MACT

In light of the current situation in Minneapolis, the board of directors has made the difficult decision to cancel the planned run of anthropology by Lauren Gunderson and replace it with Conscience by Joe Dipietro, opening March 27 and running through April 19.

The script of anthropology is brilliant, tightly plotted, thrilling, surprising, and inspires thought and discussion around AI, grief, and identity. However, the plot relies heavily on traumatic experiences that might be particularly troubling to artists and audiences at this time in our City’s history.

We at TRP are not afraid to tell difficult stories or stories that provoke an intense emotional response – indeed we think that theatre is a medium that helps individuals process big emotions in community and safety – but we also recognize that these are not normal times. We do not believe that it is kind or responsible to ask our artists and audiences to sit with this particular story at this particular moment. We are proud of the artists that bravely brought this concern to light.

As we think about the purpose of Art in troubled times, we remember the power of theatre and stories to fortify the spirit, provide a respite, inspire action, and even trigger oxytocin through laughter and social interaction. This collective moment in our City seems to be asking for courage. This moment is asking for resilience. This moment is asking us to stand up for what is right.

Conscience by Joe DiPietro tells the true story of Margaret Chase Smith, the first woman from Maine to serve as a US Senator…and the first person to stand up against Joseph McCarthy on the Senate floor. It is a story of courage, conviction, and hope for a brighter future. It has moments of drama, levity, and inspiration.

Thank you for your flexibility and understanding as we – like so many others – are navigating our current landscape. We may not always get it right, so we thank you for your grace and support. We care for this community and are proud to be a part of it.

Individual tickets for Conscience will open on February 10.

Sincerely,

Larisa Netterlund

Executive Director

on behalf of the Board of Directors