By Lisa Loomer, Directed by Vanessa Stalling
A “Stimulating, personal and artful piece of theater”
– Chicago Tribune
Roe
Jan 18 – Feb 23, 2020 in Goodman's Albert Theatre
2 hours and 10 minutes with one intermission
“You didn’t give a damn about Roe the person—all you cared about was Roe the case!”-Norma, Act II, Scene II
Conceived in a pizza parlor and argued in the highest court in the land, 1973’s Roe v. Wade legalized abortion—and is hotly debated still today. The complex young women behind the trial—attorney Sarah Weddington and plaintiff Norma McCorvey (“Jane Roe”)—embark upon separate journeys that mirror the current polarization over the landmark decision. Shocking, humorous and “full of nuance and complexity” (NPR), Roe illuminates the heart and passion that each side has for their cause.
Critical Praise
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A “stimulating, personal and artful piece of theater”
– Chicago Tribune
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“Hall and Middleton’s performances are wonders of empathy”
– Chicago Sun-Times
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“Two Hours of life-changing theatre”
– Post-Tribune
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“Absolutely breathtaking”
– Splash Magazine
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“Vanessa Stalling [is] a smart, skilled storyteller”
– Daily Herald
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“The play is an obvious candidate for Broadway”
– Chicago Tribune
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“Clever, powerful, and immensely entertaining”
– Third Coast Review
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“A deeply impactful piece from start to finish.”
– Picture This Post
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“A lively and emotional production”
– Time Out
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“Roe reveals the human beings behind the famous headlines in this still all-too-relevant story”
– Third Coast Review
Audience Feedback
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It was outstanding!
Carol C. via Facebook
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One of the best plays I’ve ever seen at the Goodman.
Pat F. via Facebook
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Excellent production! I learned so much that I did not know about the case.
Richard M. via Facebook
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It was an awesome production. Acting, staging, everything about this was perfection. Needs to go to Broadway!
Evelyn J. via Facebook
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Still reeling from experiencing this production last night. Powerful night of theatre!
Gail W. via Facebook
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Roe was so good. Engaging, great pace. Never a dull moment.
Nathalynne M. via Facebook
Artists
