Home - A Play Tickets

Home is a play written by Samm-Art Williams that explores themes of race, identity, and the search for home. The play premiered Off-Broadway in 1980, and has since become a staple in theaters around the world. It's a powerful piece that reflects the experiences of many black Americans who long for a sense of belonging in a country that has historically marginalized their existence.

One of the most striking aspects of Home is its theatricality. Williams employs a variety of techniques to create an immersive and visceral experience for the audience. For example, the opening scene takes place in complete darkness–a deliberate choice that immediately sets the tone for the play. Through sound, movement, and dialogue, we are introduced to Cephus Miles, the protagonist of the story. He speaks directly to the audience, creating a sense of intimacy that draws us into his world.

The set design of Home is also notable. The play takes place mostly on a simple wooden platform that can be transformed into different locations using minimal props and lighting changes. The use of this minimalist design allows the actors to take center stage, showcasing their performances and placing an emphasis on the storytelling.

At its core, Home is a play about identity. Cephus Miles is a young black man growing up in rural North Carolina during the 1950s and 60s. We see him struggle with questions of race, class, and belonging as he navigates through life. His journey leads him from the South to the North, and eventually to Africa, as he searches for a place where he can feel at home.

The play also deals with issues of racism and discrimination. Cephus is faced with overt racism from white society, but he also grapples with the internalized racism of his own community. As he moves through different environments, he is forced to confront the ways in which his sense of self has been shaped by the oppressive systems around him.

Ultimately, Home is a play that encourages its audience to think critically about their own experiences of identity and belonging. Through its theatricality, it creates an immersive and thought-provoking experience that leaves a lasting impact. It's a testament to the power of theater as a medium for exploring complex social issues and engaging in meaningful conversations about our shared humanity.