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Blackbird

Full-Length Play, Drama  /  1w, 1m, 1girl(s)

Fifteen years ago, Una and Ray had a relationship – which resulted in a jail sentence and new identity for Ray and psychotherapy for Una. They haven’t set eyes on each other since. Now she’s found him again.

  • Cast Size
    Cast Size
    1w, 1m, 1girl(s)
  • Duration
    Duration
    90 minutes
  • Audience
    Target Audience
    Adult
Accolades
Accolades
  • Winner! 2007 Olivier Award for Best New Play
    Nominee: Three 2016 Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Play

Details

Summary

Fifteen years ago, Una and Ray had a relationship – which resulted in a jail sentence and new identity for Ray and psychotherapy for Una. They haven’t set eyes on each other since. Now she’s found him again, in this remarkable drama which poses serious questions about society and morality.

History

Blackbird premiered in the West End at the Albery Theatre in February 2006. Directed by Peter Stein, the production featured Roger Allam and Jodhi May.

Blackbird premiered off-Broadway at Manhattan Theatre Club on 15 March 2007. Directed by Joe Mantello, the production featured Jeff Daniels and Alison Pill. The play premiered on Broadway at the Belasco Theatre on 5 February 2016. Directed again by Joe Mantello, the production now featured Michelle Williams and Jeff Daniels.

Performing Groups

UNA
RAY

Not listed in program: GIRL

  • Time Period Contemporary
  • Setting

    A room, inside. Present day.

  • Features Contemporary Costumes/Street Clothes
  • Additional Features No Intermission
  • Duration 90 minutes
  • Cautions
    • Intense Adult Themes

Media

“Taut, twisty and provocative.” – New York Theatre Guide

“This is the most lacerating play on Broadway this season. It leaves marks – on the audience, who may find some moments almost unbearably painful to watch.” – The Guardian

Videos

  • Blackbird – 2016 Tony Awards Clip youtube thumbnail

    Blackbird – 2016 Tony Awards Clip

  • Blackbird – Pilot Theatre Yorkshire Trailer youtube thumbnail

    Blackbird – Pilot Theatre Yorkshire Trailer

Licensing & Materials

  • Minimum Fee: £70 per performance plus VAT when applicable.

    Please submit a license request to determine availability.

Scripts

Available Formats:

Authors

David Harrower

Playwright David Harrower was born in Edinburgh in 1966. His first play, KNIVES IN HENS, was first produced in 1995 at the Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh. He is also the author of the plays KILL THE OLD TORTURE THEIR YOUNG (1998), and THE CHRYSALIDS (1999), adapted from John Wyn ...
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