
Experience the Challenges of Middle-Aged Marriage in "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?"
Edward Albee's name is synonymous with his notable classic, "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" It was released in 1962, giving viewers a glimpse behind the scenes of a middle-aged couple struggling with their marriage. They're insecure, bitter, and use alcohol to communicate with one another. Their pain will strike a chord with anyone who has hit a rough patch in a relationship.
These American theater classics will pull on the heartstrings. They'll also make you think as you ponder life and all its complexities. Each story may give you a new perspective, helping you to see the brighter side of your own reality. Enjoy the escape for a few hours while an excellent cast proves why some of America's greatest works have stood up to the test of time.