Our American Tragedy

One of the best productions I have seen in a very long time. The performance was both compelling and captivating. ... full review

Absolutely incredible cast and show ... full review

Set four days after the Civil War, Our American Tragedy transports audiences to the chaotic aftermath of Lincoln's assassination. This engaging play masterfully captures the fear and paranoia backstage at Ford's Theatre, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal historical moment. With authentic performances, detailed staging, and insightful storytelling, it's a must-see for history and theatre enthusiasts alike.... full review

Walking into the McCadden's space last night, I could tell I was going to be in for a treat! When writers with a passion for history and storytelling meet up with a group of dynamic, dramatic actors PLUS a most formidable director with a knack for staging, get ready for a most impactful fringe show!! The stage was beautifully decorated, the costumes were spot on, the lighting was hypnotic and the sounds were impactful and perfect! If you are looking for a show that is purely inventive, makes you think, and showcases some of the best of fringe, I cannot recommend Our American Tragedy enough!!... full review

A well written, well researched, who-dunnit on one of histories most dramatic moments. A superbly executed ensemble piece, with each character doing a great job at highlighting the dichotomies of thought that have divided America. Each actor had a clear standout moment, but also worked so seamlessly as a group. In 45 minutes I was transported back in time, and faced with an America that didn’t look all too different from today, sans the brilliant costuming and characterizations that clearly placed this in 1865. The show asks us to examine how we’ve changed as a country since the pivotal moment of Lincoln’s assassination, and in what ways we haven’t. ... full review

Our American Tragedy was a fascinating look at what was going on backstage during the Lincoln assassination. Filled with drama, and a dash of mystery regarding each character’s potential conspiracy with John Wilkes Booth, it was an intense well-acted ensemble piece. The brilliant use of the space, along with a wonderful set and costumes, made it feel like I’d traveled back in time.... full review

This show brings a nuanced, researched approach to a well-known event with fresh perspective. The drama onstage is just as powerful as what we don't see (we do not witness the assassination, President Lincoln, or Booth.) Uncomfortable yet poignant parallels run to today's division as Union relief meshes with Confederate bitterness barely a few days after the Civil War's end. The infamous gunshot is pretty early in the runtime, yet the writing, performances, and direction keep the tension fresh as if you're worried another assassin will emerge from the shadows with a loaded pistol. Next year will mark the 160th anniversary of Lincoln's death, and I for one hope by then we can see this one-act expand to two. ... full review

What a great idea! Well-cast, well written, with great tension and a lot of clear understated relationships that heighten the moment. Great first steps for what could be a truly fascinating imagining of a pivotal moment in American history!... full review

The writing, acting and directing were first rate. In such a small space, I thought the relationships, the tension and the action were all amazing. I was pleasantly surprised as I had no idea what to expect, and I high recommend. ... full review

An intriguing concept - what exactly went on backstage at Ford's Theater after the Lincoln Assassination? - that was artfully executed by a talented group of actors with seamless chemistry. Our American Tragedy is a fantastic drama that brings to light a stage that hasn't usually been set, highlighting the wounds and anxieties of a divided America among those that bore witness to (or perhaps aided in?) one of the defining moments in American History. In the future I'd love to see this show in an extended format! ... full review