Sweat
by LYNN NOTTAGE
directed by TAMILLA WOODARD
McGuire Proscenium Stage
A Pulitzer Prize-winning drama
Reading, Pennsylvania, is a blue-collar town with generations of hardworking folks, many of whom work at Olstead’s factory and down cold beers together after hours. But the post-Y2K economy is changing, NAFTA is a new reality and rumors fly about layoffs. Promotions and pride inevitably collide, forming cracks in decades-old friendships that crumble when the factory breaks with the union. From the politically charged opening scene to its electrifying conclusion, Sweat boldly confronts issues of race, immigration, deindustrialization and the ever-slipping grip on middle-class life — all with Nottage’s signature humor and heart.
Three things to know
- Playwright Lynn Nottage is the only woman to have won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama — twice.
- She wrote Sweat after conducting two years of interviews with the citizens of Reading, Pennsylvania, in the heart of America’s Rust Belt.
- Nottage has two shows opening on Broadway in fall 2021: Clyde’s, a Guthrie commission (formerly titled Floyd’s) that premiered on our stage in 2019 and MJ, a musical about pop icon Michael Jackson.
Ticket prices
Prices range from $15 to $80.
Pro tip: Preview performances start at $15 (July 16–21). Hurry, these go quickly!
Health and safety
At this time, all ticket holders must wear masks and show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative COVID-19 PCR test with a valid photo ID to attend a performance at the theater. Ticket holders under age 18 may provide a school photo ID or an official school document with the student’s name.
Content advisory
This production contains mature language and themes.
Accessibility
ASL-interpreted, audio-described and open-captioned performances are available on select dates.
Sweat
McGuire Proscenium
Accessibility
Relaxed performance
The Guthrie will offer a relaxed performance of Sweat on Sunday, August 14 at 1 p.m. Although these performances are open to all patrons, they are intentionally modified to accommodate patrons with sensory and vestibular sensitivities, anxiety, dementia, autism spectrum disorders, learning differences or challenges attending the theater.
Venue info
Sweat will take place on the McGuire Proscenium Stage.
Pro tip: Can't do stairs or have a special seating request? Call the Box Office for details.
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Health & Safety
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Kevin Kling
Tuesday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m.
2021‒2022 Season
Join us for a long-awaited return to the stage
Sweat
McGuire Proscenium