Written by Vicky Mejia
School is back in session! As we return to school and a new season with the major revival of Inherit the Wind, a school-based play about a teacher being tried for teaching Darwinism at school, we’re listing 6 other note-worthy back-to-school plays that you should have on your radar this semester. Whether you can relate to the growing pains of teen hood, forging your own career path, or investing your time in a hobby, there’s something in our back-to-school class reading list for everyone.
A Great Debate
Inherit the Wind
Book report: Goodman Resident Artistic Associate –the only Henry Godinez – retells the story of an important trial that shook the nation in 1925. In this witty and iconic courtroom debate, Inherit the Wind critiques the century-long discussion about science and religion. Forget the chicken or the egg, we’re here to see Alexander Gemignani and Harry Lennix go head-to-head in this all-new production. On stage now through October 15. Get tickets
Lesson: Going against the grain can present its own obstacles and we’re here to watch the drama unravel. Order in the court!
Queen Bee Competition
School Girls; Or the African American Mean Girls Play
Book report: In this refreshingly funny and biting comedy by Lili-Anne Brown (Nacirema Society, The Color Purple), students from Ghana’s top boarding schools are all set to compete for the “Queen Bee” title for Miss Universe until a “new student” comes and throws a wrench in their plans.
Lesson: When you think you have a plan, it’s always good to have a Plan B, C, and D!
Coming-of-Age
High Holidays
Book report: Coming of age in America is no easy feat for 13-year-old Billy Roman as he prepares for his bar mitzvah. In this comical and boisterous play, tension arises when his rebellious older brother returns home from college and his idea of perfection is challenged.
Lesson: We could learn a thing or two from Roman as he navigates the holidays as a teen, an experience that some of us might be all too familiar with…
Finding Your Way
The Gift Horse
Book report: The Gift Horse made its world-premiere at Goodman Theatre in 2002 and told the story of Ruth, an African American woman who walks through her college days and present day life believing in finding your own place.
Lesson: This award-winning play by Lydia R. Diamond reminds us of the saying, “What is meant for you will not pass you by.”
Embracing the Unknown
Twilight Bowl
Book report: When getting involved in a hobby, or in this case a bowling alley, it can be a space to both celebrate triumphs and face hard challenges. While there is no correct path in life, Sam questions her future after she graduates from a small Wisconsin high school and heads to college on scholarship while her cousin, Jaycee, doesn’t.
Lesson: Ah, early adulthood, a time of twists and turns and forging a new road ahead, whatever that may look like.
Smooth Talk 101
The Music Man
Book report: Harold Hill is a charming and charismatic man of River City, Iowa that happens to be the leader of a marching band, something that he is very passionate about…or so he appears to be. To charm Marian, the local librarian, he must learn a few lessons on moral responsibility and music.
Lesson: When you think nothing can get in the way of something you love, think twice!
This is just a snapshot of the plays that taught us a thing or two–literally over the years here at the Goodman. If you’ve read this far, you’ve earned a golden star in our books. Here’s to a great back-to-school season on stage and in the classroom!
Vicky Mejia is the Digital Marketing Associate at Goodman Theatre
