Set in New York in the early 1980's, The Normal Heart follows the story of gay activist Ned Weeks and his struggle with the emerging realities of HIV/AIDS. In the face of deafening silence, Ned begins a grassroots movement that will change the history of the gay rights movement forever.
Criticized for being ‘too political,’ Ned's character is drawn from Larry Kramer's own experiences as a playwright, author, and LGBT activist. Upfront and unrelenting, The Normal Heart lends insight into the nature of struggle and the sacrifice necessary to create social change. In 2013, the relevance of this play moves beyond the realm of LGBT rights, and translates to all struggles for human rights. Kramer combines the resolve of an investigative journalist and the undying fervor of a seasoned activist in this soaring narrative of love, death, and hope.
The Normal Heart was first produced at New York's Public Theater in 1985. In 2011, it won three Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Play. Our production is directed by student Adam Odsess-Rubin.