A SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. TITLE
The Great Leap
Full-Length Play, Dramatic Comedy / 1w, 3m
When an American college basketball team travels to Beijing for a “friendship” game in the post-Cultural Revolution 1980s, both countries try to tease out the politics behind this newly popular sport.
Image: 2018 Atlantic Theater Company Production (Ahron R. Foster)
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Cast Size
1w, 3m -
Duration
120 minutes (2 hours) -
Target Audience
Adult
Accolades
Winner! 2017 Kesselring Prize
Finalist! 2017 Susan Smith Blackburn Prize
Details
Summary
When an American college basketball team travels to Beijing for a “friendship” game in the post-Cultural Revolution 1980s, both countries try to tease out the politics behind this newly popular sport. Cultures clash as the Chinese coach tries to pick up moves from the Americans, and Chinese-American player Manford spies on his opponents. Inspired by events in her own father’s life, Yee “applies a devilishly keen satiric eye to…her generation (and its parents).”
History
Cast Attributes
Performing Groups
- Time Period 1980s
- Features Period Costumes
- Duration 120 minutes (2 hours)
Media
“An exhilarating, deeply satisfying piece of work... full of bright, inquisitive, humorous life.” – New York Magazine
“Gripping... The Great Leap artfully and movingly explores the connections between Manford, Saul and Wen Chang. Along the way, it examines culture clash; alludes to modern Chinese history; and ponders the costs of caution and courage, patience and impatience.” – Washington Post
“Affecting... combines thoughtful research and an imaginative empathy for the Chinese generation that grew up in the stunting shadow of Mao Zedong.” – The New York Times
“A beautiful play with vibrant characters and rich history crackling with fresh dialogue.” – BroadwayWorld
“The Great Leap is of, course, about more than sports... this is a ‘Leap’ worth taking.” – Boston Globe
Powerhouse Inside Look: The Great Leap
ON BREAKING CHARACTER
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Videos
The Great Leap at Atlantic Theatre Company
Photos
Image: 2018 Atlantic Theater Company Production (Ahron R. Foster)
Image: 2018 Atlantic Theater Company Production (Ahron R. Foster)
Licensing & Materials
- Minimum Fee: £55 per performance plus VAT when applicable.
Authors
