A Soldier’s Play: Brilliant, moving, and sadly still relevant.

February 8 is an important day for the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts and our community. It’s opening night of A Soldier’s Play at the Fitzgerald Theater – and its subject matter could not be more relevant at this moment in time.

One thing I consistently hear from people about the Ordway is that they love the eclectic mix of programming and shows we offer. We are proud to present top-notch Broadway musicals and plays, award-winning artists, family-friendly shows, our new At the Intersection conversation series, and much more. When people think of the Ordway, they often think of joy, energy, dancing, laughter, comfort, and wonder. While that is so often the case, the Ordway has a history of presenting thought-provoking and challenging works and has a responsibility to present stories and experiences that are not often featured center stage.

The masterpiece the Ordway will soon present was written by the great Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Charles Fuller in 1981 and evokes a wide range of emotions. Sadly, over 40 years after its off-Broadway premiere, many of the themes in the play are still relevant today.

To say A Soldier’s Play hits close to home is an understatement. I spend a lot of time thinking about the complex duality that exists at this critical time in our nation’s history. Two things can be true at once. I have the privilege of leading this prestigious performing arts organization that proudly presents shows like Beauty and the Beast, SIX, and A Soldier’s Play, and I am grateful to be part of an immensely supportive community. Yet I am soberly reminded of the disparities, injustices, and racism that continue to happen regularly, even more than two years after the racial reckoning. There’s a tremendous opportunity for long-term systemic change, and I truly believe that we all possess the potential to contribute in a meaningful way and can be the change we ultimately want to see in the world.

While A Soldier’s Play is an important story that centers the experience of Black men and soldiers and the adversity they faced during this period, it’s not a singular narrative. There are other stories and communities that must continue to be uplifted on and off the stage. I am grateful to Sankofa Leadership Network, Minnesota Humanities Center, SoulTouch Productions, and our Vision Trust for their partnership, thought leadership, and commitment to ensure that communities across Minnesota have an opportunity to experience this play.

If you’re in the Twin Cities, please join us and bring a friend or colleague. It’s a well-told murder mystery, with an all-star cast including Broadway star Norm Lewis, and not-to-be-missed! I hope this play provides space for honest conversations, inspires curiosity and empathy, and serves as a catalyst for healing and positive change in our communities and beyond.

???- https://ordway.org/events/a-soldiers-play