The Ruins

The Ruins: a play through music

by GEORGE ABUD
directed by OSH ASHRUF
Dowling Studio

A poignant world premiere

Two master musicians meet in an empty space armed with only a cello, an oud and some old books of poetry. The strangers trade jabs and musical virtuosity until they’re stunned to learn that in a few days, they’ll both be dead. Faced with their untimely end, they become obsessed with a question: Were their lives enough? Over the course of eight movements of blistering music and tender verse, they struggle to find an answer before time runs out.

Three things to know

Playwright George Abud’s poetic play is set in a slightly absurdist setting with two unnamed characters who grapple with existential questions about the meaning of life.
As the play title indicates, music helps the characters communicate with each other — and the audience. One plays the oud; the other plays the cello.
The Ruins: a play through music will reactivate the Guthrie's Dowling Studio for the first time since the pandemic shutdown.

Venue information

This production will take place in the Dowling Studio.

Pro tip: Have a special seating request? Call the Box Office for details.

Ticket prices

Ticket prices range from $35 to $52, including handling fees. Read about our ticket handling fees and policies.

Age recommendation

We recommend this production for ages 12 and up.

Content advisory

This production contains haze and mature language.

Run time

Approximately 1 hour, 40 minutes (no intermission)

Group sales

All student and adult groups of 15 or more qualify for discounts on tickets to Guthrie productions.

Learn More

A Day and Its Night Book Launch

Saturday, October 4, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Level Five lobby

Celebrate the launch of George Abud’s upcoming poetry collection, A Day and Its Night, which is available for purchase in the Guthrie Store. Join us for a special poetry reading, discussion and book signing with George, followed by live music by the New Arab American Theater Works Yalla Drum Ensemble. This event is free and open to the public.

Buy the Book

Digital program

Want to dig deeper into the story? Download the digital program.

Accessibility

ASL-interpreted, audio-described and open-captioned performances are available on select dates.

Audio describer: Connie Fullmer

ASL interpreters: Tamajai’ Grady and Abby Turner

Captioner: Hunter Gullickson

Download the audio description notes and the ASL program.

There will not be a sensory tour for The Ruins.

Learn More about Accessibility

Post-play discussions

Patrons are invited to stay in the theater following select performances for a 20-minute conversation about the production facilitated by Guthrie staff. Cast members may join the discussion as they are able.

Video

Teaser

Over the course of eight movements of music and poetry, two strangers with days left to live become obsessed with answering one question before time runs out: Were their lives enough?