The University of Wisconsin, Madison will be hosting The Cradle Will Rock, a legendary pro-union play by Marc Blitzstein. He wrote Cradle in support of the battle to form unions in the steel industry. Blitzstein confronts issues of corporate control of social institutions, the suppression of resistance, and the prevention/elimination of unions by any means necessary.
Written by Marc Blitzstein
Directed by Norma Saldivar
Music Direction by Scott Foss
Shown at the Mitchell Theatre from November 16-December 8, 2012
“Why don’t you write about all kinds of prostitution?” As a response to this question from Bertolt Brecht, Marc Blitzstein created The Cradle Will Rock, a blend of “realism, romance, vaudeville, comic strip, Gilbert & Sullivan, Brecht, and agitprop,” in 1937. His first musical comedy, this satirical glimpse into “Steeltown, USA” offers a biting critique of corruption, commerce, and humanity’s value in the face of unchecked capitalism—issues that continue to divide our country and state 75 years later. Meet Moll, Blitzstein’s beloved hooker-with-the-heart-of-gold. Follow Larry Foreman as he tries to unionize the steelworkers, much to the chagrin of Mr. Mister, the evil business owner. Join us for this important, witty drama about Joe Worker: “Not much fun and not much glory. Low class, low down. The thing you never care to see until there is a showdown.” Rise up!
