The Guthrie Theater presents
Leaves of Grass – Illuminated
written and performed by PATRICK SCULLY
from the text by WALT WHITMAN
Dowling Studio
Back by popular demand
When Walt Whitman published Leaves of Grass, it sparked controversy — his sexuality was promptly criticized and his poems were later censored for their explicit imagery. Through a unique combination of theater, dance, video and solo performance, the infamous poet’s life and work are presented with fascinating relevance and reveal his many sides. This is not the Whitman you learned about in literature class; this Whitman will challenge you to step out of the shadows and be your authentic self.
Scully is a Minneapolis-based choreographer, dancer and performance artist. In 1976, he co-founded Contactworks, a dance collective focused on contact improvisation. In addition to his performing work, Scully was the founder and longtime director of Patrick’s Cabaret in Minneapolis.
A groundbreaking initiative
Through the Level Nine Series, we’ve devoted our ninth floor to access for all and the creation of theater that wrestles with urgent questions and inspires dialogue.
The Guthrie’s Level Nine Series is made possible by the generous support of The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.
Explore more
Guthrie Store
Shop in store or online for cool finds
Donate Now
Donate to support the Guthrie
Go Behind the Scenes
Get to know the talented artists who bring our productions to life
Leaves of Grass – Illuminated
Dowling Studio