Fresno State’s University Theatre will present “American Son” by Christopher Demos-Brown and directed by Thomas-Whit Ellis. This thought-provoking play delves into the complexities of identity, race and family, offering audiences a powerful and emotional exploration of contemporary societal issues.
Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 29 and 30 and Oct. 3 through 7, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, at the Dennis and Cheryl Woods Theatre at Fresno State. Tickets are $17 for adults; $15 for Fresno State faculty, staff, alumni and military; and $10 for all students (children under 5 are not permitted).
Set in a Florida police station in the dead of night, “American Son” follows a mother and her estranged husband as they anxiously await news about their missing teenage son. The play takes place against the backdrop of racial tensions and divides that continue to shape the American landscape. As the parents grapple with their own biases, fears and assumptions, the tension escalates, leading to intense conversations that expose the harsh realities faced by Black families in today’s society.
“In the current political climate of Florida, it’s unlikely that a play like this, featuring content drawn directly from daily headlines, would be allowed at one of the state’s leading colleges due to [Florida’s] anti-woke, anti-critical race theory stance,” Ellis said. “The play addresses America’s stark racial divide, exemplified by the disproportionate use of lethal force against unarmed African American individuals. It also explores the anxiety of parents waiting for vital information about their missing teenage child. We hope the material will entertain, enlighten and educate while fostering meaningful discussions long after its final curtain.”
The cast includes Jason Archie, James Hume, Ananda Shaffer and Jacob Sherwood.
“American Son” challenges audiences to examine their own beliefs, perceptions and attitudes toward race, privilege and societal divisions. The play’s timely themes and gripping narrative offer a unique opportunity for reflection and discussion, making it a must-see production for both theater enthusiasts and those seeking meaningful conversations about contemporary issues.
Fresno State no longer requires masks to be worn indoors, but based on updated guidance from public health experts, the University highly recommends that all students, faculty and staff, regardless of vaccination status, wear a surgical grade or KN95 mask indoors. Doors open 30 minutes before curtain. Latecomers will not be permitted, and there are no refunds or exchanges.
The box office is open from noon to 4 p.m. on weekdays and one hour before each performance, and it accepts cash, check, or credit card payments.
Parking is free for shows on Friday through Sunday nights. For shows on Tuesday through Thursday nights, parking permits are required and can be purchased at dispensers in parking lots on campus.
For more information, contact the box office at 559.278.2216 or universitytheatre@csufresno.edu.
