Best of Enemies: Modern Plays Exploring Themes of Prejudice, Identity, and Belonging

: Confronting Prejudice and Division

In an era marked by social upheaval and heightened sensitivity to issues of race, identity, and belonging, the theater has emerged as a powerful medium for confronting prejudice and fostering dialogue. Best of Enemies: Modern Plays is a collection of thought-provoking works that delve into these complex and multifaceted themes, offering insights into the human experiences of exclusion, discrimination, and the search for acceptance.

Exploring Identity and Belonging

Best of Enemies (Modern Plays)

by James Graham

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2092 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	145 pages

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At the heart of Best of Enemies lies a profound exploration of identity and belonging. Many of the plays in this collection examine the ways in which individuals grapple with their own identities in the face of societal expectations and labels. The Wolves by Sarah DeLappe follows a girls' soccer team as they navigate the complexities of adolescence, exploring themes of loyalty, competition, and the pressures to conform. How to Build a Forest by Jess Carson tells the story of three siblings who embark on an ambitious mission to plant a forest, highlighting their shared bonds and the challenges of finding their place in the world.

Confronting Prejudice and Discrimination

The plays in Best of Enemies do not shy away from confronting prejudice and discrimination head-on. The Flick by Annie Baker examines the lives of employees at a struggling movie theater, exposing the unspoken racial biases and social divisions that pervade their daily interactions. Black Tax by Monique Moses explores the financial and emotional burdens that black professionals experience due to racial discrimination, highlighting the systemic barriers they face. These plays offer a raw and unflinching look at the persistent struggles for equality and justice.

Fostering Dialogue and Understanding

Beyond confronting prejudice and division, Best of Enemies aims to foster dialogue and understanding. Many of the plays in this collection use humor, empathy, and personal stories to create a bridge between diverse perspectives. Dance Nation by Clare Barron follows a group of pre-teen dancers as they prepare for a competition, exploring themes of ambition, rivalry, and the search for validation. Baltimore Waltz by Paula Vogel examines the aftermath of the 2015 Baltimore riots, using lyrical language and dreamlike sequences to create a poignant meditation on loss, resilience, and the power of human connection.

Educational Value and Relevance

Best of Enemies serves as a valuable educational resource for students, educators, and anyone interested in exploring issues of prejudice, identity, and belonging. The plays in this collection provide a platform for critical thinking, open-minded dialogue, and a deeper understanding of the complexities of human existence. Educators can use these plays to facilitate discussions on social justice, empathy, and the importance of diversity and inclusion.

Call to Action and

Best of Enemies is a compelling and thought-provoking collection that invites us to reflect on our own biases, to challenge our assumptions, and to embrace the power of diversity. The plays in this collection offer a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and collectively work towards a more just and inclusive society. By supporting Best of Enemies, we can ensure that these important voices continue to be heard, sparking dialogue, fostering understanding, and inspiring change.