Pass Over Tickets

Pass Over is the new play by Antoinette Chinonye Nwandu that has been making waves on Broadway. The show, which premiered at the Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago in 2017, explores the experiences of two Black men as they search for a way out of their oppressive environments. The play draws heavily from Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot, but transplants its existential themes into contemporary America, where systemic racism and police brutality continue to impact Black communities.

In Pass Over, the characters Moses and Kitch spend their days on a street corner, waiting for their chance to escape. They are constantly confronted by the police and harassed by white men, who treat them like animals. Moses and Kitch share a bond that is both hopeful and fraught with tension. They dream of leaving their neighborhood, but they also know that their escape is unlikely. As the play progresses, their conversations become increasingly philosophical, questioning the nature of reality and existence itself.

The play has gained attention for its searing commentary on America's ongoing struggle with racial inequality. It has been praised for its raw depiction of the lived experiences of Black Americans, and for its ability to capture the complex emotions of hope, despair, and resilience. Pass Over has also sparked controversy among some critics, who have accused the play of promoting violence against police officers.

Despite this controversy, Pass Over has been embraced by audiences and has received critical acclaim. Its production on Broadway, directed by Danya Taymor, features a talented cast of actors, including Jon Michael Hill, Namir Smallwood, and Gabriel Ebert. The play's set design, created by Wilson Chin, features a stark urban landscape that evokes the play's themes of isolation and entrapment.

Pass Over is a powerful examination of the impact of racial oppression and systemic inequalities on individuals, families, and communities. Its timely themes make it a must-see play for anyone interested in contemporary American theater, and its powerful performances and vivid visuals will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on audiences.