Our American Tragedy

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

A unique, historically based story about what actually occurred at the theater of the Lincoln assassination that simultaneously covers modern day concepts and debates. It was a thrilling watch as audience members are taken along for the ride when trying to solve the mystery. ... 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

The theatrical group doesn't miss a beat. They have a great team that knows how to play off each other. The acting was great and I loved all the twists and turns of this modern period piece. Very well written!... full review

A great work about a fascinating piece of American history. It makes great use of the space and manages to create mystery and intrigue about something that we all know the ending to. ... full review