Teach
“
A standout play---period. I've read lots of plays this season set in a school where there are questionable actions between teachers/students, but often the action gets mired in a lot of back-and-forth accusations. [TEACH] stays active and present, showing, not just telling. It questions all the small, subtle interactions, but also shows us the cycles of abuse of power. Definitely easy to produce and more theatrical---stop producing OLEANNA and choose this play instead!”
“
[In TEACH], fascinating and complex relationship and gender dynamics are explored through the unfolding drama between principal, teacher, and high school student. Using the premise of a principal interviewing a teacher (and former love-interest) about the possibility of engaging in an underage affair, Hoke masterfully challenges us to explore our own biases and assumptions about identity, gender, power, love, truth, and lies, as she weaves together a surprising narrative with a fascinating twist.
Wonderful writing and a uniquely thought-provoking evening at the theatre. Our audience loved it. ”
Wonderful writing and a uniquely thought-provoking evening at the theatre. Our audience loved it. ”
Cast:
3M, 2Fs
Synopsis:
A principal grills his former student, now a teacher at his school, about a questionable relationship with a student.
Characters:
FEMALE CHRIS: High school English teacher, 27
MALE CHRIS: High school English teacher, 27
MALE EMERSON: High school senior, almost 18
FEMALE EMERSON: High school senior, almost 18
KEN JAMES: Principal of Lincoln High School, 40
“
Outstanding way to tackle the thorny issues of mentorship and professional boundaries. This writer clearly excels at taking tough, complex issues and turning them into a sensational theatrical experience. Add [TEACH] to your reading list today.”
“
Award winning local playwright Donna Hoke is certainly “the real deal,” completely immersed in the theatrical/literary scene and she’s been very, very busy. This summer I also attended a workshop production of Hoke’s HEARTS OF STONE and then later a reading of TEACH and so I can reassure you that we’re going to be enjoying her plays well into the future.”