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W.C. Turck, a Chicago-based activist and playwright, has announced the premiere of The People's Republic of Edward Snowden, a comedic poke at the security state and spy culture through the (fictional) words of the NSA whistleblower himself, with performances at Prop Thtr and the Berger Park Mansion.
The man responsible for one of the biggest intelligence leaks in US history is talking again, but this time he's telling his own story. In this satirical triumph by local activist W.C. Turck, Edward Snowden emerges from his undisclosed location to hold a very personal press conference on what brought him to expose the dirtiest secrets of our National Security Agency. With a razor wit, Snowden reflects on his journey, his new home in lovely Russia, and the comfort he takes in our government's promise not to torture or execute him.
With a directing team plucked from political sketch comedy company Democracy Burlesque, The People's Republic of Edward Snowden takes an irreverent, poignant look at freedom and privacy in our time. Is Snowden a traitor? A hero? Could this be "the Most Dangerous Play in America?"
"We think this is an important play. We think this is a play that needed to be done now," said Turck. "One of the things we want to do here is talk about privacy and freedom, and how the two are inextricably connected. We're going to do that in a fun, entertaining and comedic way with a great cast and a great directing team."
The Berger Park Mansion performance will also include a post-show reception with appetizers and refreshments, and a talkback will be presented featuring the playwright, cast and special guests.
"The goal is to encourage as much conversation as possible," said Turck. "And hopefully some change from the current security system that we feel threatens our democracy, civil rights, and the rights of those around the world."
This is the second play by W.C. Turck, following his 2011 Occupy Chicago collaboration, Occupy My Heart, A Revolutionary Christmas Carol. Based upon the Dickens classic, Occupy My Heart was written as a celebration of the movement, intended to bring the spirit and message of the Occupation to a broader audience. It gained national attention with a series of free performances at Grant Park, Prop Thtr, and Studio BE. Now Turck has once again taken up his pen to illuminate an issue using comedy, heartbreak, and hope.
The People's Republic of Edward Snowden is co-directed by Celia Forrest and Erik Parsons, and stars Nick Haugland, Catherine Povinelli and Arne Saupe.
Thursdays, November 14 at 8:00pm.
Prop Thtr, 3502-04 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618.
$10 tickets are on sale now.
Friday, November 15 at 7:30pm.
The Berger Park Mansion, 6205 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60660.
$20 tickets, including post-show reception with refreshments, are on sale now.
Tickets and information are available at RepublicofSnowden.com.
