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 had two shows open 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
All audience members, regardless of age, must wear a mask that securely covers the nose and mouth (no bandanas, neck gaiters or face shields) when entering and inside the theater. Proof of vaccination is not required to see a performance at the Guthrie.
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.
Content advisory
This production contains mature language and themes. Contact the Box Office for more information.
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.
Post-play discussions
Join us after select performances for a facilitated discussion to process the play with people who care deeply about the production and its themes. Depending on availability, speakers may include actors, dramaturgs, Guthrie staff members and people with lived experiences related to the play.
Discussions are free for ticket holders, begin shortly after curtain and run 20 to 30 minutes.
Tues, July 23 at 7:30 p.m.
Sun, July 31 at 1 p.m.
Sun, August 7 at 1 p.m.
Sat, August 13 at 1 p.m.
Sat, August 20 at 1 p.m.
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Health & Safety
Review our policies before you visit or attend a performance
2021‒2022 Season
Join us for a long-awaited return to the stage
Sweat
McGuire Proscenium