←Recommendations of Last Drive to Dodge

A passionate play set during a fascinating time in American history. I love how it takes four strong, forceful characters who are very grounded in the limits of America. But then it introduces the Winds, which manage to represent both the past and future of America, adding a dreamlike sensibility. It wrestles with Great American Themes in an admirable way.

A vulnerable, sensual story about what it means to claim one's freedom, this play is a special take on the Western form. Come for the gorgeous prose, stay for the deeply nuanced portrayal of Black people seeking the most out of love and life.

Last Drive to Dodge is a beautiful love story set during post-Reconstruction that details the choices facing Black Americans at this turning point in history. As the protagonists, Ro and Prophet, negotiate their relationship with each other and to their different imagined futures, the world is rapidly changing around them. The language in this play is incredible, and the entire cast is given a lot to work with. I enjoyed reading this and would love to see a full production!

A Western that both honors and subverts the genre, this play's characters shine in their complexity. My absolute favorite is Ro, a lover who wants to remain practical but can't ignore the voices she hears in the wind. But all of the characters are so juicy: no one is only one thing, and that is the point.

A play that critiques the conventions of the Western, while also showcasing why the genre remains popular. Ro and Prophet both shift as the story continues from trusting the white establishment to realizing they can and should abandon it, while remaining split over how, and how vindictively, to do so. Huge opportunities for actors and designers to run wild.

I saw this at Taproot Theatre in fall 2023. The poetic language in this piece is stunning. I also love how Andrew both honored and critiqued the genre of the Western through this thoughtful piece.

A wonderful Western!! This play has such rich characters and an ending full of hope.

Andrew is a poet, folks. The language throughout this play is gorgeous, and the love between Ro and Prophet didn't just feel real, it felt singular and urgent. With beautiful direction by Valerie Curtis-Newton and an extremely talented cast, the production at Taproot is one that will stick with me for a long time.

Such a lovely Western. At once a nostalgic western and smartly modern. How does one marry the two? It's magic. Four vivid characters with complicated and rich arcs. A real treat for all the actors. Sitting in the audience, it's clear it appeals to audience members of all ages. Definitely recommend.

Last Drive to Dodge is a lush yet grounded world full of poetry, nuance and heart. This play is a sumptuous treat to read or to be lucky enough to be an audience member for.