S76 - Nancy by Rhiana Yazzie - 3m, 4w
It’s 1985 in Washington, DC and two women are trying to steer their futures - Nancy Reagan from the White House, orchestrating her husband “Ronnie’s” political career according to daily astrological trends, and Esmeralda, a Navajo mother advocating for her community. Their worlds converge over an unbelievable discovery - Nancy has a direct familial connection to Pocahontas. Strange history collides with 80s nostalgia in this epic story that cuts through the veneer of shoulder pads, neon, and Van Halen with irreverent heart and deep empathy.
posted by Jim Vogel at 5:41 PM
7 Comments:
I was a first reader for this. Really well written play, great characters. Interesting take on historical figures. There is some good humor and thought provoking commentary on cultural appropriation. Touching mother-daughter relationship. This feels like an approachable Native story for us to take on. It isn't set in Minnesota, but does have a Minnesotan playwright. There are some tech notations that I am not sure are necessary to the play, if they are, they may be difficult to handle in our space and with our budgets. Depending on how the whole of the season lands, this might feel incongruous if the majority of what we choose really focus on being set in Minnesota, as this play is very centered in the Southwest and DC.
The play does discuss some important issues such as land contamination and the effects on the inhabitants and how the Native Americans have been illtreated by the government. However, in today's political environment, I feel many are likely to consider the humor involving the Reagans and dementia is likely to be considered disrespectful, rather than humorous.
Yazzi is a well-respected, award-winning Navaho playwright. She is founder and artistic director of New Native Theatre in St Paul.
I don't feel the play should be produced at this time. It should be kept in the mix for future considerations.
I really do like the play, but like others, I feel it is a better fit for a future season. It would be great to do as a co-production with New Native or potentially the native theatre that Brian Joyce works with. I would love his take on the script. One option for celebrating 75 would be to have a reading of it. TRP has a history of working with theatres in the past - so maybe a joint fundraiser.
I totally agree with the above comments. Not this year, but definitely worth considering in the future.
Ditto.
Ditto
I'm not really a fan. This play gives me some bad vibes. It feels like it's all about Nancy turning a new leaf to help protect Native Americans. And, that idea feels very "white savior". I doubt that was the intention of the playwright, but that's how it comes off to me.
I also don't think the ending of the play fits in today's political landscape. There is a sense of hope for Native Americans at the end of this play. Esmeralda says, "Today I know, for America, there will always be a bright dawn ahead." I do not think that is the feeling that many Native Americans have right now. So, if we really like this play, I would suggest holding on to it until the political climate becomes a little more hopeful.
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