Written in 1935 during the rise of fascism in Europe, Sinclair Lewis’ darkly satirical novel It Can’t Happen Here follows the ascent of a demagogue who becomes president of the United States by promising to return the country to greatness. In 2016 Berkeley Repertory Theatre unveiled a new stage adaptation of Lewis’ prescient novel; one week after that production ended, the presidential election roiled our nation. Now, Berkeley Rep reprises that production with the same director and much of the original cast, but this time as a radio play in four episodes, just in time for the 2020 presidential election. The audio drama is being offered free to organizations across the country. The intent for the project is to encourage dialogue and motivate citizens to exercise their civic power and vote.
Bag&Baggage is honored to join theatres across the nation to help spread the word about this production. Berkeley Rep’s former Artistic Director Tony Taccone along with screenwriter Bennett S. Cohen return with the original director, two-time Obie Award winner Lisa Peterson. The trio previously collaborated on It Can’t Happen Here when it had its premiere at Berkeley Rep in 2016.
Oscar-nominated actor David Strathairn (Good Night, and Good Luck) will join many of the previous cast members to bring this political drama to life.
A live Q&A session with the creative team will take place following the broadcast.