Full Width Header with black and white illustrated artwork for SPUNK
2024 Season

Spunk

On Stage

Feb 16–Mar 10, 2024

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Adapted by George C. Wolfe

Three Tales by Zora Neale Hurston

Music by Chic Street Man

Directed by Denise Chapman

Synopsis

Hurston’s evocative prose and Wolfe’s unique theatrical style blend to create an evening of theatre that celebrates the human spirit’s ability to overcome and endure. Utilizing the blues, choral narrative and dance, the three tales focus on men and women trapped inside the “laughin’ kind of lovin’ kind of hurtin’ kind of pain that comes from being human.” The first of the three tales, SWEAT tells the story of a young washerwoman who is abused and betrayed by her estranged husband, and of her ultimate triumph over him. The second piece, STORY IN HARLEM SLANG, is told in 1940s Harlemese. It is the story of two street lotharios trying to outhustle each other and win the favor of—and a meal from—a domestic on her payday afternoon off. The third tale, THE GILDED SIX BITS, is a bittersweet story of an adoring husband’s betrayal by his loving but innocent wife.

“Pay As You Are” Ticketing

Providing open and equitable access to cultural experiences is one of our core values at The Union for Contemporary Art. To help achieve this, all performances at the Shirley Tyree Theater are presented with sliding scale ticketing options - ranging from FREE to $90.

This “Pay as You Are” model was first developed by Minnesota-based Theater Mu in the spirit of offering both a financially-accessible path to theatre participation and an opportunity for community investment in the artists who make the work possible.

The “suggested” ticket price of $30 reflects the true market value for a seat at the show. Those with the financial means to do so are encouraged to consider purchasing a ticket at a higher rate. Doing so is a concrete form of allyship in support of the program and the many artists working to present authentic experiences of the African diaspora here at the Shirley Tyree Theater.

Our hope is the Pay As You Are model helps foster a shared sense of community investment in the creative and professional development of the cast and crew making each production possible. Tickets purchased at any level are a direct investment in the artistry and livelihoods of these Omaha-area artists.

Tickets can be reserved online or at the Union box office (2423 North 24th Street).