New Rep Presents David Mamet's 'RACE' at the Arsenal Center in Watertown

The following information was provided by the New Repertory Theatre:

New Repertory Theatre proudly announces David Mamet’s biting comedy, RACE, October 14 through November 4, 2012, performing in the Charles Mosesian Theater, Arsenal Center for the Arts in Watertown.

RACE is a classic Mamet – examining people at their worst. In his newest gritty comedy, two attorneys are posed with defending a white man accused of raping an African-American woman. While evidence unravels, their uncomfortable and underlying beliefs about race are revealed. Robert Walsh (who directed New Rep’s Speed-the-Plow), will direct this recent Broadway hit that pokes at present day polite, educated society, while exposing biases we’re ashamed to admit. 

"David Mamet's plays,” says Artistic Director Jim Petosa, “have had a long and healthy history with New Rep and its audience. When we were able to procure RACE for this season, we knew that his skills at provocation would be fascinating.

"The subject is inexhaustible, and as our country grapples with issues of group identity and discrimination, we find ourselves still looking for ways forward. Works like this help incite us to do just that.” 

The RACE cast features Ken Cheeseman as Jack Lawson, Miranda Craigwell as Susan, Cliff Odle as Henry Brown, and Patrick Shea as Charles Strickland.

“New Rep audiences really enjoy David Mamet," says New Rep Managing Director, Harriet Sheets, "His plays offer a lot to think about, and our audience values the challenge.”  

Free Symposium on RACE

On Sunday, Oct. 21, at 6 p.m., New Rep Theatre and WGBH presents a symposium, "Exploring David Mamet's Comedy 'RACE'" The panel will be moderated by Kim McLarin from WGBH's "Basic Black" and panelists will be Ruha Benjamin, assistant professor of sociology and African American studies at Boston University; Lydia R. Diamond, assistant professor of playwriting and theater arts at Boston University; and Walter Earl Fluker, the Martin Luther King Jr. Professor of ethical leadership at Boston University's School of Theology.

The symposium is free to the public. To reserve a complimentary spot, email tickets@newrep.org.

Tickets for RACE range from $28-58 and may be purchased by calling 617-923-8487 or by visiting www.newrep.org.