To Kill a Mockingbird, the most successful American play in Broadway history comes to Dallas to spark conversations

The classic novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee has transcended through American history and culture, and it comes to Broadway Dallas with the adaptation of Aaron Sorkin (“The West Wing”) starring Richard Thomas (“The Waltons”) in a play that promises to entertain, take our breath away and spark conversations.

In my search to understand all the life messages that this story gives us, I reflected on what my teenage son told me about this book last year when he read it as part of his school assignments. I also watched several mini documentaries, and now I am very excited to see the play, which by the way will be presented at the Music Hall in Fair Park from May 16 to 28, 2023.

Based on my son Caleb’s reading of the book, and my review of the book and reviews of the play, we had a meaningful conversation about themes that are important in the story and to our lives today

1.- Perspective

As human beings we tend to create a prejudice about people based on our own perspective. But it is important to know their past, culture, beliefs and more elements in order to understand them. My grandmother always said, “put yourself in their shoes so you can understand them better.”

2.- Stay firm to your values ​​and beliefs

This is a very important lesson that the characters of Scout and Jem learned despite their young age. Don't follow what is “popular at the moment,” and don't try to hide your values ​​and beliefs just to please others. Stand firm to what you consider to be right.

3.- Equality

Discrimination and inequality have been experienced for many years, and this book is still so relevant because today, unfortunately, we still have this social problem. History teaches us that it is important to treat everyone equally regardless of our race, gender, or social class.

4.- Respect

This human right is very clearly articulated in the part of the story where their father tells Scout and Jem that they can hunt any birds they want, but "don't kill mockingbirds" since they don't harm any plants or anyone's farm. The only thing these birds do is music. And the metaphor behind these words is that we should not take advantage of or harm anyone, especially the weakest and most defenseless.

5.- Integrity

Atticus' children were deeply disappointed at the conviction of Tom, the black man wrongly accused of rape. But they learned that despite the injustice that is often experienced in the world, it is important to maintain integrity and do good to others.

Broadway Dallas and Broadway Across America (BAA) present To Kill a Mockingbird based on the classic novel by Harper Lee, at Fair Park Music Hall May 16-28, 2023.

For more information visit www.broadwaydallas.org

And to purchase your tickets visit BroadwayDallas.org or call 800-982-2787. Groups of more than 10 people can call 214-426-4768 or email Groups@BroadwayDallas.org.