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Why see What the Constitution Means To Me?

Staged by the Phoenix Theatre Company!

local premiere

Hailed as one of the most important plays to grace Broadway! Heidi Schreck's compelling debut play What The Constitution Means To Me garnered much critical acclaim, as well as a Pulitzer, Lucille Lortel, Drama League, Outer Critics Circle, Drama Desk awards, and two Tony Award nominations. First starting its revolution during an Off-Broadway stint in the fall of 2018, enjoy this local premiere as part of the 2023/24 season!

At a time when the politics du jour may leave many feeling confused, outraged, and uncertain of the future, Schreck turns back the clocks and revisits her 15-year-old self at a time when she found a way to earn her college tuition by winning the National Constitutional debate competitions. With wit, humor, and an enquiring mind, she brings new life to the text that shaped modern America whilst simultaneously shining a light on its democratic failings. 

What is the story?

Whilst written in the Obama era, What The Constitution Means To Me is as topical and necessary as ever. Originally performed by regular Off-Broadway actor Schreck, it recreates one of the American Legion halls she traveled to in her teenage years, where she earned accolades for Casting Spells: The Crucible Of The Constitution. 

Whilst sunny and optimistic in her yellow blazer, she traces the stories of four generations of women in her family and their direct relationship with the constitution, how it omitted and forsook them, something still happening to women today. Comedy, drama, memoir, and debate collide in a thought-provoking whirlwind brought deftly together by Schreck's intelligent writing. Prepare to laugh, cry and contemplate long after the curtains come down. 

Key Information

Run Time

One hour and 30 minutes

Dates

Finished Apr 27

Cast

Maria Dizzia as Heidi 
Cassie Beck as Heidi (beginning performances in Charlotte)

Creative

Written by Heidi Schreck
Directed by Oliver Butler

Reviews

Our review

Innovative Touching Hopeful

Playwright Heidi Schreck is making history with her autobiographical play, garnering an Obie Award for Best New American Play and New York Drama Critics' Circle for Best American Play in the process!

Nicola Quinn

Read full review

Customer reviews

2 reviews, average rating: (3.0 Stars)

Rosalie Spingola

I had an opportunity to really learn What the Constitution Means to Me. It was truly a learning experience.

It was written for a different time. Today’s United States is not what yesterday’s United States was. I believe young and old will benefit from seeing this play. I am 81 years old. I will read the Constitution and I will then be able to understand and intelligently comment on what I think should be revised, deleted and possibly added. The United States in 2024 is nothing like the United States in 1787. It’s time for change. ... Read more

News

What Did The Critics Think of What The Constitution Means To Me in LA?

What Did The Critics Think of What The Constitution Means To Me in LA?

Abigail, January 23rd, 2020
Heidi Schrek's Tony-nominated play has landed at the Mark Taper Forum as part of its hotly anticipated North American tour. Now starring Maria Dizzie, in Schreck's place, what did the local critics think of the New York favorite?...
Read more

What Did The Critics Think of What The Constitution Means To Me in LA?

What Did The Critics Think of What The Constitution Means To Me in LA?
Abigail, January 23rd, 2020
Heidi Schrek's Tony-nominated play has landed at the Mark Taper Forum as part of its hotly anticipated North American tour. Now starring Maria Dizzie, in Schreck's place, what did the local critics think of the New York favorite?...
Read more

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