The Top 100 Plays of the First Quarter of the Century: 86-90
Diving Deep: The Top 100 Plays of the Century (So Far) Spots 86-90
Hey theatre lovers! Welcome back to our countdown exploring the most impactful and unforgettable plays of the 21st century, from 2000 to 2024. We've already uncovered some real gems, and the journey is far from over. Today, we re shining a spotlight on plays ranked 86 through 90. Get ready to discover some incredible dramatic experiences!
These plays, while not in the absolute top echelon, represent significant contributions to the theatrical landscape. They pushed boundaries, explored complex themes, and left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike. Let's get started!
86. Eurydice by Sarah Ruhl (2003)
Sarah Ruhl's Eurydice is a modern reimagining of the classic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, but with a unique twist. Ruhl focuses on Eurydice's perspective, exploring her relationship with her father in the underworld. The play is known for its poetic language, dreamlike imagery, and poignant exploration of love, loss, and memory.
Eurydice stands out due to its imaginative staging and the way it blends humor and heartbreak. Ruhl masterfully weaves together the mundane and the magical, creating a world that is both familiar and utterly surreal.
87. Yellow Face by David Henry Hwang (2007)
David Henry Hwang, a celebrated playwright, tackles issues of race, identity, and representation in Yellow Face. This satirical play follows DHH (a fictionalized version of Hwang himself) as he mistakenly casts a white actor in an Asian role and attempts to cover up his error.
Yellow Face is a sharp and provocative commentary on political correctness, cultural appropriation, and the complexities of racial identity in America. Hwang fearlessly satirizes himself and the theatre industry, sparking important conversations about representation on stage.
88. The Pillowman by Martin McDonagh (2003)
Martin McDonagh, known for his dark humor and shocking storylines, delivers a chilling and thought-provoking play with The Pillowman. The story centers around Katurian Katurian, a writer of gruesome fairy tales, who is interrogated by the police in a totalitarian state. His stories bear unsettling similarities to a series of child murders.
The Pillowman is a masterclass in suspense and moral ambiguity. It raises profound questions about the role of the artist in society, the power of storytelling, and the nature of good and evil. Be warned, this play is not for the faint of heart!
89. Next to Normal by Brian Yorkey and Tom Kitt (2008)
Next to Normal breaks the mold of traditional musicals by tackling the complex and sensitive topic of mental illness. The musical revolves around Diana Goodman, a mother struggling with bipolar disorder, and the impact her illness has on her family.
Next to Normal is a powerful and emotionally resonant work that brings mental health issues to the forefront. The music is both catchy and deeply moving, and the lyrics are honest and unflinching. The musical won a Pulitzer Prize for Drama, a testament to its impact and artistic merit.
90. Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo by Rajiv Joseph (2009)
Rajiv Joseph's Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo is a darkly comic and surreal play set against the backdrop of the Iraq War. The play centers around a tiger at the Baghdad Zoo who is shot and killed by an American soldier. The tiger's ghost then haunts the soldier, leading to a journey of self-discovery and redemption.
Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo is a unique and imaginative exploration of the human cost of war. The play blends humor, tragedy, and magical realism to create a powerful and unforgettable theatrical experience.
A Quick Comparison:
To better understand the range of these plays, let's compare them on a few key factors:
| Play Title | Genre | Key Themes | Tone |
|||||
| Eurydice | Mythic Drama | Love, Loss, Memory, Identity | Poetic, Dreamlike |
| Yellow Face | Satire | Race, Identity, Representation, Political Correctness | Sharp, Provocative |
| The Pillowman | Dark Comedy/Thriller | Storytelling, Morality, Censorship | Suspenseful, Disturbing |
| Next to Normal | Musical | Mental Illness, Family, Grief | Emotional, Raw |
| Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo | Drama | War, Guilt, Redemption, Spirituality | Darkly Comic, Surreal |
Reflecting on the Selection
This cluster of plays showcases the incredible diversity and innovation within contemporary theatre. We see explorations of classic myths through a modern lens, satirical examinations of social issues, and courageous dives into difficult subjects like mental illness and the consequences of war. What truly stands out is the playwrights' willingness to take risks, experiment with form, and challenge audiences to think differently about the world around them.
These plays remind us that theatre can be a powerful tool for empathy, understanding, and social change. They offer us a glimpse into the human condition, in all its beauty and complexity. I'm incredibly excited to continue our journey through the top 100 and uncover even more theatrical treasures! What are your thoughts on these selections? Which of these plays have you seen, and what impact did they have on you? Let's discuss in the comments below!
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